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Local picks

Interesting fun activities in St. Louis

Activities that are genuinely interesting rather than just another way to kill time on a weekend.

Based on 911 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
StilL 630 Distillery image 1
StilL 630 Distillery image 2

Small distillery resembles a mad scientist's lab with experimental bottles lining the walls. Atmosphere stays cozy and intimate, feeling like friends hanging out in a relaxed, welcoming space. Tours and tastings focus on high-quality spirits with a unique, fun approach to bourbon, gin, and rum.

Tours offer a fun and informative experience with a guide who avoids the usual sales pitch. Visitors can explore new, fun flavors and learn about the history behind the distillery.

Tours offer direct insight from those involved in the process, making them more engaging than larger distillery tours. Each visit includes new tastings and informative history about the distillation process.

People are saying

"The tour guides are so knowledgeable and genuinely funny!"

"Andrew's passionate tour made the whiskey process so engaging."

"I found the tour very interesting and informative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday night cocktail events due to popularity.

2

The distillery offers a tasting session at the end of each tour.

3

Tours are led by the owner, providing in-depth knowledge about the distilling process.

02
Museum of Illusions - St. Louis image 1

Museum offers mind-altering illusions and exciting photo opportunities in a tight, warm space. Atmosphere feels inviting and fun despite occasional crowding and noise. Visitors respect personal space while engaging with interactive exhibits.

Exhibits offer creative illusions that challenge perception and sometimes cause a head-scratching effect. Plenty of interesting photo opportunities and interactive displays keep things engaging for all ages.

People are saying

"I had a lot of fun exploring all the illusions."

"The museum staff were so helpful explaining everything."

"I found the exhibits here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $34 per person, with discounts available for EBT cardholders.

2

Expect to spend about 45 minutes exploring the museum.

3

The museum is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly destination.

03
Escape The Room St Louis image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center offers elaborately decorated and immersive themed rooms like submarine and clock tower with unique puzzles. Atmosphere feels fun and engaging, filled with laughter and smiles during games. Spaces range from beginner-friendly theater rooms to demanding, well-built challenges.

Escape rooms offer a fun and challenging experience with scenarios like the Western heist. The activity encourages team bonding and features engaging clue masters.

Puzzles stand out as interesting and challenging, fitting the theme well. Informative details about the area add an extra layer of engagement.

People are saying

"The escape room was a lot of fun!"

"The staff here is so energetic and helpful!"

"The puzzles were interesting and challenging."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

2

The submarine escape room requires at least three players for optimal experience.

3

Expect potential issues with air conditioning; it may not always be functional.

04
Arkadin Cinema and Bar image 1

Micro movie theater offers intimate seating with comfy chairs and a nostalgic vibe highlighted by unique decor. Small bar serves themed cocktails alongside hot, fabulous popcorn. Programming features rare and unusual films with varied curation, creating a cozy, art house atmosphere.

Fun theme nights and happy hours create a lively atmosphere. The theater setup adds to the enjoyment, making it a great spot for birthday parties and private events.

A tiny bar in the lobby serves interesting cocktails. The theater screens old, offbeat, and unusual films, offering something unique and interesting to watch every night.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of interesting and offbeat movies they showed."

"It's a really fun place for birthday parties and private events."

"You'll find interesting movies, a mix of independent and classic films."

Good to know

1

Tickets are often sold out, so buy in advance to secure your spot.

2

The cinema hosts monthly VHS nights where attendees can bring their own tapes.

3

Happy hour events occur weekly, offering discounted drinks and snacks.

05
Switchgrass Spirits image 1

Intimate distillery with a sustainable approach and worker-owned structure offers extensive tastings featuring award-winning bourbons and ryes. The atmosphere balances informative tours with a fun, relaxed vibe. Visitors find a strong connection to local farmers and craft traditions.

Tours feature a fun and knowledgeable guide named Joe who keeps things engaging. The experience is both informative and ends with a boozy finish.

Tours offer very informative content and keep things interesting throughout.

People are saying

"The tour was really fun and informative."

"The whiskey tour guide Joe shared fun stories and explained distillation."

"The tour was really interesting and informative."

Good to know

1

The tour lasts about 2 hours, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect a generous tasting experience at the end of the tour.

3

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot for the tour.

06
Laumeier Sculpture Park Trail Head image 1

Sculpture park spans 105 acres with unique artwork integrated along quiet hiking trails. The atmosphere is serene and peaceful, inviting reflection amid nature and art. Picnic tables and ample parking support a relaxed, family- and pet-friendly environment.

