St. Louis may be known for its iconic Gateway Arch and bustling city life, but it’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking trails to golf courses and parks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in this Midwestern city. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting into outdoor activities, St. Louis has something for everyone. This article will explore some of the best outdoor recreational opportunities in St. Louis so that you can make the most of your time in the Gateway City.
Hiking and Biking
St. Louis is home to many great places for hiking and biking. One of the most popular destinations for these activities is Forest Park, which covers over 1,300 acres and features a wide range of trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, you’ll find something to suit your needs in Forest Park. The park’s scenic roads are also great for biking, and you can rent a bike on-site if you don’t have your own.
In addition to Forest Park, there are many other great places to go hiking and biking in St. Louis. Castlewood State Park, which is located just outside of the city in nearby Ballwin, features more than 20 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The Riverfront Trail, which runs along the Mississippi River, is another popular spot for both activities, offering beautiful views of the water and the city skyline.
Playing Golf
Golfers will find plenty of options in St. Louis, with a variety of public and private courses to choose from. One of the most popular public courses is Forest Park Golf Course, which is located within Forest Park and offers stunning views of the city skyline. This 18-hole course is perfect for players of all skill levels, with a mix of challenging and more forgiving holes.
Other top public courses in the area include Normandie Golf Club and The Old Warson Country Club. Normandie Golf Club is known for its challenging layout, while The Old Warson Country Club is a beautiful course with well-manicured greens.
If you’re looking for a more exclusive golfing experience, there are several private courses in the area as well. Some of the top options include Bellerive Country Club, which has hosted several major golf tournaments, and Bogey Hills Country Club, which features a beautiful 27-hole course.
Outdoor Family Attractions
If you’re looking for some indoor-outdoor fun, be sure to visit the St. Louis Zoo or Missouri Botanical Garden. Both of these popular attractions are located in the city and offer something for everyone.
The St. Louis Zoo is home to over 18,000 animals and is one of the top-rated zoos in the country. Visitors can see animals from all around the world, including lions, tigers, gorillas, and polar bears. The zoo also has several interactive exhibits, such as the Children’s Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with some of their favorite animals.
The Missouri Botanical Garden is another must-see destination in St. Louis. This beautiful 79-acre garden features a wide range of plants and flowers, as well as a stunning conservatory with exotic plants from around the world. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, or take a guided tour to learn more about the plants on display. The garden also has a picturesque lake that’s perfect for a leisurely paddle boat ride.
Take a Leisurely Stroll by the Mississippi Riverfront
The Riverfront Trail is a great place to take a leisurely walk or jog in St. Louis. This scenic trail runs along the Mississippi River and offers beautiful views of the water and the city skyline.
The Riverfront Trail is a popular destination for runners, with a flat and well-maintained surface that’s perfect for a quick jog or a longer run. There are plenty of benches and rest areas along the way, making it easy to take a break and enjoy the views.
The Riverfront Trail is also a great place to take a leisurely walk, whether you’re looking to take in the sights or just get some fresh air. The trail is well-lit and safe, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful evening stroll.
Attend an Outdoor Sporting Event
St. Louis is a great place for sports fans, with a variety of teams and venues to choose from. One of the top destinations for sports in the city is Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.
The Cardinals are one of the most successful baseball teams in history, with 11 World Series titles to their name. Attending a game at Busch Stadium is a must-do for any sports fan visiting St. Louis. The stadium is known for its great atmosphere and fan-friendly amenities, including plenty of food and drink options.
If baseball isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other sporting events to choose from in St. Louis. The Enterprise Center, home of the St. Louis Blues hockey team, is another popular destination for sports fans. The Blues have a passionate fan base and the atmosphere at their games is electric.
Watch a Show at The Muny
If you’re in the mood for some live entertainment, be sure to check out the Muny in St. Louis. This outdoor amphitheater is located in Forest Park and is home to the Muny Opera, one of the oldest and largest outdoor musical theater companies in the country.
The Muny presents a variety of shows each summer, ranging from classic musicals to contemporary hits. Past productions have included favorites like “The Music Man,” “Grease,” and “The Wizard of Oz.” The Muny’s stage is also home to the Muny Kids, a group of young performers who put on their own productions throughout the summer.
The Muny is a beloved institution in St. Louis and tickets to its shows are highly sought after. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to get your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on this unique entertainment experience.
Closing Thoughts
St. Louis is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities for nature lovers of all kinds. From hiking and biking in Forest Park to golfing at one of the city’s many courses, there’s something for everyone in this Midwestern gem. Whether you’re into outdoor family attractions, hiking, or just soaking up the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of options in St. Louis. So why wait? Pack your bags and head to St. Louis to experience all that this city has to offer.