Kiener Plaza

Location and History

Situated in the heart of downtown St. Louis, Kiener Plaza is a vibrant green oasis spanning 1.9 acres. Part of the Gateway Mall, this public space sits between Chestnut and Market streets to the north and south, with Broadway and 7th Street forming its eastern and western boundaries. Since its dedication in 1962, it has been a central gathering spot where city life converges.

The plaza bears the name of Harry Kiener, a hometown athletic hero who competed in the 1904 Olympics hosted right here in St. Louis during the World's Fair. Kiener later channeled his success into business, becoming a steel company executive and giving back as a philanthropist.

This view shows the beautiful plaza in all its glory

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Notable Features

Celebrating Harry Kiener's athletic spirit, you'll find a striking statue called "The Olympic Runner" created by Lithuanian-born sculptor William Zorach - a fitting tribute to the park's namesake.

The plaza offers excellent views of the Old Courthouse and the Gateway Arch. Many consider this one of St. Louis's prime spots to capture the city's distinctive skyline.

Scattered throughout the space are plenty of seating options where you can take a load off, watch the world go by, and maybe enjoy a coffee or packed lunch in the midst of urban energy.

Historic Old Courthouse and Gateway Arch frame this urban plaza setting

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Amenities

If you're visiting with kids, they'll likely make a beeline for the children's playground with its unique wooden climbing structures and slides. The soft landing surfaces and safety gates enclosing the play area make it a secure environment for little ones aged 2-12 to burn off some energy.

During those sticky St. Louis summers, the popular splash pad becomes a haven for overheated youngsters. There's something undeniably joyful about watching kids dash through fountains of cool water in the middle of downtown.

Dog owners, you're welcome to bring your four-legged friends along for the adventure - just remember to keep them leashed while exploring the grounds.

Need to check emails or post those skyline photos? Free Wi-Fi blankets the entire plaza, letting you stay connected while enjoying the fresh air.

The park is a modern plaza with patterned stonework

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Recent Improvements

The plaza got a major facelift in 2016-2017, breathing new life into this downtown escape. The thoughtful redesign introduced modern amenities that accommodate various activities and appeal to visitors of all ages.

The Old Courthouse with its green dome seen from the grass

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Events and Activities

During the year, Kiener Plaza pulses with public events - from outdoor movie screenings and live concerts to seasonal festivals that bring the community together. Its central downtown location makes it an easy stop whether you're a tourist or local looking for a dose of outdoor recreation.

When winter settles over St. Louis, the plaza transforms into Winterfest, complete with an ice skating rink, cozy heated igloos, festive decorations, and holiday activities. This seasonal tradition has become a cherished part of St. Louis winters, drawing people downtown to embrace the colder months with a sense of wonder and play.