St. Louis Union Station

The story

The Grand Hall remains the showpiece. Its 65-foot ceiling becomes the screen for a 3D light show of fireworks and deep-sea animations, with more than 30 vignettes each hour. The St. Louis Aquarium opens with a short train-themed ride, then moves through river creatures, shark waters and touch pools where you can pet rays. Outside, the St. Louis Wheel lifts enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas 200 feet above the street, and the lake comes alive daily with a fire and light show. A mirror maze nods to the 1904 World's Fair, and a ropes course hangs three stories over the main floor. There's also 18-hole mini golf, a carousel, a pirate ship ride and a spinning coaster. Places to eat include The Train Shed, The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern and a Soda Fountain serving Freak Shakes.