It’s spring break for us this week. It’s Wednesday. And I’m out of things to do. We’ve been shopping, to the movies, to Blueberry Hill and to a "fancy girls' lunch."
The thing is, everything she wants to do costs money. OK, maybe I’m part of that. I’ve been a parent for 21 years. I’ve been to the Saint Louis Zoo so many times I was giving directions to out-of-town guests last summer.
So, what is there to do? Here are our criteria: free or low-cost, no crowds, fun for a 6-year-old girl and her burnt-out mom. Hurry. I have three more days, and summer is peeking its evil head around the corner.
By Sharon Linde, bored parent and Education Blogger for SmartParenting
Delight in brilliant, colorful light displays with spectacular photo opportunities throughout the Zoo during Wild Lights. Walk through two tunnels with dazzling lights, and enjoy themed displays featuring snowflakes, candy canes, gumdrops, penguins, polar bears, tigers, giraffes and much more at this St. Louis family-favorite holiday tradition. New this year: Visits with Santa!
Santa is making a stop at The Butterfly House before he makes his trip around the world, and he wants to enjoy a meal with your family! Enjoy a delicious dinner, visit Santa's Workshop and Mrs. Claus's Cookie Kitchen, and have your picture taken with the guest of honor - Santa!
Experience the holiday lights at Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park, where you'll find two million beautiful holiday lights and animated displays.
Your family can enjoy a gourmet, festive breakfast buffet complete with a visit from the man of the hour: Santa.
Santa's Reindeer have been busy hiding candy canes in Kirkwood Park. Some have prizes attached to them. Kids can come early to decorate a hunting bag. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. The hunt starts at 10 a.m., and after the hunt, kids can take pictures with Santa. Pre-registration is required.