The St. Louis Zoo
Best St. Louis Family Activity
The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best things to do in the area, whether you have kids or not! First of all, it's FREE and secondly its a world-class facility with some amazing animals and exhibits. If you drive, the zoo lot does cost $15 per vehicle but that’s still way cheaper than most zoos, especially if you have a car full of people! Starting May 23, 2022, the Zoo will no longer limit attendance and you do not need reservations. I recommend visiting early in the morning, especially if you go on the weekend if you want to avoid crowds. The zoo is very popular in St. Louis and it can get pretty crowded during peak times.
When To Visit the Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo hours change slightly depending on the season, but they are open almost year round. I definitely recommend going when the weather is nice in St. Louis, which is usually April-May and September-Early November. The Zoo has many attractions and there is a lot of walking involved outdoors, so the better the weather, the more enjoyable your zoo trip will be. The zoo train (pictured) is big hit with kids and travels through the zoo to many stops if you don’t feel like walking the whole day. They even offer stroller parking so that you can leave it at one stop and pick it up later.
Food at the St. Louis Zoo
There are lots of food options at the St. Louis Zoo from Dippin’ Dots to fair style food to sit-down restaurants. Yes, the Zoo food options can be pricier than going out to eat beforehand but I also appreciate the fact that the zoo is free to enter and they have to make money somehow.
Restaurants Near St. Louis Zoo
If you aren’t feeling the zoo food vibes, here are some great restaurants near the St. Louis Zoo:
PokeDoke - Poke bowls and Hawaiian BBQ
Stone Turtle Restaurant and Bar - gastropub with American food and cocktails
The Boathouse at Forest Park - upscale waterfront restaurant
Songbird - Delicious breakfast and lunch restaurant
Brasserie by Niche - nice French restaurant
Overall the zoo is one of my favorite family activities in St. Louis. It’s the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning, especially if you have kids. Walking around the zoo always makes my kids happy and tires them out, which is a win-win.