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Top picks in Missouri

Kid-friendly spots with scenic views

Keeping the children occupied while taking in a wide, open vista makes for a much calmer afternoon.

Based on 997 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Whitecliff Park image 1
Whitecliff Park image 2
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Park centers on breathtaking water views and well-maintained walking trails that connect various amenities. It offers diverse recreational facilities including tennis courts, basketball court, playgrounds, and an aquatic center. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, giving a sense of being away from it all despite active areas with music and community events.

A shelter by the quarry offers a private spot for parties with a beautiful view. Views from Whitecliff Park are breathtaking and nice.

Playground equipment suits kids and sits in full sun. Swim lessons have instructors skilled with children. A pavilion near the kids area offers space for picnics and sports activities.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be really beautiful."

"It's a great kid-friendly park with a nice playground."

"The scenic views here are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The park and swimming pool are clean, safe, and fun.

2

The bathrooms at Whitecliff Park are clean.

3

The playground is safe and clean.

02
Tower Grove Park image 1

Spacious park with old green trees and numerous pavilions featuring themed designs creates a charming and calming energy. Multiple playgrounds, a splash pad, and courts for tennis and pickleball offer varied activities. Historical features like gazebos, ponds, and World's Fair structures enrich the peaceful atmosphere.

Tall trees provide ample shade along many walking trails. Views include fields and treetops visible from paths and driving routes, with nice sights from elevated spots.

Spacious areas let kids run, play, and cool off with picnics. Playgrounds, yoga classes, and music performances offer varied activities for children.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, spacious, and always well-maintained."

"I found the farmer's market here to be great and awesome."

"I found the scenic views of trees and fields to be beautiful."

Good to know

1

The park hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday, featuring local produce and goods.

2

Food Truck Fridays occur monthly, offering a variety of food options and live music.

3

Safety concerns arise at night due to limited lighting in some areas of the park.

03
Bee Tree County Park image 1

Three-story playground with multiple swings and slides anchors a park known for scenic walking trails and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere suits family gatherings and photo shoots. Historic mansion on a bluff adds elegant charm to natural surroundings.

Beautiful views of the Mississippi River stand out, with scenic walking trails and a quiet pond offering relaxing spots. The historic home provides panoramic views over the river and lakes.

Playgrounds include a big main area and a smaller side playground for younger kids. Swings suit smaller children well. Kids enjoy views overlooking the Mississippi River while playing.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and great for walking and absorbing nature."

"It's a really nice playground for the kids to run around on."

"I loved the beautiful scenic views of the Mississippi River."

Good to know

1

GSLAC hosts a cub scout evening camp at the park during the third week of June.

2

The park has a lake area, playground, restrooms, and pavilions or shelters.

3

Parking at the park is limited.

04
Emmenegger Nature Park image 1

Small park with quiet nature trails and scenic bluffs overlooking a river. Trails vary from easy paved paths to more rugged hikes, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Peaceful atmosphere with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy river views.

Bluffs offer nice views of the Meramec River and surrounding creeks. Trails provide peaceful river vistas and sunset views that are easy to reach after work.

Many exploring opportunities invite kids to play in the creek and woods. Kids enjoy swinging on vines and discovering the creek environment.

People are saying

"The river views from the bluffs are really nice."

"It's a great Dog Friendly place to walk your dogs."

"You'll find nice river views from the bluffs."

Good to know

1

Parking can get tight at Emmenegger Nature Park, especially on weekends.

2

Bring bug spray to avoid mosquitoes, especially during warmer months.

3

The trails are a mix of paved and rugged paths suitable for all skill levels.

05
Lone Elk Park image 1

Vast landscape with diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and buffalo appears in a natural setting without barriers. The park maintains a peaceful and serene atmosphere with beautiful views and quiet surroundings. Facilities include picnic areas and hiking trails, supporting a relaxing outdoor experience.

Great views of elk, bison, and deer appear close to the road, making wildlife easy to spot. Trails and a lake add to the beautiful scenic views, with a picnic area offering a nice spot to enjoy the outdoors.

Kids get to see plenty of wildlife up close, including bison and elk. The park offers a simple, natural setting that works well for teaching kids about animals.

People are saying

"You can drive through these parks and see wild animals up close."

"It's a peaceful drive surrounded by beautiful nature and animals."

