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  • Welcome!
  • About
    • About Us
    • Disclaimer
    • Privacy Policy
  • Travel
    • Arkansas
    • Canada
    • Colorado
    • Illinois
    • Indiana
    • Michigan
    • Minnesota
    • Missouri
    • South Dakota
    • Utah
    • Wisconsin
    • National Parks
  • Midwest Hikes
  • Featured Products
  • Other Projects
    • Garage Projects
    • Home Projects

midwestnomadfamily

Sara Lesire | Family Travel & Adventure | Midwest & beyond
🛝 Check out these destination playgrounds!⠀ ⠀ The St. Louis area has so many amazing playgrounds. If you are looking to enjoy the unseasonably warm weather, check out these spots ⬇️⠀ ⠀ 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗲'𝘀 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 📍Manion Park, Florissant⠀ 🌼 Adorable and incluisive floral themed playground with fun features and fully fenced ⠀ 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲 📍Forest Park, St. Louis⠀ 🌿 Nine different areas of nature themed fun over 17 acres with water play, giant logs, sand, and gardens⠀ 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Maplewood⠀ 🚀 This rocket park offers space themed playtime ⠀ 𝗝𝗮𝘆𝗰𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍St. Charles⠀ 🦋 Nature themed and inclusive playground for all with roller slides and a giant butterfly⠀ 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝘄 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Clayton⠀ 🌳 Enjoy a fully fenced woodland themed playground plus a newer playground with tall climbing nets ⠀ 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Sunset Hills⠀ 🌿 Two great playgrounds plus a lake with ducks 🦆⠀ 𝗩𝗮𝗴𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Maryland Heights⠀ 🛝 Two newer playgrounds, one for littles and a larger one for all ages with a zipline⠀ 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 📍Foristell⠀ 🐸 Worth the drive to this giant playground with a massive climbing structure ⠀ 𝗞𝗮𝗱𝗲'𝘀 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 📍 Herculaneum⠀ 🌋 Check out the volcano slide on this play area themed around ancient Roman cities ⠀ 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍 Wildwood⠀ 🌿 A huge playground with a nature theme and unique elements ⠀ 𝗢'𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍O'Fallon, MO⠀ 🔵 One of the most unique playgrounds around, perfect for climbers with giant nets and slides⠀ 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲'𝘀 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀 📍 Wentzville⠀ ⚾ Head west for this giant & accessible playground for sports fans with a mini Busch stadium⠀ 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘇 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Swansea, IL⠀ 🏰 Calling all princes and princesses to explore this castle playground in the metro-east⠀ ⠀ It was hard to pick just 13 for this reel so be sure to follow midwestnomadfamily for even more playgrounds and family fun! ⠀ ⠀ Which playground is your favorite? ⠀ ⠀ #stlouismom #stlmom #explorestlouis #kidsoutside #stlouisblogger #stlstaycation
🎁 Give the gift of a family getaway! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦One of the best gifts you can give is time with your family. While I love sharing family fun around town, if you are looking to travel this holiday season consider making a trip to Branson! 🚗 Plan a cozy stay at theozarkerlodge with family friendly rooms and amenities. Kids will love the bunk bed set up, heated pool, and natural playground while adults will love the on-site coffee shop and creekside hot tubs. 🎢 The Ozarker Lodge is tucked away from the noise and traffic of Branson but still convenient to the major attractions like sdcattractions , shepherdofthehills , and topoftherockmo ➡️ Use my code MIDWESTNOMADFAMILY to save an extra 5% on top of the many great package deals they are offering! Who else prefers family experiences over more stuff? 🙋‍♀️ #ozarkerlodge #partner #visitmo #thatsmymo #branson #bransonmo Family getaway | Branson | Missouri Vacation
