Summer Fun: Free in St. Louis

With more and more families going on stay-cations instead of traveling, inexpensive ways to have fun are more important than ever! St. Louis is full of great ways to keep busy during the summer without spending a dime.

Did you know that the St. Louis Zoo, located in beautiful Forest Park, has free admission? One of the best zoos in the country, the Zoo is supported only by tax dollars. A few attractions inside the Zoo charge a nominal fee, such as the Children's Zoo, the Carousel, and the new Stingray exhibit. But during the first hour the Zoo is open, these exhibits are also free. If it's a hot day, make sure to go through the penguin habitat. Insider tip: parking in the Zoo parking lots has a fee, but parking up the hill at the Art Museum is free!

Speaking of the St. Louis Art Museum, it also has free admission and is a great place to spend a hot summer afternoon. The Museum contains over 30,000 pieces from various cultures and time periods. The admission charge for featured exhibitions varies, but on Friday nights even featured exhibits are free.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is another free can't-miss St. Louis attraction. Located west of the city, the 100 acre park displays contemporary sculpture in a lovely outdoor setting. Laumeier Park also has a museum and a library of non-circulating material on such topics as museum administration, preservation of outdoor art, and the history of art gardens. Bring a picnic lunch to eat on the grounds!

Unique to St. Louis is the "Muny," the Municipal Opera Association of St. Louis. The Muny is the oldest and largest outdoor theater in the United States. The Muny season runs from mid-June to mid-August, usually with seven musical productions during that time. Productions in 2009 include Annie, Camelot, and Hairspray. Although most seats at the Muny have an admission fee, the last 9 rows, about 1500 seats, are free! Get there early to wait in line, and dress for the weather.

Finally, don't overlook St. Louis's parks. Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the nation and worth exploring. Don't miss the Turtle Park. In St. Louis County, park trails have been designated as 30/30 Hikes, or 30 trails that take about 30 minutes to complete.

Even in today's tough economy, there is plenty to enjoy during the summer in St. Louis.