Anne O'C. Albrecht Nature Playscape — Attraction in St. Louis

TLDR: a high-energy, low-tech place to climb, splash and explore, but be sure to bring some spare shoes and clothes for your little ones.

For once in my life, I didn't have to struggle to park inside Forest Park. The Playscape is encircled by a ring road with lined parking on both sides of the street. I went on a Monday afternoon and the parking was plentiful.

Once out of the car, you'll find yourself on a fine gravel path which circles most of the activities. The path has ropes on both sides to protect the prairie flora, and it leads to several activity centers, places where there is a focus on one activity or other. You'll see a lot of shiny water pumps, logs, rocks, and streams. I'm not positive, but I'd bet that the water pumps don't make potable (meaning safe to drink) water, so try to avoid letting your little ones have too big of a drink.

The main attraction is an artificial stream that runs down the middle of the Playscape, with a few small fountains, some logs to walk across, stones to step on, and bridges and benches for those parents with strollers or shoes that shouldn't get wet. The bridges are a pretty abrasive metal, my daughter fell and has a lovely bruise and scrape on her forehead, so try to have your little ones avoid running on the grates. Dress your little ones in sandals or boots, and don't be surprised when they come back to you sopping wet and covered in mud. Bring a new outfit for them, and don't scold them for getting messy; that experience is exactly why you're coming to a Nature Playscape and not a regular playground.

After all, where else in the city can...

Amazing place to bring a little one to run around and explore. Would also be a great place for adults to walk, it's too tame to be called a hike... If you love natural spaces filled with native plants, this is a great spot. The meadows, savannahs, and little creek structures give you a little bit of everything in a small space.

No real playground for kids here, but all sorts of downed trees, gravel beds, and sandboxes to play in. They have a couple places with water pumps that also excite my near 5 year old.

Parking is usually available, but not in the most convenient spot. It you drive off around the backside, which is luckily they have signs pointing you to, you...

City residents know what a gem the Nature Playscape is in Forest Park. Kids can explore and learn and exercise and have fun at this huge open space. Your family can spend a couple of hours climbing on trees, playing in the giant sand boxes and spashing in the waterfalls and many pools. Those visiting St Louis will find a great, free activity in the heart of Forest Park. Enhance your visit by bringing water shoes and a swimsuit or clothes you don't mind getting dirty. (But not needed to have a good time) This is a large and kind of hilly area so be ready for some fun walking while...