Branson

Missouri

United States

North America

Kansas City

St. Louis

Destinations

Branson is a lively little city nestled in the heart of the picture-perfect Ozark Mountains of southern Missouri. Boasting both indoor and outdoor adventure parks, any kind of shopping you can imagine, tours by boat and train, great food and drink, and best of all, friendly people.

Branson is a lively little city nestled in the heart of the picture-perfect Ozark Mountains of southern Missouri. An easy get by car, it’s just one day’s drive from most locations in Middle America, and there are plenty of options for flights in and out of its two commercial airports: Branson Airport and Branson National Airport. Boasting both indoor and outdoor adventure parks, any kind of shopping you can imagine, tours by boat and train, great food and drink, and best of all, friendly people, there are plenty of reasons to visit Branson in your lifetime.
<h2>1. Savor a grandmother’s cinnamon rolls</h2>
Want a sweet way to start your day? Well, it doesn’t get any sweeter than having a grandma make you homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch. Yes, the popular Branson bakery’s namesake, Grandma Ruth, still comes in to make the pastries sometimes, but the recipe itself has been passed down in the Ruth Strauss Grueneich family for generations. Grandma Ruth's Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls is open every day of the week except for Sunday, so make sure to stop in some lovin’ from the oven.

[caption id="attachment_1028817" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/184296528-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/184296528-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/184296528-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/184296528-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/184296528.jpg 1200w" alt="Cinnamon rolls" width="1024" height="683" /> Jennifer_Sharp / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Walk amongst butterflies</h2>
At the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure, you’ll find a two-story butterfly aviary, where you can stroll amongst hundreds of exotic butterflies as they flutter by. You can take photos, feed them nectar flowers, and even sign up to release one. But these butterflies, as beautiful as they are, are just the beginning. Next up is the Living Rainforest Science Center, where you can walk amongst native wildlife, and navigate a simulation of a real jungle in the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze.

[caption id="attachment_1003056" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/524429231-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/524429231-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/524429231-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/524429231-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/524429231.jpg 1200w" alt="Butterfly garden" width="1024" height="683" /> Reptile8488 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Let loose in a giant jungle gym</h2>
Fritz’s Adventure is all the proof you need that you’re never too old for jungle gyms. Safe and fun for the whole family, the indoor action park has 80,000 square feet of climbing walls, underground tunnels, giant treehouses, multi-story slides, and a four-story rope course. You’ll even find laser rooms, mazes made from stacks of repurposed railroad containers, and a vertical wind tunnel where you can literally fly. If you want an aerial view of all the attractions, you can climb into the cockpit of a suspended airplane and see them from above. Don’t let anyone tell you there’s nothing to do in Branson!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028861" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1131807893.jpg" alt="Excited kids and theirs parents in bright beams of laser guns during laser tag game in dark room" width="1000" height="592" />


<h2>4. Lounge at the beach</h2>
A beach in landlocked Branson? Sure, you won’t find big waves at Moonshine Beach on Table Rock Lake, but this sunny spot, where you can bury your toes in soft sand, is just as tranquil. The lake is crystal clear and perfect for wading in on a hot summer’s day. Play it safe, though, as there are no lifeguards on duty here.

[caption id="attachment_1028819" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/680513084-1024x705.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/680513084-1024x705.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/680513084-300x207.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/680513084-768x529.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/680513084.jpg 1200w" alt="Lake beach" width="1024" height="705" /> emholk / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Ride the Branson Coaster</h2>
The Branson Coaster is the country’s first and only double alpine rollercoaster. Besides its twists, turns and two breathtaking drops, this mountain coaster offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape that will stun you. Each coaster car fits two guests: one driver and one passenger. Bear in mind that you must be at least 58 inches tall to drive, and at least 38 inches tall to ride.

[caption id="attachment_1028863" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1028863 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/34309674302_2de5ee5d98_b-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo credit: Branson Missouri on Visual Hunt[/caption]


<h2>6. Stop in at Dick’s 5 and 10 Variety Store</h2>
Hearkening back to a simpler time, when five and dimes were a dime a dozen, this old-fashioned general store will fill you with nostalgia. Dick’s 5 &amp; 10 has an old school candy aisle with over a thousand varieties of sweets and snacks, and bottles of oddly flavored soft drinks, like sweet corn, butter, bacon, and cucumber. If you’re looking for souvenirs and quirky trinkets, Dick’s has no shortage of these either. Droll delights, such as Bob Ross socks, Bigfoot scarves, and a so-called “fun aisle,” prove that there are surprises around every corner in this six-decades-old shop.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028866" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1208725165.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>Take a 40-mile train ride through the Ozarks</h2>
Want to let someone else do the driving for a while as you soak in some scenery? For less than $30, you can board the Branson Scenic Railway, a 45-minute train ride that takes you over the rolling hills of the Ozarks from the comfort of your seat. Passengers can sit under the train’s glass-domed roof as Missouri’s beautiful countryside glides past. There are even dinner trips every Saturday, perfect for a leisurely date night.

