One more place to enjoy near St. Louis in Missouri
The Magic House is one of the nation’s premier children’s museums and a must-visit destination for families exploring St. Louis. Founded in 1985, this beloved institution has been inspiring young minds through hands-on learning experiences for nearly four decades. Located in the Sunset Hills neighborhood, the museum captivates children with interactive exhibits that spark imagination, curiosity, and creativity. The museum spans three floors of engaging, hands-on exhibits where children can explore a child-size village, investigate scientific wonders, and try on roles as doctors or veterinarians.
An ever-evolving cultural immersion area showcases what life is like in other countries, from the foods people eat to the homes they create. For older children, there are 3D printers, electrically charged balls, and other technology-driven activities that make learning feel like play. The museum features a wide array of permanent exhibits including the Make It Mine Lab where kids explore physics, chemistry, and engineering through creative experimentation, and Star Studios which introduces animation and media creation in a fully equipped television studio setting. The Esplaneth exhibit launches guests on an intergalactic journey through space exploration, while A-Mazing Aero teaches the principles of aviation and airflow through wind tubes and aircraft models.
Little ones adore the Chichen Itza climbing pyramid, the Bigger Blow Blower air maze, and the Kids’ Cliff climbing wall. The Botanical Center houses a tropical rainforest environment with over 200 exotic plant species, butterflies, and birds, creating an immersive natural experience. Outdoor areas include a sprawling treehouse, splash play zone, and musical instrument garden perfect for warm-weather visits.
The Magic House is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours during the summer months. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience for families with young children. Winter holidays bring special seasonal exhibits and festive decorations that create a magical atmosphere. The museum recommends planning 3-4 hours to fully explore all exhibits, with time for lunch at the on-site cafe. Summer weekends can be busy, so arriving early is advisable.