by Elizabeth Vaughn

Created on: May 26, 2007

I know it sounds strange as a recommendation, but the zoo in St. Louis, Missouri is a fantastic place to go on vacation. A lot of children like to go to Disney World, Sea World, places with exotic and fun activities wrapped up in a theme park of imagination, but the zoo is also quite exotic and fun. It also has a lot of factual information that will be sure to stimulate your child's imagination, as well as your own.

The biggest announcement about it- IT'S FREE. There are a few exhibits that you have to pay to enter, such as the children's zoo and the Insectarium, but the majority of it is free to enter. Plus, the prices aren't terrible to get in, as long as you don't try to get everything. If your child doesn't like bugs, then the Insectarium is obviously not an expense to consider. They even have some free shows and free train rides on occasion.

Which leads us to the train, which is many unique features this zoo has to offer. The 'Zooline Railroad' actually runs around the entire zoo and stops at some of the more popular exhibits. Another feature is the 'Build-A-Bear Workshop', where you can make your own teddy bear from scratch. This is a great bonding experience for you and your child(ren). And don't forget you can even rent the zoo for awhile if you have a need for it!

One of my personal favorite exhibits is the Penguin & Puffin Coast. This exhibit is famous around the world for being one of a kind. The entire exhibit is a work of art to maintain a safe, healthy environment that mimics the animals' actual habitat while also allowing people to walk through it. If you are ever in the area, do yourself a favor and check this one out at least. You'll be glad you did.

Overall, the St. Louis Zoo is underrated by those of us that live here, but it really is a great vacation spot for everyone. The things your children will see will excite and thrill them, and the knowledge gained is priceless.

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