Teen Activities in St. Louis

7 teen-friendly things to do in St. Louis for ages 13–17. Activities teens will actually enjoy, with cost and logistics info for parents.

Highest rated: James S. McDonnell Planetarium, Saint Louis Zoo, Monsanto Insectarium. 2 are free. 6 work for rainy days. Every listing includes stroller access, cost estimates, and parent tips.

Top Picks

James S. McDonnell Planetarium
#1

James S. McDonnell Planetarium

4.8 stars

Lying back in the dome theater watching a full-sky projection of the universe is a uniquely powerful experience, kids go quiet in a way they rarely do

5–17Indoor$40–$60 (show tickets ~$8–$12/person; connected to free Science Center general admission)
Saint Louis Zoo
#2

Saint Louis Zoo

4.8 stars

The Saint Louis Zoo is consistently ranked among the top 5 zoos in the US, and it's entirely free to enter, a fact that still surprises visitors. Kids

All ages — one of the best free zoos in the countryFreeIndoor & Outdoor$0–$30 (base admission free; paid add-ons optional; parking $15–$17; food $20–$40)
Monsanto Insectarium
#3

Monsanto Insectarium

4.8 stars

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

4–17FreeIndoor$0 (included with free zoo admission)
City Museum
#4

City Museum

4.7 stars

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

5–17 (little kids need supervision on climbing structures)Indoor & Outdoor$80–$120 (admission ~$18/adult, $14/child; food $20–$40; parking $10–$15)
St. Louis Union Station
#5

St. Louis Union Station

4.6 stars

Union Station is a beautifully restored 1894 train terminal that's been transformed into an entertainment complex with the aquarium, a giant Ferris wh

All ages — something at every stageIndoor & Outdoor$80–$200+ (highly variable — aquarium, Ferris wheel, mini golf, and food all add up; budget carefully)

Common Questions

What are the best activities for teens (ages 13–17) in St. Louis?
St. Louis has 7 activities rated for teens (ages 13–17). Top picks: James S. McDonnell Planetarium, Saint Louis Zoo, Monsanto Insectarium, City Museum, St. Louis Union Station.
Are there free teen activities in St. Louis?
Yes — 2 of the 7 teen-friendly activities in St. Louis are completely free, including Saint Louis Zoo, Monsanto Insectarium.
What indoor activities are good for teens (ages 13–17) in St. Louis?
6 indoor or rainy-day activities in St. Louis are suitable for teens (ages 13–17). Best rated: James S. McDonnell Planetarium, Monsanto Insectarium, City Museum.

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