Whether it’s summer concert series, beautiful hiking trails or thrilling outdoor sports, St. Louis offers miles of green spaces and a myriad of ways for people to enjoy them. Here are just a few outdoor activities you can enjoy with family and friends as the weather warms up.
Ballwin
Hike the River Scene Trail.
This more than three-mile trail takes you on a loop that includes the bank of the Meramec River and the top of stone bluffs. Since there is a climb up the cliff, the trail is rated moderate, but make it to the top and you’ll enjoy panoramic views.
Chesterfield
Take a horseback riding lesson at Kennedy Farms Equestrian Center.
Kennedy farms offers both horseback riding lessons and a summer camp experience. Its Pony Pal program introduces children ages 4 to 8 to equine safety, horsemanship and basic riding lessons.
Clayton
Enjoy the atmosphere at Parties in the Park.
Celebrating 40 years, Parties in the Park is the StL’s longest running outdoor happy hour. Located on North Brentwood between Forsyth and Maryland avenues and held on the second Wednesday of the month from May to September, the event includes live music and libations.
Creve Coeur
Hit the water at Creve Coeur Lake.
There’s a lot to do at this 320-acre lake and the surrounding park. Hit the sand beach, play in the spray fountain or enjoy activities like disc golf, archery, tennis, fishing and zip lining. The Creve Coeur Water Trail offers canoeing, kayaking or paddle boarding a six-mile journey across the lake.
Downtown
Get pumped at Sunrise Bootcamp.
Every other Saturday in May through October, get up and head to Kiener Plaza for a heart-pumping morning workout. The guided class includes bodyweight exercises and cardio bursts designed to challenge your body.
Forest Park
Take in a movie at the Art Hill Film Series.
Each Friday in July, the Saint Louis Art Museum’s front lawn turns into the StL’s largest outdoor cinema. Along with movies on the big screen, the event includes pre-show festivities like live music and food trucks.
Kirkwood
Peruse fresh local produce at Kirkwood Farmers Market.
This bustling market is open daily April through October, but the fun isn’t limited to spring and summer. It also has a pumpkin patch and harvest market in October and a holiday market in November and December.
Lafayette Square
Pack a picnic to enjoy in Lafayette Park.
Covering 30 acres and dedicated in 1851, Lafayette Park is often considered the oldest urban park west of the Mississippi. It features a lake, garden walk, reconstructions of original Victorian structures, Revolutionary War-era cannons and iconic frog and turtle statues created by local sculptor Bob Cassilly.
Shaw Neighborhood
Enjoy some tunes at the Whitaker Music Festival.
Held on Wednesday evenings, this free open-air concert series is a St. Louis summer tradition. Visitors to the Missouri Botanical Garden are welcome to pack and bring their own picnics or purchase food and drinks on-site.
South County
Bike on Grant’s Trail.
This family-friendly trail passes Grant’s Farm, Whitecliff Park and a BMX bike park, making it a great option for bike trips with the kids. Plus at 10 miles, it’s long enough for avid cyclists to also enjoy.
St. Charles
Play eighteen holes at Missouri Bluffs.
This golf course was designed by legendary golf course architect Tom Fazio. Since it’s considered one of the best championship public golf courses in the state, you can expect a challenging layout combined with beautiful views.
Webster Groves
Check out the work of local and national artists at Webster Arts Fair.
Art is the star at this annual three-day event. The fine arts and craft fair features the work of more than 80 artists from all over the country. Festivities also include local entertainment, food and hands-on activities for guests of all ages.
