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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Missouri

Scenic views with playgrounds

Made for those who need to keep an eye on their children while they take in the scenery.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bee Tree County Park image 1
Bee Tree County Park image 2
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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.

A fun playground offers swings and plenty of space for kids to run around. Facilities include restrooms and large shelters nearby.

People are saying

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

"It's a 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.

02
Missouri Botanical Garden image 1

Large, open garden complex features unique light displays and a climate-controlled dome housing tropical plants. Peaceful walking paths wind through family-friendly areas with splash pads and interactive play zones. The atmosphere blends majestic views with a calm, relaxing vibe.

Majestic views unfold along well-tended gardens and shaded walking paths. The layout encourages wandering with clear signage guiding through gorgeous scenery.

Children enjoy a splash pad, nature play areas, and a shaded playground in the well-designed children's garden. It offers many activities and a great play area for kids.

People are saying

"The children's garden has a splash pad and nature play areas."

"The children's garden has a shaded playground with a splash pad."

"The gardens offer beautiful, majestic scenic views along well-kept walking paths."

Good to know

1

Visitors should check the website for hours of operation and admission information.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early or use free shuttle lots.

3

The garden is friendly to disabled guests, ensuring accessibility.

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.

Several playgrounds sit close to restrooms and a shaded pavilion, making them easy to access and safe. Wide paved trails and a BMX track surround the play areas, adding variety to the outdoor space.

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
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.

Playgrounds offer safe and clean equipment suitable for kids, with some areas in full sun and others nice and shaded. Nearby picnic tables provide a spot for adults to relax while children play.

People are saying

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

"The playground here is nice and shaded."

"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.

05
Castlewood State Park image 1

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.

A play area for kids sits near a creek with swimming holes behind it. Large pavilions and shaded tables surround the playground, with plenty of parking nearby.

People are saying

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

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

"The playground here is nice for the kids."

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.

06
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.

An interactive fountain and abstract playground encourage natural play for kids and adults. The playground includes a small slide for younger children and blends into lush gardens and performance areas.

People are saying

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

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

"The playground here is awesome for kids and adults."

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.

07
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.

Multiple playgrounds cater to different age groups with well maintained equipment. A water splash pad adds extra fun for kids alongside picnic spots and nearby activities like yoga and music performances.

People are saying

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

"I found the park's playground to be a nice spot with ponds and a creek."

"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.

08
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.

Several playgrounds offer swings and slides that kids enjoy. A small playground sits near beautiful pavilions, adding to the family-friendly setup.

People are saying

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

"The lake views here are beautiful and amazing."

"The park has a playground and a pool."

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.

09
River Scene Trail image 1

Trail offers spectacular river views and well-marked paths with moderate difficulty on bluff sections. Park includes playgrounds and grilling areas, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, with few visitors and natural surroundings.

Spectacular views of the river and forest appear from several openings along the trail. Benches, a wooden deck overlook, and open bluff areas offer spots to sit and enjoy the water and treetops below.

Multiple areas feature playgrounds that are well maintained and clean. Nearby, pavilions and grilling spots add to the outdoor setup.

People are saying

"The views from the trail are spectacular and beautiful."

"I found the park to be great and kid friendly."

"The scenic views of the forest and river are glorious."

Good to know

1

The trail has a steep climb with loose rocks, so good footwear is essential.

2

The park admission is free.

3

The trail is well marked with bright red arrows.

10
St. Louis Union Station image 1
Tourist attraction

Grand interior combines with historic architecture and large koi pond to create a unique setting. Ferris wheel, aquarium, and interactive attractions offer a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor fountain features a free fire and water show, adding to the festive vibe.

Views from the top offer a striking perspective despite the height. Sitting by the fountain provides an amazing view, and the Ferris wheel adds a unique vantage point.

Multiple play areas include a mini golf course, a small train-themed playground, and a water play table. A large enclosed Ferris wheel and hands-on coloring tables add variety to the fun.

People are saying

"The aquarium was amazing and interactive; you could touch aquatic species."

"The aquarium was interactive and allowed us to touch various aquatic species."

"The aquarium is absolutely beautiful and amazing."

Good to know

1

The Grand Hall Experience light show occurs nightly and is free to watch.

2

The fire and ice show runs hourly in the evenings and is free.

3

Walking around St. Louis Union Station is free and offers many sights.

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