When » Open year-round
Where » 550 Weidman Road & 1675 S. Mason Road, Ballwin
Why » To take in miles of trails and enjoy a number of recreational activities
Hikers wander down meandering trails, through wooded groves and past open fields and lakes. It might sound like someplace far outside the city, but this wilderness can be found at Queeny Park, in the heart of Ballwin. Although the more than 7 miles of trails are a major part of the park’s allure, that’s not all the area has to offer. From horseback riding and swimming to ice skating, playgrounds and tennis courts, there’s fun to be had for everyone at Queeny Park.
Once the estate of Edgar Queeny, former president and board chair of Monsanto Chemical Company (founded by his father), the land originally was sold to American Investment Company Realty Corporation at the time of Queeny’s death in 1968, with the funds going to Barnes Hospital. In 1970, St. Louis County was able to purchase the land and turn it into a park.
The transformation of Queeny’s land into a public park was a natural legacy for the wildlife enthusiast, according to a park history written by preservation historian Esley Hamilton. Queeny not only penned books on wildlife and conducted African safaris, but also was a trustee of Ducks Unlimited, a nonprofit dedicated to conserving wetlands, and of the American Natural History Museum.
A $1 million donation from Queeny’s widow, Ethel, contributed to the 1974 construction of Greensfelder Recreation Complex, a family activity center that includes ice skating and roller hockey rinks. The center also is home to the annual Spring Art Fair, celebrating its 40th anniversary April 10 through 12. Presented by the Greater St. Louis Art Association, the fair features more than 130 juried artists from across the country and is one one of the longest-running art fairs in the region.
Queeny Park also is home to the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog, situated in the historic Jarville House. Built in 1835, it serves as an example of the Greek Revival style popular at the time, according to Hamilton. Today, the museum showcases more than 700 pieces of art devoted to man’s best friend. Originally based in New York City, the museum moved to its current Midwestern home in 1987.
For horse lovers, Queeny Park includes a cross-country equestrian course built in 1978. In 1980, the nonprofit Queeny Park Equestrian Events was formed to organize events and maintain and develop trails. And those who like to unwind with a rod and reel can try their luck at four fishing sites, including the Complex Pond and Jarville Lake, both of which are stocked by the Missouri Department of Conservation.