"You can see elk and bison up close on the scenic views here."

Good to know

1

Lone Elk Park is free to enter, making it accessible for everyone.

2

Pets are not allowed in Lone Elk Park, even if confined to a car.

3

Visitors should keep their distance from elk for safety.

06
Minnie Ha Ha Park image 1

Park offers paved trails, several playgrounds, and river access with pleasant views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with plenty of benches and picnic areas. Activities include walking, biking, disk golf, and BMX track, making it suitable for kids and outdoor fun.

Several lookout points offer great views of the Meramec River. A wide paved walk provides pleasant river views along with restrooms and a playground nearby.

A nice playground suits children of all ages. Trails and river views offer space for walking and biking with kids.

People are saying

"The park's paved trails are amazing for walking or biking."

"It's a wonderful park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts."

"You'll love the great river views from the lookout points."

Good to know

1

The park has several playgrounds for children.

2

There are pavilions available for parties or gatherings.

3

Expect a significant amount of mosquitoes during warmer months.

07
Shay's Creole Smokehouse (Hosted by The Millstream) image 1

Outdoor patio next to a creek and old wooden water mill creates a cozy, rustic vibe with shady, private seating. Indoor space features dark, brick walls and vintage New Orleans decor with lava lamps as table lights. Atmosphere feels like a small place on Bourbon Street with background music and a relaxed pace.

Cool air and window views create a relaxed vibe. The patio overlooks the Millstream, adding to the peaceful setting.

Kids enjoy pulled pork sandwiches and pulled chicken here. Some kids may prefer chicken over pork.

People are saying

"The smoked meats here are tender, moist, and flavorful."

"The cool air and window view really made the BBQ shine."

"The food here is so good, it's impressive!"

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 3:00 p.m. on Sundays.

2

Cash discounts are available for payments made in cash.

3

The restaurant is located inside the Old Millstream bar.

08
Audubon Center at Riverlands image 1

Nature preserve features large windows and multiple spotting scopes for viewing wildlife, especially birds like eagles. The atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil, with well-designed interpretive trails and educational exhibits that engage both children and adults. Visitors find it quiet and not crowded, ideal for relaxation and learning about local wildlife.

Large windows offer views into wild areas along the river. Telescopes inside let you see eagles and waterfowl up close. The river views are consistently beautiful and calming.

An amazing museum offers exhibits and activities that engage kids and adults alike. Kids enjoy playing inside, spotting birds through scopes, and learning from educational talks and displays.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with lots of activities and learning displays."

"You can learn about birds at the nature center's exhibits."

"You'll love the beautiful river views here."

Good to know

1

The center is free to visit.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The visitor center has a handicap accessible entrance.

09
Missouri Botanical Garden image 1

Large, open garden complex features unique light displays and a climate-controlled dome housing tropical plants. Peaceful walking paths wind through family-friendly areas with splash pads and interactive play zones. The atmosphere blends majestic views with a calm, relaxing vibe.

Majestic views unfold along well-tended gardens and shaded walking paths. The layout encourages wandering with clear signage guiding through gorgeous scenery.

Children's garden features water, music, and pretend setups that engage kids. Activities occupy children for 2-3 hours with plenty to explore.

People are saying

"The children's garden has a splash pad and nature play areas."

"I loved walking the accessible pathways through stunning displays."

"The gardens offer beautiful, majestic scenic views along well-kept walking paths."

Good to know

1

Visitors should check the website for hours of operation and admission information.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early or use free shuttle lots.

3

The garden is friendly to disabled guests, ensuring accessibility.

10
Art Hill image 1
Tourist attraction

Wide open grassy area overlooks a basin with fountains and a lake, creating a peaceful atmosphere with soothing water sounds. Visitors enjoy free concerts and plays, along with picnics and scenic views of nearby monuments and museum campus. The space offers ample photo opportunities and a serene setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Art Hill offers stunning 180-degree views of the park, fountain, and sky. The spot provides beautiful sights of Forest Park and the museum campus, making it a great place for a picnic or paddle boat ride.

Open grassy areas let kids run freely and burn off energy. Gentle slopes provide spots for sledding and snowboarding during snowy days.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous views from this spot."

"The scenic views here are stunning, offering a gorgeous look at the park."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot for sledding and letting kids run freely."

