At A Glance
Location: 7385 Grant Rd, St. Louis, MO, 63123
Hours: Vary by Season (Check their website)
Price: Free with a $15 parking fee
History/Overview
Grant’s Farm is a historic farm and long-standing tourist attraction in Grantwood Village, St. Louis. The farm was built by President Ulysses S. Grant on land that was gifted to him by his father-in-law, Frederick Fayette Dent, shortly after he married Julia Dent in 1848. The landmark has also served as the Busch family home since 1903.
The park was originally operated as the Busch family’s private deer park and has been an animal reserve since it opened to the public in 1954. Since its inception, the park has been free of charge to visit, though there is a parking fee of $15, which helps to provide animal care and maintenance for the park.
What to Expect at Grant’s Farm
Grant’s Farm is home to animals such as camels, goats, buffalo, donkeys, elephants, peacocks, kangaroos, and, of course, the legendary Budweiser Clydesdales. Most of these animals are viewed grazing in the deer park, but the Clydesdales are in their nearby pastures and barn.
The farm is also home to Grant’s cabin named “Hardscrabble,” which was built in 1856. This cabin was originally built about a mile from today’s location and was used by a salesman at the 1904 World’s Fair to display products. It was purchased by August Busch Sr 1907 and moved to its current location. Hardscrabble is a must-visit because it’s the only structure remaining that was hand-built by a U.S. president before they assumed office.
Another must-see is the Busch family mansion that’s commonly called the “Big House.” It’s a gorgeous mansion that was built at the turn of the 19th century and features French architectural styles.
In all, Grant’s farm is like a unique mini zoo. A typical tour begins with an open-air tram ride to the Biergarten area, where you are free to roam. In this area, you’ll find many animals such as a bald eagle, fennec fox, lemurs, iguanas, kangaroos, and more. And if you’re hungry or thirsty – this is where you want to be! There are adult beverages available for sample and purchase in the Biergarten and snacks and other options at Showstopper Snacks.
The bottom line is if you are in St. Louis looking for something fun and inexpensive, Grant’s Farm should be at the top of your list. From the rich history to the exciting exhibits, they really do have something for everyone.
FAQs
It is free to get into Grant’s Farm. The only thing you have to pay for is parking, which is a $15 per vehicle fee. However, it’s a good idea to bring extra money because there are lots of tasty foods and drinks available, as well as souvenirs to commemorate your trip!
The Busch family does not live at Grant’s Farm, at least not full-time. The “Big House” that’s located on the property has been their family home since 1903, but at the current time, it’s available for tours. If you’d like to see the inside of the mansion and Grant’s cabin, the cost is $449 and by appointment only.
Yes! Although Grant’s Farm is no longer the main breeding ground, you can still have an up-close meet and greet with many Budweiser Clydesdale adults and babies throughout the year. The best part is that you don’t even have to go inside the main park to see these amazing horses. The barn is located in the main parking lot, so all you have to do is pay for parking and stroll around the barn.