Learn about the unique, nature-based, Reggio-inspired preschool program at the Saint Louis Zoo during this Open House. The Zoo Preschool program offers nature-based, child-directed, and individualized learning for children ages 3-5. Students experience learning designed to nurture physical, social, emotional and academic growth. and a strong connection to the natural world.
The Saint Louis Zoo Preschool offers:
Starting with the 2026-2027 academic year the Zoo Preschool will be a full-day program. the new classrooms will be located in the Zoo's new Destination Discovery area.
An Open House will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Saint Louis Zoo. Reservations are not required.
For more information and reservations: stlzoo.org
It's the Not-So-Haunted House that is oh-so-fun, where storybook characters come alive! Kids are invited to dress in their most "boo-tiful" Halloween costumes and have a ghoulishly good time going on a spook-tacular scavenger hunt throughout The Magic House to find trick-or-treat locations and seeing their favorite storybook characters.
Get into the Halloween spirit with some spooky fun and celebrate with the animals at Grant's Farm. Enjoy Halloween tram rides featuring Halloween lights, spooky scenes, live actors, scare zones, a Halloween-themed show, monster mash party and more. Costumes are encouraged.
The Best of Missouri Market at the Missouri Botanical Garden features more than 150 vendors offering handcrafted items, locally produced food, native plants, herbs, live music and local brews, plus a two-acre Kid's Corner with farm animals (like llamas, alpacas and sheep!), circus performers, face painting, crafts, and a pumpkin patch with decorating let by Perennial.
Families can enjoy the Fall Fest Kids Zone and all the fun of the farm at the Grant's Farm Fall Fest. There will be seasonal treats, animal feedings, a petting zoo, themed photo spots, and the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales too!
See the Zoo's California sea lions perform acrobatic and athletic feats, including Olympic-style dives on a high-diving platform, flipper walks, frisbee tosses and plenty of surprises. While on stage with the sea lions, the Zoo's trainers explain sea lion behavior and positive-reinforcement training, in addition to the need for conserving the sea lion's ocean habitat.