St. Louis Mom’s Guide to Parks and Playgrounds

At 630 feet high, you get a bird’s eye view of our great city! Busch Stadium, The Wheel at Union Station, the Old Courthouse … you can see it all! You’ll love experiencing this with your family any time of the year. Not only can you go up in the arch, but you can also spend a morning or afternoon there in the newly renovated space at the bottom – so much to do!

✔️Top of the Arch (make reservations ahead of time)
✔️Museum – so much to see and learn
✔️Theater – learn how the Arch was built (make reservations)
✔️Gift Shop – souvenirs and gifts for everyone
✔️Cafe – because #snacks

Everything is stroller friendly EXCEPT taking the tram to the top. If you have a baby carrier, that’s the way to go if you want to go up in the arch all together!

Moms, they have a cafe with lattes, so treat yourself. If you haven’t experienced the arch yet, it’s a must! And even if you have, it never gets old!

Citygarden is an urban sculpture park located in downtown St. Louis. The park is an oasis of free interactive art, fountains and gardens spanning two blocks in downtown St. Louis. Paved, winding paths lead visitors past 24 sculptures resting on wide lawns, six rain gardens, a children’s spray plaza and a 180-foot-long pool with a six-foot waterfall. PRO TIP: Don’t miss Citygarden in the fall, you’ll find some gorgeous foliage!

Don’t miss this gem in the middle of the city! Tucked in between the sculpture garden and the arch, you’ll find a playground and fountains. Their shade garden is a sweet spot to relax while you’re there! This park provides plenty of tables and benches as well.

The Forest Park Nature Playscape is a 17-acre natural playscape. There are nine different activity areas including sand play, willow tunnels, stump steppers, boulders and rocks, hand water pumps, and more. 

The amenities in Forest Park do not stop at the Nature Playscape, however! Wander through the Jewel Box, which is open to the public and has a low $1 admittance fee, and take in the tropical plants and trees, blooming flowers, and water exhibits. Take time to explore the St. Louis Art Museum and in the summer, catch a performance at the Muny outdoor theater.

For gorgeous views of Forest Park, stop by the World’s Fair Pavilion. You’ll find beauty throughout the park as it boasts lakes, basins, statues, and monuments.

Beyond the aesthetics, you can find an archery range, handball and racquetball courts, rugby fields, tennis and sand volleyball courts, paved trails for hiking and biking, a golf course, and plenty of picnic areas. Forest Park is also home to Steinberg Ice Rink.

Located right outside the Forest Park Visitor’s Center! This was one of the very first playgrounds in St. Louis to be fully accessible to children of all abilities. Tucked in away form the hustle and bustle of the park, it’s a great spot for kids of all ages!

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Turtle Playground, part of Forest Park, might give you a familiar feeling because it was designed by City Museum founder Bob Cassilly. The Tamm Avenue overpass near the Saint Louis Zoo parking lot gives you direct access to the. park. A parking lot is nestled between the playground and the large climbing turtles. There are lots of turtles and eggs to climb, including hatched turtles and a big snake. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 pm. 

Did you know Lafayette Park was dedicated in 1851 as the first public park in the City of St. Louis? Fall is a beautiful time of year to take a walk around this scenic park! Your kiddos will love exploring the picturesque pathways and charming gazebos and ponds. And we can’t forget to mention their sweet little playground too!

Did you know that Soulard Market is the oldest farmers market this side of the Mississippi? Right next door is Soulard Market Park, a large green space which often hosts fairs and events. An ideal spot for a picnic with the goodies you gathered from the market! Within the Fleur de Lis iron fence surrounding the park, you’ll find a bandstand and two playground areas. 

➡️ Fenced in Playground

Tower Grove Park is both a park and arboretum. Here you will find no shortage of gorgeous spots for photos! Packed with picnic areas and pavilions, it’s a beautiful setting in which to gather or relax. Walk along the many paths and take in the wild bird garden or lily ponds. 

For recreation, Tower Grove offers tennis courts and a playground. The playground on the East side has both ADA features for accessibility, and shade!

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

🌳 Shaded

Francis Park is a hub for community. A true neighborhood park at heart, it also has so many fun events and attractions that warmly welcome neighbors from all around our city (Grub and Groove, Art in the Park, Brew in the Lou, fitness classes, toddler music classes, soon to be Rockwell Beer Garden (!!!) just to name a few).

