Why Winter's Better In University City: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in University City. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

Creve Coeur Ice Arena – Public Ice Skating

Address: 11400 Olde Cabin Rd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Phone: (314) 432-3960
Details: This well-maintained local ice arena offers public skating sessions alongside freestyle and stick-and-puck times. Schedules vary by day, so it’s best to review the current calendar before heading out. More details and session information are available on the city’s public ice sessions page.

Urban Chestnut Brewing Company

Address: The Grove Bierhall - 4465 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110; Midtown Biergarten
3229 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone: (314) 222-0143
Details: Urban Chestnut operates two distinct brewery spaces in St. Louis, each offering its own atmosphere. The Midtown Biergarten features a traditional German-style beer garden and intimate tasting room, while the Grove Bierhall offers a spacious, industrial setting with long communal tables that work well for groups. Both locations serve house-brewed beers and food, with seating available on a first-come basis. Check the brewery’s website for daily hours and menus.

St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

Address: 201 S 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone: (314) 923-3900
Details: The St. Louis Aquarium features immersive exhibits with sharks, rays, otters and rare marine species. Interactive touch pools and behind-the-scenes experiences make it engaging for visitors of all ages. Tickets can be purchased online via Union Station, and guests can easily pair their visit with nearby attractions like the Wheel, mini golf and the mirror maze.

AMC Creve Coeur 12

Address: 10465 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Phone: (314) 994-0946
Details: This modern multiplex offers a comfortable moviegoing experience with premium options like IMAX, Dolby Cinema and 3D screenings. It’s an easy winter outing when you want to relax indoors, with reserved seating and the option to pre-order food and drinks online. Check current showtimes and purchase tickets on the AMC Creve Coeur 12 website.

Castlewood State Pak – Winter Hiking & Scenic Views

Address: 1401 Kiefer Creek Rd, Ballwin, MO 63021
Phone: (636) 227-4433
Details: One of the most popular outdoor recreation areas near University City, Castlewood State Park offers year-round access to scenic hiking and mountain biking trails overlooking the Meramec River. Winter visitors can enjoy quieter trails, expansive river views and wildlife sightings without the summer crowds. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. until a half hour after sunset. For weather-related closures or trail updates, consult the state’s park status map.

Saint Louis Science Center – Hands-On Learning

Address: 5050 Oakland Ave, 2nd floor, St. Louis, MO 63110
Phone: (314) 289-4400
Details: The Saint Louis Science Center invites visitors to explore everything from space and physics to biology and engineering—all for free! Interactive galleries and live demonstrations make it especially appealing for families and curious minds. The Science Center is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan accordingly. View upcoming programs and events on the Science Center event calendar.

Olivette Lanes – Classic Bowling Alley

Address: 9520 Olive Blvd, Olivette, MO 63132
Phone: (314) 991-0365
Details: This long-standing, independently owned bowling center is known for its laid-back atmosphere with modern amenities. Olivette Lanes features bumper lanes for kids, cosmic bowling sessions and a full bar and grill. Lane reservations can be made through the alley’s online booking system.

Hidden Valley Ski – Winter Sports

Address: 17409 Hidden Valley Dr, Eureka, MO 63025
Phone: (636) 938-5373
Details: Hidden Valley offers a true winter sports experience just outside St. Louis. The resort features 15 snowmaking-equipped trails across two peaks, along with lessons, tubing and rentals for all skill levels. It’s a popular seasonal destination for both beginners and returning skiers. Lift tickets and activity hours can be found on the resort’s ticketing page.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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