Tower Grove Park - A beautiful colorful park in Rotterdam ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑ
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Tower Grove Park

4.7
ยท8k reviewsยทSt. Louis, United States

A historic Victorian park offering serene gardens, picturesque ruins, and a vibrant community hub with farmers markets and events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Serene and uncrowded

CrowdLow
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Tower Grove Park - A beautiful colorful park in Rotterdam ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑ

Tower Grove Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Serene and uncrowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Victorian park offering serene gardens, picturesque ruins, and a vibrant community hub with farmers markets and events.

4.7
(8k reviews)

"Tower Grove Park isn't just a place to visitโ€”it's a place to return to, time and time again."

Vertical photo
TIP

๐Ÿ“ธ Photo Ops Galore

The ruins and gardens are perfect for stunning photos, especially during golden hour.

๐Ÿถ Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! The park offers plenty of space for walks and exploration.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Ruins

Victorian Ruins

Central Park Area

Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the former Lindell Hotel, a picturesque spot for photos and a glimpse into St. Louis history.

TikTok
Robert & Martha Gaddy Bird Garden

Robert & Martha Gaddy Bird Garden

Northwest Corner

Discover a peaceful oasis with a hidden stream and lush greenery, perfect for a serene escape and birdwatching.

Instagram
Farmers Market & Events

Farmers Market & Events

Main Pavilion Area

Experience vibrant community life with a popular farmers market and various events, from live music to festivals.

TikTok
Nee Kee Nee Stream

Nee Kee Nee Stream

East Stream Area

Walk alongside a 1600ft creek that flows when activated, offering a unique urban nature experience.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays or early mornings. Weekends and event days can get busy, especially during farmers markets and festivals. Check the park's schedule for events to plan accordingly.

Park Perks & Parking

Enjoy free admission and ample green space. Parking can be tricky on event days; consider using the farmers market lot as a life hack for easier access and a warm baguette! TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Serene and uncrowded
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday mornings
Why
Vibrant farmers market
Crowd
Medium
When
Event evenings
Why
Live music & atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The coffee with have you moving like this. #towergrovepark #festival
@fyouuuuuuuu
4.8K likes โ€ข 48.8K views

๐Ÿ“ธ Photo Ops Galore

The ruins and gardens are perfect for stunning photos, especially during golden hour. TikTokInstagram

๐Ÿถ Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! The park offers plenty of space for walks and exploration. Reddit

Raise your hand if youโ€™ve taken wedding, prom or homecoming pictures at the @Tower Grove Park ruins! โœ‹โœ‹โœ‹ #towergrovepark #stlhistory #ruins #fire
@ninepbs
2.3K likes โ€ข 29.9K views
Answer time: this hidden forest vibe is actually the Robert & Martha Gaddy Bird Garden at Tower Grove Park. One of the most peaceful spots in St. Louis. #TowerGrovePark #LoFiSaintLouis #StLouisParks #UrbanNature #HiddenGems #ExploreSTL #BirdSanctuary
lofistl
32 likes โ€ข 743 views

โ˜• Coffee & Baguettes

Grab a coffee and a warm baguette from Maison for a perfect park picnic. TikTok

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ Run Club Tuesdays

Join the Tuesday evening run club for a fun workout followed by the farmers market. TikTok

Did you know there's a hidden stream in Tower Grove Park? It's only hidden until you press the button to turn it on. Then water flows through the 1600ft creek, named Nee Kee Nee. From the park's website: The East Stream, which has been named Nee Kee Nee (revived water) by the present-day Osage Nation, was daylighted in 2022, having previously been covered in the 1910s. The stream recovery project...
stl_from_above
1K likes โ€ข 18.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

๐Ÿ“ธ Photo Ops Galore

The ruins and gardens are perfect for stunning photos, especially during golden hour. TikTokInstagram

๐Ÿถ Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! The park offers plenty of space for walks and exploration. Reddit

โ˜• Coffee & Baguettes

Grab a coffee and a warm baguette from Maison for a perfect park picnic. TikTok

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ Run Club Tuesdays

Join the Tuesday evening run club for a fun workout followed by the farmers market. TikTok

๐Ÿงบ Picnic Perfect

Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic on the expansive green lawns. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tower Grove Park is widely praised as a crown jewel of St. Louis, celebrated for its blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and vibrant community life. Visitors love the well-maintained grounds, diverse activities, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Some find parking challenging during peak event times.