Good to know

1

Art Hill hosts outdoor movies, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

2

The summer movie series at Art Hill is a popular free event.

3

Parking can be challenging during major events, so arrive early.

11
Castlewood State Park image 1

Meadows and forests surround winding trails along a river, creating a peaceful atmosphere with scenic river views and picturesque bluffs. Playgrounds, picnic areas, and benches with grills offer spots for rest and gathering. A railway track and elaborate stairways add unique charm and variety to the natural setting.

Trails offer breathtaking views of the river, hillsides, and cliffs. Multiple spots provide places to sit and enjoy the beautiful river and hillside scenery along clearly marked paths.

Clear, cool water invites kids to splash and play. Facilities include a play area and a sandy beach where children can dig and explore.

People are saying

"The river views from the trails are really great."

"The river views from the trails here are breathtaking."

"It's so Kid Friendly with beautiful views along the river."

Good to know

1

Swimming is prohibited due to dangerous water conditions.

2

The restrooms at the park are exceptionally clean.

3

Expect the park to be busy on weekends in good weather.

12
Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum image 1

Museum offers spectacular river views through large windows and an outdoor balcony. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with a clean, modern building and a small, informative exhibit focused on history. Activities and a movie room provide an interactive experience for children.

Spectacular views stretch from the outdoor balcony and large picture windows. The river scenes from the boat house and museum offer beautiful, stunning sights.

Hands-on exhibits create an interactive learning experience for kids. Activities and a gift shop encourage exploring and learning about history in a child friendly setting.

People are saying

"This museum is packed with artifacts and offers a lot of history."

"It's a fun, educational experience that's really Kid Friendly."

"You'll love the spectacular river views from the deck."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

2

The museum is open from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during events.

13
Energizer Park image 1

Stadium offers excellent sightlines with great views from every seat and a family-friendly atmosphere that energizes during games. Spacious concourses and inclusive amenities like nursing and sensory rooms support comfort and accessibility. Food options are diverse and notable, featuring standout items like the Balkan Treat Box gyro.

Great view from every seat makes watching the game easy and enjoyable. The skyline views from the suite level and top deck add a special touch to the experience.

A dedicated quiet space and a lactation room support young children and parents. Kids can enjoy activities like winning a jersey at events, making it fun for families.

People are saying

"I thought it was a fantastic place to watch live sports."

"You get great Scenic Views from every seat here."

"This place is so impressive and gorgeous, it's amazing for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $40 and fills up 90 minutes before the game starts.

2

Energizer Park is a cashless venue; only card payments are accepted.

3

No outside food or drinks are allowed, including water bottles.

14
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park image 1

Lake surrounded by hiking trails and kayak rentals offers a laid back and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors enjoy picnic spots, playgrounds, and varied outdoor activities in a well-maintained setting. The park attracts people for walking, biking, and quiet relaxation with easy parking access.

Beautiful lake views appear throughout the park, especially from the restaurant and disc golf course. The sunset over the lake adds a fantastic visual element to the relaxing atmosphere.

Play areas include climbing structures and a slide that attract many kids. Walking and jogging paths suit families, and the park welcomes pets and children for outdoor fun.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the lake view."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a fantastic playground."

"The lake views here are beautiful and perfect for relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available at multiple locations around the park.

2

The park is family-friendly and offers activities like picnicking, biking, and hiking.

3

Kayak rentals are affordable and available near the lake.

15
Frontier Park image 1

Park along the river offers spectacular views and well-kept grounds with paths for walking and biking. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and serene during the week to lively and festive during concerts and events. Visitors enjoy live music, outdoor festivals, and a mix of quiet spots and social activity.

Spectacular river views dominate the park, with clean paths perfect for walking and people watching. The main stage sits near a busy exit, offering a unique view of events alongside the flowing river.

Open spaces invite kids to explore and play freely. The park welcomes both dogs and kids, making it a lively spot for families. Kids enjoy activities like Pokรฉmon Go while walking around safely.

People are saying

"I loved walking along the river at this park."

"I enjoyed the great river views here."

"It's a great place for kids to walk around and play."

Good to know

1

Frontier Park hosts Oktoberfest every year with food, music, and activities.

2

Parking can become difficult quickly during events, so arrive early.

