Find Fun, Free Cultural Attractions at St. Louis' Forest Park

Forest Park is one of St. Louis' oldest and most distinguished landmarks. Home to the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Science Center, and much more, it is one of the most loved playgrounds for residents and tourists of all ages. It maintains its historical elements, reminding us of its 1904 World's Fair presentation, yet remains hip and chic, hosting numerous events for the "in crowds" of St. Louis. And it does much of this on a no-cost budget - at least for you.

Dedicated on June 24, 1876, Forest Park was originally positioned outside of the St. Louis city limits - that is, until a new design was created for the 1904 World's Fair, which made it considerably larger; so large in fact, that it out sizes New York's Central Park by 450 acres. Forest Park's four borders are Kingshighway Boulevard to the east (which is home to Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the Washington University Medical Center), Lindell Boulevard to the north, Clayton/Skinker Boulevard and Washington University to the west, and Highway 64/40 to the south. Each of the park's four borders can be considered landmarks themselves, but the park is definitely a fabulous centerpiece to place within those borders.

Once you enter one of the park's four walls you'll understand why it's such a magical place. Filled with gorgeous plant life, you can't help but be consumed by the miraculous essence of nature. As you spiral through the narrow, tree-walled streets, you find beautiful creeks, ponds, small waterfalls, and plenty of seating to enjoy it all. But nature is just the beginning of the wonder and magic of this place. Depending on which entrance you choose to enter, you might run into the St. Louis Zoological Park, or St. Louis Zoo, which is recognized as a leading zoo in animal management and research; the St. Louis Art Museum, rated as one of the top art museums in the country, also completely free (with the exception of special events); the Science Center, a free science museum made up of four separate buildings (on either side of Highway 64/40); and the Missouri History Museum, founded in 1866 and run by the Missouri Historical Society - and did I mention it's free?

One of my favorite yearly events to attend at the Forest Park is The Great Forest Park Balloon Race, held in September, which gets individuals and businesses in the community together with their hot air balloons to race against each other after two fun-filled days of outdoor activities. The balloon race is a free event, however, some of the activities included, such as the petting zoo and obstacle courses, are not. Some other Forest Park's free attractions include the Turtle Playground, Jewel Box (a gorgeous greenhouse), the softball, baseball and soccer fields, World's Fair Pavilion, the bike and running paths, and numerous ponds and lakes for fishing.

But before you get too excited about all the "free-dom", please note that there are a few attractions in the park that cost. For example, The Muny, home to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, is not typically free for most performances; however, the orchestra does offer some free performance nights for children. A small fee also accompanies the Steinberg Skating Rink, a wonderful outdoor ice rink. And of course the Boathouse Restaurant and Boat Rentals are not free, but after the fabulous dining experience, relaxing boat ride, and other free activities, you'll feel your money was well spent.

Forest Park is also home to Forest Park Forever, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising money to aid the restoration and maintenance of the park. Founded in 1995, this organization has set a goal to raise $94 million in public and private funds to help with the park's infrastructure, landscapes, athletic facilities and more. In 2003, a large portion of the restoration was completed, however, there is still more to do, hence the organization's numerous fundraisers held per year.

There is no doubt that Forest Park is a one-stop shop of beauty, grace, fun and culture. And having virtually no cost attachment to the majority of its attractions, it is a fabulous place to visit once or frequently for education and entertainment. Don't be the only one missing out on the fun. Visit St. Louis' Forest Park today!

For more information on Forest Park, visit www.forestparkforever.org.