🎄 Check out these FREE light displays! 🎄⠀ 🎄 Check out these FREE light displays! 🎄⠀ ⠀ 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀⠀ ✨ Winterfest 📍St. Louis - Thousands of lights, photo ops, plus kids can ice skate free on Fridays ⠀ ✨ Candy Cane Lane 📍 6500 Murdoch - The most festive neighborhood in St. Louis (Don't miss nearby Snowflake St at 6500 Neosho and Angel Ave at 4700 Prague)⠀ ✨Union Station 📍St. Louis - See the free fire & light show plus twinkling lights, photo ops, and the light show on the Grand Hall ceiling ⠀ ✨ 4008 Healy Court 📍Affton - Beautiful lights plus two vintage trains for kids to ride on!⠀ ✨ Teddy Bear Lane 📍9211 Laurel Hill - So many lights, Teddy bears, and fun decorations, a kid favorite! ✨ Brewery Lights 📍St. Louis - Drive through the Busch Brewery lights for free on select Mon, Tues, Wed nights. ⠀ ✨ Lights of Christmas 📍First Baptist Church Arnold - 80,000 lights, live nativity, and more Dec 8-10th ⠀ ✨ New Town 📍3599 S. New Town Ave., St. Charles - Several homes in a row with lights, tunnels, and photo ops⠀ ✨ Dan's Emerald Forest 📍8851 Windom Ave. Overland - Lights, trees, and several model trains are a must-see ⠀ 𝗜𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗶𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀⠀ ✨ Way of Lights 📍 Belleville - Free but donations accepted to see 1.5 million lights that tell the birth of Jesus⠀ ✨ Horner Park Wonderland 📍Lebanon, IL - Free but donations accepted for the display that includes a synchronized light show⠀ ✨ Carlyle City Park 📍Carlyle - Free (by donation) drive through light display with a lighted path and tunnel at the entrance⠀ ✨ Bethalto Christmas Village 📍Bethalto - Thousands of lights, light boxes, and free kids activities ⠀ ✨ Woburn Lights 📍1481 Woburn Rd, Greenville - It's a bit of drive but this residential light display is amazing with light boxes and tunnels. Combine with free lights American Farm Museum in Greenville. ✨ 55 Woodford Way 📍 Collinsville - Huge display of animated lights, 15' tall reindeer, and more⠀ ✨Barbarotto Lane 📍Maryville - Many houses in a row all decorated & synchronized to music⠀ ⠀ ➡️ Follow midwestnomadfamily and play_stl for the best family fun around St. Louis! ⠀ ➡️ Head to midwestnomads.com for a full list of area lights including location, dates, and cost
⬇️ Check out these must see family fun spots!⠀🎄AD ⠀ ✨The riversandroutes region of Southwestern Illinois offers so many great options for family fun, especially during the holidays. Located only a short drive from St. Louis, check out these must do activities in each town!⠀ ⠀ ✨𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗼𝗻⠀ ⛸️ Skate at the prettiest and coziest ice rink around plus enjoy food and s'mores loadingdockil 🥾 Hike the scenic trails at Pere Marquette State Park or stay warm with food and games and in the historic lodge explorepml⠀ 🎢 The Skytour and Alpine Coaster at aeriesresort are still open for even more adventure⠀ ⠀ ✨𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆⠀ 🎲 Learn some new family games at the Boardgamery in downtown Granite. $3 gets you unlimited play on hundreds of games. ⠀ 🛍️ Shop for the perfect home decor item for a gift or yourself at August Garden Revival florist and gifts.⠀ 🗓️Save your calendar for the first Saturday in December next year to enjoy the Candy Cane parade and Elf Walk downtown. ✨𝗔𝗹𝘁𝗼𝗻⠀ 🎄View over 4 million lights in Rock Spring Park. $10 per car to drive through 6-9 p.m. Mon-Fri and 5-9 weekends. ⠀ ✨𝗘𝗱𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲 ⠀ ❄️ Visit Santa and the Into the Arctic exhibit at the Nickel Plate Depot Wednesdays 5:30-8 and Saturdays 1-4 edwardsville_childrens_museum . Don't miss the rest of the exhibits including a kid sized village and STEM activities during normal museum hours. ⠀ 🎳 Enjoy bowling, laser tag, arcade, and family friendly dining edisonsentertainmentcomplex⠀ They have a special breakfast with Santa on Dec 16⠀ 🍴1818chophouse offers elegant dining for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch plus a kids menu⠀ 🎄 View the Christmas lights and trees at Edwardsville City Park (by the library)⠀ 🛏️ Stay overnight at urbancollectivehotel boutique hotel, right in downtown Edwardsville⠀ ⠀ Which place do you want to visit first?⠀ ⠀ ➡️Follow riversandroutes and midwestnomadfamily for more events and fun in southwestern Illinois ⠀ ⠀ #riversandroutes enjoyillinois #familytravel #middleofeverything #familyadventure⠀ ⠀