"I love this park! It has beautiful open green spaces, fields, ponds, paths to walk and benches dotted throughout.

The biggest plus of this park is the many events they have throughout the week like live music and farmers markets. Centrally located and relatively safe, I think this is a great option for a picnic or a park hang out. Highly recommended!"

Drea Hawkins

"Wonderful park to take the family. They host different events through the year and even on the weekend. Beautiful atmosphere to enjoy the sun, breeze and family/pets."

Erica AnGyo

"Always enjoy the annual Pagan Fest here... such a great park and not a crowded as Forest Park. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Will be adopting my foster dog today who is pictured."

Marcy S.

What People Like

Beautiful green spaces
Historic charm
Community events

What People Dislike

Parking on event days

Frequently Asked Questions

๐Ÿš‡ ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Getting There

Tower Grove Park is easily accessible by car, public transport, and bike. Several bus lines stop near the park. Parking is generally available, though it can be challenging on event days. Consider the farmers market parking lot as a convenient option. TikTokReddit

Yes, parking is available throughout the park. On busy event days, the farmers market parking lot is a recommended spot. TikTok

Absolutely! Tower Grove Park has paved paths suitable for biking, though it might not be ideal for intense cycling workouts. Reddit

Tower Grove Park is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours and events. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Reddit

Walking or biking are excellent ways to explore the park's diverse landscapes and attractions. Reddit

๐ŸŽซ ๐ŸŽซ Tickets & Entry

No, Tower Grove Park offers free admission to all visitors, making it an accessible destination for everyone. Reddit

Tower Grove Park is open daily from dawn until dusk, allowing for ample time to enjoy its beauty. Reddit

While park entry is free, some special events or concerts might require tickets. It's best to check the park's official schedule for event-specific information. TikTok

Generally, you can bring picnics, blankets, and leashed pets. Alcohol policies may vary for specific events. Reddit

Some pavilions may be reservable for private events. Inquire with the park administration for details on reservations and availability. Reddit

๐ŸŽซ ๐ŸŒณ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the historic Victorian ruins, the serene Bird Garden, the Nee Kee Nee stream, and the lively farmers market. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, Tower Grove Park is very dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park, and there are plenty of squirrels to keep them entertained. Reddit

Yes, the park features playgrounds that are great for kids to enjoy. Reddit

The park hosts a variety of events, including live music, festivals, farmers markets, yoga classes, and run clubs. TikTokReddit

While there are ponds and a stream, swimming and fishing are generally not permitted. The wading pool is a popular spot for cooling off in warmer months. Reddit

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Food & Dining

There are no full-service restaurants within Tower Grove Park itself. However, the surrounding 'Grove' neighborhood offers numerous dining options. TikTok

The farmers market offers a variety of food vendors, fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods. You can find delicious treats like warm baguettes. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Tower Grove Park is a fantastic spot for picnics. Bring your own food and enjoy it on the many lawns and at the pavilions. Reddit

Yes, the nearby 'Grove' area has several cafes and coffee shops, perfect for grabbing a drink before or after your park visit. TikTok

For an exceptional brunch experience, consider spots known for their pancakes, which are highly recommended by visitors. TikTok

๐Ÿ“ธ ๐Ÿ“ธ Photography

The Victorian ruins, the Bird Garden, and the ornate pavilions offer stunning backdrops for photography. The Nee Kee Nee stream also provides unique photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the park's historic charm and beautiful scenery make it a very popular location for wedding and engagement photos. TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings are also less crowded for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure safety and preserve the park's tranquility. Check with park authorities for specific regulations. Reddit