The everyday at Francis Park is what makes it so special, however. At any time of day, the park is filled with kids and families enjoying all that it has to offer. You can walk around the well paved walking trail that surrounds the park and gush over the beautiful historic homes, check out the ducks at the lily pad pond, enjoy a picnic in the massive green space, play on the big playground (with bathrooms and a drinking fountain!), or explore the magical fairy gardens. The playground has been newly renovated, adding more things to climb, swings, and a padded surface.

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Fox Park is one of St. Louis’ many neighborhood parks. With a play structure and splash pad play area, this little park is a fun spot for kids all year round. 

Older kids enjoy the Fox Park Basketball Court and ball fields. Even your four-legged pup can play at the Fox Park Dog Park!

This park has a smaller toddler playground, and one for older kids. The playground is fenced in, as is the walking path which makes this a great park to walk your dog. They even have a pet waste station.

➡️ Fenced in Playground

Carondelet Park is St. Louis’ third largest park! You’ll find a gorgeous boathouse on the water at this stately park, along with a rec center and pool, walking paths, tennis courts, ball fields, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds.

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This smaller park has a completely fenced in playground. It also boasts a fitness station, Archery, and a baseball field.

➡️ Fenced in playground

Willmore park has two lakes, soccer and baseball fields, tennis courts, a dog park, an all-abilities playground, and a splash pad. 

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Let’s explore St. Ferdinand Park in Florissant! This large park is worth adding to your list of explorations!

We love hot air balloon-themed playground appropriate for various ages and stages, lots of spots for a picnic, a long walking path, and a beautiful lake to stroll beside.

Don’t forget to visit some other historic Florissant gems before you head home, including Made by Lia, Hendel’s Cafe, and Old Town Donuts!

A visit to the historic St. Ferdinand Shrine would be well worth your time, too!

This all-inclusive playground nestled in North County is an absolute treasure! Beautifully designed with bright and lively colors, this playground is created for children of all abilities. There are various play structures available, including slides, stepping stones, various swings, and a play structure designed for children under 5. The poured rubber is forgiving for those inevitable park tumbles! There are a few different shaded benches, in addition to some covered picnic tables and of course a pavilion. The pavilion, restrooms and parking lot are all within close distance of the playground. Add this gem to your list! It’s worth it!

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

This park in Ferguson is a relaxing picnic spot. Covered pavilions lend shade, or you can hike or bike on one of the multiuse trails. Kids enjoy the newly renovated playground, or fishing in the 5.5 acre lake. This park is conveniently located next to the Splash at Wabash Aquatic Complex.

There’s a paved trail that takes you to the shore of the Missouri River!

Let’s visit another park… Shaw Park in Clayton! Here’s the scoop:

• Splash pad
• Fenced-in play area
• Play structures for all ages
• Covered pavilion for a picnic and bathroom with a changing table
• Sensory garden
• Nestled in the heart of Clayton, we love all the local shops and eateries you can visit before or after park time!

Happy hour at Five Star Burgers is one of the best deals in town and so family friendly!

Planning some morning playtime? Stop for a crepe from The Creperie or take coffee to go from Northwest Coffee! Or why not pre-park brunch at Half and Half?

Tag us if you go! Where should we venture to next?

➡️ Fenced in play area

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

We all know this park for hosting Winter Wonderland every holiday season, but families enjoy this park year round! It has two playgrounds, a spray fountain play area, tennis courts, fishing, and trails! This park has plenty of restroom areas, and lots of trees provide shade in the heat of the summer.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

🌳 Shaded

This perfectly picturesque park in Rock Hill has something for everyone – including the perfect IG photo of your littles.

Make it a day outing! Start with a cup of coffee from the nearby Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. After some playtime grab lunch at Katie’s Pizza! 

Oak Knoll Park is one of our favorite local parks with lots of options for play and exploration! 

Here’s what we love the most:

• The fountain and pond where you can spy turtles out on the rocks!
• A beautiful walking path that leads to a hidden and picturesque sunken garden.
• A fully fenced in, woodland-themed playground. The bathroom is a solid 5 minute walk from the playground, so take note of that if you have multiple children to supervise.
• A great picnic area next to the playground where you can enjoy lunch outdoors!

We give this park two solid thumbs up and this is the perfect time of year to explore it!

