Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Kid-friendly fun activities in Downtown West, St. Louis

Made for those who need to keep their children occupied and refuse to spend their weekend sitting still.

Based on 911 Opinions
+908
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Escape The Room St Louis image 1
Escape The Room St Louis image 2
Escape The Room St Louis image 3
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.

Kids have an amazing time with fun, engaging rooms like the bank room designed for younger players. Staff show great patience with groups of kids under 13, making the experience enjoyable for all ages.

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

People are saying

"The escape room was a lot of fun!"

"The staff here is so energetic and helpful!"

"It's so Kid Friendly; my kids had an amazing time!"

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.

02
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.

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.

A local sporting event offers a fun experience with a stadium that feels lively and engaging. Concessions meet standard expectations, though parking can be poor.

People are saying

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

"There wasn't a bad seat in the house for the fun activities."

"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.

03
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.

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.

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.

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."

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

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.

04
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.

Engaging exhibits capture kids from toddlers to older children. Activities like the Ferris wheel and mirror maze add extra fun beyond the aquarium tanks.

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

People are saying

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

"The aquarium is packed with fun interactive activities for everyone."

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

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.

05
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.

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.

Events here combine elegance with a fun vibe. Activities range from lively conferences to entertaining shows, making it a spot where people have a lot of fun.

People are saying

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

"It's a beautiful place with an elegant, fun vibe."

"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.

06
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.

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

Monday night Raw and WWE events bring high-energy wrestling to the venue. Hockey games take place in a lively arena with access to a social sports pub before and after. Other events include Monster Jam, concerts, and comedians.

People are saying

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

"I had so much fun watching the Blues game and the players fight."

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

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.

07
St. Louis Union Station Soda Fountain image 1

Old-school diner style blends with modern ice cream shop design, creating a retro atmosphere filled with oldies music. Energetic and fun vibe suits families, especially with children's play area and candy and toy sections that keep kids engaged. Adult milkshakes and cocktails add a unique twist to the classic soda fountain experience.

Fast and attentive service caters well to kids, with staff like Chelsea and Jade making birthdays special. The Soda Fountain offers a fun and welcoming atmosphere that kids really enjoy.

Retro vibe mixes with modern flair for a nostalgic dining experience. The soda fountain adds a playful touch that makes the visit fun.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and prepared quickly."

"Our server Abby was so attentive and kind to our kids."

"Our server Abby made the experience so much fun!"

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends, often around 2 hours.

2

Credit card payments automatically add a tip, so check your bill carefully.

3

The menu is simple but offers good choices for kids and families.

08
Build-A-Bear Workshop at Union Station image 1

Store offers a large selection of animals and clothing for customization. Atmosphere is cozy and friendly for both kids and adults, with an interactive setup allowing groups to put hearts into animals simultaneously. Quality of plush toys stands out, making it a fun and exciting experience.

Friendly staff create a welcoming space for kids and adults alike. Children enjoy making their own bears, and parties with multiple kids are well supported and fun.

Fun bear-making experience offers many choices and options to create your own bear. Staff are helpful and entertaining, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.

People are saying

"The staff here is so patient and friendly with kids."

"The staff here make the fun activities so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom available for children at this location.

2

This store offers a wide selection of bears and clothing options.

3

The staff is friendly and helpful in a children's environment.

09
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.

Staff members like Randy engage warmly with kids, remembering their names and interacting personally. The place holds a magical atmosphere that appeals to children, creating memorable experiences.

People are saying

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

"The light show here is mesmerizing and totally kid friendly."

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

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.

10
St. Louis Union Station Ropes Course image 1

Ropes course features high elevation challenges with varied difficulty levels suitable for both kids and adults. The atmosphere stays energetic and organized, with safety harnesses and clear rules. Crowds appear on weekends but the space rarely feels crowded, and booking tickets in advance is common.

The ropes course offers an energetic challenge that suits both kids and adults. A small train and climbing play area provide fun for younger children, while staff like Ty create a comfortable and patient environment for kids.

Ropes Course offers an energetic challenge that suits families and kids well. Safety instructions are clear, making it a fun and active experience.

People are saying

"The ropes course is a fun, energetic activity for families and kids."

"The ropes course is a load of fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during weekends.

2

Expect crowds during weekends and school breaks, especially in the afternoon.

3

Going early in the day can lead to shorter wait times.

11
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.

Kids enjoy the penguins and the lively lobby with shuffleboard and pool table offers a fun hangout spot for families.

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 pool and workout area are great for kids."

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.

Discover more

Downtown West, St. Louis

Area guide
Loading Map...