Fun Things to Do in Kirkwood, MO
Just outside the St. Louis city limits sits Kirkwood, an endearing city that started out as a bustling railroad community. Between its beautiful historic homes, walkable nature and Farmer's Market, it holds a certain level of charm from the distant past. Kirkwood's attractions, however, have kept up with the times and pull in visitors from all walks of life. If you live here and need some ideas or find yourself visiting and wondering what to do in Kirkwood, Missouri, we've got you covered. From the unique shops and dining to the scenic parks dotting the city, there never needs to be a dull moment. We've assembled a list of attractions, events and things to do in Kirkwood that will keep both you and the family entertained all day long.
Attractions in Kirkwood
Below is a list of some of our favorite attractions and events that find their home within Kirkwood.
1. Downtown Kirkwood Business District
There are many things to do in Downtown Kirkwood. Here, you surround yourself with a shopping and dining experience unlike any other. This vibrant cornerstone of the city hosts businesses of all shapes and sizes, many locally owned. More than 100 specialty shops and restaurants contribute to the character of this district, with charming businesses like:
- Clay & Cotton
- The Bug Store
- sammysoap
- Billy G's
- Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate
- Dewey's Pizza
- Strange Donuts
This vibrant area of town has plenty of free public parking in lots and on the streets, as well as family-friendly events throughout the year. Here are just a few of them.
- Route 66 Festival: In the summer, the town hosts this celebration of transportation in the area with live music, food, shopping and special events.
- Halloween Walk: Joining forces with the businesses of the Downtown District, Kirkwood holds a festive trick-or-treat session in October.
- Holiday Walk: Get everyone in the holiday spirit with a walk through Downtown Kirkwood and all of its activities, shopping and entertainment. The kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus after they arrive via Amtrak train and the grown-ups can enjoy the unique finds from all the shops and restaurants.
2. Frank Lloyd Wright House
For those architecture buffs out there, the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park is a can't-miss opportunity. It even retains much of the original furniture and fabrics. The American Institute of Architects called Wright "the greatest American architect of all time." To see why he's earned such high praise, you can grab some reservations to tour this stunning 1951 home. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.
3. Laumeier Sculpture Park
This beautiful 105-acre park is filled with over 60 works of large-scale art pieces. It is open daily with free admission and an array of tours, events and educational programs, like classes, workshops and summer art camps. Outside of these activities, the kids can enjoy a selection of interactive sculptures available at the park. Some fun sculptures include a massive eyeball, an in-ground face, giant climbable bugs and a large stone cat that you can sit inside. Other pieces include modern art and industrial, architectural and abstract work, among several others.
4. Magic House
If you're looking for things to do in Kirkwood with kids, look no further. The Magic House in St. Louis offers plenty of hands-on educational experiences that help kids experience the magic of the world. Exhibits can teach them all about:
- Social skills: In the vibrant children's village, they can play chef, shop for groceries and fix a car. They can also play judge and jury in a mock courtroom and play with other kids in every exhibit.
- Math and science: With exhibits like the Math Path and Future Play, kids can combine technology and their creativity to reach new heights.
- Arts: Children can make works of art in the art studio or explore the wonder of music with oversized instruments and melodic games.
- Nature: Whether making mud pies and stick castles or exploring waterworks and a bubbling creek, kids can get in touch with nature in many ways.
Of course, there is much more than that to keep the kids entertained all day long at the Magic House. Admission is $12 and parking is free.
5. Museum of Transportation
Kirkwood is home to the largest collection of transportation vehicles in the world. If planes, trains and automobiles are your thing, take a step into history with more than 190 major exhibits. Kids can gaze up at a massive locomotive or aircraft and imagine themselves driving it through the world. Adults may look at the same vehicle and appreciate its historic role in World War II. It creates educational opportunities for all and shows off the powerful machines that people can create. Hours can vary throughout the year, with $12 admission and for adults and $5 for children aged 3 to 12.
6. Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center
This tranquil nature center is home to three trails across 112 acres of land, as well as wildlife exhibits, a kid's corner and an aquarium. With free admission, the Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is a great place for the whole family to spend a day hiking, learning or taking nature photos.
7. Kirkwood Farmers' Market
This gem of Kirkwood opens up from about April to October, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, flowers, seasonal offerings and artisanal goods. Whether you need to grab some fresh veggies for the night's dinner or treat yourself to homegrown and handmade preserves or treats, the Farmer's Market is the perfect place. Many people also use it as an opportunity to catch up with friends and grab a bite to eat while enjoying some of the Markets' live music offerings. In addition to the traditional Farmers' Market, seasonal events continue throughout the fall and winter months.
- In October, it hosts a pumpkin patch and Harvest Festival.
- November and December hold the Christmas Market and tree lot.
- In the summer, it also hosts a Peach Festival.
8. Spend the Day at the Y
With a YMCA in the heart of Kirkwood, there's no shortage of things to do. At the Y, you can find state-of-the-art fitness facilities, an indoor swimming pool and plenty of activities for the kids. Go for a run or catch a game of racquetball. The Y offers free Child Watch so you can get your workout in. Don't forget to check out our programming options. We've always got something new going on, from day camps in the summer to youth sports, to swim lessons and volunteer opportunities.
Explore Kirkwood Today
There is no shortage of things to do in Kirkwood. Whether you need to entertain the kids for the day or want to take in all the history in the area, you can always find things to do. Between beautiful architecture, a thriving community of local businesses and several stunning museums and historical sites, you'll never be left wondering what to do in Kirkwood. The Gateway Region YMCA has a location at the North end of the Downtown District, making it yet another place to spend the day, with a wide variety of youth programming and events. As members and proud supporters of this vibrant community, we hope you can come enjoy all of the unique activities it has to offer.