Let the Kids Take Over: The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Fun in Hermann
Hermann isn’t just for grown-ups—it’s a veritable playground for kids! Whether your little ones are climbing dinosaur bones, painting a masterpiece, or camping under the stars, you’ll create core memories together to last a lifetime. Ready to let the kids take over Hermann? Here’s your guide to fun and adventure for the whole family!
Have Fun All Day at the Hermann Riverfront Park!
The Hermann Riverfront Park offers open space for running around, enjoying a family picnic, and getting your picture taken by the Hermann Paddlewheel. A boat ramp lets you take the family out on a boat, or you can fish directly from the ramps, too. It’s also a great spot to watch the water, wave at passing boats, and possibly see some bald eagles flying by. There is a large park pavilion with picnic tables and a barbecue pit. Restrooms are located by the pavilion.
Along the river is the Riverfront Walking Trail, with benches along the walk for watching the river. On the East of the sidewalk is a Lewis & Clark marker and sidewalk art by local students commemorating the Lewis & Clark Trail. Also on the East end of the park is primitive camping, a swing set, a small park pavilion with one picnic table, bbq pit and fire pit.
Chart a Course for Fun at the Engemann Park & River Memorial
At the foot of the Missouri River bridge is the Gerald Engemann Park & River Memorial, where kids can let their imaginations set sail! The paddle wheel monument fuels curiosity about riverboats and life along the Missouri River. Kids will get a kick out of the antique ship components, including the stacks and mock whistle on display.
A walk across the Christopher Bond Bridge over the Missouri River gives kids a new perspective on the town and a bird’s eye view of the river below. The nearby Katy Trail State Park offers a gravel path for biking, walking, or stroller-friendly exploring, with river views and plenty of fresh air.
Have Fun in the Sun: Hermann’s Outdoor Adventures
Some kids enjoy simple pleasures – fishing at the Hermann Pond, swimming at the Hermann City Pool, or enjoying a picnic in the park. Bring the whole family to experience all of these kid-friendly activities right here in Hermann, with easy access to many more things to see and do!
If your family enjoys RV or Tent Camping, the Hermann City RV Park offers 51 full hook-ups. Tent camping is offered at the lower City Park in any green space.
Did someone say “Dinosaurs”? Owen’s Dinosauria Park is a dinosaur-themed play area ideal for younger kids. Your little explorers can dig for “fossils” in the sand pit or climb and play on the dinosaur bone structures.
City RV Park
Meet the Gentle Giants at Hermann Farm
Hermann Farm offers a variety of tours that kids will enjoy, including the opportunity to see their magnificent Shire horses at work. Kids (and kids at heart) love watching these gentle giants up close. Be sure to check their website for available tour dates and times.
Did you know? Shire horses are considered to be the largest horses in the world, even bigger than the Clydesdale! The tallest horse on record was Samson, a Shire from Bedfordshire, England, who, in 1846, measured 21.25 hands high. (Horse and Hound)
Rain or Shine—Hermann’s Indoor Attractions Are Fun Anytime!
Blank Canvas Gallery and Studio – Book your painting party for groups of up to 6 or 12 people or inquire about à la carte creative activities.
The name Chapter 3 Toys, Books, and Gifts doesn’t tell the whole story (pun intended). This charming store is packed with books, toys, stuffies, games, puzzles, craft kits, sidewalk chalk, Harry Potter® collectibles, paint kits, and lots more for kids and adults alike!
If your child is into sewing or quilting, Quilting Bee Fabrics offers classes and workshops. Or perhaps they would like to get involved with the youth theater camps at the Half Act Theater Company and productions at the Showboat Theatre.
Pint-sized shopaholics will discover fabulous finds at Miss Jessica’s Jewels, where everything is $5! You can also check out numerous boutiques and shops offering clothing and merchandise for babies, toddlers, and older kids.
