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26 Jul 10 Best Places to Walk and Picnic Near St. Louis
Discover the 10 best places to walk and picnic near St. Louis, from scenic urban parks to nature reserves. Perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
📍 4257 Northeast Drive, St. Louis, MO
Step into a Victorian-era park that’s tailor-made for tranquil walking. The East Stream, revealed in 2022, winds gracefully through rain gardens and native plants. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers. Bring a blanket, find a shaded area, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this historic urban oasis.
2. Forest Park
📍 5595 Grand Drive, St. Louis, MO
Home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, Forest Park also offers countless peaceful corners. While Art Hill gets the most attention, head toward Pagoda Circle for a quieter experience. The marble pagoda is perfect for a scenic photo and the nearby grass makes for an excellent picnic spot.
3. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park
📍 13725 Marine Ave, Maryland Heights, MO
If lake views and breezy trails sound like your kind of day, Creve Coeur Park delivers. Walk the Lakeview Loop (3.7 miles) or relax along the sandy beach. It’s also a hub for water recreation, but you don’t need a kayak to enjoy the serene views and abundant nature.
📍 12580 Rott Rd, Sunset Hills, MO
Where art meets nature, Laumeier Sculpture Park is a standout. Roam through outdoor exhibits featuring large-scale modern art, then unwind in the open fields. Don’t miss summer events like wine-and-art nights or interactive workshops under the stars.
📍 1 Lone Elk Park Rd, Valley Park, MO
Want to walk alongside wildlife? At Lone Elk Park, it’s not unusual to see deer, elk, and bison during a visit. The 1.6-mile trail is moderately hilly—perfect for light hiking. Picnic shelters like Whitetail Deer Shelter offer a quiet rest stop after your stroll.
📍 1000 Lakeside Park Dr, St. Peters, MO
With a 140-acre lake, this multi-use park in St. Peters features walking trails, a boat ramp, archery, RV camping, and picnic shelters. The perimeter path around the lake is ideal for walking, biking, or just taking in the tranquil waterside views.
📍 1 Oak Knoll Park, Clayton, MO
This hidden gem in Clayton offers a short, easy walking path under towering oak trees. Discover a sunken garden and native plant area, then head to one of the two picnic areas—one near the pond and one next to the playground—for a peaceful afternoon break.
📍 2023 Lafayette Ave, St. Louis, MO
As one of Missouri’s oldest parks, Lafayette Park charms visitors with its serene lake, Victorian homes, and swans gliding by. It’s a peaceful haven in the heart of the city, perfect for couples, photographers, or anyone craving a calm, reflective afternoon outdoors.
📍 13525 Clayton Rd, Town & Country, MO
Located in Town & Country, this well-loved park offers walking trails, a horse barn, and event spaces. Stroll beneath tree canopies on the easy trail, visit the playground, or catch a community yoga session. Great for all ages and ideal for summer outings.
📍 307 Pinetum Loop Rd, Gray Summit, MO
If you’re seeking wide-open space, this 2,400-acre nature reserve is your dream spot. Explore a variety of ecosystems—prairies, wetlands, and forests on multiple trails. After your hike, relax at a covered pavilion or find your own quiet corner in nature.
- Pack a reusable picnic blanket
- Bring insect repellent & sunscreen
- Check park hours and event calendars ahead of time
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep our parks beautiful
At Hermann London, we believe that where you live should inspire how you live. Whether you’re dreaming of a home near a peaceful park, a lakefront retreat, or a walkable St. Louis neighborhood, our local agents are ready to help you find your perfect fit.