Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Missouri

Parks with scenic views

A park that offers a real escape into nature without making you travel hours to find it.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Castlewood State Park image 1
Castlewood State Park image 2
Castlewood State Park image 3
View all

Meadows and forests surround winding trails along a river, creating a peaceful atmosphere with scenic river views and picturesque bluffs. Playgrounds, picnic areas, and benches with grills offer spots for rest and gathering. A railway track and elaborate stairways add unique charm and variety to the natural setting.

Trails offer breathtaking views of the river, hillsides, and cliffs. Multiple spots provide places to sit and enjoy the beautiful river and hillside scenery along clearly marked paths.

Trails offer river views and a sense of escape from urban life. Large pavilions and a playground provide spots for family and friends. Restrooms stay clean, and dogs are welcome throughout the park.

People are saying

"The river views from the trails are really great."

"I loved the beautiful trails and river views at this park."

"The river views from the trails here are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Swimming is prohibited due to dangerous water conditions.

2

The restrooms at the park are exceptionally clean.

3

Expect the park to be busy on weekends in good weather.

02
Tower Grove Park image 1

Spacious park with old green trees and numerous pavilions featuring themed designs creates a charming and calming energy. Multiple playgrounds, a splash pad, and courts for tennis and pickleball offer varied activities. Historical features like gazebos, ponds, and World's Fair structures enrich the peaceful atmosphere.

Tall trees provide ample shade along many walking trails. Views include fields and treetops visible from paths and driving routes, with nice sights from elevated spots.

Offers a beautiful public space that stays very nice and clean. Hosts events like Food Truck Friday and serves as a popular spot for family gatherings and celebrations.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, spacious, and always well-maintained."

"I found the farmer's market here to be great and awesome."

"I found the scenic views of trees and fields to be beautiful."

Good to know

1

The park hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday, featuring local produce and goods.

2

Food Truck Fridays occur monthly, offering a variety of food options and live music.

3

Safety concerns arise at night due to limited lighting in some areas of the park.

03
Minnie Ha Ha Park image 1

Park offers paved trails, several playgrounds, and river access with pleasant views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with plenty of benches and picnic areas. Activities include walking, biking, disk golf, and BMX track, making it suitable for kids and outdoor fun.

Several lookout points offer great views of the Meramec River. A wide paved walk provides pleasant river views along with restrooms and a playground nearby.

Scenic views of the Maramec River and an observation deck highlight this park. It features paved walking and biking trails, a large hollow tree to explore, several playgrounds, and a BMX track, all set in a mostly shaded, clean, and well maintained environment.

People are saying

"The park's paved trails are amazing for walking or biking."

"There were multiple playgrounds for the children."

"You'll love the great river views from the lookout points."

Good to know

1

The park has several playgrounds for children.

2

There are pavilions available for parties or gatherings.

3

Expect a significant amount of mosquitoes during warmer months.

04
Lone Elk Park image 1

Vast landscape with diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and buffalo appears in a natural setting without barriers. The park maintains a peaceful and serene atmosphere with beautiful views and quiet surroundings. Facilities include picnic areas and hiking trails, supporting a relaxing outdoor experience.

Great views of elk, bison, and deer appear close to the road, making wildlife easy to spot. Trails and a lake add to the beautiful scenic views, with a picnic area offering a nice spot to enjoy the outdoors.

A free park with a vast landscape offers a scenic drive-through where elk, deer, and bison roam freely. Trails like the white bison path provide chances to hike and picnic among diverse wildlife.

People are saying

"You can drive through these parks and see wild animals up close."

"It's a peaceful drive surrounded by beautiful nature and animals."

"You can see elk and bison up close on the scenic views here."

Good to know

1

Lone Elk Park is free to enter, making it accessible for everyone.

2

Pets are not allowed in Lone Elk Park, even if confined to a car.

3

Visitors should keep their distance from elk for safety.

05
Bee Tree County Park image 1

Three-story playground with multiple swings and slides anchors a park known for scenic walking trails and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere suits family gatherings and photo shoots. Historic mansion on a bluff adds elegant charm to natural surroundings.