[caption id="attachment_1028822" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/505535371-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/505535371-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/505535371-300x201.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/505535371-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/505535371.jpg 1200w" alt="The Ozarks" width="1024" height="684" /> BlazenImages / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Take the plunge at an indoor waterpark</h2>
If the idea of lounging on an inner tube down a 600-foot lazy river appeals, float on over to the 30,000 square foot Castle Rock Resort &amp; Waterpark for a bit of year-round water-based relaxation. If you want to make more of a splash, there are mega corkscrew water slides with thirty-foot drops to zip down. This water park has something for everyone, whether you want to get your poolside fix in the middle of winter or cool off in the height of summer.

[caption id="attachment_1028869" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1028869 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/31312589377_b56348e479_b-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="768" /> Photo credit: Cyndi and Dave on Visualhunt[/caption]


<h2>9. Snap a selfie with the world’s largest meatball</h2>
Even if you’re not a fan of Italian food, you should stop by Pasghetti’s just to catch a glimpse the massive 15-foot-tall meatball out front, speared with a gigantic fork that rises high above the restaurant’s roofline. This is one meatball they better hope doesn’t roll away.

If you do decide to grab a bite here, you’ll be greeted by a high-ceilinged brick-lined interior with faux shopfronts, which gives you the illusion that you’re eating al fresco on a city street. If the meatball out front has given you an outsized craving, order the restaurant’s specialty, “pasghetti and meatball,” for a baseball-sized meatball of your own.

[caption id="attachment_1030924" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1030924 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/27201964025_9d00108d11_b-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo credit: pasa47 on VisualHunt.com CC BY[/caption]


<h2>10. Go wild at a jungle-themed bar</h2>
If you want to let your hair down in Branson, swing on over to Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey Bar. The name alone is your first hint that you’re in for a wild night. With zebra-striped ceilings, cheetah-print walls, and a gargantuan bar, this jungle-themed bar, and restaurant closes late and offers live entertainment, a vast selection of beer, and a rainbow of handcrafted tropical drinks, including a 32-ounce rum bucket. If you get hungry, try the local favorite, a big pile of barbecue brisket nachos, or a pulled pork sandwich with agave nectar coleslaw.<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030923" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_459781744.jpg" alt="Tropical cocktails served in a tiki style glass" width="1000" height="667" />

Your Branson, Missouri Bucket List

When travelers plan a trip to Kansas City, others may ask them whether they are heading to Kansas or Missouri. That’s because Kansas City’s western section is in Kansas and its eastern counterpart is in Missouri. Each has its own unique identity and attributes.

When travelers plan a trip to Kansas City, others may ask them whether they are heading to Kansas or Missouri. That’s because Kansas City’s western section is in Kansas and its eastern counterpart is in Missouri. An interstate system connects the two. Locals refer to the Kansas City, KS side as “KCK” and the Missouri side as Kansas City. Each has its own unique identity and attributes, with both sides offering visitors a long list of intriguing sites and experiences to explore.
<h2>1. Swope Park: Nature With Amenities</h2>
Most locals agree that the best time to visit Kansas City is between mid-May and early July, and from late July into late September due to the hot muggy temperatures that peak in mid-July. Around 2 million visitors each year beat the heat by heading to Swope Park, located on the Missouri side of the city. This 1800-acre park features a wide array of family-friendly fun. Visit the Kansas City Zoo filled with more than 1000 animals from around the world. Check out the Beanstalk Children’s Garden, or swing through the trees at the Go-Ape Treetop Adventure Course. Picnic tables, water fountains, hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, and a dog park are just some of the other activities available.

