Free Activities for Kids in St. Louis, MO — St Louis, MO

Quick Answer

St. Louis offers many free activities for families with kids, including parks, cultural institutions, and outdoor events. Explore options like the St. Louis Zoo, Citygarden, and various neighborhood parks.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is designed for families looking for budget-friendly activities in St. Louis, MO. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the city, you'll find a variety of options to keep your kids engaged and entertained without spending money.

Neighborhoods Mentioned in This Guide

St. Louis is rich with diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore activities available in:

• South Side
• East Side
• North Side
• West Side
• Downtown

Outdoor Activities for Kids

St. Louis boasts numerous parks and outdoor spaces that are perfect for families. Here are some great options:

St. Louis Zoo

Located in Forest Park, the St. Louis Zoo is a fantastic place for kids to learn about animals and conservation. Admission is free, and the zoo features over 600 animals, interactive exhibits, and beautiful natural habitats.

Citygarden

Citygarden is a unique urban park located Downtown. This outdoor oasis features sculptures, fountains, and a children's play area. It's an excellent spot for a picnic, and kids can enjoy the splash pads during warmer months.

Forest Park

One of the largest urban parks in the United States, Forest Park offers countless activities. Families can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces for games. The park is home to several attractions, including the St. Louis Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum, both of which have free admission.

Tower Grove Park

This historic park is located in the South Side and is known for its beautiful pavilions and gardens. There are numerous playgrounds, walking paths, and areas for picnicking. The park often hosts free events, including concerts and festivals.

Cultural and Educational Experiences

St. Louis is home to several free cultural and educational experiences that can be fun for the whole family.

Missouri History Museum

Located in Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum offers free admission and provides engaging exhibits about the history of St. Louis and Missouri. Kids can explore interactive displays and learn through hands-on activities.

The Saint Louis Art Museum

Also situated in Forest Park, this art museum features a diverse collection of art from around the world. Admission is free, and families can participate in kid-friendly activities and workshops offered throughout the year.

The National Blues Museum

Located in Downtown St. Louis, the National Blues Museum offers free admission on certain days. This museum celebrates the history and impact of blues music and often features interactive exhibits that kids will enjoy.

The City Museum

While not completely free, the City Museum offers a unique experience for families with its whimsical architecture and playground-like environment. Admission is affordable, and kids can explore tunnels, slides, and a rooftop Ferris wheel.

Seasonal and Community Events

St. Louis hosts various seasonal and community events that are free and family-friendly. Here are some to keep an eye out for:

Free Summer Concerts

Many parks and community spaces in St. Louis host free summer concerts. These events are a great way for families to enjoy music together while relaxing outdoors.

Festivals

Throughout the year, St. Louis hosts a variety of festivals celebrating culture, food, and community. Many of these events offer free admission and activities for kids, such as face painting, crafts, and performances.

Farmers' Markets

Visiting local farmers' markets can be a fun and educational experience for kids. Many markets throughout the city offer free samples, live music, and activities for children.

Neighborhood Breakdown

Now, let’s dive deeper into specific neighborhoods and highlight free activities that families can enjoy in each area:

South Side

• Tower Grove Park: As mentioned, this park is a gem for families, providing ample space for play and exploration.
• The Botanical Garden: While the garden has a nominal fee, it offers free admission on specific days, allowing families to explore its stunning landscapes.

East Side

• The Cahokia Mounds: Just across the river, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers free admission and provides a unique insight into ancient Native American culture. Kids can explore the mounds and learn about the history of the area.

North Side

• O’Fallon Park: This larger park features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for family outings.
• The St. Louis Science Center: Although some exhibits may have fees, the center often has free admission days and offers a great variety of interactive science exhibits for kids.

West Side

• The Historic Hill Neighborhood: Known for its Italian heritage, this area offers walking tours that families can enjoy at no cost. Discover the history and culture while walking through beautiful streets.
• Forest Park: As previously mentioned, this park is accessible from many West Side locations and provides endless activities.

Downtown

• Citygarden: Perfect for a family outing, this urban park is a great place for kids to play, explore art, and enjoy the outdoors.
• Kiener Plaza: This public space often hosts free events, including movies in the park and various festivals throughout the year.

In conclusion, St. Louis is a family-friendly city that offers a myriad of free activities for kids. Whether you’re exploring parks, cultural institutions, or seasonal events, you can create lasting memories without spending a lot. Enjoy your time discovering all that St. Louis has to offer!

Neighborhoods to Explore in St. Louis

• [South Side neighborhood guide](/mo/st-louis/neighborhoods/south-side)
• [East Side neighborhood guide](/mo/st-louis/neighborhoods/east-side)
• [North Side neighborhood guide](/mo/st-louis/neighborhoods/north-side)
• [family fit in West Side](/mo/st-louis/neighborhoods/west-side)
• [Downtown neighborhood guide](/mo/st-louis/neighborhoods/downtown)

Related Guides for St. Louis

• [Things to Do in St. Louis With Kids](/mo/st-louis/guides/family-activities-st-louis)
• [Best Neighborhoods in St. Louis for Retirees](/mo/st-louis/guides/best-neighborhoods-st-louis-retirees)
• [Best Neighborhoods in St. Louis for First-Time Movers](/mo/st-louis/guides/best-neighborhoods-st-louis-first-time-movers)
• [Best Neighborhoods Near Downtown St. Louis](/mo/st-louis/guides/neighborhoods-near-downtown-st-louis)
• [Best Walkable Neighborhoods in St. Louis](/mo/st-louis/guides/walkable-neighborhoods-st-louis)
• [Most Affordable Neighborhoods in St. Louis](/mo/st-louis/guides/affordable-neighborhoods-st-louis)

Helpful St. Louis Tools

• [Get your St. Louis CityFit Report](/mo/st-louis/cityfit-report)
• [St. Louis City Guide hub](/mo/st-louis)
• [All St. Louis guides](/mo/st-louis/guides)
• [Events in St. Louis](/mo/st-louis/events)
• [Moving to St. Louis](/mo/st-louis/move-in)