St. Louis
From Museums to Arches and Fundraiser Walks
St. Louis, Missouri, is a dynamic city where history, culture, and modern attractions blend seamlessly to offer a unique experience. Known for its crucial role in American westward expansion, St. Louis is a city that has shaped and been shaped by the nation's growth. Its thriving arts scene, deep-rooted sports culture, and significant landmarks make it an exciting destination. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, St. Louis serves as a major hub in the Midwest, close to the Illinois border. Historically, its central location made it a key point for trade, exploration, and migration, earning it the nickname “Gateway to the West.” Today, St. Louis continues to honor that legacy while embracing modern innovation and culture.
City Museum: A Whimsical Adventure
The City Museum in St. Louis is a playground of creativity that completely redefines what a museum can be. Housed in a former shoe factory, this multi-story space is an extraordinary maze of tunnels, slides, and climbable structures crafted from reclaimed architectural and industrial materials. Every corner of the museum invites visitors of all ages to explore, with features like a ten-story spiral slide, intricate caves, outdoor sculptures, and secret passageways that spark the imagination. The museum itself feels like a work of art, combining surreal, whimsical artistry with hands-on interaction. We visited during Halloween season, and the festive fog machines, spooky shows, and decorations only added to the playful, magical atmosphere. We spent four hours wandering through its nooks and crannies but could have easily stayed longer. One tip for future visitors: while we purchased the day pass that included Pinball Hall tickets, we wouldn’t recommend paying the extra $7, as most of the machines weren’t fully operational, and our kids lost interest quickly.
Rosalita’s Cantina: Post-Adventure Dining
After our fun-filled day at the City Museum, we decided to grab a bite at Rosalita’s Cantina, just a few blocks away. This lively Tex-Mex restaurant offered the perfect mix of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a laid-back, fun atmosphere. The restaurant features multiple TVs, making it a great spot for sports fans, and its large outdoor patio provided a welcoming space to unwind after a busy day of exploration. The flavorful dishes, particularly the tacos and fajitas, were a hit with the whole family, and the vibrant, colorful décor added to the festive ambiance. Rosalita’s proved to be an excellent choice for a casual yet satisfying dining experience in downtown St. Louis.
St. Louis Zoo: A World-Class Experience, Completely Free!
Did you know that the St. Louis Zoo is not only free but also consistently ranked among the top 10 zoos in the United States? Located in the expansive and beautiful Forest Park, the St. Louis Zoo is one of the premier zoological institutions in the country, known for its vast animal collection, innovative exhibits, and deep commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Since its founding in 1910, the zoo has grown into one of the most respected and beloved attractions in America, drawing over three million visitors each year.
The zoo is home to more than 14,000 animals, representing approximately 600 species from all over the globe. The layout of the zoo is carefully organized into zones, each of which creates an immersive environment designed to replicate the animals' natural habitats, offering visitors an engaging and educational experience.
Some of our favorite exhibits included:
River’s Edge: This winding trail takes visitors through an impressive variety of ecosystems, from the lush jungles of South America to the open plains of the African savanna. Along the way, you’ll encounter hippos, elephants, cheetahs, and rhinos in environments that closely mirror their native habitats, making it an unforgettable adventure through the animal kingdom.
Red Rocks: Home to some of the zoo’s most iconic animals, including lions, zebras, and giraffes, Red Rocks features spacious outdoor enclosures that allow visitors to observe these majestic creatures as they would behave in the wild. The large predators and hoofed animals here are especially captivating, making it a favorite stop for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of our visit was the Sea Lion Show, an exciting and well-choreographed presentation that had the audience cheering for these playful and intelligent marine mammals. Their impressive tricks and interactions with the trainers showcased the bond between the animals and their caretakers, while also providing a fun, educational experience for the audience.
Although the Penguin & Puffin Coast exhibit was unfortunately closed during our visit, it is one of the zoo’s most beloved attractions. This exhibit provides a close-up view of penguins and puffins as they swim, waddle, and interact in a habitat designed to mimic the cool, rocky shores of the Arctic. It's especially popular during the summer months when the chilled environment offers a refreshing escape from the heat.
St. Louis Hydrocephalus Walk: Our Family’s Journey and Advocacy
This is OUR Hydrocephalus WARRIOR- Hawkins.
He has had 3 brain surgeries in 11 years, three too many.
This is WHY we advocate for hydrocephalus and the other warriors.
The St. Louis Hydrocephalus Walk is an annual event organized by the Hydrocephalus Association to raise awareness and funds for crucial research on hydrocephalus, a condition that affects thousands of people, including our family. Hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, leading to increased pressure and swelling. Our personal connection to this cause began when our oldest son, Hawkins, was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at just 3 months old. Shortly after his diagnosis, he underwent his first brain surgery to have a shunt placed—a device used to drain excess fluid from his brain. Remarkably, that same shunt functioned for seven years before it stopped working. In February 2020, right before the COVID pandemic began, Hawkins faced two more brain surgeries. While Hawkins has had “only” three surgeries so far, many children and adults in the hydrocephalus community have endured 40 or even more than 200 surgeries over their lifetimes. This is why raising awareness and funds for hydrocephalus research is so important to us.