[caption id="attachment_1029059" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029059" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/zachary-spears-651278-unsplash-1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Zoo Drive, Kansas City, United States" width="1024" height="576" /> Photo by Zachary Spears on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>2. The Power and Light District</h2>
More than 95 million locals and tourists alike have explored this bustling neighborhood since its opening in 2008. The Power and Light District is a nine-block area on the Missouri side of the city. The district’s name comes from the art-deco style landmark, the Kansas City Power and Light Building, built in 1931. Jump on a KC Streetcar to explore the entertainment, shopping, and unique, world-class cuisine options available. The Sprint Center is nearby. Adults will love the thriving nightlife, but there are also kid-friendly activities as well. The Urbana First Friday’s in the District is a recurring monthly street scene starting in June and continuing through October, offering food, live music, and art displays.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029060" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_306682361-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Power &amp; Light District Kansas City" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>3. River Market</h2>
South of the Missouri River, the historic River Market celebrates the city’s local culture with an added international flair. Visit the City Market, the region’s largest farmers’ market, filled with more than 140 vendors offering fresh flowers, vegetables, and specialty foods from around the world. Admission is free. For those interested in the area’s Civil War history, the Arabia Steamboat Museum is within walking distance, just across from City Market. Concerts, food celebrations, and children’s events take place in the River Market area between April and October.

[caption id="attachment_1028283" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/931909966-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/931909966-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/931909966-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/931909966-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/931909966.jpg 1200w" alt="farmers' market vegetables " width="1024" height="683" /> Paolo Paradiso / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. American Royal Livestock and Horse Show</h2>
For 120 years, the American Royal Association has hosted its annual livestock and horse show, one of the largest livestock shows in the nation. It has earned the reputation of being one of the most prestigious competitions in the country. More than 1500 exhibitors from 35 states travel to Kansas City each year in October to compete in the two-week long event, showing off the very best in cattle, goats, lambs, horse, and swine breeding. The American Royal organization also hosts other events at the American Royal throughout the year including horse shows, rodeos, and barbecue events.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029061" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_720616384.jpg" alt="A line of Hereford heifer cows " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Kansas Speedway</h2>
The Village West area in Kansas City, KS is home to the Kansas Speedway, the host of two NASCAR race events each year: the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Night Race in the spring, and the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Elimination Race in the fall. There are options to purchase pre-race passes and VIP experiences that allow access to the drivers and a viewing of the cars before the race. The speedway also offers six RV campgrounds to choose from, including an area at the first turn, and two infield areas in the center of the track.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029062" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_62485354.jpg" alt="Kurt Busch brings his Miller Lite Dodge in for service during the Price Chopper 400 race on October 3, 2010 at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, KS." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Barbecue: Kansas City Style</h2>
There are more barbecue restaurants per capita in Kansas City than any other city in the U.S. Kansas City barbecuers serve just about any type of meat, including ham, on their menus. Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque is the most famous barbecue establishment and known for its large, open-faced beef sandwiches slathered in sauce. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is another favorite barbecue restaurant in the city, and surprisingly, is located inside a local gas station. Or, try the KC Barbecue Tour for a four-hour excursion to top barbecue eateries around the city.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029063" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_686380519.jpg" alt="Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs " width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>7. Breweries and Beer Bars</h2>
Waldo is an entertainment district in Kansas City, and home to the Kansas City Bier Company which brews authentic German-style beers. Experience the Bavarian culture at the establishment’s outdoor Biergarten, where patrons can also choose to bring their own food or have food delivered to them there. Tour the Boulevard Brewing Company’s brewery on a 45-minute walking tour through the facility. Tours fill quickly, so it’s better to arrive at the Tours and Recreation Center early to purchase a ticket. Bring a valid ID if you plan on sampling the brews at the end of the tour.

[caption id="attachment_1029064" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029064" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/elevate-755022-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="beer!" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Elevate on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>8. Toys and Nostalgic Treasures</h2>
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures in Kansas City, MO, is not only one of the largest antique toy collections in the U.S., but it is also home to the largest fine-scale miniatures collection in the world. Visitors can explore the wide range of nostalgic toys and historical collectibles, including handcrafted dollhouses, mechanical toys, and cast iron trains, cars, and planes. The miniatures collections include unique examples of tiny furniture, textiles, working lights, and more. The museum closes on Tuesdays and major holidays.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029065" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1202838595-1024x768.jpg" alt="Kansas City Toy and Miniature Museum" width="1024" height="768" />


<h2>9. Liberty Memorial and World War I Museum</h2>
The National World War 1 Museum and Memorial is the only museum in the U.S. focusing solely on WWI. With interactive displays and a large collection of WWI artifacts, this is a must-see stop in Kansas City for anyone with an interest in our nation’s history. There are firsthand accounts and eyewitness testimonies from those who served on the battlefields and from those who stayed behind on the homefront.

