Forest Park

Forest Park is an absolute treasure for St. Louis families, spanning 1,300 acres of green space that's been voted the best city park in America. With five world-class museums, multiple playgrounds, trails for biking and walking, seasonal ice skating, and wide-open spaces for picnics and play, you could spend weeks here and still discover something new each visit.

• ✓Five major FREE institutions: Saint Louis Zoo, Science Center, Art Museum, History Museum, and Muny outdoor theater
• ✓Multiple innovative playgrounds including the Forest Park Playground near Steinberg Skating Rink
• ✓Paddle boats and bike rentals at the Boathouse on Post-Dispatch Lake
• ✓Steinberg Skating Rink offering ice skating in winter and roller skating in summer
• ✓Miles of paved trails perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers with scenic lake views

1. 1.Download a park map before visiting,at 1,300 acres (500 acres larger than Central Park), it's easy to underestimate the distances between attractions
2. 2.Park near whichever attraction you're visiting first, as walking between the zoo, art museum, science center, and history museum can be exhausting for little legs
3. 3.Bring bikes, scooters, or rent paddle boats at the Boathouse to break up museum visits and burn off energy
4. 4.Many of the major institutions (Science Center, Art Museum, Zoo) offer FREE admission, making this an incredibly budget-friendly full day out
5. 5.The playground near the World's Fair Pavilion has restrooms and is centrally located, making it a great meeting point or mid-visit break spot

Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) are least crowded, especially during the school year. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer perfect weather for outdoor activities. Weekend afternoons get busy, particularly near the museums and popular playgrounds.

Parking is free throughout the park with lots near each major attraction. Most museums are free, though some special exhibits charge admission. Food options include the Boathouse restaurant and various snack stands, but many families pack picnics to enjoy on the expansive lawns.

Summer brings free outdoor concerts at the Muny (The Municipal Opera). Winter offers ice skating at Steinberg Rink (November-March). The park hosts Balloon Glow during Fair Saint Louis in July and Shakespeare Festival in summer. Spring features beautiful cherry blossoms, while fall foliage is stunning in October.

The Boathouse in Forest Park offers casual waterfront dining with a kids' menu. Just outside the park, try Fozzie's Sandwich Emporium on Euclid Avenue for kid-friendly sandwiches and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families.