Forest City MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Forest City, Missouri.
1. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE AND NATURE PRESERVE
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge offers a stunning sanctuary for migratory birds and diverse wildlife in Forest City, Missouri. Visitors can observe hundreds of thousands of snow geese and other waterfowl during peak migration seasons, creating a spectacular natural phenomenon. The refuge features scenic hiking trails, observation decks, and educational programs that highlight the unique loess hill ecosystem and its importance to conservation efforts.
2. Big Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Big Lake State Park provides a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts with its expansive lake and recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and camping at Missouri's largest oxbow lake formed by the Missouri River. The park's natural beauty is complemented by modern amenities including cabins, campsites, picnic areas, and playgrounds for family-friendly fun year-round.
3. Wild Bills
LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT HOTSPOT
Wild Bills serves as a popular entertainment venue and gathering spot for locals and tourists in Forest City. The establishment offers a unique blend of dining, drinks, and various entertainment options in a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the authentic local experience and friendly service that has made it a staple in the community.
4. Andrew County Museum and Historical Society
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
Andrew County Museum and Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of Andrew County and the surrounding region. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of early settlers, agricultural development, and local traditions. Visitors can explore engaging exhibits that bring to life the cultural heritage and historical significance of northwest Missouri.
5. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch dominates the St. Louis skyline as America's tallest monument and a symbol of westward expansion. Standing at 630 feet, this stainless steel architectural marvel offers visitors tram rides to the observation deck with spectacular views of the city and Mississippi River. The surrounding Jefferson National Expansion Memorial includes museums, exhibits, and riverboat cruises that enhance visitors' understanding of this iconic landmark's historical significance.
6. Missouri History Museum
CULTURAL LEARNING DESTINATION
Missouri History Museum showcases the rich and diverse history of St. Louis and the state through engaging exhibits and educational programs. Located in Forest Park, the museum features permanent and rotating exhibitions highlighting significant events, influential figures, and cultural developments that shaped the region. Visitors can explore artifacts, interactive displays, and attend various events that bring Missouri's past to life in a meaningful and accessible way.
7. The Jewel Box
ART DECO GREENHOUSE
The Jewel Box is a magnificent art deco greenhouse in Forest Park featuring unconventional, cantilevered, vertical glass walls rising 50 feet high. Since its opening in 1936, this architectural gem has housed seasonal floral displays and exotic plants in a stunning, light-filled environment. The venue serves as both a beloved public attraction and a popular space for weddings and special events, combining natural beauty with historic elegance.
8. World's Fair Pavilion
HISTORIC OPEN-AIR STRUCTURE
The World's Fair Pavilion stands as an impressive open-air shelter built in 1909 with proceeds from the 1904 World's Fair. Perched atop Government Hill in Forest Park, this grand Beaux-Arts style structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The pavilion hosts numerous community events, private gatherings, and serves as a beloved landmark connecting visitors to St. Louis's storied past.
9. Cabanne House
HISTORIC BRICK FARMHOUSE
Cabanne House holds the distinction of being the first brick farmhouse built west of the Mississippi River, dating back to 1819. This historic treasure showcases Victorian architecture amid beautiful gardens in Forest Park. Visitors can experience a glimpse into the region's past through the preserved structure and learn about its significance in the early development of the area.
10. Art Hill
CULTURAL RECREATION SPACE
Art Hill serves as a picturesque blend of culture, nature, and recreation in St. Louis's Forest Park. The iconic slope features the majestic Saint Louis Art Museum at its summit and cascades down to the Grand Basin, creating a perfect setting for picnics, sledding in winter, and outdoor film screenings in summer. This beloved gathering space hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year while offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding parkland.
11. Apotheosis of St. Louis
HISTORIC BRONZE MONUMENT
The Apotheosis of St. Louis is a captivating historical landmark in Forest Park depicting King Louis IX of France, the city's namesake. This bronze equestrian statue, originally created as the symbol for the 1904 World's Fair, has become an enduring emblem of the city's heritage and cultural identity. Visitors admire the impressive craftsmanship of the statue as it sits majestically in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum atop Art Hill.
12. John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest
NATURAL URBAN SANCTUARY
The John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest offers visitors a tranquil nature preserve within Forest Park, perfect for hiking and peaceful contemplation. This 90-acre woodland area provides a serene escape from urban life with winding trails through native Missouri forest. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the diverse ecosystem featuring native trees, wildflowers, and wildlife that create an authentic Midwestern forest experience within the city limits.
13. Victorian Footbridge
CHARMING HISTORIC CROSSING
The Victorian Footbridge stands as an elegant historic structure spanning the waterways of Forest Park in St. Louis. With its ornate iron detailing and classic design, this picturesque bridge offers visitors both functionality and a glimpse into the park's rich architectural heritage. The footbridge serves as a popular spot for photographers and a romantic setting for leisurely strolls through one of America's greatest urban parks.
14. Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL TRIBUTE
The Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial in St. Louis honors the German educator and nationalist known as the 'father of gymnastics.' This architectural gem stands amid the scenic beauty of Forest Park, commemorating Jahn's contributions to physical education and German-American cultural heritage. Visitors can appreciate both the historical significance and artistic merit of this thoughtfully designed monument.
15. Round Lake Fountain
SERENE WATER FEATURE
Round Lake Fountain offers a tranquil retreat within Forest Park, featuring a beautiful water display surrounded by lush landscaping. This historic landmark creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection, photography, and appreciating the harmonious blend of nature and design. Visitors are drawn to the fountain's soothing sounds and classic aesthetic that has enhanced the park experience for generations.