Unlike some hydrocephalus warriors, Hawkins’s condition is largely invisible. He no longer has an enlarged head, and his scars are barely noticeable. He doesn't experience seizures or major coordination issues, and he doesn't need a wheelchair. Thankfully, he hasn’t faced significant developmental or academic setbacks, which is often not the case for others. His hydrocephalus-related challenges manifest primarily through ADHD and frequent migraines. Living with an invisible medical condition like this requires immense strength because, while the symptoms may not be immediately apparent, the struggles are very real. Hawkins’s resilience, though less visible than others, is a testament to his courage, as it is for all hydrocephalus warriors who navigate these unseen battles every day.
One of the most powerful reminders of why we participate in the Hydrocephalus Association Walks is the sense of community and solidarity. At the St. Louis Hydrocephalus Walk, we meet other families and hear their stories. One group photo alone counted more than 170 brain surgeries—a stark reminder that brain surgery is currently the only treatment for hydrocephalus, and there is no cure. The Hydrocephalus Association is at the forefront of research to find better treatment options, and maybe, in Hawkins’s lifetime, there will be a cure.
Our family has always been active in supporting this cause. Drew and I started the Dallas-Fort Worth Hydrocephalus Walk when Hawkins was a baby, and over the years, it has grown into a highly successful event. This year, however, our involvement looks a bit different, as we are traveling across the U.S. and Canada. As we journey, we’ve joined the St. Louis Hydrocephalus Walk since it coincides with our travel route. The event continues to provide a supportive space for families like ours to connect, share experiences, and advocate for the future of hydrocephalus treatment.
The Hydrocephalus Association often features Hawkins in their literature, and even though we know this, it still makes me smile every time I see his face in handouts, newsletters, and online. He’s proudly representing himself and all his fellow warriors.
It’s not too late to DONATE to Hawkins’s team and help support the fight for a cure. He’d love that (and he’s also working hard on his thank-you card skills to show appreciation). Thank you for your support!
Support Hawkins’s Team Here.
Gateway Arch National Park: A Monument to American Expansion
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis stands as an awe-inspiring symbol of American westward expansion and a testament to the city’s rich history. Soaring 630 feet above the Mississippi River, the Arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States and remains an architectural marvel. Designed by the brilliant Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, the Arch was completed in 1965 to honor Thomas Jefferson’s vision of expanding the nation westward and to commemorate the pioneers who ventured into the American frontier. Its sleek, stainless steel exterior, combined with its graceful curves, reflects the sky and river, shifting in appearance throughout the day with changes in light and weather. Beyond its striking aesthetic, the Arch is a true feat of engineering, perfectly balancing its immense weight and structure to stand the test of time as a national symbol of ambition and ingenuity.
During our visit, we opted for the combo ticket package, which included the tram ride to the top, a 40-minute documentary on the construction of the Arch, and a 10-minute virtual reality experience. The entire package cost $80 for our family of four, and while we are national park pass holders, the complexity of adding the park pass option with the extras led us to pay the full price. We decided not to do the 60-minute riverboat cruise this time, but Hawkins and I had done it two years ago, and it was both educational and relaxing. However, given my younger son’s tendency to experience an ADHD crash after lunch, we decided to skip it this time to avoid pushing his limits.
One of the highlights of visiting the Arch is the tram ride to the top. This unique system transports visitors through the legs of the Arch in small, capsule-like cars. The ride itself is a thrilling experience, and when you reach the observation deck, the panoramic views are breathtaking. From the top, you can see miles in every direction—the Mississippi River stretches out on one side, while the bustling St. Louis cityscape lies on the other. On a clear day, the view extends up to 30 miles, giving you a sense of the vastness of the region.
At the base of the Arch is the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which delves into the rich history of the region, particularly its role in westward expansion. The museum's exhibits explore the narratives of pioneers, Native American history, and the construction of the Arch itself, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the significance behind this monumental structure. Whether admired from a distance or experienced up close, the Gateway Arch is more than a striking landmark; it’s an enduring symbol of exploration, ambition, and the pioneering spirit that shaped America.
Fun Facts About the Gateway Arch for Kids
The Gateway Arch is filled with fun and fascinating facts that will captivate kids and adults alike:
Tallest Arch in the World: At 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch is the tallest arch on the planet, reaching as high as a 63-story building!
Shaped Like a Rainbow: The Arch resembles a giant upside-down "U," making it look like a massive rainbow made of steel.