🎀Jingle Hike Challenge🎀⠀ 🥾 Lookng for 🎀Jingle Hike Challenge🎀⠀ 🥾 Lookng for a fun way to explore parks in the metro-east? Check out the Jingle Hike Challenge by Heartlands Conservancy. ⠀ 🔔Heartlands Conservancy was founded to conserve and restore natural and cultural resources of Southwestern Illinois. During the holidays, Heartlands ties bells and red bows to 12 different trees in southwestern Illinois until New Year's Day. 🎀 📸Participants are asked to visit each park and take a selfie with the bells to share by e-mail or social media with the tag #jinglehike. ⠀ ⠀ 🔔A bonus entry can be used by correctly identifying the tree species the bell is tied to. ⠀ ⠀ 🔔If you complete an online registration and fee, you can be entered to win several generous prizes. Even if you don't register, this is still a fun scavenger hunt activity for the whole family.⠀ ⠀ The twelve parks are:⠀ ⠀ 1. Steve Bryant Community Park, Bethalto⠀ 2. Riverfront Park, Alton⠀ 3. Joe Glik Park, Edwardsville⠀ 4. Drost Park, Maryville⠀ 5. Jaycee Park, Breese⠀ 6. Little Prairie Nature Trail at Carlyle Lake Dam West, Carlyle⠀ 7. St. Ellen Park, O’Fallon⠀ 8. Frank Holten State Park, Cahokia Heights⠀ 9. Konarcik Park, Waterloo⠀ 10. Storment Hauss Nature Preserve, Red Bud⠀ 11. Fults Hill Prairie Nature Preserve, Prairie du Rocher⠀ 12. Confluence Trail at Jerry F. Costello Lock & Dam, Modoc⠀ ⠀ More detailed clues on where to find the jingle bells at each park can be found on Heartlands website. ⠀ ⠀ 🔔Have you ever done a similar hike challenge? heartlandconservancy enjoyillinois downstateil riversandroutes
🎄𝗪𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗚 𝗜 𝗩 𝗘 𝗔 𝗪 𝗔 𝗬 🎄 🚫 CLOSED⠀ ⠀⠀ ✨Wonderlights Christmas is back in the St. Louis area this year. This amazing drive-through attraction has over 1 million synchronized lights set to music.⠀ ⠀⠀ ✨I have partnered with them to give away a free admission pass!⠀ ⠀⠀ ✨The display is open nightly, rain or shine from 5-10 p.m. through December 31st, including holidays. The display is located on the World Wide Technology Raceway at 1905 Collinsville Road, Fairmont City, Illinois. Normal admission is $30 per car. ⠀ ⠀ ✨Follow ALL steps to enter ⬇️⠀ 🎄 1. LIKE and SAVE this post 💾⠀ 🎄 2. Follow midwestnomadfamily and christmasinstlouis⠀ 🎄 3. Comment with your favorite Christmas song and tag a friend you'd bring to the lights!⠀ ⠀ ✨BONUS entries: Tag more friends in individual comments for extra entries! (One tag per comment)⠀ ✨ Extra BONUS entries: I'm also giving away a pass on my Facebook page so you can enter there for another chance to win! ⠀ ⠀⠀ GIVEAWAY closes Wednesday, December 6th at 11:59 P.M. Central time. Must be 18 years or older to win. Giveaway not affiliated in any way with Instagram.⠀ ⠀⠀ ⚠️ Beware of any fake or spam accounts. This is my only account and the winner will be messaged directly from me and announced in stories. No clicking links or downloads required to enter!⠀ ⠀⠀ enjoyillinois #stlouismom⠀ #stlmom #stlchristmas riversandroutes #wonderlights #christmasinstlouis⠀
🚂 Check out these fun holiday trains! ⠀⠀ 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻⠀ Multiple model train displays plus rides on the mini train & trolley. museumoftransport 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 Enjoy singing, hot cocoa, & cookies on rides from St. Louis Union Station to the North Pole through Dec. 30th. stlpolarexpress 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 & 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺⠀ This museum in Greenville, IL has a mini train ride to a light show Fri.-Sun nights through December. 5-9 P.M. ⠀ 𝟰𝟬𝟬𝟴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝘁. ⠀ Impressive Christmas display that includes a mini train ride for kids! 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦, 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘚𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭⠀ ⠀ 𝗠𝗰𝗚𝗶𝗻𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀⠀ See multiple model train layouts at this car dealer in Highland, IL on 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 5-8, 𝘚𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 10-4, 𝘚𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 11-4 ⠀ 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝘄⠀ Check out the Holiday Flower & Train Show as part of Garden Glow at mobotgarden through Jan 6. ⠀ 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆⠀ Tickets are available for the lunch with Santa train Dec. 2 & 3 at this railroad 2 hours from St. Louis. ⠀ 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⠀ Get your toy shopping done while the kids play and watch the Polar Express model trains run around the ceiling. ⠀ 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮'𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 View this large light display in Eureka by train on select nights through Dec 7. ⠀ 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 Elf Land is open Tues-Sat 9-5 and Sundays 10-4 with kids activities, photo ops, and a model train display. 𝗦𝘁. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝘂𝗲𝗺 The holiday model train exhibit at the museum is open through Jan. 7. 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦⠀ 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗼𝘁 The Big Bend Railroad Club's depot in Webster Groves will have a holiday train display Tuesdays 7-8:30 P.M. & Saturdays 2-4 P.M.𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝟴𝟴𝟱𝟭 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗺, 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 Dan's Emerald Forest is a huge model train layout & light display in the front yard of his home. 𝘞𝘦𝘥-𝘚𝘢𝘵 5:30-9 𝘱.𝘮. 𝗜𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺 This museum in Washington,MO usually has a Christmas model running in December.
🎄 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 🎄 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆𝗹𝗲 🎄⠀ 📍Carlyle, Illinois⠀ [AD] ⠀ ✨The Christmas lights at Carlyle's City Park are fun and festive. This beautiful display offers both walk and drive through sections. ⠀ ⠀ ✨When you first enter the park, a parking lot allows you a chance to get out and wander through a color changing tunnel and along a lighted pathway in the park. This is a great spot for fun photos without the big city crowds. ⠀ ⠀ ✨After returning to your car, pass under the archway to drive past several lighted displays. You can see penguins playing on the baseball diamond, a lighted train and crossing, plus a beautiful tunnel and canopy. Many of the displays are synchronized to music. ⠀ ⠀ 🐧Keep an eye out for the whimsical Piper the Penguin. He likes to hide at different places throughout the park. Pick up a contest entry form at the mailbox near the entrance where you can enter to win if you find him. ⠀ ⠀ 🎄Also check out the lights on the General Dean Suspension Bridge in town just north of where Highway 50 crosses the Kaskaskia. Parking is available at either end of the bridge.⠀ ⠀ 🎄Just down the road the towns of Breese and Aviston also have light displays in their city parks. You may even find Santa in his hut at Breese's Northside Park. 🎅⠀ ⠀ 🎄𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀⠀ The display is open nightly 5-11 p.m. until January 7th. ⠀ ⠀ 💲𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁⠀ FREE! Donations are accepted and can be placed in the donation box near the "Christmas in Carlyle" archway.⠀ ⠀ downstateil enjoyillinois #middleofeverything #downstateil #stlmom #stlouismom #midwestliving #midwestmoment ⠀
🎄 𝗔𝗹𝘁𝗼𝗻'𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 🎄 ⠀ ✨Each year the "Grandpa Gang" of volunteers transform Alton, Illinois's Rock Springs Park into a drive through winter wonderland of nearly 4 million lights. ⠀ ✨The traditional walk through night typically occurs the first Monday after Thanksgiving which is November 27 this year. It is a beautiful bargain at only $1 per person admission! 🥾Typically you can make a shorter loop of just over the mile or walk the entire route of about 2.5 miles. Strollers and wagons are allowed but there are some hills. ⠀ ✨Other than the one walk through night, the display is open to drive through each night until December 27th. Enjoy the cascading light waterfalls, two arched light tunnels, a lighted bridge and more. Don't miss a visit with Santa in his hut. 🎅 ⠀ 🎄The popular Enchanted Village of trees offers visitors a chance to vote on their favorite tree that has been decorated by local businesses and organizations. ⠀ 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 The lights are on daily through December 27. Monday - Friday 6-9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 5-9 p.m. ⠀ 𝗔𝗱𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 A donation of $10 per car is suggested or $1 per person for vehicles with 10 visitors or more. Walk through night is $1 per person. ⠀ 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 The park entrance is at 2116 College Avenue, Alton, Illinois. Parking for the walk night is at the Alton Middle School next to the park. riversandroutes enjoyillinois #middleofeverything #stlouismom #midwestliving #midwestmoment #midwestmom
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midwestnomadfamily

Sara Lesire | Family Travel & Adventure | Midwest & beyond
