
Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in St. Louis, Missouri, United States
1. Forest Park
A sprawling urban park with a zoo, art museum, and historical sites. Offers bike rentals, picnic areas, and eco-friendly tours.
- Eco-Friendly Tours: Guided tours emphasize park's ecosystem and wildlife.
- Bike Rentals: Promotes eco-friendly transportation within the park.
- Historical Sites: Provides insights into St. Louis's history and cultural heritage.
2. Citygarden
A modern sculpture garden featuring various interactive water features and eco-friendly design elements.
- Interactive Water Features: Encourages visitor engagement with the natural environment.
- Modern Sculptures: Showcases contemporary art in a serene outdoor setting.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Uses sustainable materials and water management systems.
3. Missouri Botanical Garden
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the U.S., featuring a variety of exotic plants and sustainable practices.
- Exotic Plant Species: Offers unique plant species not commonly found in North America.
- Sustainable Practices: Employs water-saving techniques and promotes conservation efforts.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational opportunities about plants, their ecosystems, and sustainability.
4. Laumeier Sculpture Park
An outdoor museum showcasing contemporary sculptures amidst natural landscapes. Offers educational programs and eco-friendly features.
- Contemporary Sculptures: Showcases cutting-edge art in a tranquil, wooded setting.
- Educational Programs: Provides insights into contemporary art and its role in society.
- Eco-Friendly Features: Features native plants, rain gardens, and recycling stations for visitors.
5. Confluence Kayaks
Rent kayaks or join guided tours to explore the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.
- Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share river ecology insights.
- River Ecology Insights: Offers unique perspectives on the region's aquatic ecosystem.
- Sustainable Transportation: Promotes eco-friendly transportation on the waterways.
6. Gateway Arch National Park
Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and learn about the history of westward expansion in the U.S.
- Iconic Architecture: Experience the famous Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis.
- Westward Expansion History: Gain insights into the history and culture of westward expansion.
- Sustainable Practices: Employs energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly practices.
7. Cedar Creek Golf Course
An eco-friendly golf course designed to minimize its environmental impact.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: Uses natural landscaping and water conservation techniques.
- Golf Lessons: Offers instruction for players of all skill levels.
- Scenic Views: Enjoys beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscape.
8. Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Explore the pristine rivers and caves of the Ozarks, offering opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and camping.
- Canoeing Opportunities: Allows visitors to explore the scenic rivers by canoe.
- Hiking and Camping: Provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- Pristine Natural Beauty: Showcases the untouched beauty of the Ozark region.
9. Hawn State Park and Sylvan Springs
Enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in this picturesque state park with a natural spring.
- Hiking Trails: Offers a variety of trails for hikers of all skill levels.
- Camping: Provides campsites for overnight stays.
- Natural Spring: Features a crystal-clear natural spring and surrounding wetlands.
10. Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum
A historic cemetery and arboretum featuring over 2,500 species of trees.
- Historic Gravesites: Offers a unique glimpse into St. Louis's history through notable burials.
- Arboretum: Showcases over 2,500 tree species and offers educational opportunities.
- Sustainable Landscape Management: Uses sustainable landscape management practices and eco-friendly gardening techniques.
11. St. Louis Zoo
A world-class zoo with a strong commitment to conservation and sustainable practices.
- Conservation Efforts: Supports species survival plans, breeding programs, and habitat restoration.
- Sustainable Practices: Employs energy-efficient technologies and water conservation techniques.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that educate visitors about wildlife and conservation issues.
12. Tyson Research Center
A biological field station focused on researching and preserving the Midwest's ecosystems.
- Scientific Research: Conducts scientific studies on the region's ecosystems.
- Ecosystem Preservation: Works to preserve and restore the Midwest's ecosystems.
- Public Tours and Education: Provides tours, educational programs, and opportunities for citizen science.
13. Great River Road
Follow the scenic Great River Road along the Mississippi River, enjoying views, historic sites, and eco-friendly tour options.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the Mississippi River and its surroundings.
- Historic Sites: Features historic sites that tell the story of the river's impact on the region.
- Eco-Friendly Tour Options: Offers eco-friendly transportation and tour options for a sustainable experience.
14. Pere Marquette State Park
Experience the pristine beauty of Pere Marquette State Park, offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Hiking Trails: Offers a variety of trails for hikers of all skill levels.
- Camping: Provides campsites for overnight stays.
- Scenic River Valley: Showcases the scenic beauty of the Illinois River valley.
15. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Visit the largest pre-Columbian Native American site in North America and learn about its rich history and culture.
- Pre-Columbian Culture: Offers insights into the lives of Native Americans who lived here centuries ago.
- Historic Sites: Features ancient mounds, plazas, and other archaeological sites.
- Sustainable Practices: Employs eco-friendly practices in preserving this important historical site.