The Forest park is termed as the Crown Jewel of St Louis, Missouri. Today's forest park is the result of constant dedication and hard work of many which almost attracts 12 million people each year and with growing popularity the number of visitors increase every year.

The Forest Park was started in the year 1876 on a Saturday afternoon. Though the forest Park attracted a large crowd at its opening ceremony it was a simple open space where you could with your family and spend sometime in open.

For more on the history of Forest Park

http://stlouis.missouri.org/citygov/parks/forestpark/history/early.html

Forest Park in St Louis

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_Park_(St._Louis,_Missouri)

The main attractions in the Forest Park

http://stlouis.about.com/od/topattractions/tp/forest_park.htm

The Forest Park can be called as the heart of the city of St Louis. To know about its history you can simply visit the history museum inside the park and enjoy your visit by simply reading about the gradual developments of the park that happened in the past and the challenges faced by them initially.

To know more about the history museum

http://www.mohistory.org/

Later in 1891, the Forest Park received its first set of animals, but not much of a progress was seen and by the year 1896 it is reported that very few animals were there which were either donated or bought, but in 1911 the electorate of St Louis approved of a property tax and this became the first zoo in the country which was supported by the government and now this is one termed as one the best zoos in town.

For more info on the zoo in Forest Park

http://stlouis.missouri.org/citygov/parks/forestpark/history/zoo.html

Forest Park could be referred to as the heart of St. Louis, also known as "The World's Fair". Open in 1876, this 1,300-acre park is one of the city's most treasured resources and one of the largest urban parks in the nation. Today, the park draws over 12 million visitors a year.

Actually, Forest Park is not just a scenic backdrop. It also serves as home to the city's major cultural institutions including St. Louis Zoo, Missouri History Museum, Art Museum, Science Center and more. The park is for certainly a pretty good place where people of all ages can gather and have fun.

Forest Park is also worth a visit for various fabulous events. There are many of the region's favorite events held in the park. Earth Day festival is just a big event held in Forest Park.

St. Louis Earth Day

Each year, St. Louis hosts a big festival in celebration of Earth Day at Forest Park. This year's celebration will be on April 17, 2011. The event features all kinds of local music and other performances throughout the day. The highlight of the event includes the recycling extravaganza, starting at 9am through 3pm.

The festival runs from 11am to 6pm, with free admission. Visitors are encouraged to walk or bike to the festival if possible. Popular attractions inside the park like St. Louis Zoo and Science Center also host their own celebrations for Earth Day. For a full schedule of the earth-friendly fun, visit this page:

2011 St. Louis Earth Day Festival

http://www.stlouisearthday.org/

Additionally, cultural institutions at the park also host many events throughout the year. Whenever you visit the park, you won't be disappointed and bored. Get a glimpse at the following events and find what is happening during your visit.

- The Missouri History Museum

The Missouri History Museum's free concerts are coming again in this spring and summer. These free concerts kick off with Twilight Tuesday series starting on April 26, 2011. Twilight Tuesday concerts are outdoors, featuring some of the area's most popular musicians. As seating are limited available on a first-come, first-served basis, it is suggested to bring your lawn chair or blanket to the north lawn of the museum. Picnic baskets are also welcomed.

Each Tuesday concert starts at 6:30pm and ends at 8:30pm. 2011 Twilight Tuesday Concerts include:

- April 26 (Dr. Zhivegas)

- May 3 (Herman Semidey Jr. and His Nitro Latin Jazz Band)

- May 10 (Mystic Voyage - A Stevie Wonder Tribute)

- May 17 (Steve Davis - Memories of Elvis)

- May 24 (Monya)

- May 31 (Marquise Knox)

- June 7 (Darryl Gerdine's Tribute to the Twin Cities)

In case of nasty weather, the concert will be rescheduled. If inclement weather happens during the concert day, you'd better contact the museum at (800) 916-8212 after 3pm or listen to the Clear Channel stations for details. To explore more events at the Missouri History Museum, visit this page:

Missouri History Museum Event Calendar

http://www.mohistory.org/calendar/today

- St. Louis Science Center

As one of the top science centers in the country, St. Louis Science Center is a science museum with its facilities situated in Forest Park. The center also has no dearth of events throughout the year. For instance, during the school year, the center provides kids in grades 1 to 6 with Holidazed Day Camps. Under the direction of their camp counselor, your children will do fun, hands-on activities and make projects.