Walking the trail offers a free, easy outdoor experience with unique sculptures to explore. The art pieces and fairs provide engaging and fun moments for groups and families.

Creative and interesting sculptures stand out across the grounds. The park showcases a variety of art pieces that catch attention with their unique designs.

People are saying

"I found the park's walking trails and sculptures inspiring."

"I found the artwork and sculptures really interesting."

"I found the art pieces to be fun and engaging."

Good to know

1

The park features about 70 sculptures spread across 105 acres.

2

There is ample parking available at the park.

3

The park is dog-friendly, making it suitable for pet owners.

07
National Museum of Transportation image 1

Sprawling museum campus combines indoor and outdoor spaces with well-maintained grounds and gardens. Friendly atmosphere supports self-paced exploration of extensive collections including trains, planes, and vintage cars. Multiple rides and interactive activities engage visitors of all ages, creating a comfortable and fun environment.

Train rides offer fun and information for all ages. Kids enjoy the playroom and model trains, while outdoor exhibits provide active learning and plenty of exercise.

Large trains and cars fill the space, offering a deep dive into railroad history. Inside old train cars and rare locomotives provide an interesting tour that appeals to both kids and adults.

People are saying

"It's a really fun and educational place for kids to explore."

"It's so fun exploring the vintage trains and cars here."

"I found the cars and trains here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure tickets as slots fill up quickly.

2

The museum offers a wheelchair for visitors needing assistance.

3

Expect a $100 admission fee for a family of four, including two seniors.

08
Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company image 1

Chocolate production happens on site with tours offering free samples and behind-the-scenes insights into candy making. The atmosphere combines immersive charm with a cozy cafรฉ serving crave-worthy eats. The space includes a shop selling high-quality, often expensive chocolates and is undergoing upgrades including an event area.

Tours offer a fun and informative look behind the scenes at candy making. Guides share rich history and fun facts in a friendly way during the 30-minute experience.

Tours show the production lines and how chocolates are made. Staff are friendly and tours mix information with humor.

People are saying

"I found the chocolate here to be delicious and velvety."

"This tour is a fun activity, blending history and deliciousness."

"It's interesting to see how the chocolates are made."

Good to know

1

Free tours are offered every 30 minutes on weekdays.

2

Reservations are required in advance for the factory tour.

3

The tour includes a free chocolate sample at the end.

09
Fort Belle Fontaine image 1

Grand staircase overlooks the Missouri River, offering breathtaking views and a unique architectural feature in the area. The park combines historic ruins with lush greenery and quiet trails along the riverbank. Visitors find a peaceful atmosphere that connects nature and history in a spacious, off-the-beaten-path setting.

Exploring the cool ruins offers a fun hike with plenty of chances to take pictures. The site provides a consistently fun experience for outdoor activities and photography.

Old structures along the trail catch the eye with their historic charm. Entering the park feels like stepping back in time, making the whole experience quite interesting.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful place to explore history."

"The old structures along the trail are really interesting."

"I had so much fun on this trip."

Good to know

1

There are no restroom facilities at Fort Belle Fontaine.

2

Expect to encounter mosquitoes; bug spray is recommended.

3

The Grand Staircase is a sight to see, but some stairs are crumbling.

10
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.

Free concerts in the garden create a lively and fun atmosphere. The Japanese Festival adds a unique and enjoyable cultural experience. The overall display and atmosphere feel amazing and entertaining.

Many interesting plants, flowers, and trees fill the large gardens. The history tied to Henry Shaw and the architecture adds an educational and historical layer. Waterfalls and landscaping showcase God's creations in a beautiful way.

People are saying

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

"The light displays here are amazing and fun."

"I found the plants and historical details really interesting."

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.

11
Venice Cafรฉ image 1

Bar with eclectic decor featuring mosaics and sculptures creates a psychedelic, bohemian vibe. Live music, often Dada and Funk, energizes the space, especially in the garden patio. Cash-only setup and limited seating add to the intimate, artistic atmosphere.

A fun atmosphere fills the space with a unique and creative vibe. Drinks come at good prices, making the experience both easy and enjoyable.

Visually interesting walls, floors, and ceilings create a unique atmosphere. Multiple areas like the first floor, upstairs, and patios offer distinctive decor and collections to explore while enjoying a cocktail.

People are saying

"This bar's decor is so unique and artistic, like a miniature City Museum."

"It's a fun and unique place with a lively atmosphere."

