There’s plenty to celebrate about city life, but there are also times when getting back to nature feeds another integral part of our well-being. You can choose to be a couch potato and binge on Netflix from weekend to weekend or get off your butt and pursue some fun and entertainment outdoors with family and friends. In fact, we’re such advocates of a balanced lifestyle that we’ve compiled a list of scenic green spots in St. Louis for you to enjoy:
Forest Park
As one of America’s greatest urban public parks, this green gem is beautifully maintained and taken care of by Forest Park Forever, a private nonprofit conservancy that works hand in hand with St. Louis. Here, you’ll get to enjoy stunning landscapes, natural lakes and streams, as well as nature reserves and forests, all balancing delicately on a well-designed ecosystem.
Location: 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112
Opening Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Open 7 Days a Week)
Website: https://www.forestparkforever.org/
Admission: FREE
Citygarden Urban Park
If you’re expecting to see the usual greenery, placid lakes and wooden benches found in most parks, you’ll definitely get an eye-opening experience in St. Louis’ popular downtown urban park. The little ones will get to enjoy the wading pools and free-running spaces all around, but if you’re looking for some quiet contemplation, there are also plenty of spaces and inspiring art pieces to stir your inner soul.
Location: 801 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63101
Opening Hours: Sunrise to 10 p.m. (Opens 7 Days a Week)
Website: http://www.citygardenstl.org/
Admission: FREE
Grant’s Farm
Interested to get up close with animals from all over the world? Well, you would think that this opportunity was only available in major zoos, but you’ll be wrong. At Grant’s Farm, you’ll get to marvel at hundreds of animals, including the ever-famous Budweiser Clydesdales made popular by the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company. If you’re up for a tram ride on your visit, you’ll get to enjoy one that goes right through the middle of the park.
Location: 10501 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123
Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Friday), 9:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m. (Saturday & Sunday)
Website: https://www.grantsfarm.com/
Admission: FREE (but attractions are priced separately)
Cahokia Mounds
Just like the name suggests, you’ll get to view an amazing spectacle: an archaeological site that was once home to the most advanced civilization north of Mexico. In fact, this historically important area has been designated as a World Heritage Site by the U.N. and plays an integrative role in early Native American history. You can enjoy exploring the top of the mounds, go on a special tour, or even learn more from the exhibits on display.
Location: Collinsville, IL
Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset (Open 7 Days a Week)
Website: https://cahokiamounds.org/
Admission: FREE
Laumeier Sculpture Park
Natural green beauty is punctuated with harmonious outdoor art sculptures that feature the many talents of St. Louis. Just stroll along and admire the many creative art pieces placed thoughtfully around the park. Depending on the period, there will also be special exhibitions, as well as events suited for the entire family. If you’re interested in visiting their annual art fair, just get a slot ready for Mother’s Day weekend.
Location: 12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, MO 63127
Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to Sunset (Open 7 Days a Week)
Website: http://www.laumeiersculpturepark.org/
Admission: FREE
Lone Elk Park
Looking for a fantastic area with plenty of trails and tons of wildlife? Well, if you’re not adverse to coming across wild turkeys, bison, elk, deer, and waterfowl, this is a great place to start your adventure. Rather than travel abroad to join a safari, you have the luxury of taking your time and getting up close with these beautiful creatures every single day.
Location: 1 Lone Elk Park Rd, Valley Park, MO 63088
Opening Hours: From 6:30/7 a.m. to Sunset (Open 7 Days a Week)
Website: https://www.stlouisco.com/parksandrecreation/parkpages/loneelk
Admission: FREE
The treasures of nature are best viewed up close, and you can definitely do that on a scenic ride with our St. Louis car service. Experience top-notch service, comfort and stunning views like no other with our dependable chauffeurs. We’ll love to have you on board, so just reach out to us at any time. We are happy to provide the best St. Louis limousine service.