Entertaining young children can be a challenge, but this best stuff for young kids in St. Louis offers a lot of tips to get you started. From scout activities to field trip ideas to good old-fashioned family outings, you’ll find something to delight your young kids in one or all of these places.

The Magic House

516 South Kirkwood Road
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314) 822-8900
www.magichouse.org

Kids will love being “grownups” in their very own Children’s Village pretend community at The Magic House. Or perhaps they’ll see how it feels to be president or give a historic speech at the Star-spangled Center. They can play unique musical instruments, climb a beanstalk, solve a mystery, or construct a building—and more. The sky’s the limit! Check the website for special events like slumber parties, scout activities, or free family nights. Schedule your kids for a fun summer camp experience. Hours change depending on the season, so it’s best to check the website or call before planning a visit. Note: There is a fee for admission.

Turtle Playground

Intersection of Oakland and Tamm Avenues
Forest Park
St. Louis, MO 63112
(314) 367-7275
www.stlouis.missouri.org

St. Louis artist Robert Cassilly designed the giant concrete turtles in this park. Children love climbing on top of the lifelike turtles, and adults love snapping their photos. Take a seat on a curled-up concrete snake and imagine young turtles hatching from the seven large eggs nearby as your children enjoy the adventure. The playground is open from dawn until 10 p.m. daily.

The Butterfly House

15193 Olive Boulevard
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 530-0076 ‎
www.butterflyhouse.org

Children delight in the Conservatory where a thousand butterflies fly freely and land in random places—like a colorful shirt sleeve or even on top of one’s head! A gift shop and outdoor butterfly garden are also part of the facility. Nature classes are available for children and their families in the Buttefly House Classroom; craft activities take place in the Lopata Learning Lab. Check the website for a calendar of events. Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Mondays except for Columbus Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Presidents Day. Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Wednesday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. Please note: Ticket cannot be purchased later than one half-hour before closing. There is a fee for admission.

- Dianna Graveman