➡️ Fenced in playground

🌳 Shaded

Oak Tree Park is a hidden gem! This playground is suitable for tiny toddlers up to age 12. It’s has a substantial pavilion with bathrooms, drinking fountains and picnic tables.

In the summer it can get pretty hot because of a lack of shade cover but in the colder months it’s just perfect on a sunny day!

We love the paved trail perfect for walking, scootering or biking.

Fillmore Park in Kirkwood is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s just a short walk from the Magic House. The ground is made from artificial turf so no worrying about muddy boots! There is very little shade cover which makes it a great park for the colder months. We love the covered pavilion and picnic tables as it’s a great space for having a snack or hosting a birthday party. There are no restrooms so plan accordingly!

Kirkwood Park is a short walk from downtown Kirkwood. The playground is designed for children ages 2-12. It’s surrounded by baseball fields, tennis courts, an amphitheater and Walker Lake! In the summer we love that you can grab a cold treat at Tropical Moose!

How fun! A bug-themed playground! Complete with swings, two play areas for varying ages, and a rock wall! There is plenty of shade on this playground to keep kids cool.

Larson Park also has ballfields, tennis courts, trails, a creek, and a fire pit. 

There’s something for everyone here!

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Deer Creek Park is also known as “Rocket Park” for its unique play structure. The colorful playground is shaped like a giant rocket, complete with slides of various heights. You’ll also find a variety of swings and a rock wall. The play surface is pea gravel, and kids can scoop, dig, and play in it!

This park also offers lighted soccer and baseball fields, an unlit softball field, a sand volleyball court, and a walking trail.

Stacy Park, located in Olivette, is a favorite of ours as an all-inclusive, accessible playground with play structures for all ages AND a completely enclosed toddler playground! There’s a large pavilion for gatherings, in addition to lots of space for picnics. Take note the restroom is a bit far from the playgrounds. Parking is a bit of a trek from the playground, but there is a huge space to park.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

➡️ Fenced in playground

King Park has a playground, basketball courts, and a reservable shelter. 

🌳 Shaded

We had so much fun exploring the playground at Irv Zeid Citizen’s Park in Olivette!

If you have a climber, a kid that loves obstacle courses and balancing- this is a must visit!

There is a LARGE shaded pavilion with BBQ’s which would make for an excellent gathering of friends and family.

Check out this fun and unique playground!

🌳 Shaded

In the Old Town neighborhood in Clayton, you’ll find Taylor Park. Colorful gardens and a gazebo add to the charm of this neighborhood gem. With plenty of shade, you’ll want to pack a picnic and spend the afternoon.

A large, open grassy area is the site to games and free play.

The playground offers swing, slides, and climbing areas. The play area is mostly enclosed by fencing. 

➡️ Mostly Fenced in playground

🌳 Shaded

This playground nestled in the Demun neighborhood is a GEM! There are two play areas for younger and older children, with clean restrooms nearby and a mister for those hot summer days! Take a stroll and stop for a scoop at Clementine’s Creamery nearby OR an iced latte at Kaldi’s! Our only (minor) complaint is the street parking, but it’s usually not too difficult to find a spot!

There are shaded benches, and a small paved trail for walking or riding bikes and scooters.

➡️ Fenced in playground

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This tiny park is nestled in the heart of residential Maplewood. There are four swings too (two for babies, two regular). Dogs with leashes are welcome! Plenty of street parking is available. The park is just one block from Flavor360 which sells healthy food/snacks, and there is a free library box on the corner as well!

➡️ Fenced in playground

Avery Park is a smaller, neighborhood park. It has a fenced in playground, basketball court, misting station, pavilion, swings, and a walking path.

➡️ Fenced in playground

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This playground was recently renovated and is fully fenced in! There are ample climbing features, slides, and all-ability swings.

➡️ Fenced in playground

While a very small park, you’ll find a playground and a multi-use court for all to use. The playground equipment has been upgraded.

➡️ Fenced in playground

🌳 Has some shade

Located at 8600 Strassner, this 15.5 acre park is nestled in a well-wooded area. There are two outdoor pavilions,  a toddler and a youth playground, in-line skating rink, restrooms, drinking fountains, nature hiking trails and asphalt trails.

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An accessible and inclusive playground. It has saucer swings and adaptive swings in addition to baby swings. This playground has a firetruck play structure and is fenced in.