"The decor and artistic atmosphere here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Live music plays from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am, Monday through Saturday.

2

Open mic nights occur on Mondays, featuring various musical groups on other nights.

3

Venice Cafรฉ only accepts cash payments; no credit cards are accepted.

12
The Crack Fox image 1

Dive bar with eccentric decor and a burlesque, goth vibe creates a moody yet energized atmosphere. Space includes a big stage for live performances, arcade games, darts, and a separate cafe area for tea and coffee. Crowd is LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming, with a chill, laid-back energy.

Quirky events and shows create a lively atmosphere. Karaoke and DJs like Skeleta, Dizzy Punch, and Disko Kate keep the fun going with chances to get on stage and sing along.

Fun and interesting events happen regularly, drawing an eclectic crowd. Staff stay friendly while the clientele remain endlessly interesting.

People are saying

"I thought the karaoke here was great and so fun."

"I found karaoke to be so fun with friendly people."

"It's an interesting crowd of misfit toys here."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Tuesday night with a two-drink minimum.

2

The entrance is located at the back, via the deck.

3

Reservations are not required, but arrive early for popular events.

13
Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum image 1

Small museum housed in a fully restored historic building offers working rotary phones, switchboards, and vintage switching mechanisms that visitors can operate. Quiet atmosphere with meticulously arranged exhibits inside glass enclosures creates an engaging and informative experience. Volunteers with industry backgrounds share stories, adding depth to the hands-on demonstrations.

Small size makes it easy to explore quickly. Trying out a rotary phone adds a unique, hands-on twist to the fun.

Telephone history exhibits offer more than expected with informative displays and engaging demonstrations. Staff share interesting tidbits and some comical stories, making the visit quite engaging.

People are saying

"The guided tour of these historical sites was fabulous, thanks to the knowledgeable guide."

"It's so Kid Friendly with interactive, hands-on exhibits kids can touch."

"The tour guide's knowledge of telephone history was really interesting."

Good to know

1

Admission is very affordable, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

The museum features exhibits on phone history from the late 1800s to 2012.

3

Volunteers, many with phone company backgrounds, provide informative tours.

14
Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis image 1

Historic Federal Reserve building features marble architecture and modern interactive exhibits that explain monetary policy and the economy. Visitors pass through security checks before exploring educational displays suitable for all ages. The experience includes unique hands-on opportunities like lifting a real gold bar and receiving free shredded money souvenirs.

Interactive exhibits make learning about finance and economics fun and engaging for all ages. The museum offers a family friendly environment that combines education with entertainment.

Displays include ancient and unique money alongside plenty of interesting facts about cash. Interactive exhibits make learning about US monetary policy eye-opening for all ages.

People are saying

"It's so interactive and informative, definitely Kid Friendly for learning."

"It's interesting how many facts about cash you can learn here."

"It's a fun and educational place for all ages."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free with no payment required.

2

Visitors must bring a valid ID for entry due to security checks.

3

The museum offers interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.

15
Citygarden Sculpture Park image 1

Urban park combines unique sculptures with interactive water features like splash pads and fountains. It offers a serene atmosphere amid downtown, with well-kept grounds and a cool waterfall. The space attracts families and those seeking a quiet spot to relax and enjoy art and nature.

Creative sculptures and fun water features make this park a lively spot for exploring art. A well-curated soundtrack adds to the playful atmosphere while walking around.

Sculptures stand out as fun, creative, and innovative pieces set against a beautiful city backdrop. The park offers a small but interesting art experience.

People are saying

"It's really kid friendly, especially the splash pad and fountains."

"The sculptures here are really interesting and creative."

"The sculptures here are fun, creative, and interesting."

Good to know

1

Citygarden Sculpture Park is free to visit.

2

The park is clean and well-maintained.

3

Parking was hard to find at Citygarden Sculpture Park.

16
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.

Evenings here offer sightseeing, shopping, and family fun all in one spot. The aquarium lets kids touch many fish, adding hands-on excitement to the visit.

A historic train station with well-preserved architecture offers plenty of family activities and interesting attractions. The whispering wall and posted history add unique touches throughout the site.

People are saying

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

"I had a lot of fun with the aquarium and rides."

"It's an interesting place with lots of activities for families."

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.

17
Lemp Mansion image 1
Restaurant

Historic mansion offers a haunting atmosphere with beautiful architecture and a quiet, clean main area. Guests engage with interactive actors and use paranormal investigation equipment during events. The space includes a small museum, bar, and comfortable seating that enhance the immersive experience.

