Here are three of our favorite St. Louis kid attractions—ones that come with ready-made distractions for everyone on the family, including the grown-ups.
Vintage Wine (and vintage clothes) at the City Museum
You know The City Museum is a creative place for your kids, but you might have overlooked the funky shop just for mom (and friends). The Baleout is a vintage clothing store and bar tucked away on the fourth floor of the museum. Right now, it features colorful flannels, scarves, coats, and even ugly-but-cute holiday sweaters (buy three, get two free). Best of all, it overlooks the outdoor MonstroCity, so you can keep an eye on your kids as they play on the huge slides. There’s also a bar with wine, local beer, espresso, and coffee drinks. If you just come for the retro clothes, you should be able to enter the store without paying the $12 museum admission price. Just tell the front desk you’re there for.
The Baleout
701 N. 15th Street, thebaleout.com
Magical Arts at The Magic House
Every month, this popular children’s museum invites a visiting artist to share skills with curious kids. You’ll like the art chosen—Chinese calligraphy in January and Drums and Music of Africa in February. On the first weekend of the month, visit during the day to let the kids take part in the demonstrations while you watch a talented artist at work. Need another reason to like the Magic House? Target sponsors free family nights once a month for two adults and up to four kids, no reservations required. January 21 and February 18 are the next free nights. The museum costs $8.75 for daily admission.
The Magic House
516 S. Kirkwood
magichouse.org/events-family.php
Skating—and eating and drinking—at Steinberg Rink
For kids and parents alike, ice-skating is quintessential winter fun. The largest outdoor skating rink in the Midwest is celebrating New Year’s Eve with a buffet and drinks. Admission is $6 for everyone and $4 for skates. The buffet costs $15 for kids and $20 for adults. The rink is also open every day for public skating from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and midnight on weekends.
Steinberg Skating Rink
400 Jefferson
