Okay besties, can we talk about St. Louis for a hot second? Because I am OBSESSED and need to spill all the tea about these absolutely gorgeous parks that are basically made for romance. Like, forget everything you think you know about the Gateway City – we’re about to go way beyond the Arch (though obviously still love her).
I’ve been living my best Midwest life exploring these green spaces, and let me tell you, they hit different when you’re trying to plan something special with your person. Whether you’re in a new relationship and want to impress (hello, main character energy), or you’ve been together forever and need to shake things up from your usual Netflix-and-chill routine, I’ve got you covered.
Grabs iced coffee and gets comfortable Let’s dive into the five most romantic parks that’ll have you falling in love with St. Louis all over again.
1. Forest Park: The Main Character Energy We All Need
Listen, Forest Park doesn’t just show up – it SERVES. At 1,300 acres, this absolute unit is bigger than Central Park (sorry, NYC), and honestly? It knows what it’s about. This isn’t just a park, it’s a whole personality, and that personality is “effortlessly cool girl who somehow looks perfect in every Instagram story.”
Why it’s giving main character vibes: The variety is chef’s kiss – you can literally get lost for hours without getting bored. One minute you’re channeling your inner art critic, the next you’re paddle-boating like you’re in a rom-com. It’s the perfect backdrop for those candid shots that make everyone ask “who took this?!”
Here’s how to absolutely nail your Forest Park date:
Start with the Grand Basin because WOW. This reflecting pool situation is straight-up magical, especially when that golden hour light hits. Rent a paddleboat (yes, it’s touristy, but it’s cute touristy) and just vibe. Pro tip: This is where you want to be for sunset – trust me on this one.
Hit up the Saint Louis Art Museum. It’s FREE (we love a budget-friendly queen), and wandering through art galleries together is such an underrated date activity. Plus, you’ll discover so much about each other’s taste. Are they into modern art? Classical? That weird abstract piece that looks like someone sneezed paint? All valid, all conversation starters.
The Jewel Box is actual fairy tale vibes. This Art Deco greenhouse is giving Secret Garden energy, and the light filtering through the glass? Perfection. It’s warm, it smells incredible, and the photo ops are endless. Your feed will thank you.
Picnic by the Boathouse because duh. Pack some charcuterie (or honestly, Target cheese and crackers work too), grab a bottle of something bubbly, and find your spot. Watch the ducks, rent a rowboat, or just people-watch. Sometimes the simplest moments hit the hardest.
Best time to visit: Spring for the blooms, fall for the leaves, summer evenings for the vibes. Basically, anytime except maybe a polar vortex day.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden: Where Cottagecore Dreams Come True
Okay, if you’re into that whole cottagecore aesthetic (and honestly, who isn’t?), the Missouri Botanical Garden is your happy place. This place has been serving botanical excellence since before our great-great-grandparents were even a thought, and it shows. We’re talking 79 acres of pure plant paradise.
Why it’s the perfect dreamy date spot: Every corner is basically a different Pinterest board come to life. Japanese garden? Check. Tropical rainforest dome? Double check. Rose garden that makes you want to write poetry? Triple check.
Here’s your Missouri Botanical Garden game plan:
The Japanese Garden (Seiwa-en) is non-negotiable. This 14-acre slice of zen is what peace looks like. The bridges, the water features, the carefully placed rocks – it’s all so intentional and beautiful. Find a bench, take a deep breath, and just be present with each other. It’s giving mindfulness queen energy.
The Climatron is basically time travel. Step into this geodesic dome and suddenly you’re in a tropical rainforest. It’s humid, it’s lush, it’s completely different from anything else in Missouri. Perfect for when you want to “travel” together without leaving the city.
Rose Garden season is peak romance. If you time it right (usually late spring through early fall), you’ll be surrounded by the most gorgeous, fragrant blooms. It’s cliché in the best possible way.
Don’t sleep on the Victorian District. Tower Grove House gives you all the historical elegance vibes. Perfect for when you want to pretend you’re in a Jane Austen novel.
Grab lunch at Sassafras if you want to extend the date. The food is solid, and eating surrounded by all that beauty just hits different.
Best time to visit: Spring for maximum bloom action, fall for the cozy vibes, honestly any time for the greenhouse situations.
3. Tower Grove Park: Giving Vintage Vibes and Community Energy
Tower Grove Park is what happens when Victorian elegance meets modern community spirit, and honestly? It’s a whole mood. This National Historic Landmark is giving “I’m not like other parks, I’m a cool park” energy with its ornate pavilions and mature trees.
Why it’s perfect for your romantic era: It feels like stepping back in time, but in the best way possible. The architecture is stunning, the community events are amazing, and there’s something so charming about discovering all those unique pavilions together.
Your Tower Grove Park date breakdown:
Pavilion hopping is mandatory. There are 11 of these gorgeous Victorian structures, each with its own personality. The Turkish Pavilion? Chef’s kiss. The Chinese Pavilion? Stunning. Take your time, take photos, make up stories about what each one was used for.
