Forest Park

Overview

Forest Park is one of St. Louis’ most treasured resources. Located in the heart of the city, it is the heart of our city. Forest Park belongs to all St. Louisans.

Owned and operated by the city of St. Louis, Forest Park is one of 110 city parks under the jurisdiction of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry.

Forest Park, officially opened to the public on June 24, 1876, is one of the largest urban parks in the United States.  At around 1,300 acres it is bigger than Central Park in New York.

Today Forest Park attracts more than 12 million visitors a year.  It is more than a scenic backdrop to our city. It is an active participant and catalyst in the St. Louis Community.  Monuments, historic buildings, wildlife, waterways and landscapes combine to form a unique cultural institution that is vitally important to the entire St. Louis region.  The park is recognized as an important gathering place where people of all ages, races and economic backgrounds can gather and mix in a positive way.

Forest Park is home to the region’s major cultural institutions – the Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, Muny Opera, Boathouse, Steinberg Skating Rink, Dwight Davis Tennis Center, Probstein and Highlands golf courses.  It also serves a sports center for golf, tennis, baseball, cycling, fishing, soccer, rugby, running, walking and more.