12 Great Day Trips from St. Louis
Looking for a quick escape from the St. Louis area without a long day of travel? Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply in search of new adventures, there are great opportunities for exploration within a 2.5-hour radius of St. Louis. To make your travel plans easy, I’ve narrowed down our top day trip destinations to give you twelve different ideas for the perfect adventure journey. Load up the kids, pack all the snacks, and head out to explore these hidden gem locations.
1. Shawnee National Forest, Illinois
While much of Illinois is flat, the far southern part of the state is a rugged mix of rocky bluffs, canyons, and wet-weather waterfalls. This is one of the most beautiful areas to explore in the Midwest! Plan a trip to view numerous state parks, scenic views, and great hiking trails.
Things to Do
Hiking– There is no shortage of hiking trails available in Shawnee National Forest. A few of our favorite areas to explore with kids include Giant City State Park, Ferne Clyffe State Park, and Cache River Natural Area. You can find a full list of favorite Shawnee hikes here.
Water Fun – Shawnee National Forest also has numerous lakes with rentals including Lake of Egypt, Cedar Lake, Kincaid Lake, and Pomona Lake. Several of these also have swim beaches.
Biking – Plan a bike ride on the 40+ mile long Tunnel Hill State Trail. This scenic trail passes over numerous trestles and through a historic railroad tunnel.
Nature Centers – Don’t miss the Visitor/Nature Center at Giant City which has several exhibits for the whole family. The Cache River Natural Area also has a very nice and large visitor center with exhibits.
Playground – Boo Memorial Castle Park is a must-see for kids. This incredible playground was built with a Dungeons and Dragons theme in memory of a special boy. Marion, Illinois has a great inclusive playground at Ray Fosse Park while Anna, Illinois has a brand new playground also.
Where to Eat – The lodge at Giant City is a great spot to eat with a large menu, kids menu, and delicious fried chicken. We also enjoy the Vault Cafe in Marion which is housed in an old bank building.
2. Ste. Genevieve, Missouri
Take a trip just one hour south to Missouri’s oldest town established in 1750. Beautiful Ste. Genevieve boasts some of the best French Colonial architecture in the country with many structures dating to the 1700s. The area is so full of history that it became one of the newest units of the National Parks System. Not only can you find historic sites to explore, but the town is located near great hiking trails and boasts an amazing playground for kids of all abilities.
Things to Do
Museums – Stop at the Visitor’s Center to learn more and arrange tours. If you have a National Parks Passport book you can have it stamped here and kids can earn Junior Ranger badges. Also check out the Center for French Colonial Life or new Art Guild. Kids will enjoy the dinosaurs and other exhibits at the new Ste. Genevieve Museum Learning Center.
Outdoor Fun – In town, check out the amazing Braden’s Challenger Playground which is designed to be accessible to all kids. A new aquatic center is located just across the road and is perfect for kids of all ages.
Heading a few miles outside of town, you can find amazing hikes past interesting rock formations and scenic creeks. Hawn State Park, Pickle Springs, and Hickory Canyons are all family friendly.
For animal lovers, don’t miss the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary to view these majestic rescued cats. Younger ones may enjoy feeding the animals at Critter Lane Petting Zoo.
Sweet Treats – Wrap up your visit with ice cream or a stop at the Sweet Things Candy Shop. Right next door, adults might prefer to satisfy their sweet tooth with some gourmet honey at Harold’s Honey Bar. Trust me, it’s amazing!
3. Cruise Highway 79 to Hannibal, MO
This trip is both about the journey and the destination. On your way to or from Hannibal, take scenic Highway 79 past overlooks and rolling farm fields. Make a stop at the charming river towns of Clarksville and Louisiana. Closer to Hannibal, the ghost town of Ilasco is an interesting stop. Once you reach Hannibal, the options for family fun are endless as your explore this town made famous by Mark Twain.
Things to Do
Clarksville – Stroll the riverfront and check out the view from the lock & dam overlook. Visit the shops downtown.
Louisiana – The historic downtown has the most intact Victorian streetscape in the state. See the great river views from Riverview Park.
Hannibal – Explore all things Tom Sawyer throughout the downtown including Mark Twain’s boyhood home, and the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse . Other adventures include cruising on the Mark Twain Riverboat or exploring Mark Twain Cave.
If you want to do some more walking or hiking, the scenic Sodalis Natura Preserve is a great spot. Don’t forget to stop for a great river view from Lover’s Leap or Riverview Park.
4. Meramec Caverns and Meramec State Park
No matter the temperature outside, it is a constant 66 degrees when you journey underground to explore the wonders of Meramec Caverns. Add to the adventure by taking a hike and viewing more caves at nearby Meramec State Park.
Things to do
Meramec Caverns – The cave tour is the big attraction here. The walk is an easy 1.25 miles but strollers are not allowed. Other attractions here include ziplining, panning for gold, a climbing wall, and boat and float rides.
