While a picnic table, a swing and a nice shade tree are more than sufficient for an hour of play, occasionally the weather warrants something more. For those days when blue skies and a warm breeze are beckoning you to spend a full day outside, these St. Louis-area parks will happily oblige. Read on for our 10 favorite parks in the St. Louis Metro, then pack a picnic basket and a bottle of sunscreen and head out on an adventure.
If your child longs for the swings, the slides and the joy of making new friends, we have your best bets for local playgrounds. Whether your kids dream of hiding in a tree house, storming a castle or defending a wilderness fort, we have the top spots for them to play, explore and let their imaginations soar.
Hiking can be a fun way for children to experience the outdoors and develop an appreciation for nature. The St. Louis area offers numerous trails of varying levels of difficulty, so whether you're hiking with a stroller, a toddler or an adventurous teen, check out these best bets for scenic, local hiking trails.