Forest Park Live Cam

A beautiful public park in western St. Louis, Missouri

Live Webcam Forest Park , St. Louis, Missouri - United States

Forest Park History

Forest Park is a public park located in St. Louis, Missouri. It covers an area of over 1,300 acres and is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The park is home to several attractions and landmarks, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Saint Louis Science Center.

The history of Forest Park dates back to the early 20th century. The park was originally created as the site of the 1904 World's Fair, also known as the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. The fair was held to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase, which had made St. Louis a gateway to the West.

After the World's Fair ended, Forest Park became a public park, and many of the fair's buildings were repurposed for other uses. The Saint Louis Art Museum, for example, was originally the Palace of Fine Arts, one of the main exhibition halls at the fair. The Missouri History Museum was originally the Palace of Mines and Metallurgy.

Over the years, Forest Park has been a popular destination for St. Louis residents and visitors alike. The park has undergone several renovations and improvements, including the addition of new attractions and the restoration of historic buildings. In recent years, the park has also become a center for outdoor recreation, with miles of trails for walking, running, and biking.

Forest Park has played an important role in the history of St. Louis, and it continues to be a beloved landmark and gathering place for the community.

Forest Park Top Tourist Attractions

There are many popular tourist attractions located within Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri. Here are some of the top attractions that visitors to the park should not miss:

  • Saint Louis Art Museum: This museum has a vast collection of more than 34,000 works of art, ranging from ancient to contemporary times. Admission to the museum is free, although there may be a charge for some special exhibitions.
  • Saint Louis Zoo: This zoo is home to more than 13,000 animals, representing over 600 species from around the world. Admission to the zoo is also free, although some attractions within the zoo may require an additional fee.
  • Missouri History Museum: This museum explores the rich history of Missouri, with exhibits that cover everything from Native American cultures to the Civil Rights Movement. Admission to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a fee.
  • Saint Louis Science Center: This science museum has interactive exhibits that cover a wide range of scientific topics, including space exploration, genetics, and energy. Admission to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a fee.
  • The Muny: This outdoor theater is one of the largest in the United States, and it hosts Broadway-style productions during the summer months. The Muny has been a fixture in Forest Park since 1916, and it continues to be a popular destination for theater lovers.
  • Boathouse: This historic boathouse is located on the edge of Post-Dispatch Lake and offers dining with a view. Visitors can rent paddle boats or take a relaxing gondola ride on the lake.
  • Steinberg Skating Rink: This outdoor ice rink is open during the winter months and is a popular destination for families and couples looking to enjoy some winter fun.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions within Forest Park. Visitors to the park can easily spend several days exploring all that it has to offer.

Forest Park Climate

The climate of Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri is classified as humid subtropical. This means that the area experiences hot, humid summers and cool, wet winters. The park is located in the eastern portion of the United States, which means that it is subject to frequent weather changes and the occasional severe weather event.

During the summer months, which typically run from May through September, temperatures in Forest Park can be quite hot and humid. High temperatures often reach into the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37 degrees Celsius), with high levels of humidity making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and can bring heavy rain, lightning, and high winds.

In the winter months, which typically run from November through March, temperatures in Forest Park are generally cool and wet. Average high temperatures during the winter months range from the upper 30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 4-8 degrees Celsius), with occasional cold snaps bringing temperatures well below freezing. Snow is also common during the winter months, with an average of around 17 inches (43 cm) falling each year.

Overall, visitors to Forest Park should be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions, including hot, humid summers and cool, wet winters. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before visiting the park, and to dress appropriately for the conditions.

Forest Park Geography

Forest Park is located in the western part of the city of St. Louis, Missouri. It covers an area of over 1,300 acres and is bordered by several major streets, including Clayton Avenue to the north, Skinker Boulevard to the west, Oakland Avenue to the east, and Hampton Avenue to the south.

The park is situated on relatively flat terrain, with gentle slopes and rolling hills. It is crisscrossed by several streams and bodies of water, including the River Des Peres, which runs along the park's western edge, and Post-Dispatch Lake, which is located near the center of the park. The park also contains several smaller ponds and streams, as well as a variety of trees and other vegetation.

One of the park's most prominent features is Art Hill, a large hill located near the center of the park that rises to a height of 190 feet (58 meters) above sea level. Art Hill is home to the Saint Louis Art Museum, and is a popular spot for picnics, outdoor concerts, and other events.

Overall, the geography of Forest Park is characterized by gentle terrain, several bodies of water, and a variety of trees and other vegetation. The park's central location and easy accessibility make it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.