➡️ Fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

The park is located right off of Manchester Road – just turn onto Kiefer Creek Road at the Ellisville QT! When you enter the park, you stay right to go past the water park, tennis courts, and amphitheater, and you can park right next to the playground. The playground is mostly (not completely) fenced with two separate areas for play – one area for the little kids, and a bigger playground for the big kids – and some swings at the end, with infant and handicap-friendly swings. In between the two play areas are some shaded picnic tables, perfect for chatting with your mom friends as you drink your coffee and watch the kiddos! 

Bluebird has nature walking trails throughout the park to go on adventures together. There are baseball fields and pavilions available for rent. We hosted multiple outdoor MOPS meetings and my son’s birthday at Bussman Pavilion this past year – and it was perfect! In the summertime, we frequent The EDGE Aquatic Center, where there is a dedicated toddler time at the splash pad first thing in the morning and swim lessons or swim team options available. Tennis lessons are also offered throughout the year.

➡️ Mostly Fenced-in Playground

Have you been to Ferris Park in Ballwin? It’s a great park for all seasons! The water features makes this one unique! There are two separate playgrounds, one a perfect fit for toddlers, while the other is more suited to older kids. There is a small seating area by the playground, as well as larger covered pavilions with barbecue pits for picnics and gatherings. A large field adjacent to the playground area rounds out this neighborhood park.

New Ballwin Park is a hidden gem, tucked off of New Ballwin Road. This neighborhood park has a stocked pond for fishing, with a fishing deck and is surrounded by a paved trail, perfect for walks and turtle sightings!

The park itself has a playground, basketball courts, pickle ball, and tennis courts. Covered pavilions are perfect for a picnic or just some sought-after shade in those summer months!

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Have you visited Wildwood Community Park?

There are unique structures and swings for all ages – including walking trails and paths for biking. Nestled in the woods is a cool creek for splashing, watching tadpoles, or skipping rocks. The path to the creek is paved, making access a cinch!

This park has a large covered pavilion with many tables, perfect for a shady lunch or a large gathering. This park also offers many shady spots throughout. 

Make it a day with some coffee from @starbucks or @sunnystreetcafe. You can grab lunch at @lettylouscafe and finish it off with some ice cream from @histbigchief @mainstreetcreamery_washmo at the nearby Town Center.

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Have you visited Faust Park in Chesterfield?

Aside from the great playground you see here, there are walking trails and even a historic village you can explore. The playground has play areas for both younger and older kids. The St. Louis Carousel and Butterfly House are right next door, too!

Grab breakfast at the nearby First Watch or lunch at El Troquero. Head down Clarkson for some sweets from Sarah’s Cake Shop or Small Treats.

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Teddy + Friends Inclusive Playground is open in Queeny Park!

Such an inviting, colorful, inclusive playground that welcomes all kids to play together! With a boardgame theme, kids will recognize areas from Candy Land to Hungry, Hungry Hippos! The playground is entirely fenced in, making it a safe spot for exploration.

Queeny Park is also a fabulous, shady park filled with trails so enjoy a family hike or bike ride while you’re there! As an equestrian-friendly park, you may even spy horses on those trails!

➡️ fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Moms will appreciate the clean bathrooms, easy parking, and a playground where you’re able to visibly see your child at all times!

Your kids will LOVE the sweet fairy houses along the small trails leading from the playground, the endless opportunities for exploration, the playground with plenty of swings, and HORSES!

As moms who have explored this park on countless occasions, we recommend wearing tennis shoes that can get dirty or rain boots if you plan on exploring the trails! And lastly if you have a toddler, bring a stroller!! You don’t want to have a meltdown at the bottom of the hill and carry them all the way back to the parking lot!!

Twin Oaks Park is in Twin Oaks city at Highway 141 and Big Bend. This is a small park but gorgeous and with so many things to do. You will find a playground with areas for both toddlers and bigger kids. A big xylophone, rock climbing and swings for all. You can also bring your teens and let them play at the volleyball, tennis or basketball court.

If you plan on a outdoor party, there’s lot of space and shaded picnic tables (with a clean restroom).

I am delighted about the beautiful walking track, where we can spot some fishes from the lovely bridges.

In case you haven’t visited Twin Oaks Park, I think it’s time to try it, I’m sure you will be surprised with the beauty and potential of this place.