Escape rooms and scavenger hunts provide interactive fun throughout the mansion. Paranormal investigation equipment adds a unique twist to the activities.

History and spooky tales create an interesting atmosphere. Plenty to see adds to the overall intrigue.

People are saying

"You have to do the haunted tour of this historical site; it's an experience of a lifetime."

"You have to try the murder mystery dinner here; it's so interactive and fun."

"The food here is delicious and top quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Murder Mystery Dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The all-you-can-eat Sunday dinner is popular and offers a large variety of dishes.

3

Murder Mystery Dinners are interactive and require advance booking.

18
Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery image 1

Massive historic brewery showcases beautiful architecture and well-manicured grounds. Visitors experience a lively atmosphere with Clydesdale horses, beer garden, and complimentary hats, glasses, and beer samples. Temperature varies across rooms, adding to the dynamic tour environment.

Tours offer a fun and informative look at brewing and historic buildings. The experience feels like a Willy Wonka world with beer, making it a memorable activity for visitors.

Tours offer lots of interesting information and facts, especially about the brewery's history. Guides stay patient with diverse groups, making the experience engaging and exciting.

People are saying

"I found the brewery tour informative and a fun way to spend a couple of hours."

"You get to sample freshly poured beer at the end of the tour."

"I found the brewery tour really interesting and informative."

Good to know

1

The Beermaster Tour sells out fast, so order ahead of time.

2

The tours last about an hour each.

3

Expect a 40-minute wait for the $15 tour without a reservation.

19
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station image 1

Aquarium built inside an old train station offers a unique integration of historic architecture and marine exhibits. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, with interactive touch tanks and hands-on activities that engage visitors closely with sea life. The venue includes a giant Ferris wheel providing city views, adding an exciting outdoor element to the experience.

Interactive stations offer hands-on fun for both kids and adults. Activities engage the entire family in a wonderful and fun environment.

An interesting ride offers unique views from every window. The shark tank stands out as a key highlight, and watching the animals being fed adds to the experience.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with lots of interactive activities."

"I had a lot of fun with the interesting displays."

"I found the sea life and displays really interesting."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $30 per person, with discounts for seniors and children.

2

Parking is paid and can be difficult to navigate due to limited space.

3

The aquarium is not wheelchair accessible, which may affect some visitors.

20
The Hill Antique Market image 1

Antique mall offers well curated booths with a wide variety of vintage and eclectic items. Atmosphere feels upscale and trendy, with an attached cafe and bar where people sip $5 mimosas while browsing. Layout is easy to navigate, creating a relaxed yet lively shopping experience.

Wine Wednesday events offer a lively night out. The Hill Antique Market hosts fun, well-curated events along with other shops in the building.

Vendors offer a lot of interesting items to look through. The selection is eclectic and some pieces are quite expensive.

People are saying

"This market's booths are so well-curated and organized, it's like walking through art exhibits."

"The antique items here are so interesting and eclectic."

"I love the 'Wine Wednesday' fun activities with enjoyable food and drinks."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking available for visitors.

2

The market is well organized and clean for a pleasant shopping experience.

3

Every booth is laid out for smooth and convenient shopping.

21
The Headless Bat image 1
Pizza restaurant

Metal-themed pizza bar combines heavy metal music, pinball machines, and horror movie screenings for a lively, energetic vibe. Space features meticulous decor with cool art and band-themed elements that enhance the atmosphere. Pizza comes in generous portions, complementing the fun, intense setting.

Four pinball machines provide a blast from the past and add to the fun. The venue hosts fun events and offers games that keep the experience lively.

Szechuan peppercorns in the glaze create an interesting and unique flavor on the pies. The vibe and decor feature lots of interesting art and tchotchkes that add to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was delicious and tasted fresh."

"The pizza and beer selection here are seriously great fun activities."

"The pizza crust here is very good and the slices are huge."

Good to know

1

The Headless Bat is 21 and up after 5pm.

2

Reservations are required for groups larger than six.

3

They do not split checks for groups of eight or more.

22
National Blues Museum image 1

Museum offers an intimate live music venue with top-flight musicians performing in a well-designed theater. Exhibits provide a clear history of blues music with quality artifacts and visual presentations. Atmosphere stays relaxing and inviting, attracting music and history enthusiasts.

Engaging exhibits and great memorabilia make for fun activities. Visitors enjoy the mix of art and interactive elements that keep the experience lively.

