Family-Friendly Holiday Events in St. Louis
Photo credit: Town & StyleThe holidays are officially upon us! And while it's perfectly acceptable to curl up with some good books in front of the fireplace with your family, if you're up for a little excitement this holiday season, the St. Louis area has plenty to do. We've rounded up some highlights: Winter Wonderland at Tilles ParkIf you'd like to drive through the park, which boasts over a million twinkling lights on display open from 5:30 to 9:30 daily, plan for $10 per car. Make the experience extra special with a carriage ride (and be aware that Saturdays are for carriage rides only). Get your tickets in advance here.
Photo credit: Ladue NewsGarden Glow at Missouri Botanical GardenThis St. Louis tradition also includes over a million beautiful lights, but also has the appeal of traditional holiday music, food, and drinks. Look for select Family Nights, which occur on certain Wednesdays, and feature a discounted ticket price of $3. Purchase tickets here: $10 per child, $16 per adult.
Photo credit: Branson Ticket TravelTrail of Lights in Branson, MOIf you're up for a long drive (perhaps a weekend stay?), head down to Branson, MO for their Trail of Lights display, a drive-through animation display with music, lights, and many different scenes. At the end of the trail, visitors can stop by Inspiration Tower, where they can ride glass elevators up to 230 feet for "a Santa's-eye view of the lights from above." Children are $6, Adults $12, or by the carload $35. Buy tickets here.
Photo credit: downtownstl.orgHolidays at Union StationLocated in downtown St. Louis at the Union Station train shed, Holidays at Union Station invites kids to go ice skating, get photos with Santa, and even take a train ride to the North Pole on the Santa Express Train. Trains leave the station at 4:45, 6:15, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m Wednesdays through Sundays. Reserve tickets here.Arch WinterfestAlso, at the end of the month, Winterfest at the Arch Rink will celebrate its grand opening! The brand new installation of an ice skating rink in Luther Ely Smith Square will allow visitors to ice skate with the Gate Archway as a beautiful backdrop. The opening celebration will be held December 27th and will include music, food, giveaways, and an opportunity to meet Blues alumni.