3

The park is dog-friendly and has picnic areas for visitors.

16
370 Lakeside Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful lake views and clean, well-maintained facilities offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Amenities include dog parks, walking trails, and pavilions suitable for large gatherings, supporting a variety of outdoor activities.

Most sites offer a lake view that is consistently beautiful. The view from the camper and at 370 Lakeside Park is especially spectacular.

Many activities keep kids busy, including a playground with swings and slides and open grassy areas for running. Boating and catch-and-release fishing offer hands-on fun, while food trucks and concerts add variety for families.

People are saying

"This RV park is big rig friendly with well-cared-for sites."

"The lake views here are beautiful and amazing."

"It's a great spot with a playground and pool for the kids."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available on weekends with live music on Fridays.

2

The park has pavilions that can accommodate over 200 people for gatherings.

3

The campground is well-maintained and easy to navigate.

17
Sassafras image 1
American restaurant

Large outdoor patio offers garden views and natural bird sounds that create a peaceful dining atmosphere. Seating includes shaded areas with comfortable furniture, making it ideal for lunch or escaping heat. Clean, aesthetically pleasing space blends indoor and outdoor elements seamlessly.

Large windows offer clear views of the garden. The patio provides a beautiful setting to enjoy the outdoors. The view stands out as the main attraction here.

Staff show friendly and accommodating behavior toward kids. The environment feels kid-friendly and suits sharing meals with children.

People are saying

"The patio is beautiful and offers lovely outdoor seating."

"The patio and outdoor seating offer beautiful scenic views."

"It's a great spot for sharing a meal with kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect long lines during busy events.

2

The grab-and-go cafe often has a long line, especially during events.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with meals around $18 during special events.

18
The Muny image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor amphitheater offers beautiful setting with large quiet fans that keep the air comfortable even in heat. Clear sound and live orchestra enhance performances, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere with good views from many seats.

Beautiful sunset views enhance the experience while waiting for the show. Plenty of seating options offer good views from both front and free sections, keeping the atmosphere lively and welcoming.

Children receive an excellent theater experience with performances like Beauty and the Beast. Staff treat kids with respect, kindness, and support, encouraging child actors to go above and beyond.

People are saying

"I loved watching musicals at this amazing outdoor theater."

"It's a wonderful place for kids to have a magical theater experience."

"You get a great view from every seat here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and close to the venue.

2

The upper lot often lacks enough handicapped parking spaces.

3

Arrive early to secure free seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.

19
Creve Coeur Lake image 1

Large lake surrounded by scenic hiking trails and diverse recreational activities including boating, paddleboarding, and volleyball courts. Atmosphere combines tranquil natural beauty with active outdoor energy from bikers, joggers, and families. Crowds gather especially near lakeside areas, creating a lively environment for sports and relaxation.

Walking paths run along the lake's shoreline, offering stunning views of water and nature. The view shines especially at sunset, creating a beautiful scene to enjoy and capture.

Open spaces let kids run free and explore. Fishing opportunities add a hands-on activity for children at the lake.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park for walking, riding, and fishing."

"It's a great park to let kids run free."

"The scenic views here are beautiful, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

Multiple restrooms are available at Creve Coeur Lake.

2

Parking can be difficult to find on nice days.

3

You can bring your own paddleboard or rent one at Creve Coeur Lake.

20
Cliff Cave County Park image 1

Park offers scenic pathways with beautiful Mississippi River views and a mix of paved and hiking trails. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, with occasional sounds from cicadas and passing trains. Picnic pavilions and benches provide comfortable spots to relax and enjoy nature.

Trails lead to expansive views of the Mississippi River, with a scenic bridge and a cave adding variety. Hydration stations sit at the top, complementing the beautiful water vistas along the pathways.

Kids enjoy exploring the cliff caves and the walking bridge over the road. Trails are easy enough for children under 12 to walk and the big lookout is a favorite spot.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, scenic place to walk your dog on nice trails."

"I enjoyed the great scenic views of the Mississippi River."

"The paved paths are great for strollers, making it kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Keep your dog on a leash while on the trails.

2

The restrooms on the lower lot need better maintenance and cleaning.

3

Parking is ample and easy to find at the park.

