Summer’s here! We know that big vacations and fancy summer camps aren’t always in the budget, so we want to highlight all the fun a staycation has to offer. Our beautiful city is the perfect place to explore and have fun, without breaking the bank! From outdoor adventures to top-notch museums, here are some budget-friendly activities to ensure your ‘Summer in St. Louis’ experience is as memorable as it is affordable.
1. Explore the Great Outdoors
St. Louis has tons of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. There are a lot of events that happen within these parks, but the parks themselves can be a destination!
Forest Park
First up is Forest Park, one of America’s largest urban parks, spanning a whopping 1,300 acres. This beautiful oasis offers countless opportunities for outdoor fun, including picnicking by one of the park’s lakes, taking a leisurely stroll or bike ride, or enjoying the vintage tropical greenhouse known as the Jewel Box. Admission to the Jewel Box is only $1, or free on Monday and Tuesday mornings.
Missouri Botanical Garden
The Missouri Botanical Garden is a historic gem in the heart of St. Louis. It spans over 79 acres and offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of landscapes, including Japanese, Chinese, and English gardens. You also can’t miss the Climatron, a geodesic dome that houses a tropical rainforest, complete with exotic plants and waterfalls. You can take advantage of free admission on Wednesday and Saturday mornings! Or you can always show proof of STL residency to get tickets for just $6.
Tower Grove Park
Just steps from the Missouri Botanical Garden lies Tower Grove Park, a 289-acre gem brimming with activities and charm. The park features tennis courts, playgrounds, scenic walking trails, and expansive open fields perfect for recreation. Scattered throughout are stunning pavilions—each uniquely designed with influences from various cultures and historical eras—available for reservation and ideal for gatherings. Whether you’re browsing the lively Saturday morning farmers market or shooting hoops on the new basketball courts, Tower Grove Park offers a wide range of affordable, family-friendly fun.
Great Rivers Greenway
Explore more than 135 miles of greenways within the Great Rivers Greenway network. These trails, most of them paved, are wheelchair accessible and perfect for hiking, biking, skating, and walking. Along the way are restrooms, playgrounds, and parking. The greenways are a great way to get outside and connect with friends.
Citygarden
For something a little different, head to Citygarden in downtown St. Louis. This vibrant park is full of eye-catching sculptures and playful art, plus a splash pad and fountain that’s perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. It’s a great spot to relax, explore, and enjoy some fresh air and creativity.
2. Five-Star Edutainment
St. Louis is also home to some phenomenal museums and attractions that are educational, entertaining, and easy on your budget.
St. Louis Zoo
Ranked among the top zoos in the nation, the Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. Home to over 14,000 animals across 90 acres, the zoo offers free admission, making it an ideal budget-friendly activity for families. While certain attractions like the Sea Lion Show, Zooline Railroad, and Conservation Carousel require a fee, simply exploring the zoo and observing the animals is an unforgettable experience.
Missouri History Museum
A perfect budget-friendly stop for history buffs and curious minds alike, the Missouri History Museum offers free admission and a rich mix of experiences. Explore a blend of long-term exhibits and ever-changing special displays, along with educational programs tailored for all ages and interests. With a vast online collection of images and artifacts, this world-class museum gives you plenty of reasons to keep coming back.
St. Louis Science Center
For a fun and educational day out, visit the Saint Louis Science Center, one of the few free nonprofit science centers in the country. Delve into the mysteries of space, discover animal fossils, test the laws of physics, or build a replica of the Gateway Arch. The Science Center combines experimentation, creativity, and play to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.
Gateway Arch National Park
The iconic Gateway Arch National Park is home to the nation’s tallest monument at 630 feet. Snap a few photos beneath the arch and take advantage of the free ranger-led tours available on the grounds and inside the Museum at the Gateway Arch. While riding to the top of the arch does require a fee, simply exploring the park and learning about the history of the arch is a free activity you won’t want to miss.
3. Cultural Gems
St. Louis isn’t just home to beautiful parks and world-class museums—it’s also packed with unique, budget-friendly cultural gems that set it apart in the Midwest. From vibrant festivals to hidden art spaces, there are cultural activities that will keep you inspired and entertained all summer long—without breaking the bank.
St. Louis Art Museum
Art and history lovers won’t want to miss the Saint Louis Art Museum, a free cultural treasure located in the heart of Forest Park. Housed in a grand three-story building, the museum features a remarkable collection of 36,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of global history. From masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet to ancient Egyptian mummies and intricate Ottoman carpets, there’s something to captivate every visitor. It’s an inspiring, budget-friendly experience you’ll want to return to again and again.
The Muny
Catch the magic of live theater under the stars at The Muny, St. Louis’ iconic open-air amphitheater in Forest Park. With 1,400 free seats available on a first-come, first-served basis in the last nine rows, you can enjoy Broadway favorites and family-friendly musicals without spending a dime. Gates to the free seating open at 7 p.m., so be sure to arrive early for the best spot.
Ballpark Village
Sports fans can soak up the excitement of a St. Louis Cardinals game—no pricey tickets required. Just head to Ballpark Village, right across from Busch Stadium, where you can catch all the action on a giant outdoor screen surrounded by fellow fans. For an extra dose of nostalgia, take a lap around the old stadium’s diamond and run the bases. This budget-friendly outing is a grand slam for any baseball lover.
Grant’s Farm
In St. Louis, Anheuser-Busch is known for more than just their beer and brewery tours. Grant’s Farm, the Busch family home since 1903, is a must-visit destination for families and animal lovers alike. Admission is free, and while parking requires a fee, the experience offers great value. Begin your adventure with a scenic tram ride through Deer Park, home to free-roaming animals like bison, deer, and antelope. Once inside, enjoy feeding baby goats, watching animal shows, seeing the legendary Clydesdales, and exploring the historic Bauernhof courtyard. Adults can also sample complimentary Anheuser-Busch beverages. With over 900 animals and rich history, Grant’s Farm offers a memorable and affordable day out for all ages.
Shakespeare in the Park
Shakespeare in the Park is one of St. Louis’ most beloved summer traditions. Every year, a free outdoor production of one of the Bard’s classic plays takes place through the end of June. You’ll find them in Forest Park’s beautiful Shakespeare Glen, nestled between the Art Museum and the Zoo. With lawn seating, it’s the perfect opportunity to pack a picnic and enjoy a night of theater under the stars. Don’t miss this chance to experience world-class theater without breaking the bank!
From outdoor adventures to enriching cultural experiences, these low to-no-cost activities in St. Louis prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a fantastic time. So, grab your sunscreen, put on your comfiest walking shoes, pack a picnic, and get ready to explore the Gateway City on a budget this summer!
If you want some help putting together a budget that will support you all year round, we can help! You can sign up for our 100% free financial coaching services here.
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