Since 1985, the United States has celebrated Parks & Recreation Month each year. The goal of this July celebration is to raise awareness of the essential services that park and recreational professionals provide to regions across the United States.

This year’s theme, created by our friends at National Recreation and Park Association, is Our Park and Recreation Story. At Forest Park Forever, we are thrilled to be able to partner with the City of St. Louis’ Parks and Recreation Department to maintain, sustain and restore Forest Park, now and forever.

In celebration of this year’s theme, we would like to feature our Parks and Recreation opportunities in the region, our story. Check out these amazing opportunities (in no particular order).

1. Did you know that St. Louis City is 62 square miles and of that, over 2,956 acres are park land? Check out the additional 107 city parks inside the St. Louis region.

2. City pools are back open! Check out several of the opportunities to cool off this summer here.

3. Run the St. Louis Arch 4.4 mile loop.

4. There are two public golf courses located in the City of St. Louis. Both of them are in Forest Park. Looking to take your family to the driving range? The Highlands Driving Range is ready for you!

   • Book a tee time!

5. Enjoy the Mississippi or the St. Louis Post Dispatch Lake in Forest Park via boat.

   • Big Muddy Adventures will guide you on a St. Louis Riverfront Adventure.

   • Looking for something slower paced? Join in on SUP yoga classes in Forest Park.

6. Great Rivers Greenway offers 121 miles of trails for you to explore in the St. Louis region. From riding your bike along the Mississippi River to biking from St. Louis City to Kirkwood via Grant’s trail, there is something for everyone. Plan your trip today!

7. Take a couple-mile stroll around the largest botanical garden in the country, Missouri Botanical Garden, located in south city. Learn more here.

A special thanks to all of the volunteers, Parks & Recreation employees, donors and various Park conservancy employees and board members who provide essential services — making their communities better places to live, work and play.