The Bird Garden and the Nee Kee Nee stream can offer more secluded photo opportunities compared to the main ruins or pavilions. Visiting on weekdays also helps. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘ง Families with Kids

Tower Grove Park is a fantastic destination for families. It offers ample open green spaces for kids to run and play, along with playgrounds designed for children's enjoyment. The park's generally safe environment and the variety of activities, from exploring the ruins to enjoying a picnic, make it a great outing. Reddit

Consider visiting during the farmers market for a lively experience, or find a quiet spot for a relaxing family picnic. The wading pool is also a hit on warmer days. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited to vendors during events. Reddit

๐Ÿถ Dog Owners

Dog owners will find Tower Grove Park to be a paradise for their furry companions. The park is very dog-friendly, welcoming leashed dogs throughout its grounds. The expansive lawns and winding paths provide plenty of space for dogs to walk, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated dog park within Tower Grove Park, the sheer size and variety of terrain make it an excellent place for daily walks. The presence of squirrels also adds an element of natural entertainment for many dogs. Reddit

๐Ÿ“ธ Photographers & Content Creators

For photographers and content creators, Tower Grove Park is a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The historic Victorian ruins are a standout feature, offering a dramatic and unique backdrop for photoshoots, from engagement sessions to artistic portraits. TikTok

Beyond the ruins, the Bird Garden provides a serene, natural setting, and the Nee Kee Nee stream offers interesting water features. The ornate pavilions and mature trees add further depth and beauty. Visiting during the golden hour or on a weekday morning can help you capture stunning shots with fewer crowds. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Stroll Through History: Victorian Charm

Tower Grove Park is a testament to St. Louis's rich Victorian past, established in 1868. It was designed by William Bodmann and later influenced by Frederick Law Olmsted. The park's Victorian-era architecture is evident in its ornate pavilions, grand entrances, and the iconic ruins of the former Lindell Hotel. These ruins, which once housed a grand hotel that burned down in 1867, now stand as a picturesque and slightly haunting landmark, frequently used for photoshoots. TikTok

The park's design emphasizes a blend of natural beauty and structured elegance. You'll find winding paths that lead you through diverse landscapes, from open, manicured lawns perfect for picnics to more secluded areas like the Bird Garden. The presence of historical elements like carriage ride routes and grass tennis courts further immerses visitors in the park's storied past, offering a unique glimpse into 19th-century leisure and life. Reddit

Nature's Embrace: Gardens and Waterways

Beyond its historical structures, Tower Grove Park is a haven for nature lovers. The Robert & Martha Gaddy Bird Garden is a particularly peaceful spot, offering a tranquil escape with lush vegetation and a sense of seclusion. It's a perfect place for quiet contemplation or observing local birdlife. Instagram

A more recent addition, the Nee Kee Nee stream, revitalizes a part of the park with a 1600-foot creek that flows when activated. This daylighted stream adds a dynamic water feature, enhancing the park's natural appeal and providing a unique urban nature experience. Instagram The park also boasts a variety of mature trees, including oaks and ginkgos, providing ample shade and contributing to the park's serene atmosphere, making it a refreshing retreat within the city. Reddit

Community Hub: Events and Activities

Tower Grove Park is more than just a green space; it's a vibrant community hub. The Saturday Farmers Market is a major draw, offering fresh produce, local goods, and a lively atmosphere. It's a fantastic place to mingle with locals and sample regional flavors. TikTok+1

The park frequently hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year, from live music performances and cultural festivals to yoga classes and community run clubs. This constant activity ensures there's always something happening, making the park a dynamic and engaging destination for residents and visitors alike. The welcoming energy and variety of activities contribute to its reputation as a beloved St. Louis landmark. TikTokReddit

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