Beautiful views of the Mississippi River stand out, with scenic walking trails and a quiet pond offering relaxing spots. The historic home provides panoramic views over the river and lakes.

Beautiful views of the Mississippi River and incredible bird life stand out here. The park offers easy walking trails, a fun playground for kids, and lakes that add to its charm.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and great for walking and absorbing nature."

"It's a really nice playground for the kids to run around on."

"I loved the beautiful scenic views of the Mississippi River."

Good to know

1

GSLAC hosts a cub scout evening camp at the park during the third week of June.

2

The park has a lake area, playground, restrooms, and pavilions or shelters.

3

Parking at the park is limited.

06
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park image 1

Lake surrounded by hiking trails and kayak rentals offers a laid back and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors enjoy picnic spots, playgrounds, and varied outdoor activities in a well-maintained setting. The park attracts people for walking, biking, and quiet relaxation with easy parking access.

Beautiful lake views appear throughout the park, especially from the restaurant and disc golf course. The sunset over the lake adds a fantastic visual element to the relaxing atmosphere.

Walking and biking trails circle a large lake, offering easy outdoor exercise. The park features a family-friendly playground, picnic spots, volleyball courts, and public golf, making it great for nature and recreation.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the lake view."

"I found the park to be beautiful and serene."

"The lake views here are beautiful and perfect for relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available at multiple locations around the park.

2

The park is family-friendly and offers activities like picnicking, biking, and hiking.

3

Kayak rentals are affordable and available near the lake.

07
Emmenegger Nature Park image 1

Small park with quiet nature trails and scenic bluffs overlooking a river. Trails vary from easy paved paths to more rugged hikes, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Peaceful atmosphere with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy river views.

Bluffs offer nice views of the Meramec River and surrounding creeks. Trails provide peaceful river vistas and sunset views that are easy to reach after work.

Quiet nature trails and a good mix of hiking and paved paths make this park great for all skill levels. It offers riverside views, decent parking, and family-friendly spots for quick outdoor trips.

People are saying

"The river views from the bluffs are really nice."

"I loved hiking the beautiful trails with river views."

"You'll find nice river views from the bluffs."

Good to know

1

Parking can get tight at Emmenegger Nature Park, especially on weekends.

2

Bring bug spray to avoid mosquitoes, especially during warmer months.

3

The trails are a mix of paved and rugged paths suitable for all skill levels.

08
Chain of Rocks Park image 1

Bridge crossing offers spectacular views including historic water towers and downtown skyline. Park features gated security, picnic pavilions, and free telescopes for river and city viewing. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean, with well-maintained trails and a safe parking area on one side.

Views include the Mississippi River and the St Louis skyline. The bridge offers spectacular sights of two historic water intake towers in the river.

Security stands out with a guarded gate and cameras everywhere. Trails and landscaping create a clean, safe space with great Mississippi River views and picnic areas.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are just portable toilets."

"The park's restrooms and picnic tables were clean and available."

"I loved the great views of the Mississippi River."

Good to know

1

The park opens at 7:00 a.m. and closes shortly after sunset.

2

Security opens the bridge gates at 8 a.m. for access.

3

Parking is available only on the Illinois side of the park.

09
Art Hill image 1
Tourist attraction

Wide open grassy area overlooks a basin with fountains and a lake, creating a peaceful atmosphere with soothing water sounds. Visitors enjoy free concerts and plays, along with picnics and scenic views of nearby monuments and museum campus. The space offers ample photo opportunities and a serene setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Art Hill offers stunning 180-degree views of the park, fountain, and sky. The spot provides beautiful sights of Forest Park and the museum campus, making it a great place for a picnic or paddle boat ride.

A huge, beautiful park offers lush greenery and a mix of cityscape views. Art Hill provides 180-degree views of the park, lake, and fountain, making it a standout spot for relaxing and people-watching.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous views from this spot."

"The scenic views here are stunning, offering a gorgeous look at the park."