[caption id="attachment_1028289" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/118246082-1024x685.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/118246082-1024x685.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/118246082-300x201.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/118246082-768x514.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/118246082.jpg 1200w" alt="Liberty Memorial WWI" width="1024" height="685" /> SharonDay / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Kansas City Jazz</h2>
There are more than 40 nightclubs in the Kansas City area featuring jazz, connecting the city’s current music scene with its past. The city has deep connections with both jazz and blues music dating back to the 1920s. According to city historians, at one time, there were more than 100 venues in Kansas City featuring jazz. The American Jazz Museum is in downtown Kansas City and displays rare photos, album covers, memorabilia, and personal items belonging to the greatest names in jazz. Guided tours are available.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029066" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1223811334.jpg" alt="Double exposure of Gem marquee and 18th Vine depicting Jazz District in which this image was award best shot for the Kansas City Magazine in 2000." width="1000" height="669" />

Top Things to Do in Kansas City

St. Louis, Missouri, has been called the easternmost Western city, and the westernmost Eastern city. This blending of the best of American cultures has made St. Louis into a fascinating and exciting city to visit.

St. Louis, Missouri, has been called the easternmost Western city, and the westernmost Eastern city. This blending of the best of American cultures has made St. Louis into a fascinating and exciting city to visit. The people of St. Louis have worked hard to make their city a fun, safe, and visitor-friendly place, and a vacation to St. Louis can easily be filled with free and low-cost activities and events. Even a family on a budget can find free and cheap things to do in St. Louis!
<h2>1. The Arch</h2>
Although the Arch is St. Louis' most famous landmark, the term doesn't just refer to the giant metal structure looming over the Mississippi River. First, there are the grounds, which are the site of dozens of city festivals and celebrations. Most notably, Fair St. Louis, beginning every year on the 4th of July, includes live music, vendors, and multiple activities for people of all ages, all for free, except for anything you buy from a booth.

Inside the Arch is the free Museum of Westward Expansion, which includes artifacts, photographs, films, and displays from a century of American movement across the continent. Finally, you can take a tram to the very top of the Arch. If you get the Tram &amp; Cruise Combo, you get a ride to the top and a steamboat cruise up the Mississippi River for one low price.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/157582075-1024x683.jpg" alt="St. Louis' famous Arch captured at night" width="1024" height="683" /> pawel.gaul / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. The Magic House Children's Museum</h2>
The Magic House is St. Louis' extensive, state of the art children's museum. The exhibits at the Magic House are hands-on, letting children learn with their bodies and minds--the way children learn best! Parents have even been known to get their hands into paint, sand, mud, seeds...or any of the hundreds of other displays that keep an active mind thrumming. We don't think the price of $12 a ticket is too bad for the hours of educational fun kids can have, but if it's out of your reach, The Magic House offers a monthly Free Family Night, starting at 5 p.m. every third Friday. If you plan it right, you can spend a whole evening there for absolutely nothing!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/1059427734-1024x683.jpg" alt="Family watching over their son exploring tech gadgets" width="1024" height="683" /> Alex Potemkin / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Forest Park</h2>
Forest Park in St. Louis could be the subject of its own article, there are so many things to do there--and almost all of them are free! There's the zoo, four world-class museums, numerous festivals through the year, and then there's the park itself. Bigger than Central Park in New York, Forest Park is filled with rolling green hills, walking paths, sculpture, playgrounds, picnic areas, and concert areas. It is filled with attractions like golf courses, a skating rink, restaurants and cafes, historical sites, and a nature reserve. For active visiters, it has a small lake with boats available to rent, athletic fields, bike trails and bike rental, fishing, sledding on the hill in front of the art museum, and more. A family could make an almost completely free vacation just by going to Forest Park.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/1061140714-1024x683.jpg" alt="Beautiful scenery at the Forest Park in St. Louis" width="1024" height="683" /> traveler1116 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Shakespeare Festival St. Louis</h2>
One of the many events that take place in Forest Park is the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, which mounts at least major Shakespeare play on the stage in Shakespeare Glen. This world-class production is completely free every summer and is a destination in itself for arts-loving travelers. Every ShakesfestSTL production features a 90-minute pre-show called The Green Show, which features jugglers, local musicians and entertainers, and a family craft area, all for free while you're waiting for the main attraction. Even if your kids aren't into Shakespeare yet, who can resist jugglers?

