KidPaths

One Day in St. Louis with Kids

The perfect family day in St. Louis, morning to evening. 4 stops picked from 66 kid-tested activities based on ratings, variety, and parent tips. 2 stops are free.

9 AM
MorningStart the day with energy
Shaw Park Treetop Playground

Shaw Park Treetop Playground

Shaw Park's Treetop Playground is an elevated play structure set among the trees of Clayton's beautiful Shaw Park, featuring multi-level climbing, connecting br

2–12Free1–2 hours4.9 stars

Tip: The treetop elevation of some play elements creates a genuine high-up feeling that kids who love heights find thrilling

12 PM
LunchRefuel the family
TotSpot Social

TotSpot Social

TotSpot Social is designed with the under-6 crowd in mind — every element is sized, scaled, and themed for small people. Kids have freedom to explore without co

0–6$30–$60 (low per-child admission; coffee/snacks available for parents)1.5–2.5 hours4.9 stars

Tip: The 'Social' in the name is real — it's designed for parents to connect too; don't be surprised if you make a new parent friend

2 PM
AfternoonThe main event
Great Big Game Show St. Louis

Great Big Game Show St. Louis

Great Big Game Show puts families inside a live, interactive game show experience — complete with buzzers, challenges, and a host who runs the whole event. Kids

6–17 (best for groups)$80–$150 depending on package (group/private booking format)1.5–2.5 hours5 stars

Tip: This is a booked experience, not drop-in — reserve your slot online in advance

4 PM
Late AfternoonWind down
Monsanto Insectarium

Monsanto Insectarium

The Monsanto Insectarium puts kids face-to-face with some of the world's most spectacular insects and arachnids — giant walking sticks, enormous beetles, leaf-c

4–17Free30–60 min within a zoo visit4.8 stars

Tip: The live leaf-cutter ant colony is a highlight — kids can watch the organized trails for a long time

Tips for Your Day

  • → Start outdoor activities in the morning before it gets hot.
  • → Pack snacks and water — saves money and avoids meltdowns.
  • → Check hours before you go. Museum hours change seasonally.
  • → Shaw Park Treetop Playground is stroller-friendly — bring it for little ones.

Common Questions

What should I do with kids in St. Louis for one day?
A great one-day itinerary: start at Shaw Park Treetop Playground in the morning, grab lunch at TotSpot Social, then visit Great Big Game Show St. Louis in the afternoon. 2 of these stops are free.
How much does a day in St. Louis with kids cost?
A full day with a family of four costs roughly Free + $30–$60 (low per-child admission; coffee/snacks available for parents) + $80–$150 depending on package (group/private booking format) + Free. Every listing on KidPaths shows family-of-4 cost estimates.
What order should I visit St. Louis attractions with kids?
Start outdoors in the morning when kids have energy and it's cooler. Do indoor attractions after lunch when it's hottest. Save easy, free activities for late afternoon when everyone's winding down.

More Ways to Explore St. Louis

Free ActivitiesRainy Day ActivitiesIndoor ActivitiesOutdoor ActivitiesStroller-FriendlyToddlerInfantLittle KidsBig KidsTweensTeen

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