🛝 Check out these destination playgrounds!⠀ ⠀ The St. Louis area has so many amazing playgrounds. If you are looking to enjoy the unseasonably warm weather, check out these spots ⬇️⠀ ⠀ 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗲'𝘀 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 📍Manion Park, Florissant⠀ 🌼 Adorable and incluisive floral themed playground with fun features and fully fenced ⠀ 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲 📍Forest Park, St. Louis⠀ 🌿 Nine different areas of nature themed fun over 17 acres with water play, giant logs, sand, and gardens⠀ 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Maplewood⠀ 🚀 This rocket park offers space themed playtime ⠀ 𝗝𝗮𝘆𝗰𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍St. Charles⠀ 🦋 Nature themed and inclusive playground for all with roller slides and a giant butterfly⠀ 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝘄 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Clayton⠀ 🌳 Enjoy a fully fenced woodland themed playground plus a newer playground with tall climbing nets ⠀ 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Sunset Hills⠀ 🌿 Two great playgrounds plus a lake with ducks 🦆⠀ 𝗩𝗮𝗴𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Maryland Heights⠀ 🛝 Two newer playgrounds, one for littles and a larger one for all ages with a zipline⠀ 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 📍Foristell⠀ 🐸 Worth the drive to this giant playground with a massive climbing structure ⠀ 𝗞𝗮𝗱𝗲'𝘀 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 📍 Herculaneum⠀ 🌋 Check out the volcano slide on this play area themed around ancient Roman cities ⠀ 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍 Wildwood⠀ 🌿 A huge playground with a nature theme and unique elements ⠀ 𝗢'𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍O'Fallon, MO⠀ 🔵 One of the most unique playgrounds around, perfect for climbers with giant nets and slides⠀ 𝗝𝗮𝗸𝗲'𝘀 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀 📍 Wentzville⠀ ⚾ Head west for this giant & accessible playground for sports fans with a mini Busch stadium⠀ 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘇 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 📍Swansea, IL⠀ 🏰 Calling all princes and princesses to explore this castle playground in the metro-east⠀ ⠀ It was hard to pick just 13 for this reel so be sure to follow midwestnomadfamily for even more playgrounds and family fun! ⠀ ⠀ Which playground is your favorite? ⠀ ⠀ #stlouismom #stlmom #explorestlouis #kidsoutside #stlouisblogger #stlstaycation
🎁 Give the gift of a family getaway! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦One of the best gifts you can give is time with your family. While I love sharing family fun around town, if you are looking to travel this holiday season consider making a trip to Branson! 🚗 Plan a cozy stay at theozarkerlodge with family friendly rooms and amenities. Kids will love the bunk bed set up, heated pool, and natural playground while adults will love the on-site coffee shop and creekside hot tubs. 🎢 The Ozarker Lodge is tucked away from the noise and traffic of Branson but still convenient to the major attractions like sdcattractions , shepherdofthehills , and topoftherockmo ➡️ Use my code MIDWESTNOMADFAMILY to save an extra 5% on top of the many great package deals they are offering! Who else prefers family experiences over more stuff? 🙋‍♀️ #ozarkerlodge #partner #visitmo #thatsmymo #branson #bransonmo Family getaway | Branson | Missouri Vacation
🎄 Check out these FREE light displays! 🎄⠀ 🎄 Check out these FREE light displays! 🎄⠀ ⠀ 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀⠀ ✨ Winterfest 📍St. Louis - Thousands of lights, photo ops, plus kids can ice skate free on Fridays ⠀ ✨ Candy Cane Lane 📍 6500 Murdoch - The most festive neighborhood in St. Louis (Don't miss nearby Snowflake St at 6500 Neosho and Angel Ave at 4700 Prague)⠀ ✨Union Station 📍St. Louis - See the free fire & light show plus twinkling lights, photo ops, and the light show on the Grand Hall ceiling ⠀ ✨ 4008 Healy Court 📍Affton - Beautiful lights plus two vintage trains for kids to ride on!