In last week’s blog, we shared that St. Louis tops multiple lists of pet-friendly cities in the US. Offering a variety of dog-friendly parks, attractions, and outdoor spaces, St. Louis is a great place to call home; for humans and pets alike. Last week’s discussion inspired me to come up with a rundown of the best pet-friendly parks in the Gateway City, places that you and your 4-legged kids can explore together. I covered this topic in May 2023, so it’s time for an update. If you have any favorites that I haven’t mentioned, please comment below. I’ll be happy to add them to a future post!
On-Leash Parks for Leashed/Restrained Adventures in St. Louis
Forest Park
This sprawling 1,300-acre urban oasis is a must-visit for pet parents. Forest Park offers miles of walking trails, lush green spaces, and even paddle boat rentals where you can take your pup out on Post Dispatch Lake. Known as “One of the most beautiful urban parks in the world — and one of the greatest civic treasures of St. Louis,” Forest Park is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy its beauty with your four-legged companion. Remember, City Ordinance requires pets to be on leashes.
Tower Grove Park
Tower Grove ParkOpen from sunrise to sunset daily, Tower Grove Park is a picturesque 289-acre Victorian walking park that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog. The park features beautiful historic architecture, bridges, and a variety of walking trails. Here, your pup will love exploring the park’s wooded areas and open meadows but will really enjoy becoming a market dog at Tower Grove’s year-round seasonal farmers markets. Because there are a number of dogs at the farmers markets in particular, please be careful with leashed cats; a stroller or backpack is always safer in public settings like these.
Laumeier Sculpture Park
Art enthusiasts and their canine companions will adore Laumeier Sculpture Park. This 105-acre outdoor museum showcases over 60 large-scale sculptures amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you admire the artwork. Entry is free and the park is open from 7 a.m. to 30 minutes past sunset daily except for special event dates. Some special event dates exclude dogs. And, they don’t mention cats online. Call before bringing your feline friend along – just in case!
Gateway Arch National Park
Gateway Arch National ParkWhile your pup can’t ride the tram to the top of the iconic Gateway Arch, the surrounding park is very dog-friendly. Enjoy the walking trails and grassy areas with stunning views of the Arch and the Mississippi River. It’s a great spot for a picnic with the whole family!
Per the website, “leashed and well-behaved pets are allowed and encouraged on the grounds of Gateway Arch National Park. Pets are not permitted in the Gateway Arch Visitor Center or in the Old Courthouse (this does not apply to service animals as defined under the ADA). Pet excrement must be immediately removed from the park or disposed of in a trash container. Pets may not be left tied to light poles, handrails, trees, or other objects.”
Your dog can even become a B.A.R.K. ranger by stopping by the visitor center’s entrance desk to show the ranger photos or videos of your pet following all the principles of B.A.R.K., which include picking up poop, wearing a leash, respecting wildlife, and staying in designated pet-friendly areas. B.A.R.K. ranges earn a special keepsake prize!
Off-Leash Dog Parks for Romps with 4-Legged Friends in St. Louis
Creve Coeur Dog Park
Creve Coeur Dog ParkThe Creve Coeur Dog Park features a 2.5 acre fenced area in the northeast area of Conway Park. It is located at 12301 Conway Road. Here, dogs can play off leash in two distinct sections. They offer a two-acre large dog area and a one-half acre small dog area that is reserved for dogs smaller than 30 pounds. The Creve Coeur Dog Park is open to registered members only. Pricing can be found here and rules here.
St. Johns Community Dog Park
This fully fenced public park is a favorite among local dog owners. It offers separate sections for small and large dogs, waste stations, water stations, and plenty of shade trees and benches for us humans. It’s an excellent spot for your pup to burn off some energy. It gets 5 bones on BringFido!
Treecourt Unleashed Dog Adventure Park
Treecourt Unleashed is a privately owned dog park. They offer what they refer to as “a premium dog park experience.” The park offers membership-based admission. It spans 23 acres with a variety of terrains for dogs to explore. Dogs are temperament tested to gain access. Some reviewers on BringFido weren’t pleased by the owner’s decision to deny them entry. But, a temperament test isn’t a bad thing – when done properly, it’s a great way to keep pets safe.
Pet-Friendly Fun in St. Louis
No matter where you choose to take your 4-legged kids, check out their website and social media pages for announcements, closures, etc. Call before bringing cats unless they are clearly included on the websites, etc. Unfortunately for a cat mom like me, “pet-friendly” doesn’t always mean cat-friendly so I’ve learned to check ahead.
If taking your pet for an adventures is a bridge too far, count on us to walk your dog when you can’t. Our team will take your dog around your neighborhood. We’ll let him or her stretch his or her legs, do their business, and get them going. They will love it, and we can even walk your cat with the right stroller, backpack, or other equipment.
At 4-Legged Kids, Inc., we personalize our award-winning dog walking and pet sitting services to meet your and your pets’ needs. Call 636-405-0400 or email ask@4leggedkids.com to register. Existing clients, please request services here.
Janie founded 4-Legged Kids, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997 and provides education through her PetBizHIVE podcast and her PetBizMBA membership and courses. She is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator, Fear Free certified and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Learn more about the Founder, Janie Budnick.
