Best Parks in St. Louis

Whether you’ve recently relocated to St. Louis or are a long-term resident of the area, you’re likely tired of being cooped up all winter. Now that the weather is warming up, it’s a perfect time to explore all there is to do outdoors in St. Louis. We’ve compiled a list of the most popular area parks, where you’ll find everything from playgrounds to lakes and running trails — something for everyone in your household. 

No matter which neighborhood you live in, each of these St. Louis parks is just a short drive away. The area is filled with urban, rural, and wooded recreation. This list just scratches the surface.

City Garden Sculpture Park

After your family has visited the St. Louis Arch (a.k.a. Gateway National Park), head west down Market Street to marvel at two city blocks of incredible sculptures. Bring a towel if it’s a warm day, as the kids will love the rain gardens, spray plaza, and a 180-foot-long wading pool. 

Forest Park

At 1,300 acres, this St. Louis staple is more than twice as large as New York’s Central Park. It has more than 30 miles of walking and biking trails, along with two golf courses, a cricket field, and racquetball courts. The world-famous St. Louis Zoo is also located in Forest Park, along with the History Museum and more, so pop in for an hour or two or stay for the day. 

BarK

The name says it all: a bar and a park for those who bark! Located off of Highway 44 and Vandeventer, dogs who need to stretch their legs will love this 2-acre outdoor space and 10,000-square-foot indoor space, fully staffed to make sure all dogs get along (if they don’t, they simply get put in time out). The outdoor and indoor bars offer plenty of seating for owners to sit back and watch the dogs have fun. There is a fee for each visit unless you become a member, and you must fill out a waiver before entering. 

Carondelet Park

Two miles of biking and walking trails weave through this park, along with playgrounds, horseshoe pits, ball fields, and stocked lakes for fishing. Its most notable features are the architectural marvels from the early 1900s, including a boathouse and the elegant historic Hollywood-style homes that surround the park (which is how the neighborhood Holly Hills gets its name).  

Fox Park

This place has something for everyone in your family — even the furry ones. It has a playground, splash pad, basketball court, softball field, and an off-leash dog park. You will just need to show proof of pet vaccinations and agree to pick up after your pet. 

Francis Park

Active residents love this St. Louis Hills park, where they can meet up with friends to walk on one of several walking paths or play racquetball, pickleball, handball, or tennis. And if they get thirsty or hungry, the onsite Rockwell Beer Garden offers a variety of craft beers, cocktails, and pizzas from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. 

Tower Grove Park

Runners, walkers, and cyclers all head to Tower Grove for its long, flat, paved path. One lap around the park is 4 miles, and there are lots of flower gardens and fountains to see along the way. Throughout spring and summer, there are also lots of concerts, food trucks, festivals, and a weekly Farmer’s Market.

Suson Park

While this park off of Meramec Bottom Road has a fairly small footprint, there are enough activities available to spend the whole day. Let the kids burn energy at the impressive playground, then take a stroll through the adorable animal farm with full-sized and mini horses, pigs, and goats (make sure to bring some quarters for food to feed them). There’s also a stocked lake for fishing and a mile-long walking path.

Bee Tree Park

Perched high up on the bluff above the Mississippi in Oakville, this park offers breathtaking views, extensive flower gardens, and several scenic trails. It’s a popular place for wedding and homecoming photos, with a historic mansion and barn as perfect backdrops. The playground and pavilions also make it a perfect place to have lunch with the family. 

Logan’s Community Playground

If you’re on your way to Costco, Aldi, or Target with the kids, make sure to stop at this park on St. John Church Road first to tire them out. Conveniently located just off of S. Lindbergh and Highway 55, the inclusive playground was built for children of all abilities in memory of a local little boy.

Watson Trail Park

When it comes to spending time outdoors in St. Louis, there is no shortage of things to do at this favorite Sunset Hills park. It has two playgrounds, tennis and pickleball courts, a 9-hole disc golf course, a basketball court, an aquatic facility, and nature trails. 

Creve Coeur Park

If you enjoy water recreation or love running, cycling, or hiking with water views, head to this Maryland Heights park. It has miles and miles of trails surrounding a 320-acre lake, and you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore it. There’s also a beach, playgrounds, and a disc golf course. 

Faust Park

In addition to a massive turf playground, this Chesterfield park offers a walking trail, an indoor carousel, and a butterfly house where more than 1,000 butterflies fly freely in a glass dome. There’s also a historic village featuring four homes and 16 other structures that showcase the architectural styles from the late 1800s. Last fall, a fairy garden was added in the back of the park, which little ones love. 

Lone Elk Park

As you hike along a 7-mile, 4-mile, or 1.6-mile trail in this wildlife management area off Highway 44, you’re likely to see wild bison, elk, deer, and turkey. There’s also a driving path through the park if the weather gets bad, or if you have small kids that just want to see the animals. 

Sioux Passage Park

If you have horses, this Florissant park has designated riding trails that run along the Missouri River. There’s also a boat ramp and fishing available, along with campsites, walking trails, playgrounds, and tennis and basketball courts. Keep this park in mind when winter comes, as it’s a great place for snowmobiling, sled riding, and cross-country skiing.

Sunset Park

As the name indicates, this is a great place to take in the St. Louis sunset. Hiking and biking trails overlook the Missouri River for fantastic views any time of day, and it’s also a great location for birdwatching. An archery range opened in the park in the summer of 2024.

We know the transition to a new city isn’t easy, which is why our team is specially trained to address your real estate and relocation needs. We can help you find a home near your new office, offer advice for choosing the right school for the kids, and help you discover all there is to do for fun in the St. Louis area.  

When you’re ready to get in touch with our agents, feel free to give us a call.