• Hikes,  Hiking,  Illinois,  Kids,  St. Louis

    Explore Mighty Views and Rugged Terrain at Illinois’s Little Grand Canyon

    Arizona is not the only state that can claim a Grand Canyon. Illinois has its own version. While nowhere near as large or as grand, this rugged area is still an amazing sight. Not designed for the beginner hiker, this rough and tumble trail requires you to literally scramble up and down a slick waterfall in and out of a steep ravine. However, the constant stunning views both from above and below the bluffs are well worth the effort. Little…

  • Hikes,  Hiking,  Illinois,  Kids,  Missouri,  St. Louis

    The Best Fall Hikes Near St. Louis

    Fall is our favorite time for St. Louis area hiking. The weather is cooler, the bugs are almost gone, and the leaves put on a spectacular show. There are so many great spots near St. Louis that offer great vistas and beautiful fall colors. Here is a round up of 15 of the best fall hikes within 90 minutes of St. Louis. Babler State Park – Wildwood, Missouri Babler State Park is a scenic west county gem with kid-friendly trails,…

  • Illinois,  Kids,  Missouri,  Playgrounds,  St. Louis

    The Best St. Louis Area Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, and Apple Picking

    While you could buy a ready to go pumpkin from the grocery store, it’s a lot more fun to make the trip to one of the many St. Louis area farms that offer pick-your-own patches. Not only do they present a beautiful backdrop for choosing the perfect pumpkin, but most of these patches have a variety of family friendly activities and entertainment. Read on for the best St. Louis are pumpkin patches to explore no matter which side of the…

  • Gear Review

    Review of Flip Critts -Adventure Shoes for Two Legged Critters

    Finding a good pair of sandals that feels soft yet supportive while also allowing your feet to breathe is always a challenge. In fact, an 11 year old boy named Carter was having just that problem while on a family vacation. He was trying to explore but either his flip flops were not durable enough or his foam clogs would make his feet sweat and cause blisters. This creative and inventive young man wondered if he could make a shoe…

  • Hiking,  Illinois,  Kids,  Missouri,  St. Louis

    Walk Route 66 Over the Mississippi on the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

    One of the most unique and longest pedestrian bridges in the world can be found just north of downtown St. Louis. This bridge allows you to get your kicks on Route 66 in two different states. The old Chain of Rocks Bridge was completed in 1929 and spans the Mississippi River between Missouri and Illinois. The main feature that sets this bridge apart is that there is 22-degree bend midway across the mile long span. When construction began on the…