This year's Holidazed Day Camps will start at 9am through 4pm on April 22, 2011. This event requires an admission, with a fee of $30 per half-day session and $60 for full day. You can call 314-289-4439 for details or registration.

Other events at the center include:

- DNA Day (starting at 9:30am on April 15, 2011)

- Home School Day (from 1pm to 2:30pm on April 19, 2011)

- Science Cafe (starting at 7pm on April 21, 2011)

- Chemists Celebrate Earth Day (from 10am to 4pm on April 23, 2011)

- Planetarium Camp-In (starting at 5pm on May 6, 2011)

You can find more events and event details on this page:

St. Louis Science Center Event Calendar

http://www.slsc.org/Calendar.aspx

- The Muny

As a place filled with events and shows, the Muny, the nation's oldest and largest outdoor theater is also located in the Forest Park. The theater offers summer season shows running each year from mid-June to mid-August. This year's summer season includes:

- Legally Blonde (June 20 - 26)

- Kiss Me, Kate (June 27 - July 3)

- The Little Mermaid (July 6 - 14)

- Singin' in the Rain (July 18 - 24)

- Little Shop of Horrors (July 25 - 31)

- Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (August 1 - 7)

- Bye Bye Birdie (August 8 - 14)

If you are interested in these live shows, buy your tickets now. To learn more about ticket info and event details, click here:

2011 Summer Season in the Muny

http://www.muny.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=710&Itemid=100276

- St. Louis Zoo

Considered to be one of the best zoos in the nation, St. Louis Zoo is also situated in the Forest Park, housing more than 20,000 animals. The zoo also offers a variety of activities and events for visitors of all ages all year round.

Breakfast with the Bunny is just a popular activity. You will meet costumed characters and pose for photo with the Bunny while enjoying delectable breakfast at the zoo's McDonnell Center at River Camp. To attend this activity, you need to make a reservation in advance. You can call (314) 646-4857 to reserve. The dates of this activity in 2011 include April 16, April 17 and April 23.

Have you seen how animals take activities? St. Louis Zoo offers such an opportunity. There are Animal Enrichment activities for zoo animals throughout the zoo. On April 24, the zoo just offers enrichment "egg hunt" activities for the animals. These activities run from 9am to 4pm, offering fun for both animals and visitors.

Other events at the zoo include:

- Trivia Gone Wild Presented by Commerce Bank (starting at 6pm on May 7)

- Mother's Day Brunch (May

- Conservation Conservations (starting at 7:30pm on May 10)

- Bowling for Rhinos (from 6pm to 9pm on May 18)

- St. Louis Children's Hospital Make Tracks for the Zoo (from 7:30am to 12pm on May 22)

- North Star Summer Zoo Weekends (May 27 - June 30)

- Jungle Boogie Friday Night Concert Series (from 5pm to 8pm May 27)

- African Arts Festival (10am to 3pm from May 28 to May 30)

The zoo is always updates its event info on a continual basis. To learn more about these events at the zoo, check this page:

St. Louis Zoo Events

http://www.stlzoo.org/events/calendarofevents/index.php?mo=4&yr=2011

- St. Louis Art Museum

The St. Louis Art Museum is one of the leading comprehensive art museums in the United States, with more than 30,000 works of art. Its permanent and up-to-date exhibitions are also worth a visit. To explore the St. Louis Art Museum exhibitions, click here:

St. Louis Art Museum Exhibitions

http://www.slam.org/Exhibitions/

If Central Park is the pride of New Yorkers, then what is that of St. Louis? Forest Park stands out as the perfect answer. Inspired by Central Park and following its style, Forest Park in St. Louis was opened in 1876 and ranked as one of the largest urban landscape parks throughout the US, even over 50% larger than Central Park! Today it is treasured as a jewel in St. Louis' crown and offers a picturesque land for a getaway from everyday hassle and bustle.

Forest Park is also a must visit for travelers in St. Louis. Each year, it welcomes more than 12 million visitors and enhances their experience with monuments, historic constructions, waterways, boathouse, and a diversity of seasonal activities and festivals.

Forest Park

http://stlouis.missouri.org/citygov//parks/forestpark/

Yes, it is really difficult not to be a fan of this awesome and magical land. Forest Park is valued as an amazing site where people can enjoy a sun-filled day in a positive way for certain events, such as weddings! If now you are searching for stunning place for your wedding receptions and ceremonies, let Forest Park do you a favor by offering an engaging backdrop for your special day!

