On Top of the World

St. Louis is known for its beautiful architecture and historic neighborhoods. Come explore our city’s rich history with a climb to the top of the Compton Hill Water Tower on Saturday. I’m not going to sugar coat it — the 198 stairs to the observation deck is an aerobic workout. But the climb is well worth the trip. You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of the city. On a clear day you can see as far as Illinois and the Jefferson Barracks Bridge.

At one time, over 400 water towers dotted the American skyline. Now only seven are left in the United States. St. Louis is fortunate enough to be home to three of them. All have been claimed historical landmarks. But the crumbling 170-foot Compton Hill Water Tower almost fell victim to the wrecking ball in the 1990’s. Thanks to the efforts of many vocal neighbors, the tower underwent a $19 million renovation instead. 

So skip your Saturday morning Stairmaster workout and take your family to the Tower instead. It’s located in Reservoir Park at the corner of Grand and Russell — a stone’s throw from Highway 44.

The Tower is open to the public from noon to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from January to October. Admission is $5 for adults; $3 for children 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are free. If you have any questions, check out www.watertowerfoundation.org.

Happy water towering.

 By Andrea Wilson, Events Blogger for SmartParenting    

SmartParenting Blog

Sunday, May 19
Forget magic tricks and fireworks. Nothing truly amazes a first grader more than the line,...
Thursday, May 16
If you're thinking about enrolling your little one in Summer Camp or Kickaroos class at Vetta...
Wednesday, May 15
Last Christmas Eve we ran out of milk. Pulling up to my local 24/7/365 Walgreens I was surprised...
Tuesday, May 14
At a time when a child’s day is filled with iPods, the Wii and Netflix, there’s still...

Things To Do

Sunday, May 26
Catch the awe-inspiring scenery of Air Racers, Flight of the Butterflies or Mummies: Secrets...
Sunday, May 26
This annual event, held in Forest Park, includes children's activities, cultural...
Sunday, May 26
Kids can take part in the Shamrock Stomp, meet Fred Bird, make Irish arts and crafts and lots...
Monday, May 27
Preschoolers can become young paleontologists in this program specifically designed for ages 3...

Today's Featured Camp

Lil' Bear Baseball Day Camp at Washington University

Washington University in St. Louis Baseball hosts a week-long baseball day camp in which boys and girls will learn baseball basics, play in the sun (and shade) and best of all - have FUN! With an age-appropriate curriculum and a safe environment, our college baseball coaches will show your son or daughter what it takes to be a Lil' Bear through instruction, games, wiffle ball, and – because every kid wants to get in the pool – SWIM TIME!

Camp is help June 17-21 and is for ages 6 to 10. Visit our web site for more information and let your kids be a Lil' Bear!

Go to the Summer Camp Guide

Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Return Policy
Copyright © St. Louis Kids/Apple Media. 2006-2013. All Rights Reserved.

Featured on: