Last month was Valentine’s Day, which got me thinking about dates—but not romantic ones. Instead, I began to ponder special places to take your kids, creating special moments amidst the chaos of life. I still love getting one-on-one time with my parents, and I’m 34.
So here’s a list of fun places my kids suggested—I added a few of my own ideas at the end.
Sky Zone
We are big fans of this trampoline park’s open jump times, but if you check out their website under programs, you will find so many cool things to do. “But you have to jump with us,” my son notes. So if you are going solo with your kids, be prepared to get some air and a great workout!
Painted Zebra
My kids LOVE paint days, where they can pick out plates or piggy banks to decorate. Our personal favorite place to go is Painted Zebra because it’s quaint, quiet and full of cute treasures. It’s right off Manchester in Des Peres.
Celebrating Life Cake Boutique or Sweetology
It’s really special to take your kids on a sweet treat decorating date. This is something my son and daughter both enjoy.
A Salon Day
This is the ultimate suggestion from my 9-year-old daughter. Maybe you have been avoiding this, but did you know most nail salons have kid-priced manicures and pedicures? It’s not as expensive as you may think. Last week, my daughter and I went to Dry Bar Stl for a fun outing and I learned kid braid prices start at $10; a total steal for a magical afternoon with your girl.
Skate Park
The most family-friendly one I’ve found is Kinetic Park in Dardenne Prairie. Remember you can bring roller blades, a scooter or a bike to ride with your kids! This is my son’s happy place.
Picnic at the Park
As it gets a little warmer, a picnic is always a good idea. Some parks with cool stuff to check out are Watson Trails, Broemmelsiek Park (it has an astronomy viewing area) and Indian Camp Creek Park.
The Symphony
Did you know there are extra special symphony shows for kids that are only 45 minutes long? I feel like symphony outings will be something my kids would talk about when they are grown, such a beautiful memory to make.
The Theater
If you are like me and always seem to miss what’s going on around town, be sure to check out saint-louis-theatre.com frequently for an update on shows coming to town and kid-friendly plays to see.
Boat Ride at Forest Park
I always forget about the paddle boats in Forest Park. Lunch and a ride is a really fun day date with kids.
Kramer’s Marionette Shows
One of the longest-running on-site puppetry theaters in the U.S., Bob Kramer’s Marionnettes, has been enchanting audiences of all ages for more than 45 years. Somehow, I just learned about it and have added it to my list of kid date ideas!
I love making these reminder lists of cool family-friendly places to visit around town. My hope is that you will cut this column out and put it on your fridge so you can make the most of a free day with your family!
Katelyn Young is a local mom of three (her #crumblycrew) who shares real moments of motherhood as it relates to fashion, food and fun! Follow her on Instagram @_katelynyoung_ or follow her blog at thebejuledlife.com.