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Looking for the best places to take kids in Missouri? Look no further. Missouri is a great state for family-friendly activities, with plenty of options for all ages. From theme parks to museums and outdoor adventures, Missouri has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an exciting day trip, consider visiting Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka. This theme park has plenty of rides and attractions for kids of all ages, from roller coasters to water rides. For a more educational experience, check out the Science Center at Union Station in Kansas City. This interactive museum features hands-on exhibits and demonstrations that teach kids about science and technology.
For a more laid-back experience, take a trip to Grant’s Farm in Saint Louis. This historic farm features a petting zoo, animal shows, and even a tram ride through the property. And if you’re looking for outdoor adventures, head to the Lake of the Ozarks for swimming, boating, and fishing. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect places with activities for kids in Missouri.
City Museum, St. Louis
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting place to take your kids in Missouri, look no further than the City Museum in St. Louis. This former shoe factory turned museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction that offers something for everyone.
Funhouse Delight
The City Museum is known for its funhouse-like atmosphere, complete with tunnels, slides, and climbing structures. Your kids will love exploring the various exhibits and finding hidden gems around every corner. One exhibit you won’t want to miss is the Shoe Shaft, where you can climb up through a series of giant metal tubes and slide down a 10-story spiral slide.
World Aquarium
In addition to its funhouse features, the City Museum also boasts a World Aquarium that is home to a variety of marine life. Your kids will love seeing sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures up close and personal. The aquarium also offers educational exhibits that teach kids about the importance of conservation and marine biology.
The City Museum is a must-visit destination for families in Missouri. With its unique blend of funhouse features and educational exhibits, it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum
If you’re looking for a fun-filled attraction that offers kids many hands-on learning activities, then The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, this museum is ranked #11 out of 23 things to do in St. Louis.
The Magic House offers a wide variety of exhibits and activities for children of all ages. Younger children can enjoy the special area designed just for them, while older children can explore the many interactive exhibits that the museum has to offer.
- The Children’s Village: A kid-sized town where children can explore and play in a grocery store, bank, fire station, and more.
- Wonder Works: An exhibit that encourages children to use their imaginations and creativity to build and create.
- Electricity: An exhibit that teaches children about electricity and how it works through interactive displays.
In addition to the exhibits, The Magic House also offers special events and programs throughout the year. From storytime to science experiments, there is always something fun and educational happening at the museum.
Admission to The Magic House is $12.00 per person, with children under the age of one admitted for free. The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum is one of the great places to take kids in Missouri. With its hands-on exhibits and educational programs, it’s sure to be a hit with children of all ages.
Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit place if you are looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids. With over 16,000 animals and nearly 500 species, it is one of the most-visited attractions in the region. The best part is that it is one of the few free zoos in the nation.
River’s Edge
One of the most popular exhibits at the Saint Louis Zoo is the River’s Edge. This exhibit takes you on a journey through the world’s major rivers, showcasing the animals that inhabit them. You can see hippos, elephants, cheetahs, and many more animals in their natural habitats.
There are also interactive displays that teach kids about the importance of conservation and the impact of human activity on these ecosystems.
Discovery Corner
Another great area for kids is the Discovery Corner. This area is designed specifically for children and features hands-on exhibits and activities that allow kids to learn about animals and their habitats. Kids can pet goats and sheep, watch chickens hatch, and even ride a carousel featuring endangered species. There is also a play area with a treehouse and a water play area for hot summer days.
The Saint Louis Zoo is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational day out. With its free admission and wide range of exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check out the River’s Edge and Discovery Corner exhibits for an unforgettable experience.
Silver Dollar City, Branson
Silver Dollar City is a must-visit attraction in Branson, Missouri, especially if you’re traveling with kids. This theme park offers a unique experience that takes you back in time to the 1880s. With over 40 rides and attractions, live shows, and various seasonal events, there’s something for everyone in the family.
One of the highlights of Silver Dollar City is the variety of roller coasters. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Time Traveler, the world’s fastest, steepest, and tallest spinning coaster. Meanwhile, younger children can enjoy the Grand Exposition, which features smaller rides and attractions suitable for their age.
Aside from the rides, Silver Dollar City is also known for its live shows. There are over 40 shows daily, ranging from musical performances to comedy acts. During the holiday season, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with over 6.5 million lights and festive shows like “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol.”
If you’re interested in learning about traditional crafts, Silver Dollar City has you covered. The park features over 100 craftsmen showcasing their skills in glassblowing, blacksmithing, pottery, and more. You can also purchase their handmade products as souvenirs.
To make the most out of your visit, here are a few tips.
- Arrive early to avoid long lines and crowds.
