Tranquil Spots In St. Louis to De-Stress
The hustle and bustle of work life can be overwhelming and it’s really important to unplug in nature. Today I’m sharing some of my favorite quiet and calm spots in St. Louis to reset and charge my batteries. Just an hour spent looking at lush greenery can turn any day around!
The Japanese Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The entire botanical garden is impressive and well worth every penny of the low admission price - but make your way to the back on a slow weekday for a true escape (for residents, Tuesday mornings are free!). The Japanese Garden is so tranquil, so calming and truly feels like an escape to another world. It’s pure magic.
Tilles Park. I am biased because I live nearby, but walking the Tilles Park loop is a great way to get some exercise and hang out with some monstrous, lush green trees. In the fall, be sure to take in the changing colors, but a trip there any time of the year is restorative.
The East Side of Forest Park. Any spot in Forest Park will do the trick if you need a screen break, but my favorite spot to take in a variety of nature is the east side near the hospital. Park along Grand Drive east of the Visitor’s Center and walk along the big loop’s trail to the east. In the Spring, you’ll find flowering trees near the hospital. Any other time of the year, the big trees, pond views and meadow/prairie setting makes for a relaxing walk. If you’re feeling ambitious, the whole loop around the park is 6 miles - but turning around at Clayton Ave. after seeing Jefferson lake is a decent hour-ish walk.
Castlewood State Park. A local favorite for so many, but truly a great escape (and, with high views!). Pick an off-peak time for a quieter experience and enjoy the scenic Meramac River and wooded hiking trails. We like parking
The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House. Again, a safe bet to pick a weekday here. The butterfly house is small, but has over 1,500 butterflies in total and plenty of opportunities to watch them in action. It’s so relaxing for the mind to follow them around and watch them enjoy their habitat. Their coloring can be so bright and such a treat to see up close.
Maypop Coffee and Garden Shop. Centrally located in Webster Groves, this is a great spot to grab a coffee with a friend while browsing in the greenhouse.
Concordia Park in Demun. I love this spot! It’s dog friendly and perfectly situated for an ice cream stop at Clementine’s. Concordia is a quiet and beautifully wooded spot to take a break at. Bring a blanket and enjoy - or stop off at one of the many benches around the area.
