The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the best places in St. Louis to take in the beauty of nature. While parts of the Garden are best enjoyed without children, there is one spot that's all about the kids. The Children's Garden is filled with nearly two acres of fun for kids of all ages. It's a great place to spend a day playing, learning and exploring. Here's more on what to see and do at the Children's Garden.

For other outdoor activities for kids, consider visiting The Butterfly House or Shaw Nature Reserve.

Hours and Admission:

The Children's Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily from the beginning of April to the end of October. General admission is $5 for children ages three to 12, and $3 for the children of Garden members. Admission is always free for those two and younger or 13 and older. St. Louis City and County residents also get in free on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. And, everyone gets in free on Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. during the Whitaker Music Festival.

See and Do:

The Children's Garden takes up about two acres of space near the Climatron. It's essentially a giant play area filled with slides, caves, rope ladders and more. Kids can hop on a covered wagon, walk through a prairie village or climb a tree house. There's a small stream with toy boats and fossil area to dig for bones. On hot summer days, kids (and adults too) can cool off at the splash area. Just remember to bring a towel and dry clothes!

Special Activities:

There's plenty to do anytime of the day at the Children's Garden, but you can turn your visit into more of a learning experience by attending one or more of the special activities offered. Each day from 10 a.m. to noon, workers host activities called Germination Stations at different locations in the Children's Garden. The Germination Stations provide hands-on learning about planting, pollination, growing an edible garden and more. Children can also learn to make a nature journal on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m.

More for the Kids:

While the Children's Garden is certainly the best spot for kids, there are other parts of the Missouri Botanical Garden that children will enjoy. Stop by the Brookings Interpretive Center near the Climatron for indoor, family-friendly exhibits and activities. Also, the Japanese Garden has a large lake filled with koi fish. Buy a handful of food and let the kids feed the fish. For additional information, check out the Missouri Botanical Garden website.