"The park offers beautiful views and a lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Art Hill hosts outdoor movies, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

2

The summer movie series at Art Hill is a popular free event.

3

Parking can be challenging during major events, so arrive early.

10
Cliff Cave County Park image 1

Park offers scenic pathways with beautiful Mississippi River views and a mix of paved and hiking trails. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, with occasional sounds from cicadas and passing trains. Picnic pavilions and benches provide comfortable spots to relax and enjoy nature.

Trails lead to expansive views of the Mississippi River, with a scenic bridge and a cave adding variety. Hydration stations sit at the top, complementing the beautiful water vistas along the pathways.

Expansive views of the Mississippi River and scenic paved trails make this park stand out. It offers accessible hiking paths through woods, a bridge, a cave, and a pavilion with picnic tables.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, scenic place to walk your dog on nice trails."

"I found the park's trails beautiful and scenic."

"I enjoyed the great scenic views of the Mississippi River."

Good to know

1

Keep your dog on a leash while on the trails.

2

The restrooms on the lower lot need better maintenance and cleaning.

3

Parking is ample and easy to find at the park.

11
Whitecliff Park image 1

Park centers on breathtaking water views and well-maintained walking trails that connect various amenities. It offers diverse recreational facilities including tennis courts, basketball court, playgrounds, and an aquatic center. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, giving a sense of being away from it all despite active areas with music and community events.

A shelter by the quarry offers a private spot for parties with a beautiful view. Views from Whitecliff Park are breathtaking and nice.

Walking trails and playgrounds offer activities for all ages. The park stays clean and well maintained with picnic areas and courts near the water.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be really beautiful."

"There's lots of parking available, plus trees and grassy areas."

"The scenic views here are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The park and swimming pool are clean, safe, and fun.

2

The bathrooms at Whitecliff Park are clean.

3

The playground is safe and clean.

12
Sunset Park image 1

Park sits on bluffs overlooking the Missouri River with magnificent river views and scenic trails. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, with quiet paths and a spacious nature lodge offering indoor and outdoor areas. Visitors find it ideal for walking, jogging, relaxing, and hosting small events.

Amazing views of the Missouri River stretch from the lodge, deck, and trails. The park offers scenic overlooks including a spot with a view into St. Charles County that rewards the walk.

Secluded park with amazing river views and plenty of walking space. It features a paved trail and ample parking, offering short walks and lovely scenery for hiking and sightseeing.

People are saying

"The views overlooking the river are beautiful."

"I loved the beautiful, scenic views of the river."

"The parks here offer amazing river views and lovely scenery."

Good to know

1

The park has a paved trail suitable for walking and biking.

2

There is plenty of parking available at Sunset Park.

3

The park can hold around 50 people for events.

13
Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park image 1

Park offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with beautiful views of the Gateway Arch, city skyline, and Mississippi River. Elevated, wheelchair accessible viewing deck provides excellent photo opportunities. Space remains uncrowded, creating a relaxing and energizing environment.

Offers a perfect view of the Gateway Arch and the surrounding park from a platform. The park provides an uncrowded, relaxing spot with incredible skyline views of the city and river.

Offers beautiful skyline views of the arch and downtown. The park is clean, well-maintained, and feels safe and easy to access.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view of the arch, especially during sunsets."

"I loved the beautiful view of the Arch and the city skyline."

"This park offers a beautiful view of the Arch."

Good to know

1

Parking is available and easy to find near the park.

2

The park is clean and well-maintained for visitors.

3

Restrooms are available, but check if they are open before your visit.

14
Frontier Park image 1

Park along the river offers spectacular views and well-kept grounds with paths for walking and biking. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and serene during the week to lively and festive during concerts and events. Visitors enjoy live music, outdoor festivals, and a mix of quiet spots and social activity.

Spectacular river views dominate the park, with clean paths perfect for walking and people watching. The main stage sits near a busy exit, offering a unique view of events alongside the flowing river.

Walking trails run along the river with picnic areas and a dog-friendly atmosphere. The park stays clean and offers a peaceful, well cared for space for events and everyday visits.

