Family Friendly in St. Louis

There were several reasons why my husband and I decided to move back to St. Louis with our family, however, one stuck out in particular. We are a growing family now. And even though Orange County had plenty to offer, St. Louis could offer a lot of it for free.

Growing up in St. Louis I took a lot of the local attractions for granted. Doesn't everyone have a top ten zoo in the country that is free? Or an interactive science center that is free? Or an art museum, history museum, Grant's Farm or countless gorgeous parks with a plethora of events that are FREE? You get my picture. Yes, St. Louis is a sports town but it is also a family town. Since moving back last June I have made it my penny pinching mommy job to find as many of those free things as possible. Even the attractions that cost usually have free or discounted days. There are a few great websites that I have relied on to get me started and I want to share the wealth. Enjoy...


http://kidsinstl.com/
This one is the one I use by far! It has an easy to use calendar with descriptions and venue information. It has articles on anything and everything from great farmer's markets to new playground construction.

www.stlmoms.com
Fox 2 news local website for anything "mom". Lot of local coupons, deals and how to save money around the city. The calendar isn't quite as user friendly but extensive. Also has activity and recipe ideas.

http://www.stlouiskidsmagazine.com/
Has a good "Things to do" tab.


http://www.riverfronttimes.com/events/category/family-events-768362/
More of a general events site but has a family extension.

Some general good to know free or discounted local attractions...

Every third Friday of the month the Magic House is free from 5:30 - 9:00.

Wednesday and Saturday mornings before noon are free at the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

https://wwwc.druryhotels.com/content/stlvacationsavings.aspx Drury Inn's website has lots of buy one get one free coupons. Just print them out! We use the Butterfly House one regularly.

The Children's Zoo, Carousel and Stingray Cove are all free the first hour of operation.

Grant's Farm has a pass for $40. It includes parking (which is $11!). If you go four time a year (which we already have) you have already saved money.

Hope these help and I plan on adding as I find more useful resources!