⠀ ✨ Teddy Bear Lane 📍9211 Laurel Hill - So many lights, Teddy bears, and fun decorations, a kid favorite! ✨ Brewery Lights 📍St. Louis - Drive through the Busch Brewery lights for free on select Mon, Tues, Wed nights. ⠀ ✨ Lights of Christmas 📍First Baptist Church Arnold - 80,000 lights, live nativity, and more Dec 8-10th ⠀ ✨ New Town 📍3599 S. New Town Ave., St. Charles - Several homes in a row with lights, tunnels, and photo ops⠀ ✨ Dan's Emerald Forest 📍8851 Windom Ave. Overland - Lights, trees, and several model trains are a must-see ⠀ 𝗜𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗶𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀⠀ ✨ Way of Lights 📍 Belleville - Free but donations accepted to see 1.5 million lights that tell the birth of Jesus⠀ ✨ Horner Park Wonderland 📍Lebanon, IL - Free but donations accepted for the display that includes a synchronized light show⠀ ✨ Carlyle City Park 📍Carlyle - Free (by donation) drive through light display with a lighted path and tunnel at the entrance⠀ ✨ Bethalto Christmas Village 📍Bethalto - Thousands of lights, light boxes, and free kids activities ⠀ ✨ Woburn Lights 📍1481 Woburn Rd, Greenville - It's a bit of drive but this residential light display is amazing with light boxes and tunnels. Combine with free lights American Farm Museum in Greenville. ✨ 55 Woodford Way 📍 Collinsville - Huge display of animated lights, 15' tall reindeer, and more⠀ ✨Barbarotto Lane 📍Maryville - Many houses in a row all decorated & synchronized to music⠀ ⠀ ➡️ Follow midwestnomadfamily and play_stl for the best family fun around St. Louis! ⠀ ➡️ Head to midwestnomads.com for a full list of area lights including location, dates, and cost
⬇️ Check out these must see family fun spots!⠀🎄AD ⠀ ✨The riversandroutes region of Southwestern Illinois offers so many great options for family fun, especially during the holidays. Located only a short drive from St. Louis, check out these must do activities in each town!⠀ ⠀ ✨𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗼𝗻⠀ ⛸️ Skate at the prettiest and coziest ice rink around plus enjoy food and s'mores loadingdockil 🥾 Hike the scenic trails at Pere Marquette State Park or stay warm with food and games and in the historic lodge explorepml⠀ 🎢 The Skytour and Alpine Coaster at aeriesresort are still open for even more adventure⠀ ⠀ ✨𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆⠀ 🎲 Learn some new family games at the Boardgamery in downtown Granite. $3 gets you unlimited play on hundreds of games. ⠀ 🛍️ Shop for the perfect home decor item for a gift or yourself at August Garden Revival florist and gifts.⠀ 🗓️Save your calendar for the first Saturday in December next year to enjoy the Candy Cane parade and Elf Walk downtown. ✨𝗔𝗹𝘁𝗼𝗻⠀ 🎄View over 4 million lights in Rock Spring Park. $10 per car to drive through 6-9 p.m. Mon-Fri and 5-9 weekends. ⠀ ✨𝗘𝗱𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲 ⠀ ❄️ Visit Santa and the Into the Arctic exhibit at the Nickel Plate Depot Wednesdays 5:30-8 and Saturdays 1-4 edwardsville_childrens_museum . Don't miss the rest of the exhibits including a kid sized village and STEM activities during normal museum hours. ⠀ 🎳 Enjoy bowling, laser tag, arcade, and family friendly dining edisonsentertainmentcomplex⠀ They have a special breakfast with Santa on Dec 16⠀ 🍴1818chophouse offers elegant dining for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch plus a kids menu⠀ 🎄 View the Christmas lights and trees at Edwardsville City Park (by the library)⠀ 🛏️ Stay overnight at urbancollectivehotel boutique hotel, right in downtown Edwardsville⠀ ⠀ Which place do you want to visit first?⠀ ⠀ ➡️Follow riversandroutes and midwestnomadfamily for more events and fun in southwestern Illinois ⠀ ⠀ #riversandroutes enjoyillinois #familytravel #middleofeverything #familyadventure⠀ ⠀
🎀Jingle Hike Challenge🎀⠀ 🥾 Lookng for 🎀Jingle Hike Challenge🎀⠀ 🥾 Lookng for a fun way to explore parks in the metro-east? Check out the Jingle Hike Challenge by Heartlands Conservancy. ⠀ 🔔Heartlands Conservancy was founded to conserve and restore natural and cultural resources of Southwestern Illinois. During the holidays, Heartlands ties bells and red bows to 12 different trees in southwestern Illinois until New Year's Day. 🎀 📸Participants are asked to visit each park and take a selfie with the bells to share by e-mail or social media with the tag #jinglehike. ⠀ ⠀ 🔔A bonus entry can be used by correctly identifying the tree species the bell is tied to. ⠀ ⠀ 🔔If you complete an online registration and fee, you can be entered to win several generous prizes. Even if you don't register, this is still a fun scavenger hunt activity for the whole family.⠀ ⠀ The twelve parks are:⠀ ⠀ 1. Steve Bryant Community Park, Bethalto⠀ 2. Riverfront Park, Alton⠀ 3. Joe Glik Park, Edwardsville⠀ 4. Drost Park, Maryville⠀ 5. Jaycee Park, Breese⠀ 6. Little Prairie Nature Trail at Carlyle Lake Dam West, Carlyle⠀ 7. St. Ellen Park, O’Fallon⠀ 8. Frank Holten State Park, Cahokia Heights⠀ 9. Konarcik Park, Waterloo⠀ 10. Storment Hauss Nature Preserve, Red Bud⠀ 11. Fults Hill Prairie Nature Preserve, Prairie du Rocher⠀ 12. Confluence Trail at Jerry F. Costello Lock & Dam, Modoc⠀ ⠀ More detailed clues on where to find the jingle bells at each park can be found on Heartlands website. ⠀ ⠀ 🔔Have you ever done a similar hike challenge? heartlandconservancy enjoyillinois downstateil riversandroutes
