Visit St. Louis Union Station

 

This post is in partnership with the Missouri Division of Tourism. All opinions are my own. 

St. Louis has so much to offer, especially for families. As someone who loves sharing all there is to do in the city, I was thrilled when St. Louis Union Station reopened and quickly became a go-to destination for family fun. 

If you’re new to the Lou or just traveling through for some family fun, check out . It’s a great resource of places to visit all over the state. You can take their fun “Find Your M-O” quiz to be paired with your Mo and plan your next adventure. It’s most certainly a toss-up for me between Outdoor Mo and Family Fun Mo. Today, I want to take you along for some family fun and outdoor locations for a little bit of both worlds, so you can plan for your next St. Louis adventure. Let’s do a deep dive on all there is to do at St. Louis Union Station.

St. Louis Union Station 

In the past couple of years, there has been a huge glow-up of St. Louis Union Station. Once home to a bustling train station in the late 1800s, it has now been transformed into a family-friendly destination and hotel. With seasonal attractions like The Polar Express and other special events, Union Station is a destination for all. 

Most known as the home to the St. Louis Aquarium, the St. Louis Wheel, and more, this one-stop attraction is perfect for a family fun-filled day. Let’s dive in a little more about all there is to do. Spoiler alert: You’ll want to make a day out of your visit — there is so much to do!

St. Louis Aquarium 

One of the city’s newest attractions, the St. Louis Aquarium, is home to a wide variety of aquatic life, educational adventures, and more. As a parent, I’m excited to have the opportunity for hands-on educational opportunities in the city for children of all ages. The Aquarium is a wonderful combination of sharing Missouri ecosystems and wildlife as well as going deep with ocean-like views. From Shark Canyon to Confluence Gallery, there are six different galleries to learn about. 

For your children, there are plenty of learning opportunities, like chatting with an otter, animal feedings, educational visits with the keepers and animals, and hands-on activities. Don’t forget to meet Lord Stanley — it’s not every day you get to meet a blue lobster! Be sure to pick up a scavenger hunt at the entrance when you arrive for some extra fun!

If you’re thinking this is just for kids, think again. There are plenty of options for adults to enjoy the Aquarium just as much as the little ones. 

 

St. Louis Wheel

There are many ways to see a bird’s-eye view of our great city. Sure, we have the Gateway Arch, but The St. Louis Wheel is a completely different view of the city. With 42 climate-controlled gondolas, you’ll be able to go 200 feet in the air for breathtaking views of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, there is an option to ride in a gondola that has a see-through bottom! I’m not that adventurous, but it’s definitely fun for a thrill-seeker!

On a clear day, you can see a gorgeous view of our city. About the only other place you can be so high is the Gateway Arch!

The Soda Fountain

St. Louis Union Station has so many delicious offerings for dining that will fit everyone’s tastes. I’m partial to the Soda Fountain and love stopping by for a burger and a Freak Shake. You’ll be whisked back in time to an old-time soda shop feel with a menu of classics. Don’t forget to stop and grab a sweet treat for the road!

A-Maze-ing Mirror Maze

Get lost in a 1904 World’s Fair-themed Mirror Maze! Their funhouse is full of hands-on fun!

St. Louis Union Station Mini Golf

Bring your A-game with you with a round of mini golf! This 18-round course is the perfect family-fun activity!

St. Louis Union Station Carousel 

A family favorite for the young and the young at heart. For $5, take a ride on this classic.

Pro Tips 

As someone who loves visiting St. Louis Union Station regularly, I can let you in on a few little secrets to make your visit fun and affordable. 

• Bring your parking pass in with you near the Aquarium entrance to validate it at the Explore St. Louis Visitor Desk. You’ll get $5 parking. 
• Take advantage of the Aquarium Fantastic Five Ticket that includes general admission to the Aquarium, The St. Louis Wheel, Carousel, Mirror Maze, and Mini Golf. Also, make sure you book Aquarium reservations in advance. 
• Need to get some wiggles out? There is a train-themed playground near the Carousel. Perfect opportunity for Mom and Dad to take a break. 
• There are plenty of areas to grab a quick drink or snack under the train shed.
• Visiting in the evening? Check out the Fire and Light Show. It’s free and runs at the top of the hour on Sunday-Thursday 5-10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday noon-10 p.m
• Have children under 48 inches tall? You’ll want to check out the Sky Tykes upstairs at the Rope Course. The best $5 you’ll spend all day. You’ll thank me later.
• Talk a walk over to the Grand Hall and see the light show. It changes fairly regularly, and it’s just a really neat experience. Bonus — it’s completely free!

That’s My MO 

Now that I’ve shared some of my favorite St. Louis attractions with you, don’t forget to take the quiz to see what Mo you are paired with and reveal some hidden gems all around our great state! 

Have you been to St. Louis Union Station before?

This post is in partnership with Visit Missouri. All opinions are my own.