Curious Minds Welcome
Do your kids love fire trucks? Then, Ye Olde Fire Company at Antiques Unlimited I is a great place to visit. See firefighter memorabilia, firefighter-related toys, and more. Just across the street is the Hermann Fire Co. Museum, full of historical firefighting equipment to learn about. Tours of the Fire Co. Museum can be set up in advance.
If you’re looking for a fun way to visit Hermann, the Amtrak Missouri River Runner is a great, kid-approved way to make the journey just as fun as the destination. Trains stop in Hermann twice daily from both the east and west, making a day trip super easy to plan. Check out an example itinerary here!
All aboard the City of Hermann Caboose Museum to learn about Missouri’s railroad system and its effect on westward expansion.
The Deutschheim State Historic Site offers a captivating look at life of some of Hermann’s early settlers, including the opportunity to see the publication site of the first German newspaper printed west of the Mississippi. Ideal for little ones who are fascinated by history.
The Historic Hermann Museum is a great place to let your kids’ imagination run wild. With two full stories of artifacts, photos, and even a mammoth bone, they can learn all about Hermann’s history. Make sure to check out the Kinder Room, full of kid’s toys and stories from the 1850s to today!
This Isn’t Your Parents’ Library!
The Scenic Regional Library in Hermann is full of surprises. It has a plethora of kids’ activities – from board games, non-electronic interactive toys, a drawing station, and a giant erector set.
Be sure to check out the Penworthy Steam and Go! Kits – from biology to building, science experiments to math games, these kits make learning fun. It’s like a mini-science center tucked into the Library!
The Gallery at the Library is a must-see! The 2000-square-foot art gallery showcases various artistic works from both Missouri and regional artists, with exhibits rotating on a 3 month schedule. The gallery is free to the public and open during library hours. All art is for sale. Perfect for inspiring little creative minds!
All This Fun Works up an Appetite!
While Hermann may be known as a Foodie Paradise, there’s plenty of kid-friendly cuisine, too! From hearty meals, snacks, popcorn, and dessert – Hermann serves some delicious food!
- Most every child will agree that starting the day with warm, delicious doughnuts from Sugar & Spice Laura’s Delights II is a great plan! Mom and Dad might opt for savory breakfast sandwiches and hot coffee or tea.
- 4th Street Pizza offers New York-style pizza that is hand-tossed when you order – make sure the kids are up front to watch!
- The Popcorn Dispensary has some of the most interesting flavors your kids could imagine! From Dill Pickle to Chocolate Chip Cookie, Taco to Birthday Cake, their imagination for flavor combinations seems limitless. They have more traditional flavors like Cheddar and Kettle Corn, too.
- The Downtown Deli and Custard Shoppe serves up hearty soups and sandwiches—and you’ll definitely want to save room for their hand-dipped ice cream or an ice cream cone!
- Be sure to stop by Sugar Momma’s for fun and unique, nostalgic candies, treats, German and Hermann souvenirs, and gifts. You will also find Ted Drewe’s Frozen Custard and Giofre Apiaries Honey Ice Cream!
- Willie’s Philly’s offers a kids menu that includes burgers, grilled cheese, or hot dogs on a pretzel bun.
Game On! Hermann is Where Kids Come to Play
Kugelblitz Gaming is part arcade, part card shop and part game store—and all fun! You’ll find everything from pinball machines to classic and modern arcade games. It’s a great place for the whole family to let loose and play! You can event rent out the store for a birthday party.
Need a little break (or a little caffeine boost?) Espresso Laine has non-electronic games and toys to play in-store and to purchase. It’s also a great place for Mom and Dad to refuel with some iced coffee or snacks. Games and goodies? It’s a total win-win!)
Sharing Hermann with the Next Generation
Some of the best childhood memories come from simple fleeting moments—catching a fish with Grandpa, discovering a shared love for art with Mom, or sharing a scoop of ice cream with your siblings after a day of adventure. Hermann is the perfect place to create those moments with your family. Whether you’re introducing your kids to the magic of small-town life or making new traditions together, there’s no shortage of fun waiting for you in Hermann.
