Hot apple cider, apple cider slushies, apple cider donuts, caramel apples, candied apples, apple pie … with so many delicious ways to serve these tasty treats, why not plan a day of apple picking at the orchard? Several area farms open their gates to visitors looking for a fun way to fill a basket with apples and an afternoon of fun memories.
Imagine what it would have been like to have been among the first people to explore some of the natural wonders of the great outdoors. The southern half of Illinois certainly offers a wealth of scenic locations in which that feeling of awe still embraces its visitors. Mighty rivers meander around many of the sites, sculpting some truly magnificent rock formations to view and sometimes climb. Over time, these jewels of nature have been combined with a smattering of man-made structures, adding even more to the region’s fantasy settings.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Scroll to the bottom of this article for Greenberg's photos of these natural and man-made wonders.
While it might be tempting to stay in your nest during the cold winter months, an opportunity to spot visiting bald eagles in their natural habitat can be a great excuse to bundle up and get outdoors. Whether you're looking for organized eagle day events or places to fly solo, you'll find plenty of options for spotting our national symbol in St. Louis.
As the lush green trees lining the region's scenic routes, river bluffs and quaint cobblestone streets give way to the crisp gold, crimson and orange of fall, we are reminded that the journey, as they say, is just as important as the destination. Whether you're looking to experience autumn splendor by foot, by car or even by boat, you'll find plenty of options in St. Louis.
For older kids and teens who love to glide, climb, soar, swing, skate, bike and otherwise live life to the extreme, St. Louis offers plenty of adventure (in a safe environment with helmets and protective equipment, of course!). Share an action-packed day of mountain biking, zip lining, rock wall climbing, skateboarding and more with your young thrill seeker at these local parks and destinations. Tip: Many attractions require a signed waiver; save time by completing waivers online in advance, and don't forget to bring proper safety equipment.
Although the St. Louis area is dotted with subdivisions, commercial development, highways and the hustle and bustle of city living, families don’t have to go far to find the farm life. The following area farms and attractions feature animals and farm fun for the whole family:
When the mild temperatures of spring dissolve into the warm, humid days of a Missouri summer, the idea of running on a greenway, going for a spin on your bike or hiking your favorite dusty trail might seem a little less appealing. Before you resign to spending the dog days of summer parked on the sofa, however, why not turn your attention to a new outdoor activity? If you love the outdoors you’ve no doubt explored the region’s rivers and lakes by foot, by bike or perhaps even by horseback, but a growing trend is making it easier than ever for families to explore our waterways by canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and rafts.
Those who have had the pleasure of taking a trail ride know that there are few things that can compare to exploring nature by horseback. There's something enticing about a horse's gentle rocking gait, the melodic clip-clop of its sure-footed hooves and the higher vantage point the animal provides. Other horse lovers prefer the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with mastering horsemanship, jumping and other challenges in traditional equestrian competitions. Whether your family is looking for a simple trail ride, classic equestrian training or a more rugged cowboy experience, you can find it all at these St. Louis-area stables.
St. Louis weather can be fickle, but we certainly have our share of beautiful days to enjoy. Knowing that sunshine and mild temps can be here one day, gone the next, you’ll want to be prepared to take full advantage of those stunners and dine outdoors. Here are a few highlights of places you can try and bring the kids along, too.