Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Saint Louis, MO

Looking for a place to get away but don't want to spend a fortune on travel? Visit these local parks, historic sites or conservation areas within easy driving distance (one gas tank away) from St. Louis. 

Recommended St. Louis One Tank Trips include:

 First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site in St. Charles. On North Main Street,  St. Charles’ historic district, the two-story Federal style building served as Missouri’s Capitol. A two-story interpretive center is free and tours are $2.50 for adults and $1.50 for children.

A historic site housed right in the city of St. Louis is the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site. Ragtime King Joplin lived in the home at the start of the 1900's and composed some of his most famous music there.  Cost: Tours are $2.50 for adults and $1.50 for children 6 to 12.

Howell Island in Chesterfield is a great place to go fishing and also contains a hiking/biking path.

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park near Wildwoods is a peaceful escape not far from busy suburban areas. There are trails, pavilions, camp grounds and an interpretive center that teaches about the living things within the park. 

Rockwood Reservation in West St. Louis County is almost 2,000 acres of natural beauty. This conservation area is a great place to learn about native plants and animals on the many trails. Some trails are rugged and not good for hiking with kids but there are shorter trails, including a paved disabled access trail.

Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park is a free destination where you can visit the sight where the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers merge together.  It is a beautiful, natural area with paths for exploring and learning.