events for kids and families in St. Louis

Take your passion for nature to new heights and explore majestic trees like never before! In this two-hour experience at Shaw Nature Reserve, a certified tree-climbing instructor will teach you to ascend on your own into a tree canopy. The course is designed for the first-time climber and for families with children age 8 and up.

It's amazing that one tiny acorn can grow into an enomous oak tree. Little ones, ages 3 to 6, will investigate the life of an oak tree and its importance in the forest then go on a hike to search for oak trees and acorns. 

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Free, but reservations are required.

At Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirkwood, near the intersection of I-44 and I-270. Call 314-301-1500 for reservations.

Celebrate the Monarch butterfly with games and crafts, and learn how to attract them.

Learn about the history of Shaw Nature Reserve on this tour around the property and behind the scenes in the historic buildings.

Celebrate Fall at this free community festival that features a little bit of everything for all ages. Enjoy hayrides, balloon animals, pumpkin races, a pet costume contest, live bluegrass music and a family movie under the stars.

Kids in fifth grade and up, along with their parents, can spend an afternoon learning about the heart and cardiovascular system in this hands-on experience with anatomy and physiology experts from Adventures in Medicine and Science from Washington University.

Come hand out with the fireflies and experience a natural light show at Firefly Night! Reservations are required.