Ride to the Top: Visitors can take a thrilling ride to the top in tiny tram cars that look like futuristic space capsules.
Amazing Views: From the top, you can see for miles! On a clear day, the view stretches up to 30 miles in all directions, giving a stunning perspective of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis.
Built to Honor the Westward Expansion: The Arch was constructed to celebrate the pioneers who settled the American West, symbolizing St. Louis’s role as the “Gateway to the West” during the 1800s.
Made of Stainless Steel: The entire Arch is constructed from stainless steel and weighs over 43,000 tons—that’s heavier than 4,000 elephants!
It Took 2 Years to Build: Construction on the Gateway Arch began in 1963 and was completed in 1965. During construction, no one was allowed to stand beneath the Arch until it was fully completed for safety reasons.
Perfectly Proportioned: The distance between the two legs of the Arch at its base is the same as its height—630 feet—making it a perfectly proportioned structure.
Sways in the Wind: The Arch is designed to sway up to 18 inches in high winds, ensuring it stays safe and stable, even in harsh weather conditions.
No Elevators, Just Trams: Unlike tall buildings that use elevators, the Arch has a specially designed tram system that moves up the curved legs of the structure to take visitors to the top, making the experience one-of-a-kind.
Where We Stayed: Cahokia RV Parque
During our stay near St. Louis, we chose the Cahokia RV Parque, a well-regarded RV park located in Cahokia, Illinois, just across the Mississippi River from downtown St. Louis. This park was a perfect base for our explorations of the area, offering the conveniences of a full-service RV park while being only a 15-minute drive from major attractions like the Gateway Arch. The quieter suburban environment provided a peaceful retreat after busy days in the city, yet its proximity to St. Louis made sightseeing and dining incredibly easy.
The RV park itself offers everything you could need for a comfortable stay. It provides full hookups, including water, sewer, and electrical connections (both 30 and 50 amp service), which catered perfectly to the needs of our RV. Many of the sites are pull-through, making it especially convenient for larger rigs like ours. In addition, guests have access to free Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, making our stay hassle-free. One of the highlights of this park was the incredibly warm and friendly front office staff. They were, hands down, the nicest people we’ve encountered at any RV park! They greeted us by name, checked in on us regularly, answered every question we had, and even arranged a free shuttle for Drew to meet us at the City Museum after he finished work one day—talk about service!
Sawhill BBQ: Delicious Convenience
One of the unexpected perks of staying at Cahokia RV Parque was discovering Sawhill BBQ, a local barbecue restaurant just steps away from our RV site. Sharing the same parking lot as the RV office, Sawhill BBQ quickly became a favorite for us, offering hearty portions of delicious, slow-cooked barbecue. Known for its classic Southern barbecue dishes like ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, this spot did not disappoint. The smoky flavor was perfectly balanced, and the generous servings of sides such as baked beans, coleslaw, mac and cheese, and cornbread added to the comforting meal.
Charm Me Sweet Candy Store: A Sugary Adventure
Our last stop before heading north to Wisconsin was the delightful Charm Me Sweet Candy Store in St. Louis. This little candy shop is a true gem, offering a whimsical and nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages. Walking into Charm Me Sweet felt like stepping into a candy wonderland! The shop is packed with a wide selection of treats, bringing smiles to both kids and adults alike.
We were greeted by a dazzling array of old-fashioned candies, from taffy and licorice to candy sticks, evoking memories of childhood while introducing our kids to timeless sweet classics. One of the store’s highlights is its Gummy Wonderland, where every shelf is lined with fruity, chewy treats in every shape imaginable—from gummy bears to gummy worms and everything in between. The store also stocks seasonal and holiday-themed candies throughout the year, so we got a sneak peek at the Halloween goodies that added to the fun.
In addition to the traditional candies, Charm Me Sweet offers unique finds like oversized lollipops, cotton candy tubs, and quirky international sweets, ensuring there’s something special for everyone. Right next door, we discovered the Far Out Freeze Dried Candy Store, where each of my kids picked out their favorite bag of freeze-dried Skittles to fuel them for our next journey. The extra sweet stop was the perfect way to cap off our time in St. Louis before setting out for Wisconsin!
Goodbye, St. Louis!
As we leave behind the vibrant energy of St. Louis, with its towering Gateway Arch and rich history, our journey now turns northward toward the stunning landscapes of Wisconsin. With the crisp air and the vibrant hues of autumn ahead, we’re ready to immerse ourselves in the beauty of fall foliage and the peaceful charm of Wisconsin’s forests and lakes. This next chapter of our trip is all about slowing down, soaking in nature’s canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows, and creating lasting family memories amidst the breathtaking scenery. From scenic drives to cozy bonfires, this adventure promises to be one filled with laughter, warmth, and the simple joys of spending time together in the heart of fall.
