Best Zoos & Aquariums in St. Louis for Kids & Families

3 family-friendly zoos & aquariums with age ratings and parent tips.

Highest rated: River's Edge, McDonnell Polar Bear Point, St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station. 2 listings are free. 1 listing is indoor. 1 listing is outdoor. Qualified listings include age fit, stroller notes, cost signals, and practical planning tips.

By Kit, KidPaths editor

Reviews family planning details across KidPaths city guides.

This St. Louis page currently has 3 qualified listings in zoos & aquariums that passed KidPaths' listing and photo checks. Start your comparison with St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, River's Edge, McDonnell Polar Bear Point, then use the age, cost and visit-length notes to narrow the list.

2 options are free. 2 options work indoors or in mixed weather. 3 options have confirmed stroller access. 3 picks fit toddlers and 3 picks fit big kids.

Start near opening, choose the animals your kids care about most and keep an indoor or seated break in reserve. Large campuses can turn one exciting stop into too much walking.

Top Picks

River's Edge

4.8 stars

River's Edge is the section of the St. Louis Zoo where you can see hippos, elephants, and cheetahs up close with barely any barriers in the way. The h

Best for ages 1-10FreeOutdoor$0 for admission (St

McDonnell Polar Bear Point

4.7 stars

The polar bear exhibit at the Saint Louis Zoo features underwater viewing panels where polar bears regularly swim and interact with viewers, watching

All agesFreeIndoor & Outdoor$0 (included with free zoo admission)

St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

4.3 stars

The St. Louis Aquarium delivers the classic aquarium magic, stingrays kids can touch, massive sharks gliding overhead in the main tank tunnel, and col

2, 12Indoor$80 to $130 (tickets ~$18 to $25/person; parking at Union Station; food on-site $20 to $40)

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