St. Louis: A Family-Friendly Gem Beyond Chess and Arches

St. Louis, often overlooked by travelers focused on America’s coastal cities, has evolved into a vibrant destination that offers far more than its famous Gateway Arch and World Chess Hall of Fame (though the world’s largest chess piece is certainly worth seeing). Just a three-hour flight from New York City, this Midwest metropolis has transformed into an activity hub that appeals to both couples without children and families alike. With its interactive museums, outdoor adventures, welcoming accommodations, and diverse food scene, St. Louis provides the perfect blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

For chess enthusiasts and novices alike, the World Chess Hall of Fame offers a unique experience where visitors can challenge the “grandmaster in residence” or simply admire the stunning collection of chess sets. Currently featuring “Charles Houska: Master of Play” (on view through April 2026), the Hall of Fame provides insight into the game’s rich history and cultural significance. Just nearby, the Saint Louis Chess Club offers lessons for everyone from beginners to advanced players. But the intellectual stimulation doesn’t end with chess—the Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum, is another must-visit attraction. Marissa Lorance, the museum’s director of marketing and mother of two young boys, highlights the variety of activities available for children of different ages and energy levels. From the electrostatic generator that makes hair stand on end to the three-story slide, bubble room, children’s village, and art studio, the museum guarantees that everyone leaves happy and ready for a well-deserved nap. The new “Super Why! Super Readers, Power Up!” exhibit, based on the popular PBS show, is particularly captivating for young visitors exploring a storybook world.

When it’s time to venture outdoors, St. Louis doesn’t disappoint. David Weglarz, owner of local distillery StilL 630 and father of three boys, recommends Big Muddy Adventures for family outings. This local tour outfitter organizes paddling trips on the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, ranging from brief excursions to multi-day adventures. “Getting out on the big rivers gives us a true sense of wilderness just a few miles from the city,” Weglarz explains, particularly fond of the “full-moon float” tour. “You feel like you can commune with Lewis and Clark, and you’ll probably spot cool wildlife along the way. Not everyone can say that they’ve paddled on two of the biggest rivers in the world!” These river adventures provide families with a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty while creating lasting memories together.

St. Louis’s dining scene caters wonderfully to families, with numerous options that satisfy both picky eaters and adventurous palates. Lorance favors restaurants with patios for sunny days, recommending Kaldi’s Coffee for a relaxed breakfast and 4 Hands + Peacemaker for casual meals. For visitors to the Missouri Botanical Garden, she suggests Sassafras, the garden’s “lovely” on-site café. “Katie’s in Rock Hill is another favorite haunt—if it’s not raining or snowing, and there’s a spot on the patio, we’re there!” she adds. Andrew Jorgensen, general director of the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis and father of two young children, loves taking his family to Clementine’s Creamery in Lafayette Square for ice cream, followed by playtime in Lafayette Park. “Nothing says St. Louis like a wagon ride at the ice cream shop, a big scoop of gooey butter cake ice cream, and a playground immersed in nature,” he shares. For sports enthusiasts, Lester’s offers a family-friendly sports bar experience with “a ton of Cardinals’ memorabilia and TVs showing local teams—plus, the menu is loaded with great options no matter what you’re craving,” according to Weglarz. Winslow’s Table is another beloved establishment serving classic kid-friendly fare like enormous buttermilk pancakes, hand-breaded chicken tenders, and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, with the added bonus that kids eat free on Saturday nights.

When it comes to accommodations, St. Louis offers several family-oriented options. The four-star Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza hotel (starting at $295 per night) sits across from Forest Park and features recently renovated rooms, three on-site restaurants, and a historic movie theater. Families particularly appreciate the Mediterranean-style outdoor swimming pool, while parents can enjoy the 18,000-square-foot fitness center when they need some time to themselves. For an even more explicitly family-focused stay, the St. Louis Union Station (part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, from $229 per night) functions as both accommodation and attraction. Housing an aquarium, mini-golf course, ropes course, numerous restaurants, and the St. Louis Wheel, it provides endless entertainment without ever leaving the property. Sports fans visiting for a game at Busch Stadium should consider the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch (starting at $140 per night), which offers a central location near the iconic Gateway Arch and within walking distance of the stadium. The hotel enhances the experience by offering packages that include access to popular city attractions.

St. Louis demonstrates that America’s heartland contains hidden gems worthy of exploration. Beyond its iconic chess connections and architectural marvels, the city has cultivated a welcoming atmosphere that embraces visitors of all ages. From educational museums that spark curiosity to outdoor adventures that connect families with nature, from restaurants that please diverse palates to accommodations that cater specifically to family needs, St. Louis has positioned itself as a destination where memories are made. Whether you’re challenging a chess grandmaster, sliding down a three-story indoor slide, paddling under the moonlight on the Mississippi, enjoying gooey butter cake ice cream, or watching the Cardinals from a family-friendly sports bar, St. Louis offers experiences that bring people together. As travelers increasingly seek authentic, accessible destinations that provide value without sacrificing quality, this Missouri metropolis stands ready to welcome them with Midwestern hospitality and a surprising array of attractions that go far beyond what most visitors expect.