Introduction
Forest Park is a sprawling urban park located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri. The park spans over 1,300 acres and offers a variety of attractions, including museums, gardens, lakes, and more. With over 12 million visitors every year, Forest Park is one of the most popular destinations in the city.
St. Louis Art Museum
The St. Louis Art Museum is one of the top art museums in the country, with over 34,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes ancient art, European paintings, American art, and more. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is a popular restaurant located on the edge of Post-Dispatch Lake. The restaurant offers a variety of American cuisine and has outdoor seating with stunning views of the lake. Visitors can also rent paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the lake.
St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo is a world-class zoo that houses over 18,000 animals from 700 species. The zoo is divided into several exhibits, including Big Cat Country, River’s Edge, and Penguin and Puffin Coast. The zoo also hosts several events throughout the year, such as Boo at the Zoo during Halloween.
St. Louis Science Center
The St. Louis Science Center is a great place for families to learn and explore science. The science center has over 700 exhibits, including a planetarium, a life science lab, and an interactive discovery room. The science center also hosts several special events throughout the year.
The Muny
The Muny is a 100-year-old outdoor theater that hosts several Broadway-style shows throughout the summer. The theater has 11,000 seats and offers a variety of shows, including musicals, plays, and concerts. The Muny is one of the oldest and largest outdoor theaters in the country.
The Grand Basin
The Grand Basin is a beautiful body of water located in the center of the park. The basin is surrounded by several walking paths and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. Visitors can also rent paddleboats to explore the basin.
The Jewel Box
The Jewel Box is a beautiful greenhouse that houses a variety of exotic plants and flowers. The greenhouse is open year-round and is a popular spot for weddings and other events. Visitors can also stroll through the surrounding gardens and fountains.
Places to Stay During Your Visit
There are plenty of hotel options near Forest Park to enjoy, but if you’re looking to get a taste of what St. Louis looked like in the 1800’s, you might consider staying in Soulard. There are not many hotels in Soulard, but you can hang out just like a local at one of the many AirBnB’s the area boasts. Our favorite is Zen 1 Bdrm – Historic Soulard – Near Everything. It has a ton of historical charm, and is conveniently located in a quiet part of town while still being walking distance to many of the attractions of Soulard.
Conclusion
Forest Park is a must-visit destination in St. Louis, with a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. From museums to theaters to outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful park. So, if you’re planning a trip to St. Louis, make sure to add Forest Park to your list of must-visit destinations.
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