Currently, there are four venues in this natural oasis rentable for wedding receptions alike, respectively the Jewel Box, World's Fair Pavilion, Grand Basin and Pagoda Circle. Next we will give a brief intro to them. Keep on eye on our article and choose the one captivating to you and your beloved one.

- The 17-acre Jewel Box, located at the corner of Wells and McKinley drives in Forest Park, was built originally in 1936 and gained national acclaim since the opening. The recent renovation costs more than 3.5 million and makes the jewel "shine and glow" again. The charm of the Jewel Box mainly leans on its architectural styles and the breathtaking floral displays which are supplemented by hundreds of seasonal flowers along the sides of the building and trees over the top of the main building. Sunshine pours and illuminates the building through the tiered glass tops.

There is a large fountain and water feature in the interior of the Jewel Box. They are well-designed and removable for weddings and other private events. Striking pots line along the pond and baskets of flowers hang from the ceiling.

The Jewel Box opens to general pubic from 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday. On Saturday, you can visit it from 9am to 11am. On Sunday, the venue is open from 9am to 2pm. The admission charges only $1 and FREE from 9am to 12pm on Monday and Tuesday.

If you want a flower-and fragrance-filled wedding, the Jewel Box is the right option. You can call 314-289-5389 to consult the Parks Division with wedding info, and the number for the Jewel Box is 314-531-0080.

The Jewel Box Overview

http://stlouis.missouri.org/citygov//parks/jewelbox/

- Standing high at the top of Government Hill, the World's Fair Pavilion boasts its flawless views over the entire Forest Park and makes itself out as a picturesque open air setting for picnics, private events, and wedding receptions. This shelter was added to the Park in 1909 and underwent a renovation in 1998. The covered area of the pavilion can accommodate more than 500 people at the same time, not including the Park grounds. At the west end of World's Fair Pavilion nestles a new catering area, offering easy access to water and spacious space for caterers. If you are interested in this open air facility, please pack yourself with a little rental info about it.

Fees: If your wedding happens on any day Monday through Thursday, the rental rate is $800. On Friday and Sunday, the rental fee is much higher, $1000. As for Saturdays, if your wedding reception begins at 4 pm until midnight, the rate is $1750, while 9am to 3pm is only available for wedding ceremony and the rental fee is $1000.

Reservation: As the World's Fair Pavilion is very popular as a wedding venue, advance reservation is required. If your reservation is made up to one year and more, you have to come to the Park Office in person for reservation. Your rental fee will be collected immediately when the reservation is made. Reservations made one year and less can be completed by phone. In this case, rental fee should be due two weeks after the date of your reservation.

For more requirements and tips on wedding events hosted at the World's Fair Pavilion, please click the link below.

The World's Fair Pavilion Rental Guide

http://stlouis.missouri.org/citygov//parks/forestpark/pavilion.html

Rental info about Grand Basin and Pagoda Circle can be found on the website below. After opening up this page, click the name for each of them and you can find detailed info in PDF format.

Weddings in Forest Park

http://stlouis.missouri.org/citygov//parks/parks_div/wedding.html

If you have enquiry or want to make reservation, please call 314 289-5300 from 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday.

The province of the Forest park, called as the heart of St. Louis is worth visiting, not just for its plenty beckoning points, but also for the special landscapes, historic structures, recreational fields and the baroque fountains.

The park conducts concerts and ice skating during the summers. It even offers biking, picnicking, golf, the boathouse and many other recreational facilities. Of all the tourist attractions of the park, here are some of the exhibits that shouldn't be missed.

The world-recognized Saint Louis Zoo is one of the finest zoos. The zoo provides an eye-to-eye with the hippos and an opportunity to get up close to the elephants.

Saint Louis Zoo's Official Website

http://www.stlzoo.org

The expansive Forest Park is famous for its first-rate museums. The Saint Louis Art Museum is a must visit for serious art lovers. It showcases galleries and artifacts of the ancient as well of modern art. The masterpieces and the treasures at the museum promise to keep the energy levels of the visitors high.

The Saint Louis Art Museum's Official Website

http://www.slam.org

Known to be a place of informal science education for all ages the Saint Louis Science Center is amongst the largest of its kinds. The computer galleries, movie theaters, fun experiments and others at the center have the ability to make science fun.

The Saint Louis Science Center's Official Website

http://www.slsc.org

The Muny, nation's oldest outdoor theater has been a magical place that promises truly a unique experience. The sound of the music, the romantic feel of the artist, the starry sky and the gentle breeze of the oak trees of the theatre make it an ideal place for one to just get engrossed.

The Muny's Official Website

http://www.muny.org

Have you decided to visit St. Louis, Missouri? Are there any famous attractions in this city? The answer is yes! From historic sites to beautiful St Louis neighborhoods, there are no dearth of attractions for you and your family. Start by going to visit Forest Park, comprising 1293 acres of sheer unadulterated nature.

Owned and operated by the city of St. Louis, Forest Park is one of the largest urban landscape parks in the nation. This large park houses the region's top cultural institutions like St Louis Zoo, Missouri Historical Museum, the Muny and St. Louis Science Center. The perfect blend of monuments, historic buildings, waterways and landscapes also makes a unique cultural institution in the park.

If you decide to go to the park, figure out its location first. Seated nearly in the center of the whole metropolitan area, Forest Park could be called the heart of St. Louis. It is situated along the western edge of the city of St. Louis, which is framed by Skinker Boulevard S to the west, Lindell Boulevard to the north, I-64 / US-40 and Oakland Avenue to the south and S Kingshighway Boulevard to the east. The physical address is 5595 Grand Drive St Louis, MO 63112.

Where to access the park? As the park is located in the heart of the city, it can be easily accessible from various directions. There are 11 main multi-modal access points that can help you access the park.

- East: Clayton Avenue (outbound only), Barnes Hospital Drive and West Pine

- North: West Pine, Union Drive, Cricket Drive and Debaliviere

- West: Forsyth Avenue and Wells Drive (inbound only)

- South: Tamm Avenue and Hampton Avenue

Hampton Avenue, on the south side of the park, is the most heavily used access point, bearing approximately 60% of the park's entering traffic. Moreover, this point offers convenient access to many of the park's main attractions. Some of the park-goers are served by I-64.

If you are still a bit confused about its location, the following maps of the park and surrounding neighborhoods would be a big help for you.

Route Map of Forest Park

http://spotcrime.com/mo/st.+louis/forest+park

Forest Park Map

http://www.slfp.com/SLFP-FPFEmap.htm

How to get to Forest Park? Today, many visitors prefer self-driving tours, as they can give visitors the freedom and convenience to go where they want and when they want. However, for driving visitors, it is important to familiarize themselves with the driving directions. You can get the detailed directions from your location to the park on this page:

Get Driving Directions to Forest Park

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=1&q=Forest+Park,+St+Louis&bav

Alternatively, public transportation would be a great way that can take you to the park. It helps avoid traffic and parking hassles. Metro is just a means of public transportation, offering regular service to the area of the Forest Park.

Park visitors can most easily access Forest Park by MetroLink via the Forest Park station, located approximately 0.1 miles north of the History Museum along Debaliviere. It is an easy walk from the Forest Park station to get into the park and History Museum, but it is a bit longer walk to some of the park's attractions like St. Louis Zoo.

Trains run every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours and weekends. You can find MetroLink routes and schedules on this page:

Metro Schedule

http://tripfinder.metrostlouis.org/ntp/en/?date=2006112&time=835&as_params=1|5|1|3|2|2|2|0|3|1|1|1|1|1|0&adv=1

Are you looking for a convenient way to navigate the park's attractions? Forest Park shuttle is provided to serve your needs. Metro also offers Forest Park Trolley Service for the benefit of the park visitors.

This Trolley Service runs from 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week, connecting all park attractions, public parking lots and the DeBaliviere MetroLink Station. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, the hours of the service are from 9am to 7pm. Trolleys run every 20 minutes.

Trolley day pass rates are $2 for adults and $1 for children (aged 6 to 12), seniors and passengers with disabilities. Kids aged 5 and under are free of charge. The pass can be purchased on the trolley, valid for one day. To learn more about Metro service, visit this page:

Metro

http://www.metrostlouis.org/Default.aspx

Inspired by the Central Park in New York City, Forest Park was created along the western edge of the city of St. Louis during the later 19th century. Yet it's much larger than Central Park. More than just the city's scenic backdrop, Forest Park is also a favorite gathering place for all St. Louis and visitors alike.