🎄𝗪𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗚 𝗜 𝗩 𝗘 𝗔 𝗪 𝗔 𝗬 🎄 🚫 CLOSED⠀ ⠀⠀ ✨Wonderlights Christmas is back in the St. Louis area this year. This amazing drive-through attraction has over 1 million synchronized lights set to music.⠀ ⠀⠀ ✨I have partnered with them to give away a free admission pass!⠀ ⠀⠀ ✨The display is open nightly, rain or shine from 5-10 p.m. through December 31st, including holidays. The display is located on the World Wide Technology Raceway at 1905 Collinsville Road, Fairmont City, Illinois. Normal admission is $30 per car. ⠀ ⠀ ✨Follow ALL steps to enter ⬇️⠀ 🎄 1. LIKE and SAVE this post 💾⠀ 🎄 2. Follow midwestnomadfamily and christmasinstlouis⠀ 🎄 3. Comment with your favorite Christmas song and tag a friend you'd bring to the lights!⠀ ⠀ ✨BONUS entries: Tag more friends in individual comments for extra entries! (One tag per comment)⠀ ✨ Extra BONUS entries: I'm also giving away a pass on my Facebook page so you can enter there for another chance to win! ⠀ ⠀⠀ GIVEAWAY closes Wednesday, December 6th at 11:59 P.M. Central time. Must be 18 years or older to win. Giveaway not affiliated in any way with Instagram.⠀ ⠀⠀ ⚠️ Beware of any fake or spam accounts. This is my only account and the winner will be messaged directly from me and announced in stories. No clicking links or downloads required to enter!⠀ ⠀⠀ enjoyillinois #stlouismom⠀ #stlmom #stlchristmas riversandroutes #wonderlights #christmasinstlouis⠀
🚂 Check out these fun holiday trains! ⠀⠀ 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻⠀ Multiple model train displays plus rides on the mini train & trolley. museumoftransport 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 Enjoy singing, hot cocoa, & cookies on rides from St. Louis Union Station to the North Pole through Dec. 30th. stlpolarexpress 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 & 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺⠀ This museum in Greenville, IL has a mini train ride to a light show Fri.-Sun nights through December. 5-9 P.M. ⠀ 𝟰𝟬𝟬𝟴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝘁. ⠀ Impressive Christmas display that includes a mini train ride for kids! 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦, 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘚𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘏𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭⠀ ⠀ 𝗠𝗰𝗚𝗶𝗻𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀⠀ See multiple model train layouts at this car dealer in Highland, IL on 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 5-8, 𝘚𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 10-4, 𝘚𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 11-4 ⠀ 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝘄⠀ Check out the Holiday Flower & Train Show as part of Garden Glow at mobotgarden through Jan 6. ⠀ 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆⠀ Tickets are available for the lunch with Santa train Dec. 2 & 3 at this railroad 2 hours from St. Louis. ⠀ 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲⠀ Get your toy shopping done while the kids play and watch the Polar Express model trains run around the ceiling. ⠀ 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮'𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗱𝗼𝗺 View this large light display in Eureka by train on select nights through Dec 7. ⠀ 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 Elf Land is open Tues-Sat 9-5 and Sundays 10-4 with kids activities, photo ops, and a model train display. 𝗦𝘁. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝘂𝗲𝗺 The holiday model train exhibit at the museum is open through Jan. 7. 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦⠀ 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗼𝘁 The Big Bend Railroad Club's depot in Webster Groves will have a holiday train display Tuesdays 7-8:30 P.M. & Saturdays 2-4 P.M.𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝟴𝟴𝟱𝟭 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗺, 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 Dan's Emerald Forest is a huge model train layout & light display in the front yard of his home. 𝘞𝘦𝘥-𝘚𝘢𝘵 5:30-9 𝘱.𝘮. 𝗜𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺 This museum in Washington,MO usually has a Christmas model running in December.
