Top St. Louis Outdoor Fun: Nature & Adventure Activities

St. Louis, almost a midwestern gem, is way more than just its famous Gateway Arch; actually, it is that place just bursting with opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Very often when you’re thinking about a getaway, very big cities might not immediately come to mind when someone says things like ‘nature’ or ‘adventure.’ Still, St. Louis totally bucks that trend, offering quite a collection of parks, trails, and experiences that’ll definitely get your blood pumping and your Instagram feed popping. This review right here shines some light on the top spots to stretch your legs, breathe in that good air, and discover just what makes St. Louis an outdoor lover’s sweet spot. So come tag along and find a new spot you didn’t even know about!

1. Forest Park: The Heart of St. Louis Outdoors

Let’s kick things off with Forest Park; for real, that is the big daddy of St. Louis parks. It’s actually bigger than Central Park in NYC, is that not wild? Now, beyond just its crazy size, it is seriously packed with stuff to do. Very arguably, you could spend days and still not experience everything it has to offer. One way to experience Forest Park is by taking a stroll around the picturesque Jewel Box, that’s almost this amazing art deco greenhouse that showcases striking floral displays. Usually you might find events popping up, such as concerts or art installations, very naturally making every visit different. Don’t forget to visit the Saint Louis Zoo which, frankly, is consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the US… and it’s free!

For the active-hearted person, there are bike trails and walking paths snaking all around the park. Grab your rollerblades and have a very thrilling time in designated lanes. More or less, history buffs might also be keen on visiting the Missouri History Museum, that holds exhibits related to the area’s colorful past. Then there’s the Saint Louis Art Museum, or Laumeier Sculpture Park both offering great art experiences if that suits your mood too it’s almost.

What makes Forest Park Special?

• Variety Galore: Whatever you want to do, it has you covered.
• Iconic Sites: See that Jewel Box and the Museums
• Size Really Does Matter: Room for absolutely everything!

2. Citygarden: An Urban Sculpture Oasis

Alright, so now for something totally different – Citygarden, now that’s in the heart of downtown. It is quite a change of pace from a usual park; that right there features modern and contemporary sculptures set amongst landscaped gardens. And actually it’s totally free and open to the public, the design encourages you to interact with the art; apparently kids especially just enjoy splashing in the spray fountains or sitting on the sculptures. It just kind of feels like this little quirky escape smack dab in that center of everything and you can read more about it at Citygarden’s website.

Usually, what makes Citygarden special is the fact that it’s super accessible. It really is an easy walk from nearly all downtown spots, more or less making it perfect for a noon stroll or a fast breather during a meeting break. Every so often you could find families, professionals on lunch breaks, or out-of-towners very apparently just admiring the art and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.

What’s so cool about Citygarden?

• Art That You Can Touch: How awesome?
• Downtown Convenience: Easy, Easy to get there.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Never really a dull moment.

3. Gateway Arch National Park: History Meets Heights

Clearly, no talk about St. Louis would actually be complete without mentioning the Gateway Arch. It’s almost a super monumental symbol of westward expansion, and the area right around the Arch got transformed into a National Park. Of course, visiting the Arch isn’t really just about snapping a few pictures; that’s literally about experiencing a major part of the U.S. Story. Consider the journey to the top for some impressive views of the city and the Mississippi River, but not before checking into tickets through the official National Park Service website to reserve a slot.

You might consider taking a riverboat cruise right down the Mississippi or checking out the museum just beneath the Arch that features interesting exhibits detailing early pioneer life and its history in general. Very generally there is lots to learn. And arguably if you’re even somewhat physically fit you should be walking or bike riding on many trails on location too it’s almost.

Things you should know about the Gateway Arch Park?

• View From the Top: Truly, the photos won’t do justice to the way the land opens beneath.
• Historical Insight: If you’re a nerd, there are facts and info everywhere!.
• River Fun: Add that Cruise onto your Day.

4. Laumeier Sculpture Park: Art in Nature

Arguably just a little outside of downtown St. Louis lies Laumeier Sculpture Park, which kind of mixes modern art with the openness of green fields. The place just features over 60 sculptures that you can walk around and examine. Unlike a museum where art’s only ever meant to be looked at, here people get to just stroll up to these items, offering really, very striking photo opportunities.

Many visitors might take that Laumeier trail, a walking route which connects various art displays, that’s really the best place to observe park displays. It is generally a super accessible place for everyone too it’s almost. The park has different educational activities, art workshops and special park happenings too it’s almost.

Why is Laumeier Worth a Trip?

• Art That’s Big: Everything feels larger-than-life.
• The Setting is Gorgeous: Perfect spot for a daytime visit
• Fun For Any Age: A friendly and engaging experience for all ages

5. Missouri Botanical Garden: A Floral Paradise

So Missouri Botanical Garden is locally known as “Shaw’s Garden”, it has been this horticultural landmark since way back in 1859. I mean it displays over 79 acres with very thoughtfully planned gardens and exhibitions; that’s really quite a collection of distinct plants from all corners. I mean with serene, quiet paths and just very well maintained plants. In this case, the place is this really pleasant and quite pretty destination for anybody into calm surroundings.

Typically the most highly rated spots include the Japanese Garden, that exhibits peaceful ponds as well as landscaping; in some respects, also, it’s got the Climatron, a geodesic dome housing rain forest types of greenery. It’s almost something for people to spend time at. I suggest checking online to make reservations to secure reservations to see Missouri Botanical Gardens. Furthermore this has seasonal special events that can liven it up even further.

Reasons to go to Missouri Botanical Gardens

• World-Class Floral Shows: Each season shows its distinctive style!.
• Serene Escape: If silence sounds good, consider this.
• All Ages Are Welcome Here: Something to please people of every type