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/640045804-1024x683.jpg" alt="Actor at the Shakespeare Festival in St. Louis" width="1024" height="683" /> joegolby / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Museum of Transportation</h2>
Americans have had a love affair with transportation since we first climbed into covered wagons to traverse the continent. The record of human transportation is preserved in the Museum of Transportation, whose tag line is, "It's a moving experience!" You can see classic cars, historical airplanes, and even climb on one of over 70 train locomotives. During nice weather, a mini-train runs throughout the grounds. For those with smaller kids, Creation Station offers a hands-on experience learning about the different kinds of transportation. Though the Museum of Transportation isn't free, at $8 for adults and $3 for children, we definitely consider it a thrifty attraction.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/471205785-1024x683.jpg" alt="Old cars at the Museum of Transportation, St. Louis" width="1024" height="683" /> Jitalia17 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site</h2>
Cahokia Mounds is across the river from St. Louis, in Illinois, but it's worth the short drive. This remarkable ancient site is the location of the largest and most developed pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can see the remains of a civilization that eventually grew to around 100,000 people before dying off in the early 1300s. The city was built around a series of 120 mounds that served various functions for the civilization, and visitors can tour the mounds most days of the year. There are also frequent activities at the site, and the Interpretive Center provides more information and interactive learning about the Mound Builders. Admission to the site is free, but there is a request for a small donation to help with site upkeep.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/825341484-1024x637.jpg" alt="Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, St. Louis" width="1024" height="637" /> JByard / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Purina Farms</h2>
Guests may not expect a day spent at Purina Farms to be that exciting, but they are always end up surprised by how much fun they had! The main attraction is the extensive petting zoo, where animal lovers of all ages can experience cats dogs, goats, pigs, cows, and other farm and domesticate animals. Kids can also play in the barn haylofts, try milking cows, and join their families on a wagon ride around the beautiful acreage. They also have special events, theme days, classes, an on-site veterinary clinic, and community outreach. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own pets along. Purina Farms is free for animals and their humans, but they do have an excellent gift shop if you'd like to spend some money!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/687830672-1024x683.jpg" alt="Woman and children feeding the animals at Purina Farms in St. Louis" width="1024" height="683" /> andresr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. St. Louis Science Center</h2>
The St. Louis Science Center is one of the most well-known and exciting family-oriented attractions in St. Louis. It was originally a planetarium, but over 50 years has expanded to the sprawling, experiential facility it is now. It's always free, and the exhibits are geared toward many different age groups--including kids, but not limited to them. The exhibits are often historical and often appeal to older patrons who can sometimes remember the scientific developments being presented. In addition, they are almost always exploratory and hands-on. If you visit the St. Louis Science Museum with your family, make sure to allocate at least several hours and stay to eat at the cafe or watch an Omnimax film. If you live in the area, you'll also want to check out the summer programs for kids and teens!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/1059427776-1024x683.jpg" alt="Young man exploring the St. Louis Science Center" width="1024" height="683" /> Alex Potemkin / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Muny Amphitheater</h2>
At 11,000 seats, the St. Louis Municipal Opera Theatre, or “Muny” for short, is the nation’s largest and oldest outdoor musical theater. Muny seasons run from mid-June to mid-August, always with a selection of well-known titles—like Fiddler on the Roof, 42nd Street, and Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein’s Cinderella—as well as equally entertaining but lesser known works, like 1776, Kinky Boots, and Paint Your Wagon. The best part is that they keep about 1500 free seats available for every show, on a first come/first served basis, giving audiences a chance to see a number of nationally and locally recognized performers in a three-month cavalcade of musical hits.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/999466686-1024x684.jpg" alt="Young adults raising their hands and dancing at a music festival" width="1024" height="684" /> gilaxia / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. St. Louis Zoo</h2>
The St. Louis Zoo is probably the most well-known free attraction in St. Louis and draws visitors from all over the world. It has even been named the Top Zoo in the Nation and the Best Free Attraction in the Nation by several different publications! It was opened in 1904 for the World's Fair and has been the pride of the city ever since. There is no charge for admission, but there are some special attractions and events that require purchasing tickets. One such low-cost feature is the Emerson Zooline Railroad, where for $7.95, you can buy tickets to ride the train and tour the grounds as often as you want all day.one

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/147269052-1024x683.jpg" alt="An elephant in the St. Louis Zoo" width="1024" height="683" /> bundestaag / Getty Images[/caption]

Free and Cheap Things to Do in St. Louis

Situated on the west side of the Mississippi River, St. Louis is a major U.S. city with major family appeal. It has everything from big-city culture to sprawling green spaces in the heart of the metro.

