St. Louis offers plenty of traditional forms of entertainment around the city. But what about unique activities and attractions off the beaten path? The best activities you wouldn’t think to do in St. Louis are chock full of interesting and creative diversions from the typical itinerary.

City Museum

701 N 15th St.
Saint Louis, MO 63103
(314) 231-2489
www.citymuseum.org

With a 7-story slide, numerous tunnels and crawlspaces, and a gigantic ball pit, the City Museum is not your average museum. Located in downtown St. Louis, this enormous play space offers hours of entertainment for both young and old. A large aquarium is located on the top floor for a wonderful afternoon of deep-sea gazing. Live music and drink specials are offered most nights of the week. After expending all of your energy, relax with a cool beverage in front of the warming fire pit. Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Forest Park Turtle Playground

5595 Grand Dr.
Saint Louis, MO 63112
(314) 367-7275
www.stlouis.missouri.org

With a display of unique concrete turtles, big and small, the Forest Park Turtle Playground is an excellent spot for children and adults alike. This concrete play place is full of fun nooks and crannies to scurry through – as well as beautiful open space to relax, picnic or simply people-watch. The turtles, designed by Robert Cassilly, are designed to look just like the real thing. Perch atop one of the large turtles for a terrific view of the newly remodeled Highway 40 that just can’t be beat. Hours: Sunday through Saturday, dawn to 10 p.m.

Uncle Bill’s Pancake and Dinner House

3427 S. Kingshighway Blvd.
Saint Louis, MO 63139
(314) 832-1973

Although this restaurant looks like any other pancake house, taking a closer look reveals much more. This historic breakfast establishment has been serving breakfast, lunch and dinner for years. Open 24 hours a day, its employees are always available with a hot cup of coffee and a smile, but it’s what goes on in the late hours that makes Uncle Bill’s one of the best activities you wouldn’t think to do in St. Louis. This particular diner is the go-to place for many St. Louisans after a night at the bars. Check out Uncle Bill’s famous 2x2x2x2, featuring two each of eggs, bacon, sausage and pancakes, alongside a healthy portion of hash browns; this belly buster will leave you coming back for more! Hours: Sunday through Saturday, 24 hours.

- Stephanie Shepard