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St. Louis' Magic House Ranked Nation's Best Children's Attraction

By David O'Brien, About.com

Photo courtesy The Magic House
National Acclaim: Did you know that Zagat’s U.S. Family Travel Guide says we have the nation’s best children’s attraction right here in St. Louis? Yep, even Disney’s Magic Kingdom took a backseat to The Magic House in Zagat’s 2005 ranking of national attractions designed for children.
About the Magic House: Founded in 1979, The Magic House is an interactive children’s museum dedicated to providing a hands-on learning experience that is fun and encourages creativity. The museum loves to help children better understand science, history and the world around them through exhibits that allow them to be a part of the action.

Located in a renovated 5,500 square-foot Victorian mansion, the museum has four floors filled with more than 100 exhibits designed to engage and entertain kids. The Magic House welcomes 400,000 visitors each year, making it one of the most popular children’s museums in the country.
Fun for All Ages: You don’t have to be a child to have fun at the Magic House, but the exhibits are designed for the younger set. If your child is under the age of two, check out “For Baby & Me.” This area features a peek-a-boo barn, baby gym and miniature school bus. Toddlers can spend their time at “A Little Bit of Magic,” a fun exhibit that includes a texture tunnel to crawl through, a sandbox for digging and a mirror maze. There are also dozens of activities for older children. Some of the more popular include the chance to star in a television newscast, or to touch an electrically charged ball and make your hair stand on end.
Special Events at the Magic House: If dozens of exhibits aren’t enough, the Magic House also hosts special events throughout the year. There's the "Not So Haunted House" in October, "Breakfast with Santa" in December and "Free Family Nights" each month. You can also celebrate your child's birthday at the Magic House. There are several different party packages to choose from to make your child's special day a truly memorable event.
Just the Facts: The Magic House is located in Kirkwood just one mile north of I-44 at 516 South Kirkwood Road. Admission is $7.50 for children one and up. Parking is free. During the school year, the museum is open Tuesday through Thursday from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Weekend hours are Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The museum has extended hours during the summer. For more information call (314) 822-8900 or visit the Magic House's website.

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