The Four Best City Parks to Visit in St. Louis

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As summer arrives in St. Louis, the city's beautiful parks become ideal destinations for residents and visitors. Renowned for successfully integrating vibrant urban life with serene green spaces, St. Louis offers an impressive selection of parklands suitable for various outdoor activities, nature appreciation, family outings and relaxation.

Four of the best parks to visit in St. Louis this summer include the renowned Forest Park, the gorgeous and verdant Carondelet Park, the urban landscapes of Tower Grove Park, and historic Lafayette Park's lush greenery. Each offers a different way to enjoy St. Louis and beat the heat this summer.

If you're looking for something to do this summer in St. Louis, whether visiting or living in the area, this article will tell you everything you need to know about St. Louis' best parks.

Forest Park

Sprawling over 1,300 acres, Forest Park is the crown jewel of St. Louis's outdoor spaces and one of the largest urban parks in the United States, larger even than Central Park in New York. It's an oasis of green within the bustling city, offering residents and visitors many opportunities for recreation, education, and relaxation.

The park is home to some of the city's most prestigious attractions, including:

• The St. Louis Zoo
• The St. Louis Art Museum
• The St. Louis Science Center
• The Missouri History Museum
• The Muny, the nation's largest outdoor musical theater

These institutions are spread throughout the park, surrounded by landscapes that include forests, prairies, wetlands, and lakes. Further, many of these attractions are open to the public for free, providing perfect indoor alternatives when outdoor temperatures soar.

These institutions are spread throughout the park, surrounded by landscapes that include forests, prairies, wetlands, and lakes. Further, many of these attractions are open to the public for free, providing perfect indoor alternatives when outdoor temperatures soar.

Forest Park was also the site of the 1904 Worlds Fair and the 1904 Olympics.

During the summer, Forest Park becomes a hub of activity, offering paddle boating on the Grand Basin, trails for walking and biking, and picnic areas for families to enjoy. The park's amenities, such as its golf course, tennis courts, baseball fields, and ice rink, also cater to those with a wide range of sports interests. Cyclists and runners will enjoy the many paved routes throughout the park.

Carondelet Park

Opened in 1875 and spanning over 180 acres, Carondelet Park holds a special place in the city's history, named after Baron Francois Louis Hector de Carondelet, a governor of the Louisiana Territory.

The park is characterized by its rolling hills, mature trees, and beautiful bodies of water, including three expansive lakes. These natural features provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities and leisurely walks. Visitors can take advantage of several well-maintained trails for walking, jogging, or biking.

For those interested in recreation and sports, the park features softball and baseball fields, soccer fields, and tennis courts, catering to a range of athletic interests. Additionally, it has several playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a popular choice for families looking to spend quality outdoor time together.

Carondelet Park hosts several events throughout the year. One of this season’s highlights is the Carondelet Summer Concert series, which draws music enthusiasts for evenings of free outdoor music in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Tower Grove Park

Tower Grove Park is a 289-acre park renowned for its charming blend of natural beauty, Victorian-era design, and community-focused amenities. Established in 1868 by Henry Shaw, the same individual who founded the Missouri Botanical Garden, it's one of only four parks in the U.S. designated a National Historic Landmark.

One of the park's unique features is the many exquisite Victorian pavilions. These ornate structures, nestled amidst the park's landscape, are popular for gatherings, picnics, and weddings.

Additionally, Tower Grove Park is home to hundreds of species of trees, and a stroll through the park can feel like a tour of the world's forests.

In terms of recreation, the park features tennis courts, softball fields, and a playground. One of the park's highlights during the summer is the popular Farmers' Market, held each weekend. It offers an array of fresh produce, local goods, and food trucks, fostering a community atmosphere. The last weekend in August, the annual Festival of Nations is held in Tower Grove Park.

Lafayette Park

Located in the historic Lafayette Square neighborhood, Lafayette Park is considered the oldest public park in St. Louis. Spanning over 30 acres, the park was first established in 1836 and was named after Marquis de Lafayette, a French military officer who served as a general in the American Revolutionary War.

Known for its serene ambiance, the park is a delightful green space that offers visitors an escape from the city's hustle and bustle. One of its prominent features is the charming Victorian footbridge that crosses over one of the park's scenic ponds. This is a favorite spot for photographers and a romantic location for couples.

Another focal point of Lafayette Park is the historic Lafayette Park Gazebo, a popular venue for concerts and events. During the summer, this becomes a hub of activity, hosting free, Saturday night concerts that bring the community together for music-filled evenings.

The best part about Lafayette Park is that it's right across the street from Historic Lehmann House Bed & Breakfast, one of the city's most treasured historic buildings, and a beautiful place to stay in the summer.

Stop By Lehmann House During Your Next Trip to St. Louis’ Beautiful Parks!

St. Louis's parks, from the expansive Forest Park to the historic Lafayette Park, offer a wealth of experiences for everyone. And they are all with one block to just five miles away. As you plan your summer itinerary, remember to set aside time to explore these urban oases that make our city truly special.

When you’re planning your trip and want a scenic place to stay while you enjoy the City’s gorgeous parks and neighborhoods, plan to stay at Lehmann House Bed and Breakfast. We’re just a short stroll to no more than ten minutes from the city’s most beautiful parks and best attractions.

For more information go to OUR ROOMS page, then BOOK NOW to get started with your next summer adventure!

Written by Creative Copywriter Chris Davies

For those interested in recreation and sports, the park features softball and baseball fields, soccer fields, and tennis courts, catering to a range of athletic interests. Additionally, it has several playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a popular choice for families looking to spend quality outdoor time together.

 

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