Meramec State Park – Seven different trails can be found in this park. The Bluff View Trail offers nice river views and a historic CCC era shelter while the Natural Wonder and Walking Fern Trail offer short hikes past creeks and cave openings.
Sunny Jim Bottomley City Park – This park in nearby Sullivan has a really nice pool, playground, and super cute Route 66 themed splash pad if you visit on a hot day.
5. Explore the Arcadia Valley
We absolutely love this area of the state. The hiking and recreation options are endless and the scenery is stunning. You can also explore historic sites to turn the trip into both an adventure and an educational outing.
Things to do
Historic Sites – Visit a Civil War battleground at the Pilot Knob Historic Site. The site also features a playground. Visit the courthouse downtown and see if you can find the cannon ball mark.
Hikes – Elephant Rocks State Park is a must see. An easy path winds pass massive granite boulders. Arrive early or a weekday as this park gets crowded fast on weekends. Johnson’s Shut-Ins is another must see park. An easy paved trail leads to a boardwalk overlook of the scenic cascades. Up for a longer hike? Hike the full 2.5 mile trail or venture over to nearby Taum Sauk Mountain to see the highest point in Missouri and the state’s tallest waterfall.
Where to eat – Head to the historic and beautiful Arcadia Academy for made from scratch meals. Baylee Jo’s BBQ is another family favorite. Follow up your visit with ice cream and candy while taking a trip back in time to the Old Village Mercantile in quaint Caledonia.
6. See the Big Things in Casey, IL
Head east on Highway 70 to the Little Town of Big Things. Casey, IL holds an impressive collection of the World’s Largest Objects such as the biggest mailbox, rocking chair, and pitchfork. All of these items are available on display to view for free.
Things to do
See the Big Things – Find out the full list of 12 World’s Largest attractions here. The town also boasts dozens more items that are not record breakers but just plain big!
Kaskaskia Dragon – On the way there or back, stop just off the highway in Vandalia at the shop next door to buy a token to make the dragon breathe fire.
Where to eat – The Whimsy Cafe is next to the largest windchime while Richards Farm has the largest pitchfork. Or make a sidetrip to the tiny town of Moonshine for a famous Moonshine burger. Looking for a snack? Try Tretzel Time or the Candy Depot (also home to the largest wooden shoes.)
7. Fort De Chartres, IL
You may not expect to find a French Colonial Fort in southern Illinois, but this historic spot is a must see. Combine your visit with a great hike along the bluffs for a full day.
Things to do
Fort de Chartres – This reconstructed 18th century stone fort has so many interesting areas to explore. Climb around the buildings and foundations and see the powder house which is the oldest structure in all of the state. The museum is well worth a visit.
Modoc Ferry – If coming from the Missouri side, start or end your trip with a ride on the ferry between Illinois and Ste. Genevieve. Kids will get a kick out of it and it offers an up close view of the river.
Hiking – Salt Lick Point is one of the best hikes around. The climb up the bluffs is a little steep, but the views are worth it. Or stick to the lower and flat Johnson’s Trail to view the rocks and bluffs from below.
Where to Eat – Take a cruise through the tiny but charming village of Maeystown for lunch at Hank & Lily’s Creekside. Or head into beautiful downtown Red Bud for more dining options and ice cream.
8. Take the River Road to Grafton
The Great River Road in Illinois is one of the area’s most scenic drives. The road squeezes between the mighty Mississippi and towering bluffs. There are several quaint towns and scenic parks to stop at along the way. Timing your visit to end with watching the sun set over the river is even better.
Things to do
Alton – Stop at the free Great River Museum to learn more about the mighty Mississippi and even tour the lock and dam.
Elsah – This is the town time forgot. The entire village is listed on the National Historic Register. Stop at the general store for a treat along the way.
Dow – Just northeast of Elsah, the TreeHouse Wildlife Center is a great spot for the whole family to view rescued wildlife.
Grafton – Stop at the river for a view of the lighthouse. Explore the many shops and restaurants in the beautiful downtown. Take a ride on the scenic aerial lift up to the bluffs and then take a thrilling ride on Aerie’s Alpine Coaster. Soar through the trees on a family friendly zipline.
Hiking – Between Alton and Grafton lies Olin Nature Preserve. This preserve has a variety of scenic trails for even the littlest legs. (They close for the winter but reopen April 1.) Just north of Grafton lies Pere Marquette State Park. See the panoramic views from one of the many hiking trails or enjoy the viewpoints on the scenic drive.
Where to eat – Grafton is full of different dining choices. The Loading Dock is popular for it’s river views and outdoor dining. The Pere Marquette Lodge offers delicious meals all day. There are at least three different places in Grafton for ice cream or fudge if you need some dessert.
9. Springfield, Illinois
Explore the history and walk the steps on Lincoln in Illinois’s capital city. There is so much to see and do here for all ages.
Things to do
Lincoln Sites – The impressive Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is great for older kids and adults. Various exhibits walk through the stages of Lincoln’s life from humble log cabin through Congress and the White House. The free Lincoln Home National Historic Site includes a visitor center and tours of the only home Lincoln ever owned. The site preserves a portion of his historic neighborhood with various displays in the different structures. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge here.