21
Kiener Plaza Park image 1

Open green space centers around an interactive water fountain with views of the Gateway Arch and nearby courthouse. The atmosphere feels peaceful and cozy, with a family-friendly playground and seasonal features like an ice rink adding festive energy. Plenty of seating and modern amenities support relaxation and community gatherings.

Views center on the Gateway Arch with the Old Courthouse in the foreground, creating a striking scene. The park's location near major landmarks offers great photo opportunities and a calming green space.

A kids playground with unique play structures and a clean climbing area for ages 4 and up keeps children entertained. Water spurts from the ground and a small slide add fun, while ice skating offers activity for all ages.

People are saying

"The view of the Arch and courthouse is gorgeous."

"It's a great place to let the kids play at the playground."

"The scenic views of the Arch and Old Courthouse are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Free ice skating requires a reserved time slot.

2

Sunrise Yoga sessions are free every Tuesday at 7am from May through October.

3

Kiener Plaza hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.

22
Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis At The Arch image 1

Hotel offers spacious rooms with views of the Arch and Mississippi River and a historic, elegant ambiance. Amenities include free breakfast and evening snacks, a pool, and hot tubs, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The rooftop balcony and lobby add distinctive charm, while noise levels vary by floor.

Extremely family friendly with menus that include mac and cheese, hot dogs, and queso. Kids enjoy a variety of simple, familiar food options like salad, soup, and chips.

People are saying

"The breakfast spread here is well executed and full of options."

"The free breakfast and evening kickback with food and drinks were excellent."

"The staff here is so friendly and genuinely greets my family with kindness."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers complimentary adult beverages and snacks from 5:30 to 7:00 PM every night.

2

Parking at the hotel costs $26 per day.

3

Breakfast is included with your stay and features a buffet-style setup.

23
Stifel Theatre image 1
Opera house

Opera house offers beautiful historic architecture and intimate, cozy atmosphere with impeccable acoustics that deliver clear sound from every seat. Comfortable seating and well-designed layout enhance the experience, making it suitable for concerts and comedy shows.

Clear views from almost every seat make the theater setup stand out. The balcony area offers an especially amazing view of the stage and auditorium.

Shows feature kid-friendly performances like Paw Patrol and Wild Krats. Food options suit children well, and musicals such as Dogman offer fun experiences for all ages.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue is beautiful with amazing sound quality."

"The venue's historic beauty is truly amazing."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my kids loved the performances."

Good to know

1

Parking is often difficult, especially during events; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Valet parking is available but requires reservations in advance.

3

The theater does not accept cash; credit cards are required for all purchases.

24
St. Louis Union Station image 1
Tourist attraction

Grand interior combines with historic architecture and large koi pond to create a unique setting. Ferris wheel, aquarium, and interactive attractions offer a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor fountain features a free fire and water show, adding to the festive vibe.

Views from the top offer a striking perspective despite the height. Sitting by the fountain provides an amazing view, and the Ferris wheel adds a unique vantage point.

Plenty to do for kids of all ages includes a kids ropes course and sky tikes that stand out more than the aquarium. The spot offers a family-friendly environment that keeps children coming back repeatedly.

People are saying

"The aquarium was amazing and interactive; you could touch aquatic species."

"The Polar Express train ride is a magical, kid-friendly experience."

"The aquarium was interactive and allowed us to touch various aquatic species."

Good to know

1

The Grand Hall Experience light show occurs nightly and is free to watch.

2

The fire and ice show runs hourly in the evenings and is free.

3

Walking around St. Louis Union Station is free and offers many sights.

25
Enterprise Center image 1

Arena offers electric atmosphere with fantastic sightlines and perfect acoustics. Crowds bring passionate energy especially during hockey games and wrestling events. Entertainment includes dynamic shows with music, lights, and interactive elements that keep the energy high.

Seats right on the glass or in suites offer amazing views. Even upper-level sections like 321 and the 300's provide excellent sightlines and make it easy to follow the game.

Events include family-friendly concerts and NHL games that kids enjoy. Staff show support for special needs guests, making visits smoother for families.

People are saying

"I thought it was a great spot for a hockey game."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the energy at the game was incredible."

"The scenic views are amazing, even from the highest seats."

Good to know

1

Parking near the venue can cost up to $30; arrive at least two hours early.

2

Food and drink prices inside the venue are generally high.

3

Restrooms are well-maintained, even during large events.

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