Summer is here, and if you’re looking for ways to keep your kids active (and burn off some energy yourself), you’re in the right place. As a gym that’s all about building strong families and healthy lifestyles, we know how important it is to find activities that get the whole crew moving—especially when school’s out and the days are long.
Whether you’re taking a break from your workout routine or looking for new ways to move outside the gym, these kid-approved, energy-burning adventures around St. Louis will keep your family active and smiling all summer long.
1. Explore the City Museum
If you’ve never been, the City Museum is a must. It’s basically a giant, hands-on obstacle course for all ages. Crawl through tunnels, climb into airplanes, slide down a 10-story spiral slide, and test your balance on rope swings. You’ll get in more steps (and squats!) than you realize—and your kids will think it’s the coolest place on earth.
Pro tip: Wear athletic clothes and closed-toe shoes—adults included!
2. Walk, Hike, or Bike in Forest Park
Forest Park has over 1,300 acres of trails, green space, and water—perfect for a family hike or a bike ride. Check out the trails around the Jewel Box or Art Hill, or rent paddle boats for an active day on the water.
Bring a soccer ball or frisbee and you’ve got an instant family fitness session, disguised as fun.
3. Visit the St. Louis Zoo (and Make It a Step Challenge!)
The St. Louis Zoo is not only free but also spread out enough that you can easily get in 2–3 miles of walking while checking out the animals. Turn it into a game by tracking steps or challenging your kids to a scavenger hunt—“Find the animal with the longest neck” or “Spot something that swims and something that flies.”
Bonus: There are shaded areas, splash zones, and a train ride if little legs get tired.
4. Cool Off at a Local Splash Pad or Pool
Stay active and beat the heat by visiting spots like Tilles Park, Shaw Park Aquatic Center, or the Brentwood Recreation Center. Splash pads keep kids running, jumping, and laughing—without them even realizing they’re moving nonstop.
Bring along a few fitness toys like beach balls, rings, or water-safe dumbbells for added fun.
5. Hike at Castlewood State Park
If your kids love adventure, head out to Castlewood for a more rugged outdoor experience. The River Scene Trail offers stunning views, challenging terrain, and just enough climbing to wear everyone out (in the best way). Pack water and snacks, and make it a half-day outing.
6. Try the Climbing Wall or Ninja Courses at Upper Limits
Rainy day? Take the energy indoors. Upper Limits in Maryland Heights offers climbing options for kids as young as five. For obstacle-course fun, check out ninja warrior gyms like TruFusion or Ultimate Ninjas, which help develop agility, coordination, and confidence.
7. Get Creative in Your Own Backyard
You don’t have to go far to be active. Create a DIY obstacle course, set up relay races, do a family yoga session on the lawn, or challenge your kids to a push-up or squat contest. It’s a great reminder that movement doesn’t have to be structured to count.
Final Thoughts
Summer is the perfect time to show your kids that being active is fun, not a chore. Whether it’s climbing through tunnels at the City Museum, hiking a scenic trail, or splashing at a local park, these activities make it easy to move more, connect as a family, and make memories that last.
Looking for more ideas to stay healthy and active this summer? Stop by the gym or reach out to one of our coaches about our Youth Program—we’re always here to help you live your healthiest life, inside and outside the gym.
