Known as "the heart of St. Louis," Forest Park is a multi-venue public park in St. Louis, Missouri. It is home of the Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis Science Center, Missouri History Museum, and Saint Louis Art Museum. It attracts more than 12 million visitors from around the globe each year.
Parking and Public Transportation at Forest Park
Street parking is available, although finding a spot near your actual destination can be a gamble, especially on weekends. Hope to find that perfect spot, but prepare to spend some time walking to your venue.
The easier option: take the Metrolink to the Forest Park-DeBaliviere Station, situated at the park's northern tip. From there, during the summer months, you can hop aboard the Forest Park Trolley, which connects to all of the park's attractions.
Best and Worst Times to Go to Forest Park
Forest Park is almost always hopping, especially on weekends and throughout the warm-weather months. Even the cold months can be busy, though, as many of Forest Park's venues host special seasonal events during the fall and winter.
The park is often less crowded in the mid-to-late afternoon hours, after the school groups have gone for the day and before the evening crowds have arrived.
Admission to Forest Park
The park itself is free, as are the Zoo, Science Center, Art Museum, and History Museum. Some of the park's recreational venues, including the Steinberg Skating Rink, Forest Park Golf Course, and Highlands Golf and Tennis Center, charge market price for admission (in the $10-$20 range). Tickets to the outdoor amphitheater, The Muny, range from as low as $15 or so to $100 or more.
Must See/Do at Forest Park
The Zoo is considered one of the world's best, and the Saint Louis Art and Missouri History museums showcase world-class exhibits as well.
The World's Fair Pavilion and Jewel Box greenhouse have received major upgrades in recent years and are popular destinations also.
The hiking, biking, and walking trails in Kennedy Forest and Kennedy Woods feature some of the city's most scenic views.
Other Places to Visit Near Forest Park
Forest Park is only a 10-minute drive west of the Gateway Arch and the rest of downtown St. Louis. The eateries, shops, and entertainment venues in the Loop are situated even closer (less than 2 miles to the north).
Insider's Tip for Visitors to Forest Park
Forest Park has a total of 10 entrances. To alleviate gridlock, avoid the overused Hampton Avenue entrance and circle the park for an alternate point of entry. There are plenty.
Author's Bio: Marcus Whelchel lives, works, and writes in St. Louis, Missouri, with a wife, daughter, and cat who all agree he belongs in the Saint Louis Zoo.
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