Best Parks & Green Spaces in St. Louis, Missouri, United States

St. Louis, United States, St. Louis, Outdoor & Adventure, Best Parks & Green Spaces

Best Parks & Green Spaces in St. Louis, Missouri, United States

1. Forest Park

A 1,371-acre urban park featuring the Muny, St. Louis Zoo, and several museums.
  • Historical Significance: One of the largest and oldest parks in the U.S., with a rich history dating back to 1874.
  • Diverse Attractions: Offers numerous attractions like museums, the zoo, and a popular amphitheater.
  • Size and Beauty: Boasts beautiful lakes, trails, and scenic views, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.

2. Tower Grove Park

A picturesque Victorian park with a conservatory, picnic areas, and cultural events.
  • Victorian Architecture: Features beautiful Victorian-era architecture and gardens.
  • Community Events: Hosts numerous events like farmers markets, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.
  • Conservatory: Home to a beautiful conservatory filled with tropical plants and flowers.

3. Citygarden

A contemporary urban sculpture garden located in downtown St. Louis.
  • Urban Sculptures: Features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary sculptures.
  • Unique Design: Designed as a series of interconnected gardens, each with its own unique theme.
  • Location: Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis, making it easily accessible to tourists.

4. Laumeier Sculpture Park

An outdoor museum displaying over 60 permanent sculptures in a beautiful park setting.
  • Outdoor Museum: One of the largest and most comprehensive collections of outdoor sculptures.
  • Art Education: Offers art education programs, workshops, and events for visitors.
  • Beautiful Landscapes: Set on a beautiful 105-acre site with rolling hills, woods, and meadows.

5. St. Louis Riverfront Trail

A scenic trail along the Mississippi River offering views of downtown St. Louis and recreational opportunities.
  • Mississippi River Views: Provides stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Great for walking, biking, or in-line skating, with plenty of benches to rest along the way.
  • Location: Connects various parks and attractions in downtown St. Louis, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

6. Shaw Nature Reserve

A wildlife sanctuary offering miles of hiking trails and opportunities to observe native species.
  • Wildlife Observation: Offers excellent opportunities for observing native species like deer, turkey, and fox.
  • Hiking Trails: Features miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats like woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.
  • Educational Programs: Provides educational programs, workshops, and events for visitors interested in nature and wildlife.

7. Queeny Park

A scenic park along the Meramec River with fishing spots, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
  • Fishing Spots: Offers excellent fishing opportunities for various species like bass, catfish, and crappie.
  • Hiking Trails: Features hiking trails through the woods and along the Meramec River.
  • Picnic Areas: Provides spacious picnic areas perfect for family outings or gatherings.

8. Ozark National Scenic Riverways

A national park preserving the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers.
  • River Exploration: Allows visitors to explore the beautiful and historic rivers by canoe, kayak, or raft.
  • Cultural Heritage: Preserves the cultural heritage of the area's early settlers and Native American history.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features stunning landscapes, including caves, bluffs, and forests.

9. Castlewood State Park

A beautiful park featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and the historic Castlewood Iron Furnace.
  • Historic Site: Home to a restored 19th-century iron furnace and other historic structures.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats, including forests and bluffs.
  • Picnic Areas: Provides spacious picnic areas perfect for family outings or gatherings.

10. Katapollis Off-Leash Dog Park

A dog park featuring separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, and picnic facilities.
  • Dog Friendly: Catering specifically to dogs and their owners, with separate areas for large and small dogs.
  • Agility Equipment: Includes agility equipment for active dogs to play on and improve their skills.
  • Picnic Facilities: Offers picnic facilities for dog owners to relax and socialize while their pets play.

11. Tilles Park

A quiet park with a lake, walking trails, and sports facilities.
  • Quiet Setting: Provides a peaceful and serene environment for walking or relaxing.
  • Lake and Walking Trails: Features a picturesque lake and miles of walking trails through the woods.
  • Sports Facilities: Offers sports facilities like tennis courts, basketball courts, and soccer fields.

12. Echo Bluff State Park

A new state park offering hiking trails, camping, and a stunning view of the Osage River.
  • New Attraction: One of St. Louis' newest parks, featuring modern facilities and amenities.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats like forests and bluffs.
  • Osage River View: Provides a stunning view of the Osage River from its scenic overlooks.

13. Grant's Farm

A family-friendly attraction featuring animals, a petting zoo, and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour.
  • Family Friendly: Ideal for families with children, offering various activities and attractions.
  • Animal Encounters: Features a petting zoo, elephant exhibit, and other animal attractions.
  • Brewery Tour: Offers tours of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where visitors can learn about beer-making history.

14. Soulard Farmers Market

A historic market offering fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods in a bustling atmosphere.
  • Historical Significance: One of the oldest and most famous farmers markets in the U.S.
  • Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and specialty foods.
  • Bustling Atmosphere: Features lively vendors and shoppers, creating an energetic market atmosphere.