QAFM Advisory Board Picks: Favorite Fall Activities for the Whole Family
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, fall brings with it a season full of traditions, adventures, and family memories. Our advisory board members are sharing their favorite fall happenings. Events that capture the spirit of the season and celebrate the places and people they love most. Read about the magic of Nauvoo’s Pumpkin Walk, joining in the fun at Boo at the St. Louis Zoo, or lacing up for an annual Turkey Run. These activities highlight just how much there is to enjoy close to home and beyond.
A Fall Family Adventure: St. Louis, MO Style: Boo at the Zoo, All Aboard at Wabash, Frisco & Pacific Railway, and Exploring Indian Camp Creek Park
From Advisory Board Member Allison Housewright
There’s something magical about a crisp fall day in Missouri—scarves tucked under chins, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, and the excitement of a family outing that’s packed with discovery. If you’re looking for the perfect autumn day trip, St. Louis and its surrounding areas offer a trifecta of fun: The perfect fall day for the Housewright Family includes Boo at the Zoo, the charming Wabash, Frisco & Pacific Railway, and the scenic Indian Camp Creek Park.
Every October, the Saint Louis Zoo transforms into a Halloween wonderland for its annual Boo at the Zoo celebration. The event is family-friendly and not too scary, making it perfect for little ghouls and goblins. Visitors are greeted with glowing pumpkin trails, themed decorations, and gentle, costumed characters. Kids can dress up, collect treats, and explore areas like Frightful Frontier or Pirate’s Cove.
The zoo’s natural beauty blends with twinkling lights, offering plenty of photo opportunities. While the animals may be less active after dark, the focus here is on atmosphere and family memory-making. Pro tip: Book tickets in advance—this popular event often sells out.
Just a short drive away in Glencoe, MO, the Wabash, Frisco & Pacific Railway invites visitors to step back in time aboard a restored, 12-inch gauge steam train. The half-hour ride meanders along the scenic Meramec River, with fall foliage providing a stunning backdrop.
Originally built as an educational attraction, this miniature railway is operated by passionate volunteers who keep railroad history alive. Kids love the open-air cars, the sound of the whistle, and the gentle chug of the engine. Adults often find themselves just as enchanted, soaking in the peaceful pace and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Not only is this train ride a lot of fun for the family, but it’s super affordable. Each ticket is only $5 a person, with children 3 and younger free on an adult’s lap.
Cap off the day at one of the best playgrounds my family has found so far at Indian Camp Creek Park in St. Charles County—the largest county park in the area. Spread over 600 acres, it offers hiking and biking trails, fishing ponds, playgrounds, and even equestrian paths. In the fall, the park is drenched in golds, reds, and oranges, making every turn a postcard-worthy scene.
Families can enjoy a picnic at one of the pavilions, explore the restored historical structures, or simply let kids run wild in the wide-open spaces. The mix of prairie, woodland, and water features makes it a nature lover’s paradise.
Making It All Work in One Day
Morning: Begin with the Wabash, Frisco & Pacific Railway for a cheerful, open-air train ride before the midday crowds.
Afternoon: Head to Indian Camp Creek Park for a nature walk, picnic lunch, and a bit of outdoor play.
Evening: Wrap up at Boo at the Zoo for a Halloween-themed finale filled with lights, costumes, and treats.
With thoughtful timing, you can enjoy each destination without feeling rushed—and each stop offers something unique: the whimsy of Halloween, the charm of old-time railroads, and the beauty of Missouri’s fall landscapes.