Saturday Farmers Market is where it’s AT (April through November). This isn’t just shopping – it’s a whole experience. Sample local goodies, chat with vendors, pick up ingredients for a romantic dinner later. The community vibes are immaculate.
The tree-lined avenues are perfect for those long, meaningful walks where you solve all the world’s problems and plan your future together. Or just gossip about your friends. Both are valid.
Bring some lawn games or just a blanket for lounging. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to just be yourselves without any pressure.
Best time to visit: Saturday mornings for the market, spring and fall for perfect walking weather.
4. Citygarden: When You Want That Urban Chic Moment
Citygarden is proof that you don’t need to leave the city to find romance. This two-block downtown park is giving modern art gallery meets urban oasis, and it’s absolutely perfect for couples who appreciate contemporary vibes.
Why it’s the coolest date spot: It’s interactive, it’s Instagram-worthy, and it’s right in the heart of everything. You can splash in water features, interpret modern art together, and feel very sophisticated and cultured.
How to absolutely crush your Citygarden date:
Sculpture exploration is like a treasure hunt. Wander around, discover over two dozen contemporary pieces, and discuss what they mean to you. There’s no wrong answer, and you’ll learn so much about how each other’s minds work.
Water feature fun is mandatory in warm weather. Kick off your shoes, wade in the pools, dodge the sprays. It’s playful and refreshing and will definitely bring out your inner kid.
Evening visits are magical. The lighting transforms the entire space into something ethereal. Perfect for an after-dinner stroll when everything is glowing and romantic.
Urban picnic vibes are strong here. Grab some gourmet sandwiches from a nearby spot and eat surrounded by art with the city skyline as your backdrop.
Best time to visit: Warm weather for the water features, evening for the ambiance, anytime for the art.
5. Laumeier Sculpture Park: For Your Artsy, Adventurous Era
If you and your person are into art, nature, and having deep conversations about life, Laumeier Sculpture Park is your place. This 105-acre outdoor museum is giving “we’re too cool for traditional dates” energy, and I am here for it.
Why it’s perfect for creative souls: It’s like a treasure hunt where the treasure is thought-provoking art. You’ll walk through trails, discover massive sculptures, and have plenty of opportunities for those deep, meaningful conversations that strengthen your connection.
Your Laumeier adventure plan:
Trail walking with purpose. The well-maintained paths wind through different landscapes, and you never know what incredible artwork you’ll stumble upon. It’s like a real-life Instagram filter where everything is beautiful and interesting.
“The Way” by Alexander Liberman is unmissable. This massive red sculpture dominates an entire field, and sitting nearby contemplating art and life is peak romantic intellectual energy.
Make it a photo adventure. The sculptures provide incredible backdrops for creative couple shots. You’ll get some truly unique photos that no one else will have.
Pack a picnic and find your secret spot. With 105 acres, you can definitely find a private little area that feels like your own personal art gallery.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for comfortable walking weather, anytime for the art appreciation.
Pro Tips for Your St. Louis Park Romance Tour
Pack like the organized queen you are:
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking, bestie)
- Picnic supplies (blanket, snacks, drinks, napkins)
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses)
- Water bottles (stay hydrated!)
- Portable phone charger (for all those photos)
- Small backpack to carry everything
Timing is everything: Morning visits are peaceful and cool, golden hour is perfect for photos, evening visits (especially at Citygarden) are magical and romantic.
Be present: Put the phones away occasionally and just enjoy each other’s company. The content will still be there, but these moments won’t.
Add personal touches: Know your partner’s favorite flower? Find it in the botanical garden. Love a specific snack? Pack it for the picnic. It’s the little things that make the biggest impact.
Don’t try to do everything: Pick one or two parks and really experience them rather than rushing through all five. Quality over quantity, always.
FAQ: Your St. Louis Park Romance Questions Answered
General Questions
Q: How much does it cost to visit these parks? A: Most of these parks are completely free! Forest Park and Tower Grove Park cost nothing to explore. Citygarden and Laumeier Sculpture Park are also free admission. The Missouri Botanical Garden is the only one with an entrance fee (around $15 for adults, but they often have discounts and free days for residents).
Q: Are these parks safe for evening dates? A: Yes, but use common sense! Forest Park, Tower Grove Park, and Citygarden are well-lit and patrolled, making them great for evening strolls. The Missouri Botanical Garden and Laumeier close at dusk, so plan daytime visits there. Always stay on main paths and trust your instincts.
Q: Which park is best for first dates? A: Forest Park is your MVP for first dates! It’s got variety (so you won’t run out of things to talk about), it’s free, and there are plenty of escape routes if things get awkward. Plus, the Grand Basin is instant romance without trying too hard.
Q: Can I bring my dog on these romantic park dates? A: Dogs are welcome at Forest Park, Tower Grove Park, and Laumeier Sculpture Park (leashed, obviously). The Missouri Botanical Garden and Citygarden are no-dog zones, so plan accordingly if you’ve got a furry wingman.