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Pioneer Park is a neighborhood favorite! A .29 mile walking trail loops around. Two playgrounds offer play areas for varying ages. Older kids enjoy the baseball / softball field, soccer field, basketball, and tennis courts. 

This shaded park is a great summer option! The play fountain will keep little ones cool in those hot months, as well.

The bathrooms are open year-round.

🌳 Shaded

🚻 Year-round bathrooms

Drace Park provides a unique combination of a large traditional playground, several smaller natural playscapes, and a few pieces of St.Louis County history. Drace Park also has a walking trail, clean restrooms and a beautiful pavilion. It’s easy to see why we love it!

The historic log cabins are my favorite. Each one has a display explaining its history to the area. One is even open to walk through with blocks for kids to build with.

My boys’ favorites are the many natural playscapes. This includes a tree stump obstacle course, a small sandbox, a water feature, a tunnel in the woods and a large area to build with rocks and wood pieces.

Drace Park is super easy to get to, right off hwy 40 & Ballas near the Clayton/Ballas intersection.

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Vlasis Park has something for everyone! Their playground just underwent a complete overhaul. You will now find a hillside play section with slides, new swings for various abilities, the toddler play area is separate from the big kid one, sensory play, and an updated splash pad!

A paved walking path encircles a cute duck pond with small waterfalls. Fishing is permitted at Vlasis Park. The paved path will take you past a baseball field and tennis courts, as well.

The playground itself boasts plenty of tables with umbrellas to catch some shade, while larger tables under covered pavilions surround the playground area.

Don’t miss Ballwin Days, the city’s fun-filled celebration held at Vlasis Park each summer!

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What can’t you find at Des Peres park? Des Peres Park has two separate playgrounds, one for toddlers, and another for bigger kids. You’ll also find a play fountain in the summer, pinic areas, soccer and baseball fields, shuffleboard courts, pickleball and tennis courts, a parcourse fitness trail, bike and jogging trails, a reservable gazebo, and a fishing lake. 

This park is a scenic one, and is a great spot for impromptu family photos. Many teens come here to take photos before school dances. 

Vago Park is a must visit! There are two smaller playgrounds closer to the main entrance, right next to a sandy volleyball court and an AWESOME splash pad!

If you continue a bit down the road, you’ll find a newer playground with TWO ziplines, and one is ADA accessible! The restrooms are right next to the playground (very clean!) and there are lots of unique slides and climbing structures! There is also a fitness zone right next to the playground where adults can squeeze in a workout 

Add this to your list! Pack a lunch and your swimsuit for the splash pad and make a day of it! There isn’t much shade to be found in the main playground area, so it could be a good idea to start there and finish at the splash pad! 

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Venable Memorial Park is one of the busier parks in Creve Coeur! It has a half-mile paved trail, tennis courts, a soccer field, two playgrounds, barbecue grills, and a picnic pavilion. 

The shade in this park makes it enjoyable to visit in the hot summer months. You’ll even find a creek right alongside the playground!

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The Meramec River winds throughout Castlewood State Park, and a lush valley surrounds it. Here you will find plenty of hiking and biking trails, and some gorgeous views! 

You can also fish in Castlewood, and there is a wide open playground area. 

This is a popular park, and it does get overcrowded at peak times. When it does, the parking areas can be closed for admittance until the crowd thins.

This 14.25 acre park located on the east side of Bald Hill Road features two lighted tennis courts (also lined for pickleball), two lighted athletic fields, two unlighted athletic fields, pavilion with electricity and grills, restrooms (open year round) and playground. The park is open from dawn until dusk year round.

Lions Park is ADA accessible.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

🚻 Year-round restrooms

This 23.10-acre park is located across from Forby Estates Subdivision. The park’s 1/3 mile trail connects to Eureka High School and is home to the Eureka Dog Park.  The park has one pavilion that is first come first served and one pavilion available to rent.

Berry Park is ADA accessible. 

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Travel through history on The Mother Road at Route 66 State Park. Route 66 captured Americans’ imagination and exposed millions of citizens to small towns across the country. Sample a slice of that at Route 66 State Park’s visitor center, which has displays showcasing the road. The visitor center is the former Bridgehead Inn, a 1935 roadhouse that sat on the original Route 66. The park’s location, close to metro St. Louis, provides visitors with a quick getaway to nature. More than 40 types of birds have been identified in the park, and picnic sites and trails are sprinkled throughout the park.