Situated on the west side of the Mississippi River, St. Louis is a major U.S. city with major family appeal. It has everything from big-city culture to sprawling green spaces in the heart of the metro. Known as the Gateway to the West, St. Louis represents a mix of American cultures with vibrant and eclectic entertainment to match. This Missouri city offers plenty of kid-friendly options for your upcoming trip, but make plans to have transportation to navigate the spread-out design of the city.
<h2>The Gateway Arch</h2>
No list of family-friendly St. Louis activities is complete without mentioning the Gateway Arch, which is the tallest man-made monument in the country. The iconic landmark defines the city's skyline with its soaring metal structure, and it houses a free Museum of Western Expansion inside the arch. If you want the best view of the city, grab tickets to head to the top of the arch. The journey involves riding a small, egg-shaped tram up 630 feet to peek out the windows at the top. Kids can imagine they're blasting into space as they zoom up the arch.

[caption id="attachment_36029" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/121121719.jpg" alt="Gateway Arch in St. Louis" width="1200" height="797" /> RudyBalasko / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Saint Louis Zoo</h2>
Take your family on a virtual safari without busting the budget at the Saint Louis Zoo. Admission is free, although the zoo's parking lot comes with a fee if you can't find a free street spot. Check out the paid experiences—including a sea lion show, children's zoo, stingrays, carousel and train rides—to make this stop memorable. The 90-acre zoo makes the adventure fun in a park-like setting with lots of natural exhibits. Over 17,000 animals call the zoo home, including hippos, polar bears, and Asian elephants.

[caption id="attachment_36030" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/139981921.jpg" alt="Penguins at the Saint Louis Zoo" width="1200" height="805" /> JMichael-Photography / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>City Museum</h2>
Once the International Shoe Company, City Museum is a giant playground where you never have to tell your kids not to touch things. The space features oversized objects, including a giant praying mantis and the world's largest pencil. Kids can climb to soaring heights and then zoom back down on slides. Toddler Town holds lots of fun for younger family members. Head to the roof for a massive playground, Ferris wheel, and school bus, which hangs over the edge of the building precariously.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5tJS8flt3W/" caption="explorestlouis" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/explorestlouis/"]


<h2>Citygarden</h2>
Citygarden is another spot where kids can touch, climb and play on many of the features. It's a lush oasis in the middle of the city with plants, sculptures, and water features. Unlike many public gardens, Citygarden invites kids to interact with the elements, including the water features. A spray plaza with 102 jets shoots water in programmed patterns, begging kids of all ages to dodge the spray. At night, the plaza includes lights for a dazzling show. Admission is free, making this a budget-friendly option when kids need a place to run and play.

[caption id="attachment_36032" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/496928310.jpg" alt="Citygarden spray plaza" width="1200" height="800" /> f11photo / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Saint Louis Science Center</h2>
Unleash your child's inner scientist at the Saint Louis Science Center. Over 700 exhibits put your kids in control with hands-on displays. Animated life-size dinosaur models, traveling exhibits and many interactive displays fill the space. While general admission is free, some experiences require a paid ticket, including a virtual reality experience, motion simulator, planetarium shows, and Omnimax Theater shows. The planetarium also offers public telescope viewings.

[caption id="attachment_36033" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/500907542.jpg" alt="Public telescope viewing" width="1200" height="799" /> bjdlzx / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Missouri Botanical Garden</h2>
Stop at the Missouri Botanical Garden where you can explore the Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden, which features four trails with interactive displays and adventures. Travel the Settler's Path to see the general store, town hall, and edible garden. The Botanist's Path lets you escape to a secret garden and treehouse. Along the Adventurer's Path, explore a cave, steamboat, and frontier fort. The Discoverer's Path includes a pond and locks and dams.

[caption id="attachment_36034" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/97618097.jpg" alt="Missouri Botanical Garden" width="1200" height="827" /> ksteffens / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Grant's Farm</h2>
The Busch brewing family once called Grant's farm home, but it's now a 281-acre family-friendly entertainment destination. You'll find plenty of farm animals, but it's also home to wallabies, lemurs, elephants, and other exotic animals. You can also see Clydesdale horses of all ages up close. A carousel, camel rides and animal shows keep the fun rolling while you're on the farm.

[caption id="attachment_36035" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/494205433.jpg" alt="Clydesdale horses" width="1200" height="900" /> Gannet77 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Six Flags St. Louis</h2>
Six Flags St. Louis offers a range of rides, from kid-friendly options to thrill rides. Entertainment options include live shows and Looney Tunes characters' meet and greet. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, stay cool at the water park on a range of slides. The park operates seasonally with special Halloween and holiday events on select dates.

