Anyone familiar with Southwestern Illinois?

[Mama Anna]

So. My friend from where we used to live and I want to get our children together for a couple of days this summer by meeting in the middle. That would be somewhere between Springfield, IL and Hannibal, MO. We're looking for someplace with parks for the kids (ages 1.5 to 7), maybe something else fun (zoo? whatever!) and at least a couple of hotels to choose from. Most of the towns look pretty small on the map. Can anyone give me "inside" info?

Thanks so much!!

Mama Anna

[mommaduck]

St Louis! The Arch has a free museum underneath, the Zoo is free, the Art Museum is free, and the Jewel Box (a huge, gorgeous "greenhouse") is free. All except the Arch are located in Forest Park. Enjoy!