Exhibits include interactive displays and artifacts that cover the full history of the blues and its musicians. The collection offers a deep dive into the genre's story.

People are saying

"The museums here have really cool interactive exhibits."

"I found the interactive exhibits and memorabilia to be fun."

"I found the artifacts and interactive exhibits really interesting."

Good to know

1

The museum is only open 16 hours total for the week, from 11 AM to 3 PM.

2

The National Blues Museum charges $15 for admission.

3

The tour is suitable for people with mobility issues.

23
Soulard Farmers Market image 1
Farmers' market

Grand Hall with Italian Renaissance architecture hosts an indoor and sheltered market filled with live music and friendly vendors. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful weekdays to lively, crowded weekends. Additional amenities include a playground and plaza, enhancing the community feel.

Lots of interesting booths create a lively atmosphere. Performances like Brenda K. Starr's add engaging fun to the experience.

Crowds fill the market with a mix of booths selling soaps, essential oils, and fresh vegetables. The variety keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging.

People are saying

"I found this market to have lots of fresh produce and meat."

"I found the market to be a fun place with lots of interesting booths."

"It's an interesting place with lots of booths and unique items."

Good to know

1

Cash is required for purchases; an ATM on-site charges a $4 fee.

2

The market is open on weekends, making it a popular spot for visitors.

3

The market hosts various events during warm months, featuring music and vendors.

24
The Hawthorn image 1
Event venue

Large open space with solid acoustics and clear sound supports an intimate atmosphere despite its size. Layout offers plenty of room to move and get close to the stage without feeling cramped. Lighting and stage setup enhance the energy of live performances.

Events include Art, Mimosas, and Pancakes and concerts that keep the crowd engaged. Intimate settings create a fun atmosphere for nights out and shows.

The space has an interesting layout that lets people spread out comfortably. It works well for those who don't want to be right up front.

People are saying

"This bar has a great layout, spacious yet intimate."

"The venue's intimate vibe makes for really fun activities."

"The atmosphere here is really interesting and unique."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Hawthorn can be very limited, especially during events.

2

The venue has a strict no reentry policy, so plan accordingly.

3

Only the first 12 people may find seating during busy events.

25
21c Museum Hotel St Louis image 1

Hotel combines contemporary art gallery with stylish accommodations and vintage-inspired design. Atmosphere feels quiet and comfortable, enhanced by unique art pieces and spacious interiors. Amenities include indoor pool, spa, and cocktail bar, creating a relaxed yet engaging environment.

Orange penguins move around the hotel to add a playful touch. Docents encourage taking pictures and enjoying the art, making exploration engaging and fun.

People are saying

"This hotel's art exhibits create such a unique and inspiring setting."

"The art museum here is amazing and made my stay enjoyable."

"The staff here are extraordinary and incredibly friendly."

Good to know

1

Self-parking costs $20 per day, while valet parking is $45.

2

The hotel does not have secured parking or sufficient security.

3

Expect cleanliness issues in rooms based on guest experiences.

26
Angad Arts Hotel St. Louis, Tapestry Collection by Hilton image 1

Hotel showcases an art gallery and rooftop bar with unique artwork and a stunning downtown view. Atmosphere blends cool, hip vibes with quiet areas, though rooftop music can be loud. Rooftop bar attracts writers, artists, and poets seeking quality entertainment and personable service.

Art tours include a map and fun facts that add to the experience. A rooftop bar and engaging events offer more ways to enjoy the space.

Rooms offer a unique color choice that adds a fun twist. The building features interesting artwork and decor throughout, creating a cozy and special vibe.

People are saying

"The rooftop bar has gorgeous views and great staff."

"The rooms here are colorful and interesting."

"The art displayed all around is a fun activity."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25 a night, but many cars have been broken into recently.

2

Check-in is located on the 12th floor, which is important to remember.

3

The rooftop bar is open for events but only after 6 pm.

27
St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton image 1

Old train station converted into a hotel offers historic architecture and a two-story lobby with hourly light shows. The space feels artistic and immersive, with amenities like an aquarium, carousel, and Ferris wheel under one roof. Atmosphere blends relaxing history with occasional lively events.

Many activities fill the large space inside the old train station building. Walking through the historic parts reveals the hotel's interesting history and large footprint.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's kindness and professionalism really made me feel welcomed."

"The light show in the grand hall is enchanting fun."

"The historic architecture and grand common areas are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $40 per day.

2

The hotel lacks proper handicap accessibility for guests.

3

Every hour on the hour, there is a light show in the grand hall.

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