Missouri Botanical Garden
A 79-acre urban oasis showcasing diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and stunning conservatories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Missouri Botanical Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 79-acre urban oasis showcasing diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and stunning conservatories.
"A magical place perfect for everyone, offering relaxation, exploration, and learning."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 79 acres! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring water bottles; there are refill stations. Summers are hot! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden
A serene oasis with tranquil ponds, meticulously sculpted trees, and traditional architecture.
Climatron Conservatory
Climatron
Step into a lush, humid world of tropical rainforests and deserts under a geodesic dome.
Victorian District
Victorian District
Explore the historic German-style garden and the charming 1850s Flora photographer's cottage.
Children's Garden
Children's Garden
An expansive, interactive play area with climbing structures, water features, and sensory gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
St. Louis summers can be hot, so plan for hydration and wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking.Tickets & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 79 acres! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring water bottles; there are refill stations. Summers are hot! :droplet:
Check the Website
For hours, events, and potential resident discounts. :computer:
Plan Your Visit
The garden is huge; prioritize what you want to see. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 79 acres! :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring water bottles; there are refill stations. Summers are hot! :droplet:
Check the Website
For hours, events, and potential resident discounts. :computer:
Plan Your Visit
The garden is huge; prioritize what you want to see. :world_map:
Golden Hour Evenings
Enjoy extended hours on select Thursdays in September for a magical sunset stroll. :city_sunset:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Missouri Botanical Garden for its breathtaking beauty, diverse collections, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the meticulously maintained grounds and the variety of themed gardens, with the Japanese Garden and Climatron being frequent favorites. While the sheer size requires significant walking, most find the experience revitalizing and highly recommend it for all ages.
"We came during the annual Japanese Festival and it was a great experience. The garden is one of the most beautiful locations in St. Louis and is a great location to visit and enjoy. The Festival was very lively and also particularly vibrant, offering a comprehensive and engaging cultural experience with a wide array of great vendors. The extensive variety of activities and performances available made for a dynamic and immersive visit. I recommend buying tickets online and in advance for a seamless checking in experience. The Missouri Botanical Garden is highly recommended from me and deserves 5/5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"
Steven P
"Love the Missouri Botanical Garden! Awesome place to walk around and learn; I can’t imagine the hard work it takes to keep this place as beautiful and enjoyable as it is. We came on a Saturday and had no problem finding a parking spot in the main lot-it was super hot out. Once we purchased our tickets (I believe it’s free entry for STL residents) we spent several hours walking the grounds. There were several places to fill up water, and a few other spots to purchase drinks/snacks. This place is great for all ages, and is super accessible. Before we left, we stopped in the lovely gift shop for a few souvenirs. Before we came for our visit, we checked out the website for info, which is user-friendly and will tell you all the goings-on at the property. Highly recommend to anyone-we will be back!"
K M
"Breathtaking beautiful, it has a conservatory, an impressive collection that dates back to the 1800s, different garden spaces through out, my absolute favorite were the Victorian, Chinese, and Japanese gardens but they are all absolutely impressive and beautiful. It is a place to relax while enjoying the peaceful beauty of nature, the tranquil landscapes, and life in all its splendor. Please visit, bring walking shoes, and leave revitalized. A place I recommend, one I truly enjoyed!"
Susan Ramos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Missouri Botanical Garden is located at 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110. It's about 10 minutes from downtown St. Louis.
Yes, there is a main parking lot available for visitors. It's usually easy to find a spot, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
Yes, several MetroBus routes serve the Missouri Botanical Garden. Check the Metro Transit website for the most current routes and schedules.
The garden is largely accessible, with paved paths throughout most areas. The Climatron and other buildings are also accessible. Check their website for detailed accessibility information.
While walking is encouraged to fully experience the beauty, a tram tour service is available for those who prefer it or need assistance covering the 79 acres.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary. It's recommended to check the official Missouri Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date pricing. Some sources suggest STL residents may have free entry.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended for a seamless check-in experience and to guarantee entry, especially during popular events.
Hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Generally, the garden opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. Check the official website for current Mo Botanical Garden hours.
The garden often offers discounts for seniors, students, and children. As mentioned, St. Louis residents may also have free admission on certain days or with proof of residency. Always check their website for current offers.
While not always required, booking a time slot or purchasing tickets in advance is a good idea, especially during peak seasons or for special events like the Japanese Festival
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Japanese Garden, the tropical Climatron Conservatory, the historic Victorian District, and the expansive Children's Garden.
Absolutely! The Children's Garden is a major highlight with interactive play areas and a splash pad.
Held annually on Labor Day weekend, it's a massive cultural event attracting over 40,000 people, featuring Japanese culture, food, performances, and vendors.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! The garden is incredibly picturesque, especially with its diverse plant collections and art installations like Chihuly glass pieces.
Yes, guided tours are often available, providing deeper insights into the garden's history, plant collections, and horticultural practices. Check the schedule upon arrival or on their website.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options within the garden, including cafes and snack bars. You can also find great restaurants nearby in the Shaw neighborhood.
Picnics are generally allowed in designated areas. It's always best to check the garden's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
For a nice meal, consider Olio, Union Loafers, or Nixta. For more casual options, Sasha's on Shaw or Gallery Pub are popular choices.
Yes, you can purchase drinks and snacks at various spots within the garden. There are also water refill stations available.
Yes, the garden typically has a cafe or restaurant on-site offering a selection of food and beverages for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The Japanese Garden, the Climatron, the Victorian District, and the seasonal floral displays (like zinnias
Typically, drone usage is prohibited in botanical gardens to ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of the environment. Always check the garden's official policy.
Look out for the beautiful blown glass art installations
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more atmospheric look. The extended evening hours are perfect for this.
Professional photoshoots may require special permits and advance arrangements. Contact the garden's administration for their specific policies on commercial or professional photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for kids to burn energy and explore nature. Remember to bring swimsuits for the splash pad! The garden's vastness means there's plenty of space to roam, and the tram service can be helpful for little legs that tire easily.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
adding unique elements to your shots. Visiting during the 'golden hour' on select evenings or early in the morning will provide the best lighting for stunning photographs.❤️ Couples & Relaxation Seekers
for a truly magical and tranquil experience, away from the daytime crowds.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Gardens
For a taste of the tropics, the Climatron Conservatory transports you to lush rainforests and arid deserts under its iconic geodesic dome, showcasing an impressive array of exotic flora.Beyond these highlights, the Victorian District offers a glimpse into 19th-century garden design, complete with the charming Flora photographer's cottage. Seasonal displays, such as vibrant zinnias
and colorful celosia, ensure there's always something new to discover. The garden also boasts specialized areas like the Lehmann Rose Garden and the Ottoman Garden, each offering unique beauty and horticultural interest.Family Fun at the Children's Garden
Designed to engage young minds and bodies, it features a variety of interactive elements that encourage exploration and learning. Kids can climb, splash, and discover in a safe and stimulating environment.Key attractions include a popular splash pad area, perfect for cooling off on warm days, and numerous climbing structures that challenge and entertain. The garden's design fosters a sense of wonder, allowing children to connect with nature through sensory experiences and hands-on activities. It's a fantastic way to introduce younger visitors to the wonders of botany and the outdoors, making it a highly recommended spot for families visiting the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Seasonal Events and Extended Hours
Other seasonal events might include holiday light displays or specific plant bloom festivals.For those looking to enjoy the garden in a different light, the garden offers Extended Evening Hours on select dates, particularly during the summer and early fall. These 'Golden Hour' events allow visitors to stroll through the grounds as the sun sets, offering a magical and serene atmosphere.
It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the garden's beauty in cooler temperatures and with a different ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit