Ray Leisure Park

A Neighborhood Retreat

Found in the LaSalle Park neighborhood of St. Louis, Ray Leisure Park spans a modest 7.31 acres but packs quite a punch for its size. Established back in 1958, this park has been a breathing space for locals for over six decades now.

Bounded by Park Avenue, Tucker Boulevard, Carroll Street, and Menard Street, there's something refreshingly calm about this space. It's the kind of park where you can actually hear yourself think - clean, peaceful, and perfectly suitable for bringing the whole family along.

Get Your Game On

If you're looking to get active, Ray Leisure Park offers several options. The park's softball field comes complete with benches where teammates and spectators can hang out between innings.

More of a basketball enthusiast? The basketball courts here accommodate everything from casual shootarounds to more competitive matchups. And don't worry about parking - there's street-side spots available when you come for games or just to shoot some hoops on your own.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The little ones won't be bored for a second at Ray Leisure Park. The playground area features several jungle gyms and a swing set that keeps kids entertained for hours. A unique feature is the vintage rocket slide that apparently can't be found anywhere else in St. Louis.

The playground works well for kids from around 2 to 12 years old, making it a great spot for siblings of different ages to play together. You'll likely find your kiddos completely tuckered out after an afternoon here - parents consistently note how much energy their children burn off on the equipment.

Community Hub

The heart of Ray Leisure Park might just be its community center, which has been standing since 1970. On the first floor, you can find an indoor pool that's great for a refreshing swim, along with a basketball court for when the weather isn't cooperating outdoors.

Head upstairs to discover a boxing gym and weight room on the second floor - a nod to St. Louis's impressive boxing heritage. Many visitors mention how the staff, especially the center's director, make everyone feel welcome with friendly conversation and helpful information.

Green Spaces & Accessibility

The landscaping at Ray Leisure strikes a nice balance with street trees and tall grasses adding visual interest throughout. You'll discover a good mix of shaded areas to escape the summer heat alongside sunny spots for when you're craving some vitamin D.

There's a small parking lot available if you're driving over, with some additional landscaping that adds to the park's charm. From time to time, the park hosts community gatherings that bring neighbors together - always a nice touch in an increasingly disconnected world.

Good to Know

You'll find a water fountain when you need to hydrate, but just note that there aren't any public restrooms in the outdoor areas of the park. Something to keep in mind if you're planning an extended visit.

While there are benches scattered throughout where you can take a load off, the park doesn't offer picnic tables or shelter houses. If you're thinking about an outdoor meal or gathering, you might want to bring your own blanket or portable chairs.

Ray Leisure Park functions as a neighborhood green space that offers activities for various interests, from sports and family outings to quiet relaxation.