Photo: Kelly Palubiak
Photo: Kelly Palubiak
Photo: Kelly Palubiak
Racquet Club Ladue
★4.9(46 reviews)$$Restaurant
🕑 2-4 hours for a typical visit, or full-day during summer camp programs👶 Best for ages 3-18. Younger children thrive in swim lessons and summer camp programs, while tweens and teens can participate in competitive sports leagues, fitness classes, and independent pool time. The variety of offerings means multiple-age families can all find activities suited to their interests.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Racquet Club Ladue is a premier family recreation center that goes beyond typical gym offerings with exceptional swimming pools, youth sports leagues, and comprehensive summer camps. With an impressive 4.9-star rating, this community hub provides year-round programming for active families, plus the added bonus of fine dining options for post-activity meals or special family occasions.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple swimming pools perfect for all skill levels and ages
- ✓Organized youth sports leagues for team building and skill development
- ✓Comprehensive summer camp programs with varied activities
- ✓On-site fine dining restaurant for family meals
- ✓Fitness programs and classes that parents can enjoy while kids participate in activities
Pro Tips
- 1.Note that the club is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visits accordingly,Saturdays offer the longest hours (7 AM-9:30 PM) for maximum flexibility
- 2.Sign up for summer camps early as they're highly popular and fill quickly at this top-rated facility
- 3.Take advantage of the dining options on-site so you can make a full day of swimming and sports without leaving for meals
- 4.Weekend mornings (9 AM start on Sundays) are ideal for families wanting a less crowded pool experience
- 5.Ask about family membership packages that provide the best value if you plan to use multiple programs throughout the year
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Wednesday-Thursday, 7-10 AM) offer the quietest pool and facility access, while Saturday mornings are great for families who want to combine activities with the on-site dining. Summer is peak season for camps, but fall and spring offer excellent league sports opportunities with smaller crowds.
What to Know
As a private sports club and association, membership or guest passes are typically required for access. The facility includes both recreational activities and fine dining options, making it possible to enjoy a complete family outing under one roof.
Seasonal Notes
Summer is the busiest season with full-day camp programs running throughout June and July. Youth sports leagues typically follow school-year schedules with fall and spring seasons. Indoor facilities ensure year-round access to pools and fitness areas regardless of weather.
Nearby Eats
Being in upscale Ladue, you'll find numerous family-friendly options nearby including Sugarfire Smoke House (about 2 miles away) for casual BBQ, and Panera Bread on Clayton Road for quick, reliable kid-friendly fare. However, with fine dining available on-site, you may not need to venture out.
More Activities Near Ladue
Park
Old Bonhomme Road
Free
Old Bonhomme Road offers families a peaceful escape in Ladue with plenty of space for little ones to explore. This neighborhood gem features playground equipment suitable for younger children, shaded walking paths perfect for stroller walks, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it ideal for casual family outings without the crowds of larger parks.
Park
Tilles Park Road
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Tilles Park Road winds through one of St. Louis County's most beloved family parks, offering access to an impressive splash pad that's a summer favorite, multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, and scenic walking paths perfect for stroller walks or family bike rides. The park's combination of active play areas, shaded picnic spots, and open green spaces makes it an ideal destination for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family adventures.
Park
Ladue Chapel Presbyterian Church (USA)
★4.9Free❤️10
While primarily a place of worship, Ladue Chapel Presbyterian Church opens its beautiful grounds to the community during office hours. Families can enjoy peaceful walks around the well-maintained property and green spaces, though this is more suited for a quiet outdoor break than an active play destination.
Library
St. Louis County Library - Clark Family Branch
★4.6Free❤️59
The St. Louis County Library - Clark Family Branch in Ladue is a standout destination for families, boasting an impressive children's section that goes well beyond typical library offerings. With regularly scheduled storytimes, hands-on educational programs, and engaging family events year-round, this branch creates a welcoming environment where kids can discover the joy of reading while parents access excellent community resources.