Generations of Missourians have passed through Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park’s massive stone gateway for cookouts and family get-togethers or to spend time with friends. The park’s camping facilities, Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, and hiking, bicycling and equestrian trails help all visitors find their place to get away from it all, just minutes from St. Louis. A playground is located in the day-use area at the Guy Park Trailhead, however it is temporarily closed due to storm damage.

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Everything you’re looking for in a park! At Creve Coeur Park, you’ll find four different playgrounds, a spray fountain play area, tennis courts, disc golf, archery, a recreational lake and beach area (non-gasoline boats only) and a waterfall. Swimming is not allowed. 

This park has three different play areas: swings next to a sand volleyball court, a larger playground with accessible swings and a splash pad, and a third playground with a water pole.

Creve Coeur Park is a great one for biking with kids. The flat, paved trails make biking a joy for all!

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Lone Elk Park is a drive through wildlife park. You’ll see bison, elk, deer, ducks, turtles, and more! Fishing is available by reservation only. Lone Elk  Park also has trails for hiking through certain areas. 

No pets are allowed in the park.

PRO TIP: the animals are fed first thing in the morning, so arriving before 8 am will give you the best chance to see animals. Guests can enter as early as 6:30 am.

A local mom favorite! This tiny little gem, located in the heart of a Wildwood neighborhood, is completely fenced in! You will also find some shade here.

Parking is limited as it is a neighborhood park that many will walk, run, or bike to. Bicycle racks are available.

➡️ Fenced in playground

🌳 Shaded

Fenton City Park is a sprawling park with lots of green space. It has 7 different shelters, a softball field, a soccer field, basketball courts, and pickleball courts. The playground is shaded. And if your kids like to play Pokemon Go, this is a great park to wander and catch Pokemon!

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Suson Park is fun all year round!! Enjoy this free, darling working farm in South County! Say hello to chickens, goats, cows, horses and more!! Bring quarters and you can feed the animals. The farm is open 10:30 am – 3 pm from October through March and 10:30 am – 5 pm from April – September.

You’ll also find a stocked lake for fishing, so bring those fishing poles!

Restrooms should be open and available year round. Don’t miss the nearby playground as well! 

🚻 Year-round bathrooms

Grab some oats and head to Watson Trail Park to feed ducks and play on the nature playground! The lower playground and pond are located down the hill from the upper playground. Go right on the path and down the hill. You’ll find the cutest pond tucked down at the bottom with hungry ducks just waiting to be fed. Bring some oats along (they are easier on ducks stomachs) and watch them scoop the oats right up!

Biggest bonus: zipline and water bottle filling stations

Pro Tip: use the bathroom in the upper parking lot before heading down! There is no bathroom at the lower playground.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

If you’ve got a little (or big!) thrill seeker at home, check out Rayburn Park in Crestwood!

This small playground packs a big punch with its swinging zip line!

My four year old absolutely loved the zip line but it took us a couple tries together for me to feel comfortable with her on it. The initial drop is a bit JOLTY (is that a word?) so be aware!!

There is a considerable amount of shade in the summer with all the leafy trees overhead and picnic tables for visitors!

If you continue up the walkway, you’ll find a smaller playground for younger children with swings!

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This park has a new playground area, as well as a new splash pad that is activated by a motion-sensor on the ground. A small creek runs alongside the restrooms, as well. 

Older kids will enjoy the basketball court, baseball field, and volleyball area. 

Bohrer Park has a playground, tennis courts, and a spray fountain area in addition to athletic fields. There are plenty of open grassy spots under the trees for a family picnic!

The Crestwood Park is a cute neighborhood park, with a playground that has a rubberized safety surface. In addition, there are sports fields, tennis courts, and a walking trail. 

This park also has sledding hills!

The Stieren Inspirational Site is home to two shelters and a playground area.  It is along the trail loop connected to Minnie Haha Park.  Sand volleyball courts and the athletic fields are adjacent to the site.  The two shelters are available for reservation on weekends.  During the week they are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

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Located in Westhoff Memorial Park, Brendan’s Playground was O’Fallon’s first all-inclusive playground! The fun Bug’s Life theme is apparent throughout the play area. This park also boasts a seasonal splash pad. 

This playground has soft, inter-locking tile as the surface.

You will also find baseball and softball fields, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, basketball, handball, and tennis courts, and a small skate park.

