eefor jfp

I'm taking my son on a short trip to St. Louis at the end of September (kind of a mileage run to use up a credit on Delta before it expires). We'll arrive late (around 9:30) on Monday and leave around noon on Wednesday.

Any sites that are not to be missed? (I figured we'd do the Gateway Arch, the Zoo and maybe the Magic House/Children's Museum.)

Any special places to eat that are great for kids?

Do I need to rent a car or can we use the light rail/public transport/taxis? Time could be a factor if we want to try to get to the zoo and the children's museum.

For accommodations, I thought we'd do at least the first night at the airport (either at the Hilton on a Pointstretcher since I'm Gold or using Priceline--prices seem to run around $30). Should we stay there the second night or switch to a downtown hotel? I was going to try the Sheraton using a cash and points award but they discontinued participation July 31. The Hyatt regularly pops up on Priceline for $46. Is this a good bet or should we just stick to the airport?

Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks.