Even before spring officially arrives in St. Louis, any warm day will draw visitors to Forest Park for a sneak preview of what’s to come. Whether enjoying recreation and paths or anticipating the next floral bloom, there is something for everyone throughout each spring in Forest Park.

Blooms, and More Blooms!

Forest Park Forever’s horticulture staff maintains 391.5 acres of Forest Park, including 9,800 trees, over 596,000 square feet of landscape beds, and 28.5 acres of natural areas. They work year-round to maintain and prep the landscape, and spring is when some of their most breathtaking work is on display.

Daffodils are often the first early sign of spring’s arrival. These yellow flowers bloom at different times throughout the Park — look for them in front of the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center, behind the Missouri History Museum, at the foot of bridges to Picnic Island, and more.

Magnolias, cherry blossoms, redbuds and dogwoods will start to show their colors, particularly on the east side of the Park such as around the Jewish Tercentenary Monument.

If you’re a tulip fan, look for them around the Jewel Box and on Art Hill, usually in mid-April.

Seasonal Water Features and Access

Even on the warm days of early spring, certain water features will not be turned on — to protect them from damage — until Park crews are sure the last freeze is behind us. That means water features at the Cascades, Government Hill and the Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape are not turned on until around mid-April. (They’re also turned off in fall before the freezes return.)

Similarly, some restrooms are accessible only during the busy (non-freezing) seasons of the year between April and October. Check out the interactive and mobile-friendly Forest Park map to see which restrooms are year-round vs. seasonal.

Activities for Everyone

The dual recreational paths, hiking trails, spots for fishing or picnicking, and our cultural institutions offer an array of activities for all ages. Spring is also a time when more events occur. Follow our Forest Park Forever calendar — updated frequently — to see events like bird walks, festivals, races and other activities.

Questions and Guides

Not sure where to begin? Have questions? Forest Park Forever staffs the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center with friendly Visitor Service Representatives who are here to answer your questions and point you in the right direction. Our interactive Forest Park Map can orient you — and alert you to events or maintenance that may affect parking, traffic, or trail access.

With 1,300 acres, there is plenty to explore!