Forest Park,
Forest Park is a suburb located southwest of Chicago, Illinois in the United States. It is known for its historic residential neighborhoods and charming downtown area filled with unique shops and restaurants. The village is home to beautiful parks and green spaces, offering residents and visitors plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Forest Park also boasts a rich cultural scene, with several theaters and art galleries to explore.
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Park
morning:Start your day with a peaceful walk through the park trails.
afternoon:Visit the World's Fair Pavilion for a scenic lunch spot with great views of the city.
evening:Head to The Boathouse for a delightful dinner by the lake and live music in the evening.
Art and Culture Day
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Saint Louis Art Museum to admire world-class art collections.
afternoon:Enjoy a cultural lunch at the Boathouse restaurant surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.
evening:Immerse yourself in the local arts scene with a performance at the Shakespeare Festival.
Family Fun Day
morning:Spend the morning at the St. Louis Zoo and enjoy an interactive animal encounter.
afternoon:Indulge in a family-friendly lunch at the Zoo's Lakeside Cafe.
evening:Take a relaxing evening stroll at the Jewel Box and enjoy the breathtaking floral displays.
Historical Adventure Day
morning:Explore the history of the area with a visit to the Missouri History Museum.
afternoon:Savor a historical lunch at the Boathouse restaurant overlooking the water.
evening:Discover the unique architectural heritage with a guided tour of the Jewel Box.
Forest Park Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A popular Midwest dish, the pork tenderloin sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun. It's a must-try in Forest Park and can be found at local diners and pubs like Jimmy's Place.
Must-Try!
Deep Dish Pizza
Forest Park is in close proximity to Chicago, known for its deep dish pizza. Head to Culver's for a mouthwatering slice of this iconic dish.
Italian Beef Sandwich
A Chicago classic, the Italian beef sandwich is a hot, juicy concoction of roast beef, dripping with meat juices, on a dense Italian roll. Visit Buona Beef for a delectable version.
Photography Spots in Forest Park
Locations for the best views and photo opportunities
Art Hill
Located in the central part of Forest Park, Art Hill offers a beautiful vantage point with views of the St. Louis Art Museum and the Grand Basin.
World's Fair Pavilion
Situated on Government Hill, the World's Fair Pavilion provides panoramic views of Forest Park and the surrounding area, making it a great spot for photography.
Pagoda Circle
This area in Forest Park offers scenic views of the waterways and landscapes, making it an ideal location for capturing nature and park landscapes.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring
Best time to visit for blooming flowers, mild weather, and baby animals
Summer
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and attending events
Fall
Great for foliage viewing and enjoying cool, crisp weather
Winter
Opportunity for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and peaceful winter scenery
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Forest Park Farmers' Market
Open on Saturdays, this market offers a wide variety of fresh, locally produced fruits, vegetables, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat snacks. It's a great place to sample local street food and engage with the community.
Taste of Melrose Park
This annual event in neighboring Melrose Park features a fantastic array of street food vendors offering everything from traditional American fare to international flavors.
Things to do in Forest Park
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Forest Park
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!