When you’re traveling with kids, one thing matters more than anything else—keeping them entertained, engaged, and smiling. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, staying long-term, or passing through St. Louis in your RV, finding family-friendly activities nearby can transform an ordinary trip into a memorable adventure. Fortunately, the St. Louis region is packed with world-class attractions, hands-on museums, animal encounters, and outdoor fun that kids of all ages love.
If you’re staying at St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens, you’re perfectly positioned near many of the area’s best kid-friendly destinations—most less than 30 minutes away. This guide highlights the top attractions that offer excitement, learning, and unforgettable experiences for your little explorers.
Why St. Louis Is One of the Best Family Destinations in the Midwest
St. Louis has earned its reputation as a family-friendly city for several reasons. Many of its most popular attractions are free or low-cost, making it a budget-friendly choice. The city also offers a diverse mix of outdoor activities, museums, entertainment centers, history, and wildlife experiences. Plus, everything is conveniently located, which means less driving and more fun.
For families staying at St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens, having quick access to these attractions helps you plan your days easily—without the long commute or hassle.
1. St. Louis Zoo (Free Admission)
Distance: ~25 minutes
Perfect for: All ages
The world-famous St. Louis Zoo is one of the best in the country—and it’s completely free to enter. Families can explore over 14,000 animals, from lions and tigers to penguins, giraffes, and sea lions. Kids love the Children’s Zoo area, Emerson Zooline Railroad, and the immersive indoor exhibits that are great for hot or cold weather.
Highlights include Penguin & Puffin Coast, the Red Rocks area for big cats, and the River’s Edge habitat. Plan 3–4 hours to fully enjoy the zoo.
2. Saint Louis Science Center
Distance: ~25 minutes
Perfect for: Ages 4–14
Another free St. Louis gem, the Science Center offers hundreds of interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, a life-size T. rex, and fun learning experiences. Kids can build bridges, explore outer space in the planetarium, and watch live demonstrations.
Families especially love the indoor walkway over I-64 where kids can use radar guns to track car speed. Rainy day? This is your perfect go-to.
3. City Museum
Distance: ~30 minutes
Perfect for: Ages 6+ (younger with supervision)
City Museum is one of the most unique attractions in the U.S. Part museum, part playground, part art installation—this 10-story repurposed warehouse is filled with slides, caves, tunnels, climbing structures, ball pits, skate ramps, and a rooftop Ferris wheel.
Kids who love adventure and exploration will never want to leave. Bring knee pads and comfortable shoes—parents often end up climbing too!
4. The Magic House – St. Louis Children’s Museum
Distance: ~25 minutes
Perfect for: Ages 2–10
The Magic House is a beloved children’s museum offering hands-on discovery for younger kids. From mini grocery stores and pretend play neighborhoods to art rooms, sensory zones, and STEM activities, it’s designed to spark creativity and curiosity.
Kids especially love the electrostatic generator that makes their hair stand straight up. This is the perfect attraction for preschoolers and early-grade kids.
5. Grant’s Farm
Distance: ~20 minutes
Perfect for: All ages
Grant’s Farm provides a fun mix of animals, shows, rides, and history. Families can enjoy camel rides, baby goat feedings, animal performances, and tram rides through wildlife areas.
The park was once home to Ulysses S. Grant and now offers a full day of affordable family fun. Kids love the hands-on encounters, and adults appreciate the scenic grounds and historical charm.
6. Laumeier Sculpture Park
Distance: ~20 minutes
Perfect for: All ages
This outdoor sculpture park blends art with nature, offering 105 acres to explore. Families can take easy walking trails while viewing large, imaginative sculptures that spark kids’ curiosity. It’s free, great for strollers, and a perfect choice for relaxing outdoor fun.
Picnic areas and seasonal events make this a favorite local attraction for families wanting something calm and creative.
7. Purina Farms
Distance: ~25 minutes
Perfect for: Ages 2–12
Purina Farms offers an adorable mix of dog shows, farm animals, haylofts, tractor rides, and hands-on petting experiences. Kids can meet goats, cows, pigs, cats, rabbits, and other barnyard animals. The dog agility shows are a big hit, showcasing athletic dogs performing jumps and tricks.
This is an especially great destination for animal-loving families.
8. Forest Park
Distance: ~25 minutes
Perfect for: All ages
Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, even bigger than Central Park in New York. The park offers sprawling green spaces, lakes, playgrounds, bike paths, and several major attractions—all free or low-cost.
Must-visit kid-friendly spots inside the park include:
The Muny
Steinberg Ice Rink (seasonal)
Boathouse paddleboats
Forest Park playgrounds
Missouri History Museum
Families can easily spend the entire day exploring.
9. Myseum
Distance: ~20 minutes
Perfect for: Ages 3–10
Myseum is a smaller-scale children’s science museum located in Town and Country. It’s filled with interactive learning, fun experiments, and unique play areas like a giant slide, bubble room, and dinosaur dig zone.
It’s much less crowded than other attractions in the city and is perfect for a slower, kid-focused day.
10. Swing-A-Round Fun Town
Distance: ~15 minutes
Perfect for: Ages 5–15
Just minutes from St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens, Swing-A-Round Fun Town is a fantastic spot for go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, batting cages, arcade games, and playgrounds. It’s easy to spend a few hours here, and kids love the freedom and excitement of this local favorite.
This is a great weekend outing without the long drive.
11. Lone Elk Park
Distance: ~20 minutes
Perfect for: All ages
Lone Elk Park is a drive-through wildlife park where families can see elk, bison, wild turkey, and deer roaming freely. Kids love the thrill of spotting animals out the window, and the driving route makes this an easy activity for families with young children.
Pack snacks and make it a quick wildlife safari.
12. St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station
Distance: ~30 minutes
Perfect for: All ages
Kids adore the St. Louis Aquarium for its touch tanks, interactive displays, otters, sharks, and indoor train-themed design. The aquarium is part of an entertainment complex with a Ferris wheel, ropes course, restaurants, and mini golf.
It’s a great all-in-one destination for families wanting a full day of activities.
Why Families Love Staying at St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens
If you’re traveling with kids, choosing the right RV park makes a huge difference. St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens offers:
Spacious RV sites for families
Quiet, clean surroundings
Full hookups for hassle-free stays
Reliable WiFi for schoolwork, streaming, or remote work
Easy 20–30 minute drives to major attractions
Pet-friendly accommodations
Close access to grocery stores and pharmacies
Safe, comfortable environment for children
The park’s peaceful setting gives families the perfect balance of fun and relaxation after a day of exploring St. Louis.
Final Thoughts: Make Family Memories Near St. Louis
Whether you’re RV camping for a weekend or staying longer near St. Louis, the area offers endless opportunities for family fun. From free attractions like the zoo and Science Center to adventure-filled destinations like City Museum and Grant’s Farm, your kids will never run out of exciting things to do.
St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens puts you close to all the action while providing a calm, comfortable home base. Spend your days exploring and your evenings relaxing at your campsite—creating memories your family will cherish for years.
If you’re ready for a family-friendly RV stay near St. Louis, we’re here to welcome you with open arms.
