Grand Basin

Grand Basin and Art Hill form the park's landmark lake-and-lawn view below the Art Museum, with paved walks, boating views and popular winter sledding.

Free lots and curb spaces are distributed throughout the park, while the Zoo and Art Museum also operate paid parking. Choose the exact destination before driving; major events and pleasant weekends can close roads or fill nearby zones.

Park grounds are open daily 6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Museums, zoo, visitor center, Muny, Jewel Box, concessions, rentals and recreation facilities keep separate schedules.

Dependable restrooms are inside staffed attractions and the Visitor Center during their own hours; seasonal facilities serve selected recreation zones. Do not assume every trail, lake or field has an open restroom nearby.

Park grounds, trails, Nature Playscape and general entry to the Zoo, Art Museum, History Museum and Science Center are free. Parking, special exhibits, shows, golf, rentals, food and selected attractions cost separately.

Major institutions and many paved park routes are accessible, but distances are substantial and grades, road crossings, lawns, construction and event closures matter. The Visitor Center can help identify practical routes.

Leashed dogs are welcome in ordinary outdoor park areas. Pets are restricted from zoo grounds, museums, the Nature Playscape and posted facilities or events; service-animal rules vary by institution.

The free Zoo and museums, Nature Playscape, Turtle Playground, lakes, seasonal trolley and wide lawns make Forest Park a premier family destination, but trying to cover the whole park in one visit is unrealistic.

Grand Basin and Art Hill form the park's landmark lake-and-lawn view below the Art Museum, with paved walks, boating views and popular winter sledding. The Boathouse restaurant and its lot are closed during 2026 renovation. Boat rentals and a temporary beer-and-wine garden continue nearby; use Visitor Center parking or street parking and check park alerts, trolley service and institution hours before visiting.

MetroLink serves Forest Park-DeBaliviere and nearby stations, MetroBus 90 crosses the park, and a seasonal park trolley links major destinations. Verify current routes and the final walk to your chosen attraction.