Talk about being majorly bummed...this fairly new park doesn't have swings! My daughters love to swing (what kid doesn't??), so we probably won't be returning. The playground is nice, but nothing special. The one super cool feature is the padded ground covering to protect little ones when they fall.

The World Bird Sanctuary is truly a unique place to visit. It's located inside Lone Elk Park and features different shows, animal exhibits, nature trails, educational activities and picnic pavilions. They rescue and rehabilitate injured birds, and they also have dozens of different birds on display. Owls, eagles, falcons, hawks, parrots, vultures and more! They are just absolutely incredible to see in person.
The inside portions of the World Bird Sanctuary are extremely educational. As you can see from my pictures, there is a table with all sorts of skulls, furs, feathers and more for children to touch and learn about. One building features different reptiles and a few birds. The other has bats, reptiles, birds, rabbits, a gift shop and a special covered outdoor attachment with different owls and other birds. These buildings are air conditioned, which can be your only relief from the heat if you visit on a typical St. Louis summer day.
The outdoor section, to me, isn't as great. It's still fascinating, but I just think it could be organized a little differently. It's one LONG walkway lined with dozens of different bird species. The birds and their exhibits are really great! But if you are visiting on a hot day, there is little to no shade, and it is H-O-T out there. Definitely take some water. I repeat, TAKE WATER!!!
Overall, I highly recommend visiting the World Bird Sanctuary if you're going to be in the St. Louis area. I still can't believe this place is free. It's just amazingly cool! (Read my review of Lone Elk Park as well!)
Tip: Absolutely take your stroller for little ones. And your camera!!
Tip: There's no food available, so it's a good idea to take a picnic. And like I said, take water!!

My daughter loves to ride carousels, so when we discovered that this beautiful carousel in Faust Park cost ONLY $1, we were hooked! It's located in the same park as The Butterfly House. Both attractions are indoors, so they're ideal any time of year.
The St. Louis Carousel has been around since the 1920's. It also features a unique gift shop with all kinds of horse and Disney gifts. We usually let our daughter ride 2 times, then she picks out a cheap toy (usually a little horse for 50 cents) It makes for a very entertaining, and VERY inexpensive play day!
Tip: Kids 4 and under have to ride with an adult
Another Tip: Buy One Get One Free coupons can be found in the St. Louis Entertainment Book

I've been attending the St. Louis Renaissance Faire every year for about 7 years now, and it gets better and better each year!
It's located in Rotary Park in Wentzville, MO, a wooded setting that's perfect for the outdoorsy feel.
They transform the park into a French 16th Century village, complete with knights, pirates, gypsies, animals, kings, queens, peasants, jesters and all sorts of craftsmen. There are jousting shows, juggling shows, a petting zoo, crafts, plenty of food, face painting and more.
My favorite part: you can take your dog!! Every single stand and corner has a water bowl that they keep full at all times. They LOVE dogs there! Just be sure to have shots records and a leash.
Tip: buy tickets online in advance to save $2 per ticket

This Bass Pro is everything an outdoor enthusiast could hope for - and more! The gigantic fish will undoubtedly be the biggest hit with the kids. My personal favorite thing was the ceiling! They have the bottoms of boats, ducks and other things hanging to give you an idea of what fish see from under the water.

Maybe it was because I was pregnant, but I found the size of the store to be exhausting! It's practically a mall! Be prepared to carry tired little ones if you don't have a cart or stroller!