Late fall in St. Louis can be a wonderful time! Finally, that long, humid summer is over, and the crisp air takes its place. During this time, it can be easy to feel cooped up. While the weather is finally cooling, it’s still a little unpredictable (where else can you experience all four seasons in just one week?), and it might be tempting to hole up inside your house. While spring and summer activities might be over, there’s no reason for your family to go stir crazy. Regardless of your budget, St. Louis has activities that are just right for you!
Eckert’s Family Farms in Belleville and Millstadt (mostly free)
While the pick-your-own season is coming to a close (Belleville’s apple picking ends on November 11), Eckert’s allows you to choose your own Christmas tree starting November 27th. The Belleville location keeps the fun going all season long by offering several events, courses, and a weekly free storytime at the farm every Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 that concludes with a hands-on activity your child is sure to love. Make sure to stop by the country store and grab a famous pie or pastry! You can view a full schedule of events here.
St. Charles Christmas Traditions (mostly free)
If you’re one of those people who has 102.5 KEZKA blasting Christmas music the day after Halloween, St. Charles is your place! Every year, the main street is turned into a winter wonderland complete with characters and carolers to spread the Christmas cheer. Starting November 23, the street comes alive every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Enjoy the music and the holiday shopping, and check out the impressive gingerbread houses. While some events are ticketed, there are plenty of free programs including the weekly Santa parade, candlelight processionals, tree lightings, dance parties, and even a reindeer meet-and-greet. You can check out the full schedule of activities here.
Missouri Botanical Garden (price varies depending on the day)
The yearly Garden Glow is about to return starting November 17. Check out the gardens during the evening to see some gorgeous lights, share some s’mores, and have a festive drink or two. Children of all ages will love the lights as well as the indoor train show. While the Garden Glow is the big attraction at this time, the grounds themselves are on full display! Make sure to stop by the Japanese Gardens to see some gorgeous fall foliage. To find out more about admission, click here.
Indoor Activities
Missouri History Museum (free)
St. Louis has some amazing free museums! The Missouri History Museum is no exception. The children’s museum is a free, hands-on exhibit that will allow your kids to learn about local history through engaging activities. Every Tuesday and Friday, the museum offers storytime aimed at children from 2-5. Over the next two months, many of the stories are centered around the season including ones on Thanksgiving, peacemaking, and wintertime. After the stories, be sure to stick around for a special craft! You can find the full schedule here.
The Butterfly House ($6 for adults, $4 for children)
After November 6, the Butterfly House is transformed for their Winter Jewels display! Check out the enchanted castle, filled with brave knights and fierce dragons. Afterwards, stop by the Gnome Forest to view the insect display and play some games. The Butterfly House also has a special storytime every Tuesday-Friday featuring a rotation of special guests. To view the full schedule, go here.
The Magic House ($12 per person age 1 and up)
The Magic House continues to be a fantastic spot for everyone in the family, regardless of age. Currently, the Forever Forest exhibit is up, offering children a firsthand glance at how forestry is used in our everyday world. Kids get to build a miniature house complete with siding and floors, climb a tree topper, and hop onboard a model of a Union Pacific train. The exhibit not only gives kids a peek at how our world is made but also promotes the importance of sustainability. To find out more, check out their website here.