St Louis

Exploring St. Louis: A 3-Day Family Adventure in the Gateway City
St. Louis, Missouri, blends history, culture, and family-friendly attractions, making it a wonderful getaway destination. From exploring caves to wandering through museums and enjoying river cruises, our 3-day trip was packed with adventure, learning, and memorable experiences.

Stay: Hyatt Regency at Arch

Travel Month: September

Day 1 – Gateway to Adventure

Gateway Arch
We started our journey at the Gateway Arch, the city’s most famous landmark. Standing beneath the towering 630-foot structure was awe-inspiring, and taking the tram ride to the top rewarded us with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis.

Meramec Caverns
From there, we drove about an hour out of the city to explore the Meramec Caverns. Known as the hideout of the outlaw Jesse James, these caves were filled with fascinating rock formations and underground wonders. Since strollers aren’t permitted, it’s a good idea to bring a baby carrier if you’re traveling with little ones. The guided tour was both educational and adventurous, making it a highlight of the day.

Day 2 – Butterflies, Aquariums, and Lights

Butterfly Garden
The morning began at the Butterfly House & Garden, where hundreds of colorful butterflies fluttered freely around us. It was a peaceful yet magical start to the day and perfect for kids and adults alike.

Union Station
Next, we headed to St. Louis Union Station, which has been transformed into an entertainment hub. We tackled the ropes course and laughed our way through the mirror maze, both of which kept the kids engaged and excited. As evening approached, we caught the spectacular fire and light show at the outdoor lake, followed by the mesmerizing Grand Hall light show inside the station.

Aquarium
To end the day, we visited the St. Louis Aquarium located right in Union Station. The interactive exhibits and marine life displays, including stingrays, sharks, and playful otters, made it a favorite stop for our family.

Day 3 – A Taste of St. Louis & A Cruise Finale

Budweiser
Our final day began with the Budweiser Brewery Tour, where we learned about the history and brewing process of one of America’s most iconic beers. The adults enjoyed sampling fresh brews, while the kids were entertained by the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

City Museum
We then visited the City Museum, a whimsical place unlike any other. With its tunnels, slides, and interactive installations made from repurposed materials, it felt like stepping into a giant playground for all ages. The rooftop (open seasonally) offered even more adventurous fun and great city views.

River Cruise
To wrap up our trip, we took a relaxing Mississippi River Cruise. Drifting along the river, we admired the St. Louis skyline and reflected on all the memories we had made over the past three days. It was the perfect ending to our adventure.

Tips for Visiting St. Louis

• Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Gateway Arch and City Museum, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Wear comfortable shoes – from caves to museums, there’s a lot of walking and climbing involved.
• Bring a baby carrier for attractions like Meramec Caverns where strollers aren’t permitted.
• Stay near downtown to make it easier to access main attractions like the Arch, Union Station, and the riverfront.
• Check event calendars – St. Louis often hosts festivals, concerts, and shows that can add extra fun to your trip.