[caption id="attachment_36046" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-36046" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-570713821.jpg" alt="" width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />Nicolo Sertorio / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>St. Louis Cardinals Game</h2>
Enjoy an All-American day at the ballpark when you take in a St. Louis Cardinals game during spring and summer. The Family Pavilion features various play areas, virtual reality, speed pitch, and other activities if the kids need a break from the game. Outside of the game, you can visit the Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum. St. Louis has other sports options if you're not a baseball fan. Saint Louis FC is a United Soccer League team that plays at World Wide Technology Soccer Park. Head to Enterprise Center during your fall or winter trip to catch a St. Louis Blues hockey game.

[caption id="attachment_36037" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/1149612222.jpg" alt="Busch Stadium" width="1024" height="682" /> Michael Thomas / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>St. Louis Union Station</h2>
St. Louis Union Station combines history and family entertainment. Once one of the busiest passenger rail terminals, Union Station now houses the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station along with other entertainment, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, ropes course, and mini-golf course. Many of the original architectural details remain, such as the original terrazzo floor, which gives you a look into the past. A daily 3D light show on the vaulted Grand Hall ceiling is another fun option for families. It also has multiple restaurant options to refuel between adventures.

[caption id="attachment_36038" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/521726246.jpg" alt="St. Louis Union Station" width="1200" height="795" /> ART on FILE / Getty Images[/caption]

Your kids will love the sights and attractions of St Louis

Tucked away in the American Midwest, Missouri has more bang for its buck in the tourism world than it first seems to. From the jazz-prominent streets of downtown St. Louis to the abundance of stunning state parks, there are so many things to do in Missouri that truly capture the imagination.

Tucked away in the American Midwest, Missouri has more bang for its buck in the tourism world than it first seems to. Sandwiched between Kansas and Kentucky, Missouri is awash with roaming, grassy plains and glossy, snowy peaks like those of the Ozark Mountains. From the jazz-prominent streets of downtown St. Louis - the same one Judy Garland sang about - to the abundance of stunning state parks, there are so many things to do in Missouri that truly capture the imagination.
<h2>1. Explore the Missouri Botanical Gardens</h2>
Since its founding in the middle of the 19th Century, the Missouri Botanical Garden is America's oldest botanical garden that's still in operation. Covering almost 80 acres of land, this awe-inspiring St. Louis landmark has dozens of sections for you to admire. As well as an authentic Japanese garden and the tropical greenhouses of the Climatron and Linnean House, every year sees hundreds of special, seasonal events. The gardens are also the location of Henry Shaw, the founder's, country home. With its period furnishings and Victorian Garden, you can mix history with the finest of locations.

[caption id="attachment_1037211" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/92206526-1024x715.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/92206526-1024x715.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/92206526-300x210.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/92206526-768x536.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/92206526.jpg 1200w" alt="tulips missouri botanical gardens" width="1024" height="715" /> ksteffens / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Marvel At the Strange and Unusual City Museum</h2>
St. Louis is home to a lot of museums, but one of the strangest can be found in the city's Loft District. What was once the International Shoe Building is now one of the strangest and yet most unique museums in the country. What City Museum essentially is, is an urban playground founded around the idea that cities are as many pieces of art as those held inside of them. It's a whimsical day trip and one that all the family will enjoy. As well as there being abandoned planes that have been turned into jungle gyms and the school bus teetering precariously over the top of the building, there's also a working Ferris wheel and an aquarium.

[caption id="attachment_1037718" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1037718" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/8133090734_d57ef04e66_b-1024x761.jpg" alt="City Museum St. Louis" width="1024" height="761" /> Photo credit: jondejong Visual Hunt[/caption]


<h2>3. Find the Mysterious Castle Ruins At Ha Ha Tonka State Park</h2>
Believe it or not, you don't need to venture to Europe to see a real-life castle. You can just go to Missouri. In the middle of the dense forest in Ha Ha Tonka State Park lies the ruins of an early 20th Century castle. The park itself is full of adventure for those wanting to find it, with trails as far as the eye can see. However, there's no doubt that its strangest draw is the ruins. Built by a man called Robert Snyder, the castle was created as a place for him to escape, but he sadly died before he was able to enjoy it. However, his sons took over the building of it in the 20s, and for a while, it was used as a boutique hotel boasting vast views over the Ozarks. While all that remains is its ruins, there’s absolutely no doubt of its majesty.