➡️ Fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

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O’Day Park is the newest park in O’Fallon. With 57-acres, this park is a blend of nature and fun. Kids of all ages enjoy the adventure playground crafted for climbers and explorers, and the creek that runs alongside it. There are plenty of walking trails throughout the park. 

PRO TIP: Bring water shoes to play on the water feature as the rocks tend to get slippery.

Indian Camp Creek is St. Charles Counties largest park with 603 acres! There’s more than 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even equestrian use. There’s spots for camping and fishing, along with disc golf.

Indian Camp Creek is the home of 5 playground spots, including the newest inclusive playground near the lake.

While visiting Indian Camp Creek, make sure to pack your swim suits!! There’s multiple spots for creek access— shallow enough for little ones.

Grab a picnic lunch and make sure you check out this amazing park!

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

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This one of a kind park has 3 playgrounds, paved walking trails, shelters, and fishing ponds. The playground has a massive multi-level spiderweb that leads up to a slide. There’s a number of adaptive equipment, rock walls, numerous slides, and musical equipment. The playgrounds have covered benches perfect for a hot sunny day.

Discovery Playground, or Jaycee Park as most know it, is a true St. Charles gem! With the main play structure built into the landscape, this playground has all the slides, swings, and places to roam your kids will need, plus a beautiful stony splash pad for the summer months. Bonus: add this park to your list of fenced in parks to check out for hours of fun!

➡️ Fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

🌳 Shaded

Webster Park in St. Charles is located just across the street from the Family Arena and very close to the Katy trail!

It has a wonderful playground with good sightlines, easy, family friendly walking trails, clean restrooms, as well as an indoor/outdoor rental facility perfect for a birthday party!

It was a quick 10 min from our neighborhood in West County- perfect playdate meet up spot between for our kids aged 1.5, 3 & 7. 

Zachary’s Playground was designed by Unlimited Play, a non-profit that builds universally accessible playgrounds, and was built 15 years ago for children of all abilities to enjoy. It is stroller, wheelchair and walker friendly, with ramps, swings, tunnels, slides, and multiple playground areas to keep kids of all ages entertained for hours. The play area is fenced in with a few openings around the park. It overlooks a shaded pavilion area with picnic tables and a 1/2 mile paved trail around a pond to enjoy the scenery. There are bathrooms onsite and plenty of parking spaces. All equipment meets or exceeds ADA standards so that everyone can play

If you are looking for a baby changing station, you’ll find it in the family restroom.

➡️ Fenced in Playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

This local, woodland themed park has so much to offer for all ages. There’s two playgrounds— one for ages 2-5 and one for ages 5-12, equipped with accessible swings. There’s a musical instrument area and two nature playgrounds. My son loved playing the floor is lava while hopping from rock to rock and balancing on the logs. There’s a ninja warrior course for the older kiddos… and dads!

In addition, there’s a splash pad, baseball field, vending machines, amphitheater with leveled seating, two pavilions, and plenty of benches and tables!

Fire Fighters of Eastern Missouri local 2665 have always served their community.  This fully inclusive playground is designed to allow kids of all abilities the opportunity to play side by side.   Disabled veterans, parents with disabilities who simply want to play on a playground with their kids will all benefit from this unique accessible playground. Offering a roller slide, musical areas, tot seats, a rock wall, and so much more!

➡️ Fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Veteran’s Tribute Park was created with the needs of children of all ages and abilities in mind. With different zoned play areas, kids can explore water play, music, adventure and climbing, swings, and a hillside slide.

There are three non-reservable open-play fields for older kids to meet up and play on, and even your pups can enjoy three acres of off-leash fun in the dog park.

Bring your bikes, as the park offers a 1.6 mile trail throughout the park. 

The park has two lakes, stocked for fishing, and a lakeside pavilion that is the perfect site for parties and reunions.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Nature at its finest! Broemmelsiek Park boasts well-stocked fishing lakes, and is surrounded by 9 miles of multi-use trails. Even your puppy pals can enjoy a dog area with its own pond for splashing!

Broemmelsiek Park also has a newer playground surrounded by soft, cushy turf. 

For fun and relaxation all year long, 20-acre Civic Park offers a variety of amenities: a picnic pavilion, a bandstand, and a playground. The newest playground is ADA accessible, with an ADA-compliant walking path connecting the playground to the parking lot. The O’Fallon Historical Society Log Cabin Museum is open for tours by appointment and during special events.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

You won’t run out of things to do at Wapelhorst Park! Here you’ll find a playground area, athletic fields, batting cages, tennis and pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts, a fishing lake, paved trails, and picnic shelters. 