People are saying

"I loved walking along the river at this park."

"It's a great spot for walking your dog, especially at night."

"I enjoyed the great river views here."

Good to know

1

Frontier Park hosts Oktoberfest every year with food, music, and activities.

2

Parking can become difficult quickly during events, so arrive early.

3

The park is dog-friendly and has picnic areas for visitors.

15
370 Lakeside Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful lake views and clean, well-maintained facilities offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Amenities include dog parks, walking trails, and pavilions suitable for large gatherings, supporting a variety of outdoor activities.

Most sites offer a lake view that is consistently beautiful. The view from the camper and at 370 Lakeside Park is especially spectacular.

A gorgeous park with walking trails around the water and a large dog park. It offers kayak rentals, well-maintained grounds, and many activities like a Friday night food truck and concert series.

People are saying

"This RV park is big rig friendly with well-cared-for sites."

"It's really Dog Friendly with two large dog parks."

"The lake views here are beautiful and amazing."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available on weekends with live music on Fridays.

2

The park has pavilions that can accommodate over 200 people for gatherings.

3

The campground is well-maintained and easy to navigate.

16
Kiener Plaza Park image 1

Open green space centers around an interactive water fountain with views of the Gateway Arch and nearby courthouse. The atmosphere feels peaceful and cozy, with a family-friendly playground and seasonal features like an ice rink adding festive energy. Plenty of seating and modern amenities support relaxation and community gatherings.

Views center on the Gateway Arch with the Old Courthouse in the foreground, creating a striking scene. The park's location near major landmarks offers great photo opportunities and a calming green space.

A playground and splash pad offer fun for kids and adults alike. The park features an interactive fountain, lush gardens, and performance areas, all kept very clean and well maintained.

People are saying

"The view of the Arch and courthouse is gorgeous."

"The parks here offer amazing views of the Arch."

"The scenic views of the Arch and Old Courthouse are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Free ice skating requires a reserved time slot.

2

Sunrise Yoga sessions are free every Tuesday at 7am from May through October.

3

Kiener Plaza hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.

17
Ryan Hummert Memorial Park image 1

Memorial park features a memorial to a local hero and offers views of the Gateway Arch and city valley. It has a playground and sports fields surrounded by fenced, well-kept grounds that create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere.

Views include the Old State Mental Hospital to the east southeast and a valley panorama behind the memorial. The scene also captures part of the City of St. Louis skyline.

A memorial to a local hero stands as the park's main feature, adding a sense of reverence. The park offers a playground for children, a baseball and soccer field, and fenced areas that make it safe for dogs to roam. It sits on one of the highest points nearby, providing views of the Gateway Arch to the east northeast.

People are saying

"From the park, I saw the Gateway Arch to the east."

"I saw the Gateway Arch and the valley from the park."

"The bathrooms here were clean."

Good to know

1

The park has clean restrooms available for visitors.

2

Parking is available both in the lot and on the street.

3

The park features a picnic and family area for gatherings.

18
Fort Belle Fontaine image 1

Grand staircase overlooks the Missouri River, offering breathtaking views and a unique architectural feature in the area. The park combines historic ruins with lush greenery and quiet trails along the riverbank. Visitors find a peaceful atmosphere that connects nature and history in a spacious, off-the-beaten-path setting.

Breathtaking views of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers dominate the landscape. Trails and staircases lead to river edges, revealing ruins of past buildings and lush, natural scenery. Picnic tables sit amid these beautiful, natural views.

Trails wind past old military ruins leading to a fort, offering a mix of history and nature. The park features a grand staircase overlooking the river and is known for being dog friendly and very clean.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful place to explore history."

"I loved the beautiful views of the Missouri River."

"The park's grand staircase is breathtaking, leading down toward the river."

Good to know

1

There are no restroom facilities at Fort Belle Fontaine.

2

Expect to encounter mosquitoes; bug spray is recommended.

3

The Grand Staircase is a sight to see, but some stairs are crumbling.

Discover more

Missouri

Area guide
Loading Map...