- Check the schedule for live shows and plan accordingly.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Don’t forget to try the park’s famous cinnamon bread.
Silver Dollar City is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. With its unique blend of rides, shows, and traditional crafts, it’s no wonder why it’s one of Branson’s top attractions.
Worlds of Fun, Kansas City
If you’re looking for an amusement park that the whole family can enjoy, then Worlds of Fun is the place to be. This theme park is located in Kansas City and offers a wide variety of rides and attractions for all ages.
One of the highlights of Worlds of Fun is the Planet Snoopy section, which is specifically designed for young children. Here, your little ones can enjoy rides like the Flying Ace Balloon Race, Linus’ Beetle Bugs, and Woodstock Gliders. They can also meet and take pictures with their favorite Peanuts characters.
For the older kids and adults, there are plenty of thrilling rides to choose from. The Patriot roller coaster is a fan favorite, as it reaches speeds of up to 65 miles per hour and includes inversions and drops. The Mamba is another popular coaster, with a 205-foot drop and speeds of up to 75 miles per hour.
In addition to the rides, Worlds of Fun also offers live entertainment throughout the day. From musical performances to acrobatic shows, there’s always something going on. And if you need a break from the excitement, you can relax in one of the park’s many restaurants or shops.
Worlds of Fun is a must-visit destination for families in Kansas City. With something for everyone, it’s sure to be a fun-filled day for all.
Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis
The Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for families with kids in St. Louis. This National Historic Landmark is a center for science, conservation, education, and horticultural display. It’s widely considered one of the top three botanical gardens in the world, featuring 79 acres of horticultural displays, including indoor conservatories and demonstration, formal, and international gardens.
The Garden offers something for everyone, from the littlest nature-lover to the experienced gardener. Kids will love exploring the Children’s Garden, where they can climb, dig, and play in a variety of hands-on exhibits. They can also learn about green living and get ideas for their own garden.
The Garden also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including the annual Garden Glow, a holiday light display that transforms the Garden into a winter wonderland. The Garden also offers educational programs for kids, including camps, classes, and workshops.
Here are some key details you need to know before visiting the Missouri Botanical Garden.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Address | 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110 |
| Hours | Tuesday-Sunday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. |
| Admission | $14 for adults; free for kids 12 and younger |
| Parking | Free parking is available on-site |
| Accessibility | The Garden is wheelchair accessible |
The Missouri Botanical Garden is a fantastic destination for families with kids in St. Louis. With its beautiful gardens, hands-on exhibits, and educational programs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Branson’s Promised Land Zoo
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for the whole family, Branson’s Promised Land Zoo is a must-visit destination. This top-rated animal attraction offers a variety of experiences, including a drive-thru safari, foot safari, parakeet paradise, and animal adventure building.
One of the highlights of the zoo is the drive-thru safari, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, kangaroos, and more. You’ll have the opportunity to feed some of the animals, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
If you prefer to get out of the car and explore on foot, the foot safari is the perfect option. You’ll be able to see a wide variety of animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys, and even get the chance to feed some of them.
For a truly unique experience, check out the parakeet paradise, where you can feed and interact with hundreds of colorful birds. And don’t miss the animal adventure building, where you can learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the animals are cared for.
Branson’s Promised Land Zoo is a great place to take kids of all ages. With so many different experiences to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to answer any questions you may have.
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, Springfield
If you’re looking for an immersive wildlife experience, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield is the perfect place to take your kids. This museum and aquarium is the largest of its kind in the world, featuring a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium adventure showcasing 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds.
The museum offers a tour of the wildest places on earth, including the African savanna, the Arctic tundra, and the Amazon rainforest. You’ll also find historic photos and artifacts from U.S. presidents who enjoyed fishing, and learn about the importance of mangroves in preventing coastline erosion.
One of the highlights of the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is the three-story saltwater aquarium, which is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. You can also journey inside a limestone cave and explore the Great Barrier Reef exhibit.
The museum and aquarium is the brainchild of Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, who built the facility with a lot of passion. The exhibits are designed to be both educational and entertaining, making it the perfect place to take your kids for a fun and educational day out.
Tickets and pricing for the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium vary depending on the number of attractions you want to visit. You can purchase a single-day or two-day admission, or opt for a five-attraction combo. There are also special rates available for locals. Be sure to check the website for the latest offers and add-on experiences.
Science City at Union Station, Kansas City
Looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids? Look no further than Science City at Union Station in Kansas City. This interactive science center is a great place to take your kids to learn about science in a fun and engaging way.
Science City offers a variety of exhibits and activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. They can explore the world of science through hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and educator-led programs. The exhibits are designed to be engaging and fun, so your kids won’t even realize they’re learning.
