It’s 8 a.m., and the kids have already eaten breakfast, clogged the toilet, and colored an entire coloring book. That’s likely when the panic starts to set in about what to do next. Here are the most fun early-morning play spots in St. Louis for parents who need places to go and things to do before the coffee kicks in.
This urban oasis in Kirkwood opens at 8 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday. There are things to do indoors and outdoors, with a nature center, educational exhibits, and an aquarium, and there are three paved trails to get the zoomies out.
Olivette Parks and Recreation understands that, in order for parents to take care of themselves, they need to take care of their kids, too. Five Oaks on Warson offers an indoor playgroup with open play and structured drop-off playtimes during the week and weekends well before 9 a.m. Check the website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Any parent’s dream is being able to actually drink a nice cup of coffee while watching their kids play in an enclosed, safe space. Little’s Loft Play Cafe in Kirkwood makes this dream come true–every day starting at 8 a.m.
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If you’re OK with a dose of overstimulation first thing in the morning, Go Play in Chesterfield will be sure to burn some energy and is open at 8 a.m. There’s a three-story play structure full of climbing and sliding opportunities, a baby room for the littles, and a concession stand with free Wi-Fi.
Depending on the location, Little Bits Gym offers classes, open gym times, and summer camps, often available before 9 a.m. Little Bits has equipment for gymnastics, as well as other fun structures to test your little’s climbing skills.
Who else is awake as early as a toddler? Animals. The zoo opens at 8 a.m. in the summer. Be sure to check out their programming, as they often offer educational sessions for kids to help give a little structure to your morning.
Again, because animals are also awake in the early-morning hours, Lone Elk Park opens at 8 a.m. This 546-acre wildlife management area is like a drive-thru zoo with very active bison, elk, deer, and other critters.
