What should I do with kids in St. Louis for one day?

A great one-day itinerary: start at Zachary's Playground in the morning, grab lunch at City Museum, then visit Francis Park in the afternoon. 3 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 + $80–$120 (admission ~$18/adult, $14/child; food $20–$40; parking $10–$15) + Free + 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.

One Day in St. Louis with Kids

The perfect family day in St. Louis, morning to evening. 4 stops picked from 13 kid-tested activities based on ratings, variety, and parent tips. 3 stops are free.

9 AM

MorningStart the day with energy

Zachary's Playground

Zachary's Playground is a full-scale inclusive playground that was purpose-built so kids of all abilities can play together — and you can feel the intention in

1–12 years old, especially great for kids with special needsFree1.5–2.5 hours4.8 stars

Tip: One of the best inclusive playgrounds in the entire St. Louis metro — worth the drive from anywhere in the area.

12 PM

LunchRefuel the family

City Museum

City Museum is basically an adult-sized jungle gym built from salvaged industrial materials — kids go absolutely wild crawling through 10-story caves, sliding d

5–17 (little kids need supervision on climbing structures)$80–$120 (admission ~$18/adult, $14/child; food $20–$40; parking $10–$15)3–5 hours4.7 stars

Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty — mesh tunnels snag on flip-flops

2 PM

AfternoonThe main event

Francis Park

Francis Park has a spray ground that becomes ground zero for summer fun — toddlers shriek with delight running through the water jets while older kids work the

All ages, best for 1–12Free1-2 hours4.8 stars

Tip: The spray ground is seasonal (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day) — confirm it's open before planning a water-focused visit.

4 PM

Late AfternoonWind down

Stieren Park

Stieren Park has a genuinely wonderful inclusive playground that makes it a standout in the area — families with kids of all abilities love the accessible equip

1–10 years oldFree1-2 hours4.8 stars

Tip: The inclusive playground design makes it excellent for kids with varying abilities.

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.
→ Zachary's 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 Zachary's Playground in the morning, grab lunch at City Museum, then visit Francis Park in the afternoon. 3 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 + $80–$120 (admission ~$18/adult, $14/child; food $20–$40; parking $10–$15) + Free + 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

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