One of the highlights of Science City is the outdoor Science Park, which features a variety of exhibits that allow kids to explore the natural world. They can climb a treehouse, explore a creek bed, and even learn about renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
Inside, there are exhibits on everything from space exploration to the human body. Kids can learn about how astronauts train for space missions, discover the chemistry behind their favorite beverages, and even explore a giant maze.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, Science City at Union Station is a great choice. With its engaging exhibits and hands-on activities, it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Grant’s Farm, St. Louis
Grant’s Farm is a unique destination in St. Louis that offers a combination of nature, animals, and history. It is located on 281 acres of land and is home to over 900 exotic animals that represent more than 100 species. The farm is owned by the Busch family, who are known for their famous brewery, and it is named after Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States.
Admission to Grant’s Farm is free, but it is recommended to purchase a parking pass in advance of your visit, especially during the summer months when it can be crowded. You can purchase a morning, afternoon, or evening parking pass for $16. Avoid crowds in the spring and summer by visiting earlier in the day and on weekdays.
Once you arrive, you can take a tram ride through the wildlife preserve to see the animals up close. You can also feed and pet the baby goats, see the elephants, kangaroos, lemurs, and other animals on your way to the Bauernhof. The Bauernhof is a historic farmhouse that was built in the 19th century and is now a museum. You can tour the house and see artifacts from the Busch family’s history.
One of the highlights of Grant’s Farm is the Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales. You can see these majestic horses up close and learn about their history and training. There are also several shows and demonstrations throughout the day, including bird shows and elephant shows.
Grant’s Farm is an excellent destination for families with kids of all ages. It offers a unique combination of nature, animals, and history, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Take Kids in Missouri
Missouri is an ideal destination for families looking to spend quality time together and make unforgettable memories. From exciting theme parks to educational museums, there is something for everyone in this great state. Here are some key takeaways from our list of the 11 best places to take kids in Missouri:
- Branson is a must-visit destination for families, with its abundance of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options.
- Kansas City is another great option, with its world-class museums and exciting theme parks.
- The Lake of the Ozarks is a fantastic destination for families who love the outdoors, with its many opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- St. Louis has a lot to offer families, from the iconic Gateway Arch to the many museums and attractions in Forest Park.
No matter where you choose to go in Missouri, you’re sure to have a great time with your family. Be sure to plan ahead and make reservations for popular attractions, especially during peak travel seasons. With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Places to Take Kids in Missouri
What are some fun places to take kids in St. Louis, Missouri?
St. Louis, Missouri has plenty of fun places to take kids, and the City Museum is one of the most popular attractions. It’s an interactive museum that features tunnels, slides, and even a Ferris wheel on the roof. The Magic House is another great option for families, with hands-on exhibits and a play area for kids. The St. Louis Zoo is also a must-visit, with over 17,000 animals and plenty of exhibits to explore.
What are some family-friendly activities to do in Branson, Missouri?
Branson is known for its live entertainment, and there are plenty of family-friendly shows to choose from. The Sight & Sound Theatres is one of the most popular, with biblical productions that are sure to impress. Silver Dollar City is another great option, with roller coasters, shows, and plenty of food options. The Titanic Museum is also a unique attraction, with interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the famous ship.
What are some hidden vacation spots in Missouri that are great places for kids and families?
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path vacation spot in Missouri, consider visiting the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal. It’s a great place to learn about the life of the famous author, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities in the area. The Ha Ha Tonka State Park is another hidden gem, with hiking trails, a castle ruins, and plenty of scenic views.
What are some of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Missouri?
In addition to those already mentioned, there are a few other popular family-friendly attractions in Missouri. Six Flags St. Louis is a great option for families who love amusement parks, and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area. The World Aquarium in St. Louis is another great option, with over 10,000 sea creatures to see.
What are some unique places to do with kids in Missouri?
If you’re looking for unique things to do with kids in Missouri, consider visiting the City Museum in St. Louis. It’s not your typical museum, with a giant ball pit, a skate park, and plenty of other interactive exhibits.
The Mark Twain Cave Complex in Hannibal is another unique attraction, with cave tours and a zipline course. The Elephant Rocks State Park is also a great option, with giant granite boulders that kids will love to climb on.
What are some of the top-rated museums or parks for families in Missouri?
In addition to those already mentioned, there are a few other top-rated places such as museums and parks to take kids in Missouri. The Science City at Union Station in Kansas City is a great option for families who love science, with plenty of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
The Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield in Republic is another great option, with hiking trails and historical exhibits. The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is also a must-visit, with beautiful gardens and plenty of educational programs for kids.
