Carondelet Park Rec Plex Pool, St. Louis City

Location: 930 Holly Hills Ave., St. Louis, MO 63111   314-768-9622

Website: https://gwrymca.org/locations/carondelet-park-rec-complex

Most YMCAs do not let anyone use their facilities unless you are a member. This location in Carondelet Park is an exception. Nonmembers can use the outdoor pool but ONLY DURING THE WEEK. Weekends are reserved for members and their guests. The outdoor pool has a kid's area with a playground, 3 swim lanes, a diving area, a lazy river, a vortex, a splash pad, and a 2.5-story waterslide.  This is a great option for people living in the city to go swimming without having to drive out to the suburbs.

The following photos were taken from the website

Overhead view

The indoor pool area has a 2 story waterslide, lazy river, zero entry kids splash area, steam room, sauna, lap lanes, hot tub, whirlpool, and family shower/locker rooms. However, be aware that only members can use the indoor pool. 

Little's Loft Cafe, Kirkwood

Location: 117 W. Argonne Dr., Kirkwood, MO 63122

Website: https://www.littlesloftplaycafe.com/

Little’s Loft is a community-centered play café where parents can spend quality time with their kids, connect with friends over coffee, build a community with other families, and celebrate special occasions. Enjoy our fresh menu featuring La Cosecha Coffee, fresh-baked,  and seasonally-inspired specials. 

This indoor play cafe opened in 2026, and it is super cute. In addition to open play, they offer parties, classes, and more. I love the natural wooden feel of everything here, and the coffee is great. Don't forget socks! Everyone needs them! 

Open-play sessions are available in two durations: 60 minutes and 90 minutes. Sessions begin at the time you reserve online. walk-in play sessions start when you enter the playspace.


Playspace admission is $11 for 60 minutes & $15 for 90 minutes. Infants aged 0-6 months do not require admission unless they are the sole child entering the playspace. Guest Fee: One adult may accompany each child free of charge at all times.

Lava Island, Rock Hill

Location: 9610 Manchester Rd., Rock Hill, MO 63119

Website: https://lavaisland.com/rock-hill/

Lava Island is a chain of tropical-themed indoor adventure parks, and this is their first location in St. Louis. It opened at the end of 2025. It features trampolines, a volcano slide, large jungle gyms, foam pits, party rooms, a cafe, a trike track, and slides. They have a toddler area and family-friendly eats at the cafe.