CharelC
Sometimes it's nice when traveling to have casual activities between all your plans.Plus, a *free* attraction when spending so much money for vacation is also welcomed!I had some time to kill before I left for my next destination, so I had read about the City Garden here on Trip Advisor. It was overcast and had just rained that morning, but I still enjoyed a stroll through here. Great pictures with the fall colors, and it's close to the Gateway Arch. I walked through the City Garden in the morning while waiting for the City Museum to open. It's a great place to go for meditation, some reading or just for a lunch break!
shellakers
I can't say enough good about City Garden! First of all... it's 100% FREE! Whether you're vacationing in St. Louis or you live here, this is a beautiful little treasure. I've been here with my kids and their friends several times now and each time, it's clean, people are friendly and we've enjoyed nature AND water right in the middle of the city. LOVE it! During the summer I bring a book and sit there and read, or watch the little kids playing in the water (something encouraged by the city, I've been told) while my teenagers run around. The gardens a so beautiful!I would recommend maybe not talking to some of the people who hang out around the fountain near the courthouse (which is actually not part of the City Garden, anyway)... they seem friendly but most of the time are pan handlers and it's their job to try and get $ from you. I feel sorry for them every time and of course, I DO give them $. If you're from out of town and aren't used to this sort of thing, it can be a little frightening. That being said, there's always been a police presence around and during the day, we feel very safe.
CarolS215
Wonderful for picture taking and to give the kids a little breathing room. Do it on a spring day, if you like being comfortable, or go when it is snowy for great pictures. Close to places for a quick or fancy lunch.
282thomaso
This gift to the city from a local philanthropist has become an amazingly popular gathering spot downtown. The sculptures are fascinating and the place is quite large. Lots of fountains of different types are designed to encourage kids to play in them. There is a small but nice restaurant within the park - good food, reasonable. You will love your visit to this truly unique place - nothing like the old stodgy sculpture parks - you can even climb in and on the sculptures.
PaigeShortal
On a hot St. Louis summer evening, we take the kids to City Garden. There is a half block of fountains springing up out of the ground with colored lights shining through the water. The diversity of St. Louis is apparent as families of every race and nation gather to cool off and visit. If you go earlier, take a blanket or some lawn chairs and a cooler and visit the wading pool. Parking is dicey - best to look for a meter a block north. Can't beat this place for free fun.
129matthewb
This is a nice walk in St. Louis. It's downtown, near the Arch and many other attractions, and is worth a bit of time. There are some cool sculptures here that definitely deserve some attention.
IrishLady8
We loved taking strolls throughout this 5 or 6 block park that includes water features, large sculptures, wonderful landscaping, and fantastic views of downtown St. Louis. You do have to dodge the high school kids on prom night as this must be the go-to place for group photos. Would imagine it is fun to capture family reunions or engagement/wedding shots here too!
mtnm0mma
This park is a lovely surprise on a hot day. The kids loved the water features and I loved the plants. A great combination of water and art and garden - a real treat AND it's free!
323susanl
As an art lover, this 2 block area in the city is a delight to explore. And it's free! We even took our wedding pictures here.
petew215
The fountains, unique outdoor artwork, and special walking areas make this urban setting a little oasis among the downtown office buildings. Close to classic St. Louis landmarks like the Old Courthouse, Busch Stadium, and the riverfront, this is a nice place to relax and bring a lunch (or buy from a local restaurant or street vendor), when the weather is nice.
Cardzfan1
City Garden is a beautiful garden with tons of activities for young and old alike in the middle of downtown St. Louis. Great place to take the kids on a hot summer day, lots of water and sculptures that are made for the kiddos to climb on. Great place to just sit and people watch. Must visit in the Lou!!
suemap
The weather was too cold (20 degrees F) to do much more than walk through, but the stepping stones across the flowing (and icy) fountain were fun, and the various artwork too. I'll make it a point of returning there on my next visit (during warmer weather).
C9316BGkevint
we enjoy walking down here and taking the kids to play in the water and see all of the gardens. very nice scenery and easy to walk to
PastorPrime
In the winter it is a place where kids can run and let off some steam. In summer it is a place where kids can run and get wet-bring some dry clothes for the children. Delightful and whimsical sculptures fill a park in downtown St. Louis. Continuous films run on a blank wall highlighting art installations. Never met anyone who didn't love this place.
peterv411
While downtown St. Louis is probably past its bustling heyday, there's still some gems to be found. City Garden is a wonderfully done example of what good city planning and appreciation of art can do for an urban area.It's a safe, beautiful, and pleasant walk down a few blocks along Market Ave, and absolutely worth the walk. Beautiful to walk along both during the daytime and at night, but if you go at night, the lighting makes it even more easy on the eyes.Park along Market or one of the side streets, bring some friends, family, or your loved one, and enjoy your walk. My only complaint is that it's not bigger!