Q: What’s the best time of year for maximum romance? A: Spring (April-May) is peak perfection – everything’s blooming, weather’s mild, and the whole city feels fresh. Fall (September-October) is a close second with those Instagram-worthy leaf colors. Summer evenings are magical too, just pack water and embrace the humidity!
Park-Specific Questions
Q: How long should I plan for each park? A: Forest Park can easily eat up a whole day, but 3-4 hours is perfect for a romantic tour. Missouri Botanical Garden needs at least 2-3 hours to properly appreciate. Tower Grove Park is great for 1-2 hours of casual wandering. Citygarden is perfect for a quick 1-hour artistic interlude. Laumeier needs 2-3 hours for the full sculpture adventure.
Q: Can I propose at any of these parks? A: OMG YES! Forest Park’s Grand Basin at sunset is practically made for proposals. The Japanese Garden at Missouri Botanical Garden is intimate and stunning. Tower Grove Park’s Victorian pavilions are straight out of a fairy tale. Just maybe avoid the water features at Citygarden unless you want a very splashy engagement story!
Q: Are these parks wheelchair accessible? A: Most have good accessibility! Forest Park has paved paths around major attractions. Missouri Botanical Garden is largely accessible with smooth pathways. Tower Grove Park has paved areas, though some pavilions have steps. Citygarden is very accessible with level surfaces. Laumeier has some accessible trails, but check their map for specific routes.
Q: What if it rains? A: The Missouri Botanical Garden’s Climatron and other indoor conservatories are perfect rainy day backup plans. Forest Park’s Art Museum is free and amazing for shelter. Tower Grove Park has covered pavilions if you get caught in a sprinkle. Citygarden and Laumeier are outdoor experiences, so save those for sunny days.
Q: Can I bring alcohol for a romantic picnic? A: Nope! All St. Louis parks prohibit alcohol, so keep it classy with sparkling cider or fancy lemonades. You can always hit up a nearby restaurant after your park adventure if you want to toast your amazing date.
Park Locations & Getting There
Forest Park
Address: 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112
Parking: Multiple free parking areas throughout the park – try the Art Museum, Science Center, or Boathouse lots
Public Transit: MetroLink Green Line to Forest Park-DeBaliviere station
Pro Tip: The park is HUGE, so pick a specific area to start (Grand Basin is always a good choice) and work from there.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110
Parking: Free on-site parking available
Public Transit: MetroBus routes serve the area
Hours: Generally 9 AM – 5 PM, but check their website for seasonal changes
Admission: Around $15 for adults, discounts available for students/seniors
Tower Grove Park
Address: 4257 Magnolia Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110
Parking: Free street parking along the perimeter and some internal parking areas
Public Transit: Multiple MetroBus routes serve the area
Farmers Market: Saturdays 8 AM – 12:30 PM (April through November)
Pro Tip: The park is surrounded by great restaurants, so it’s perfect for extending your date.
Citygarden
Address: 801 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63101
Parking: Downtown parking garages nearby (paid), some street parking
Public Transit: MetroLink stops nearby, multiple bus routes
Hours: Open 24/7, but best visited during daylight hours
Pro Tip: Perfect for combining with downtown dining or entertainment.
Laumeier Sculpture Park
Address: 12580 Rott Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127
Parking: Free on-site parking
Public Transit: Limited public transit access – driving is recommended
Hours: 8 AM to 30 minutes after sunset
Pro Tip: This one’s a bit outside the city proper, but worth the drive for art lovers.
General Transportation Tips
Driving: Most parks have free parking, but arrive early on weekends for the best spots. Downtown (Citygarden) has paid parking, so budget accordingly.
Public Transit: MetroLink and MetroBus can get you to most of these locations. Check the Metro Transit website for current schedules and routes.
Ride Share: All parks are accessible via Uber/Lyft, though you might wait a bit longer for pickup at Laumeier since it’s more suburban.
Biking: St. Louis has been improving its bike infrastructure! Forest Park and Tower Grove Park are particularly bike-friendly with dedicated paths.
Walking Between Parks: Tower Grove Park and the Missouri Botanical Garden are walkable from each other (about 15 minutes), making them perfect for a park-hopping date day!
The Bottom Line: St. Louis Parks Are That Girl
Look, I could go on for hours about how these parks changed my whole perspective on St. Louis (and they absolutely did), but here’s the real tea: these spaces are made for connection. Whether you’re falling in love, staying in love, or just trying to create some beautiful memories together, these parks provide the perfect backdrop.
So grab your person, pack some snacks, and get ready to see St. Louis through completely new eyes. Your most romantic day is literally just a park away, and honestly? Your Instagram stories are about to be absolutely iconic.
Now excuse me while I go plan my next St. Louis park adventure because I’m already missing those vibes.
xoxo, Your Midwest Park-Obsessed Bestie 💕