Museums – The Illinois State Museum is free with a variety of exhibits including a free interactive kids area on the lower level. Kidzeum Museum of Health and Science offers fun activities and exhbits for kids to learn and play.
Route 66 Experience – This free attraction on the state fairgrounds offers a walk-through experience of the various towns along Route 66 in Illinois. Come back at night to see the glowing neon signs.
Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center – This free garden offers walking trails, a nature center, and fun nature playscape for kids. Keep an eye out for giant wooden troll sculptures! If you want to see more gardens, the Botanical Gardens in Springfield are also free.
Where to Eat – Enjoy Route 66 nostalgia and casual dining at Cozy Dog Drive in or amazing breakfast and lunch at Wm. Van’s Cafe.
10. Columbia, Missouri
Head west on I-70 for outdoor adventures in the college town of Columbia. This town also is a great stop if you are planning a longer trip to Kansas City and want to take a break halfway there.
Things to do
Pinnacles Youth Park – This privately owned park is open to the public for hiking. This is one of the most unique landscapes in Missouri with towering rock pillars and creeks. While climbing to the top of the pillars is trickier and not for little kids, there are lower trails that lead to a cave and along the creek. Keep an eye out for fossils, there are thousands of crinoids here.
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park – This beautiful state park offers short trails and boardwalks to view a natural rock bridge and caves. Bring a flashlight to explore the entrance to the cave and waterproof shoes.
Cosmo Park – The largest of Columbia’s parks, this park features a massive and unique playground. There is a giant rocket climbing structure, slides to race down, giant tires to climb, a fun dino themed play area, and so much more!
11. Washington, Missouri (By Car or Train)
The charming river town of Washington is just a quick trip west of St. Louis. You can arrive by car or for an extra fun adventure, take the train from downtown or Kirkwood to the Washington train station. The downtown area of Washington offers great activities to fill a day just a short walk from the station.
Things to Do
Take a ride on Amtrak – We took the train from Kirkwood to Washington and it was such a fun day. The ride is about 35 minutes and they even had junior ranger books and coloring sheets for the kids! The downtown Kirkwood station is under renovation but there is a temporary station across the street. Coach class is first come, first served seating but families get priority boarding. The train cars have restrooms and there is usually a cafe car as well.
Playgrounds – There is a small playground right along the riverfront near the station. Kids will also love checking out the caboose right next to the train station.
Downtown Shops – There are several shops to explore downtown. Families shouldn’t miss the Mommy & Me shop which is a resale shop filled with clothes, toys, and books for kids.
The Alley Entertainment Center – Another great place to explore downtown is the Alley. This fun center has an indoor playscape, arcade, laser tag, and virtual reality. They also serve food.
Iron Spike Model Train Museum – While this museum isn’t really within walking distance if you take the train, if you arrive by car you have to visit this place! The Iron Spike features huge model train layouts that will wow both kids and adults. There is also a room just for kids to play and a daily scavenger hunt. (My kids and I actually took the train ride to Washington and then my husband met us at the station so we could visit this museum in addition to the downtown area.)
Where to Eat – We had a great late breakfast at Cowan’s downtown. They have a kid’s menu and a variety of dishes to chose from. Be sure to stop at Silver Spoon for a delicious ice cream dessert!
12. Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Cape Girardeau is another fun river town to explore less than 2 hours from St. Louis. This city is filled with history, river views, a historic downtown, and many family-friendly places to explore.
Things to Do
Trail of Tears State Park – This state park remembers the site where Cherokee Indian groups crosses the Mississippi River during harsh winter conditions in 1838 and 1839. The Visitor Center tells about the thousands who died on this forced relocation along the Trail of Tears. The park features woodlands, scenic vistas, hiking trails, a lake with swimming beach, and campgrounds.
Cape Girardeau Nature Center – This free nature center is a must see spot. Visitors can explore educational displays on both the history of the area as well as the natural features and wildlife. They regularly hold special programs and activities for all ages. There are also several hiking trails to explore.
Visit a Museum or Historic Site – Cape features several historic sites and museums to explore. The Red House Interpretive Center downtown displays several exhibits depicting the lives of the area’s early settlers. The Discovery Playhouse is a Children’s Museum with a variety of exhibits for learning and play. Fort D Historic Site preserves a Civil War era fort with displays and reenactors.
Explore a Playground – Cape Girardeau has several great playgrounds that are designed for kids of all abilities to play. Melania’s Magical Playground is located at North Cape County Park. This beautiful castle themed playground is designed to be inclusive for all children. Levi’s Adventure Trail is right across the road and designed for natural play with elements inspired by the Native Americans who once called this area home. While the playground has so many great features, the zipline was the big hit.
Where to Eat – Cape has a variety of dining options throughout the city but don’t leave without making a stop at My Daddy’s Cheesecake for dessert!
Do you have any other fun day trip ideas from St. Louis?
