Forest Park

Forest Park is St. Louis's crown jewel — a 1,300-acre urban park that's larger than New York's Central Park and packed with free family resources that most cities would charge significant admission for. The free Saint Louis Zoo, the free Saint Louis Art Museum, and the free Saint Louis Science Center all sit within or adjacent to the park, making Forest Park one of the most extraordinary free family days in the entire United States.

For families with kids of any age, Forest Park functions differently depending on what you prioritize. With toddlers and preschoolers, the playgrounds (especially the spectacular Dennis & Judith Jones Variety Wonderland Playground) and the zoo consume most of a visit. School-age kids can handle the full park experience — biking the paths, exploring the multiple open green spaces, visiting the art museum, and ending at the playground.

Tweens and teens can add kayak rentals, disc golf, and more independent exploration.

The park's path system is stroller-friendly throughout, and bike rentals are available inside the park for families who want to cover more ground. Post-Dispatch Lake in the center of the park is a natural gathering spot — paddleboat rentals are available seasonally and the Boathouse restaurant sits right on the water for families who want a sit-down meal without leaving the park.

Practical tips: parking near the zoo fills up fast on summer weekends, so arriving before 9am or parking in a less-trafficked lot and biking or walking to your destination saves significant frustration. The park hosts free community events most weekends throughout the spring and fall — check the Forest Park Forever event calendar before your visit to catch something special.

If you pack a picnic, Forest Park is a genuinely $0 family day. That's rare and remarkable.