Kids love all things transportation, probably because they are always on the go. But exploring the various methods of transportation can be fun for kids and adults alike.
To discover more about planes, trains, and automobiles, start with St. Louis’ Museum of Transportation. Visitors can actually climb on the trains and crawl through their bellies, but keep a close eye on little ones so they stay safe. If the weather is bad, climb aboard trains in the covered station and then walk through the indoor automobile display. If the weather is nice, take a ride on the miniature train and tour the grounds of this impressive place. Note that general admission to the museum is free for: kids under four, members, and teachers (bring a valid ID).
In addition to what is available with general admission, children love the museum’s Creation Station (the additional small fee for a one hour session is worth it). During a Creation Station session kids can: color pictures of cars, build train tracks, climb in a ship, and dress up like a fireman or pilot.
Families that really, really enjoy trains, can consider a day trip on Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner. The train services several stops across Missouri including: Kirkwood (a St. Louis suburb), Washington, Hermann, Jefferson City, Sedalia, Warrensburg, Lee’s Summit, Independence and Kansas City. You can buy food on the train or pack a picnic lunch and eat in the dining car while taking in views of the Missouri River. Passengers can hop off at one of the small towns serviced along the tracks or ride to the end of the line, Kansas City, for a weekend trip.
If staying in Kansas City, you will arrive at Union Station where there are lots more family activities, including live theatre, exhibits, and restaurants. If you need a place for your luggage, the Amtrak desk will hold it for a nominal fee. Once at the station, start with a visit to Science City where even the gift shop is fun. Save money when you add on other other attractions, like an Omnimax theatre ticket. Remember to keep your ticket stubs to receive free entry to the huge model train exhibit housed in a wing of the expansive station.
St. Louis is a great hub for exploring the many modes of transportation whether your family wants to stay close to home or adventure further down the line.
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