Lemay Park

A Bit of History

Found in St. Louis County, Missouri, Lemay Park spans a generous 18.46 acres within the Lemay neighborhood. What's fascinating is how this space has evolved over time - the land was originally developed as a residential area from the 1870s to about 1910, sitting in a section of the River Des Peres flood plain.

What's notable about this park is its transformation story. What was once a constantly flooded area where buildings stood precariously has been transformed into a functional community space. It shows how environmental challenges can be converted into recreational spaces.

Play and Recreation

If you're bringing kids along, they'll find plenty to do. The park features an expansive playground that stands out from your typical swing-and-slide setup. It's thoughtfully designed with equipment for children of different ages, making it a hit with local families.

For the more sports-minded visitors, there's a well-maintained basketball court and plenty of open fields where you can toss a frisbee, kick a soccer ball, or simply spread out a blanket for a picnic.

During summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day), the splash pad water feature is particularly popular. This tall sprinkler system offers a refreshing escape from Missouri's summer heat - just be prepared for excited, dripping wet children!

Getting Around

One of the park's handier features is its connection to the River Des Peres Greenway, making it an ideal starting point if you're planning a longer bike ride or walk. The park itself has paved walking paths circling much of its perimeter, meant for a peaceful stroll or a morning jog.

The landscape here is predominantly flat and open, which has its pros and cons. While you might wish for more trees on particularly sunny days (shade can be limited), the spacious layout means you'll never feel crowded, even when the park is busy.

Practical Stuff

Planning a gathering? The park houses two large pavilions that can each fit over 150 people - pretty impressive for a neighborhood park. These covered areas are maintained well and sit close to both the playground and restrooms, which makes them suitable for birthday parties or family reunions.

Speaking of restrooms, they're generally well-maintained during regular season, but it's always good to have a backup plan as availability can vary. Their proximity to the play areas is definitely a plus when you're visiting with young children.

Community Hub

More than just a collection of amenities, Lemay Park is a gathering place for the surrounding community. On any given weekend, you'll likely find families hosting celebrations, firing up BBQs, or simply enjoying the recently installed benches and tables.

Whether you want a playground visit with the kids, a starting point for a bike ride, or a venue for a family gathering, Lemay Park offers a straightforward, no-frills outdoor space.