As a heaven for recreation and sports, Forest Park boasts a good many of places for outdoor activities including the Turtle Playground, Handball Courts, the Forest Park Bike Path, Walking Paths, Picnic areas as well as softball, baseball, soccer, cricket and rugby fields. It's not an easy job to navigate such a large park, especially for newcomers. For your sake of convenience, a park map is offered first:

Forest Park Map & Overview

http://www.slfp.com/SLFP-FPFEmap.htm

Gourmet food and outdoor cafes make Forest Park, the "Crown Jewel" of St. Louis, even more appealing. While strolling through the brick-lined streets along Maryland Avenue, you'll gradually wake up to the smell of the coffee and get indulged in the friendly atmosphere there with some European sophistication. Well, what are some best restaurants from the scope of locals? You'll find the answers soon.

The Boathouse Restaurant

For generations of St. Louisans, The Boathouse Restaurant has always been their favorite. Some of their most renowned signature dishes are flank steak rarebit, salmon BLTs, hand-tossed pizzas, hearty stews, homemade soups and much more. Nothing beats a relaxing brunch by the lake at The Boathouse Restaurant on weekends. Or you can enjoy the beautiful sunsets while boating on the tranquil lake.

The Boathouse Restaurant is located on Post-Dispatch Lake, in the heart of Forest Park. Thanks to the gift of Jack Taylor family, The Boathouse Restaurant has acquired an even better new outlook. Make a reservation or view their family-friendly menus? Call (314)367-2224 or click here:

The Boathouse Restaurant

http://www.boathouseforestpark.com/

Forest Park is home to some major cultural institutions of the area such as the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Zoological Park and etc. And you'll be amazed to find an impressive array of refined restaurants in these cultural institutions. We'll name a few notable ones.

Bixby's Restaurant

Craving for some locally inspired cuisine? Bixby's is just such a dining place with local influence. Bixby's Restaurant has brought about a fresh new approach to lunch with their freshly prepared salads, hot entrees, desserts and a made to order omelet station. While seating at the window table of Bixby's, you'll get a panoramic view of Forest Park through the glass floor wall.

Bixby's Restaurant is located on the second floor of the Missouri History Museum. They offer lunch Monday through Saturday, brunch on Sundays as well as Express service daily from 12:00 am to 4:30 pm. Spaces are filling up fast. Call 314-361-7313 to make a reservation. To view menus? Please pay a visit to its homepage:

Bixby's Restaurant

http://www.bixbys-mohistory.com/home.html

The Culver Pavilion

St. Louisans have been dreaming for a permanent outdoor theatre in Forest Park for a long time. It finally came true with the founding of The Muny, an outdoor musical amphitheatre carved in the oasis of Forest Park. This huge outdoor musical theatre features an exclusive on-site restaurant treating guests with al fresco buffets, delectable desserts, expertly-prepared entrees and other signature dining.

The Culver Pavilion is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturdays. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Their contact number is (314) 361-1900 x330. For additional info, click here:

The Culver Pavilion

http://www.muny.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=89&Itemid=100235

St. Louis Zoo Dining

Forest Park offers full wildlife experience to kids. If you have brought your little ones, do make a visit to St. Louis Zoo. It has been counted as a leading zoo in animal protection and conservation. With a brief stop by St. Louis Zoo, your kids can get much more than just the satisfaction of interacting with animals. They will get spoiled by the wildly delicious food there.

St. Louis Zoo offers a wide selection of restaurants including Espresso Cart, Hippo Hideaway, Ice Cream Oasis, Lakeside Cafe, The Painted Giraffe Cafe, St Louis Zoo Carousel Cafe and Zoo East. Each of them is unique in its own way. Among them, the Ice Cream Oasis is kids' most favorite one. Bet your kid can't resist the temptation of Ice Cream Oasis too. Check out more info from:

St. Louis Zoo

www.stlzoo.org

Need more dining options in the neighborhood of Forest Park? We've listed a host of recommended restaurants with address and phones given:

- Everest Cafe & Bar (Address: 4145 Manchester Rd. Phone: 314-531-4800)

- Five Bistro (Address: 5100 Daggett Ave. Phone: 314-773-5553)

- Arena Bar & Grill (Address: 5760 W. Park St. Phone: 314-646-7171)

- Atomic Cowboy (Address: 4140 Manchester Ave. Phone: 314-775-0775)

- Joe Boccardi's Catering & Market (Address: 4476 Chouteau Ave. Phone: 314-533-1221)

- La Dolce Via (Address: 4470 Arco Ave. Phone: 314-534-1699)

For comments and other detailed info, please visit:

Restaurants in Forest Park Neighborhood

http://www.riverfronttimes.com/restaurants/region/st-louis-forest-park-southeast-246806/