Look at the Fun: A Roundup, Tornado Chasing, Fishing — and Patch at the Rec-Plex!

We've assembled a weekly calendar of kid-friendly activities and new places to try out with children.

Each week, we'll give you the info on the five best family activities or events for the week. You're time-pressed enough, so we're happy to do the research and find the best things to do and places to go, both locally and within reasonable striking distance.

Look for the kids’ planner each Wednesday, and help us build the planner with your own suggestions and tips — just add them to the comment box. Even if you disagree with our picks, let us know. We want to hear from you!

Where:  , 3115 McClay Rd, St. Peters, MO 63376

When: Thursday, March 24, 9 a.m.  - 6 p.m.;  Friday, March 25, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.;  Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Why Go? You can find great deals on everything from clothing to toys.

Cost:  $2 Admission For Thursday Only; Friday and Saturday Free

Where: , 5200 Mexico Rd, Saint Peters, MO 63376

When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, March 26, 2011

Why Go? Patch is already serving up news for your community! Now, meet the editors who are making it happen in five St. Charles County towns. We invite you to stop by our booth at the Rec-Plex and meet our editors from St. Peters, St. Charles, Wentzville, Lake Saint Louis, and O'Fallon. Pick up a free refreshing beverage and learn how Patch can work for you with events, announcements, classifieds, and the directory. We'll also show you how to sign up for the daily newsletter and contribute your own photos, comments and information. Be an early bird and get some cool Patch gifts!

Cost: Free

Where: 2360 Highway D, Saint Charles, MO 63304 (Busch Wildlife) 

When: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, March 26, 2011

Why Go? Introduction to Fly Fishing will teach young anglers how a fly rod functions and how to properly cast a fly rod. In addition, anglers will learn about various trout baits and how to successfully present those baits. Ages 7 - 15. Fishing equipment, volunteers and bait/lures provided. Participants must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Cost:  Free

TORNADO ALLEY AT THE OMNIMAX THEATER

Where:  Omnimax Theater, St. Louis Science Center, 5050 Oakland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

When: 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. Saturday, March 26; 1 p.m., 4 p.m. Sunday, March 27

Why Go? Take a journey with stormchasers and researchers right into the heart of a tornado.

Cost:  Adults $9; Child/Senior $. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com/slsc

Where: , 1900 W Randolph St, Saint Charles, MO 63301

When: 10 a.m. - 11:30 p.m., Saturday, March 26, 2011

Why Go: Bring your little cowboy or cowgirl out for a day of dress up, lassoing farm animals, bandana making and roasting s’mores around the campfire. Your child will love the music, crafts and games. For children age 3 to 8.

Cost: $15 per child