The bathrooms  next to the tennis courts are open year round.

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🚻 Year round bathrooms

McAuley Playground was the fourth all-inclusive playground in St. Charles County. The playground is in Hansen Park, located behind the Mercy Kids Mid Rivers pediatric care facility on Ohlmes Road. Mercy Health Care donated the land to build for the park and playground. The playground is named for Sisters of Mercy founder Catherine McAuley. This park has a fun castle theme and a soft play surface.

➡️ Fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

Talk about a wide-open play space! Glazebrook Park is over 120 acres with two playgrounds, shelters, a gazebo, soccer fields, and 3+ miles of walking trails. There’s even a creek nestled in the woods. A brand new splash pad with sprayers, jets, and buckets has been installed!

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Airplane Park, formally known as Edwardsville Township Community Park, is an area favorite. The park’s two playgrounds have slides, climbing walls, and climbing poles. Mabel’s Playground, near the entrance, is ADA compliant and inclusive. The park also has tennis courts, a skating rink, soccer fields, and plenty of shelters and picnic tables, there’s something for everyone. 

The park has a Lending Library for little readers to take or leave a book. 

This park does have an “all seasons” restroom, complete with a personal electronic device charging station on the side. 

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💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

🚻 Year round bathrooms

The Watershed Nature Center is comprised of over 40 acres of prairie, forest, and wetlands. Paved walking trails meander through the park past the two lakes, however fishing is not permitted. There are ample opportunities to spot wildlife in this beautiful park.

This city of Alton is home to Gordon Moore Park. With 8 tennis courts, 10 ball diamonds, soccer / football fields, a kids’ interactive fountain, a golf course, picnic areas, and 6 play areas (including an inclusive playground which is enclosed) there truly is so much to do here. 

A favorite spot in the park is the Japanese garden with the koi waterfall pond to walk around. You’ll also find a 13-acre well-stocked fishing lake.

➡️ Fenced in playground

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

This park has a large playground that was built with accessibility in mind. A community demonstration garden was created that kids can learn from. There are three rentable shelters for parties and gatherings.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

With more than 42 acres, this park has walking, biking, and skating trails. There are two stocked fishing lakes, picnic pavilions, and a barbecue grill. The playground has ADA-compliant surfacing, and plenty of areas to climb, swing, and slide. You can also enjoy sand volleyball, basketball, and large grassy areas for open play. 

‍Willoughby Heritage Farm and Conservation Reserve is a public park with an atmosphere inspired by 1940’s farm life, complete with tractors, barns, a 1930’s Craftsman style farm house, and even live animals such as donkeys, a heifer, chickens, and goats!  The farm encompasses over 30-acres of wildlife preserve complete with hiking trails, bridges, and vistas overlooking the prairie and other areas. The farm is open daily to the public, and since we’re a public park, admission is free! Come on and explore a little of what life was like in the 1940’s here in Collinsville.

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Pleasant Ridge Park, in the northern part of the city is the largest of the two community parks with 95 acres. The park offers wintertime sledding. A bit of very early Fairview Heights history is represented in the park in the form of a 2-story log cabin, a structure built about 1850 by the Kinsella family. Other facilities in the park are 4 picnic pavilions, playground, 2 restrooms, and open space for passive recreation.

Ninety-acre Moody Park (Longacre Park) is guaranteed to be one of the best community parks you will ever see. It is the site of new Moody Park Playground. Other recreation attributes in the park include 2 ball diamonds, a walking and jogging trail, volleyball court, 2 playgrounds, and picnic pavilions.

💜 Inclusive / All abilities accessible

This park is pretty and serene with a wide, paved walking path.  Much of the walking path is in the shade. There are also a few non-paved paths to explore. You will also find a playground here for the kids to play. Rock Springs Park also has a dog park for your furry friends!

Leon Corlew Park is a FREE accessible splash pad and playground that takes up over 2 acres behind the City’s Public Safety Building. Play features range from gentle bubblers on one end to a large dumping bucket on the other side. Nearby, there’s a traditional dry playground area offering both a toddler structure and a bigger kid structure with two tall and winding slides, all on an accessible rubber surface.

➡️ Fenced in playground