🎄 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 🎄 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆𝗹𝗲 🎄⠀ 📍Carlyle, Illinois⠀ [AD] ⠀ ✨The Christmas lights at Carlyle's City Park are fun and festive. This beautiful display offers both walk and drive through sections. ⠀ ⠀ ✨When you first enter the park, a parking lot allows you a chance to get out and wander through a color changing tunnel and along a lighted pathway in the park. This is a great spot for fun photos without the big city crowds. ⠀ ⠀ ✨After returning to your car, pass under the archway to drive past several lighted displays. You can see penguins playing on the baseball diamond, a lighted train and crossing, plus a beautiful tunnel and canopy. Many of the displays are synchronized to music. ⠀ ⠀ 🐧Keep an eye out for the whimsical Piper the Penguin. He likes to hide at different places throughout the park. Pick up a contest entry form at the mailbox near the entrance where you can enter to win if you find him. ⠀ ⠀ 🎄Also check out the lights on the General Dean Suspension Bridge in town just north of where Highway 50 crosses the Kaskaskia. Parking is available at either end of the bridge.⠀ ⠀ 🎄Just down the road the towns of Breese and Aviston also have light displays in their city parks. You may even find Santa in his hut at Breese's Northside Park. 🎅⠀ ⠀ 🎄𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀⠀ The display is open nightly 5-11 p.m. until January 7th. ⠀ ⠀ 💲𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁⠀ FREE! Donations are accepted and can be placed in the donation box near the "Christmas in Carlyle" archway.⠀ ⠀ downstateil enjoyillinois #middleofeverything #downstateil #stlmom #stlouismom #midwestliving #midwestmoment ⠀
🎄 𝗔𝗹𝘁𝗼𝗻'𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 🎄 ⠀ ✨Each year the "Grandpa Gang" of volunteers transform Alton, Illinois's Rock Springs Park into a drive through winter wonderland of nearly 4 million lights. ⠀ ✨The traditional walk through night typically occurs the first Monday after Thanksgiving which is November 27 this year. It is a beautiful bargain at only $1 per person admission! 🥾Typically you can make a shorter loop of just over the mile or walk the entire route of about 2.5 miles. Strollers and wagons are allowed but there are some hills. ⠀ ✨Other than the one walk through night, the display is open to drive through each night until December 27th. Enjoy the cascading light waterfalls, two arched light tunnels, a lighted bridge and more. Don't miss a visit with Santa in his hut. 🎅 ⠀ 🎄The popular Enchanted Village of trees offers visitors a chance to vote on their favorite tree that has been decorated by local businesses and organizations. ⠀ 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 The lights are on daily through December 27. Monday - Friday 6-9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 5-9 p.m. ⠀ 𝗔𝗱𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 A donation of $10 per car is suggested or $1 per person for vehicles with 10 visitors or more. Walk through night is $1 per person. ⠀ 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 The park entrance is at 2116 College Avenue, Alton, Illinois. Parking for the walk night is at the Alton Middle School next to the park. riversandroutes enjoyillinois #middleofeverything #stlouismom #midwestliving #midwestmoment #midwestmom
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