[caption id="attachment_1037213" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/995571424-1024x575.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/995571424-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/995571424-300x169.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/995571424-768x431.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/995571424.jpg 1200w" alt="ha ha tonka castle ruins" width="1024" height="575" /> Eifel Kreutz / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Spend a Day at Lake of the Ozarks</h2>
Nothing screams family summer vacation than making sandwiches, packing up everything, and then venturing to the shores of a freshwater lake. Lake of the Ozarks is at the very literal heart of Missouri. Attracting thousands of visitors every year, this area of stunning natural beauty has a whole host of activities and things to do. For those who enjoy a little spending, you can rent a boat or play golf. However, the joy of the Lake is you don't need money to enjoy it. All you need is to simply be.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1037719" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/shutterstock_647973886.jpg" alt="Sunset from where the Sac River and the Osage River comes together at Truman Lake in the Ozarks of Missouri" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Go Spelunking in the Bonne Terre Mines</h2>
Bonne Terre is also French for "good earth" or "good land," and there's no need to stretch your imagination to see where that came from. Bonne Terre, Missouri, is home to a fantastic historic lead mine. Here, you can take tours of the world's biggest man-made cave system, with waters to swim in and incredible natural architecture to behold. Take the informative tour and learn all about the history of the mine while then diving into one of the most unique attractions in the State. If you'd rather not swim, you don't have to. Tours can also be taken on boat or foot.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1037721" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/shutterstock_1068346325.jpg" alt="Scuba diver explorer in the underwater limestone cave with lamp" width="1000" height="666" />


<h2>6. Wander the Fruit Orchards At Heartland Harvest Garden</h2>
Feast your eyes and your stomachs on Kansas City's Heartland Harvest Garden: America's biggest edible landscape. Here, everything you see tells the tale of how our naturally-sourced green food grows. Although the gardens were created with children in mind, everyone is welcome to come and learn all there is to know about harvesting. The fare changes from season to season and, as well as that, there's a cafe in which you can tuck into everything you've seen on your trip there. Healthy fast food and education: is there anything better?

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1037722" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/shutterstock_1178285635.jpg" alt="Closeup of rows of tall corn stalks on a summer day with clear blue sky" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Go on a Nuclear Adventure</h2>
Have you ever wished to feel like you're part of a blockbuster Sci-Fi movie? Whether it's a Mad Max adventure you're after or a brief interlude to what it would be like to be in a real-life Fallout game, all you need to do is head to Missouri. The strange nuclear waste adventure trail at Weldon Spring is out of the way, but worth the trip. Inside of this man-made mound lies a veritable cache of dangerous substances: asbestos, TNT, radioactive uranium, you name it. This site used to be the biggest explosives factory in the country. But don't worry, it's totally safe to visit and explore. You can hike to the top of the mountain, sit on one of the benches there, and take in the beauty of St. Charles county.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1037723" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/shutterstock_1036539019.jpg" alt="Rocky Bluff over Missouri River at Klondike Park in Weldon Springs Missouri" width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>8. Grab a Drink Amidst Missouri's Curios</h2>
There's no bar in Missouri like Venice Café. With patios of bizarre statues, hallways and walls lined with tile, and obscure pieces of artwork, Venice Café stands out with its weird head above the rest. The upstairs lounge has a resident snake, taxidermy friends, and an en suite bathroom filled with ancient chests and monkey statues that hold out toilet paper. Venice Café is more of a museum than a cafe; a museum in which you can drink cocktails, wine, and beer. Is there really anything better?

[caption id="attachment_1037724" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1037724 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/8137168284_f1fecb6e73_k-1024x683.jpg" alt="Venice Café, St. Louis" width="1024" height="683" /> Philip Leara / Flickr[/caption]


<h2>9. Snap Some Instagram Pics of the Community Bookshelf</h2>
The Kansas City Public Library is a major feature of the city's downtown area; most notably, for the 25-foot-tall book spines that overlook the parking lot. If you haven't had your fill of giants after The Awakening, you'll more than enjoy overlooking this literary gem of a facade. The book spines include some of the best books ever written from "Catch-22" to "The Lord of the Rings." Each title displayed was chosen as a result of a vote that went to the community, hence earning its name, The Community Bookshelf.
<div class="mceTemp"></div>
<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1037725" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/shutterstock_1203231709.jpg" alt="View of the parking garage of the Central Branch of the Kansas City Public Library" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Go Camping in Elephant Rocks State Park</h2>
The midwest has many state parks, but Missouri's Elephant Rock is one of more than just wonder. It's also home to a group of rocks that from several angles, look just like a line of elephants going to water. It's this rock formation from which the park gets its name, but it's not all the park is good for. If you love camping and want to camp in Missouri, you'll love this stunning park in which to do it. You can find it just off of Highway 21.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1037726" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/08/shutterstock_58379134.jpg" alt="Elephant Rocks State Park in Missouri." width="1000" height="667" />

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