Willmore Park

Willmore Park Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in St. Louis

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: The Heart of St. Louis Hills

Willmore Park, a lush urban oasis in the southwestern part of St. Louis, Missouri, is more than just a public park—it is a living symbol of community vision, recreation, and ecological stewardship. Established in the mid-20th century and named for Cyrus Crane Willmore, the park was envisioned as a tranquil green space that would serve both the needs of city dwellers and nature enthusiasts. Today, Willmore Park stands as a testament to St. Louis’s commitment to accessible public spaces, offering a wealth of recreational amenities, natural habitats, and vibrant community programming (St. Louis Hills History).

History and Significance of Willmore Park
Visiting Hours and Entry Information
Park Amenities and Activities
Directions and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions
Practical Visitor Tips
Community, Culture, and Events
Environmental Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Travel Tips
References

History and Significance of Willmore Park

Willmore Park’s origins trace back to the vision of Cyrus Crane Willmore, a pioneering developer who sought to create a neighborhood where urban living harmonized with abundant green space. In 1947, Willmore donated over 70 acres to the city, establishing the foundation for what would become one of St. Louis’s most significant parks (St. Louis Hills Parks). The park was designed for inclusivity and community gathering, serving as a central anchor for the St. Louis Hills neighborhood.

Since its inception, Willmore Park has expanded to over 100 acres and has undergone several enhancements, including post-flood restoration and improvements funded by city bond issues. Its history is closely tied to the city’s broader efforts to provide accessible recreation and preserve natural landscapes for future generations (St. Louis Hills History).

Visiting Hours and Entry Information

Hours: Open daily, typically from dawn to dusk (some sources specify 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM; check signage or the official website for seasonal updates).
Admission: Free; no tickets required for general park access.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible playgrounds, paved paths, accessible restrooms, and ample parking ensure a welcoming environment for all visitors (St. Louis City Talk).
Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed, except within the members-only Southwest City Dog Park (swcitydogpark.org).

Park Amenities and Activities

Sports and Recreation

Sports Facilities: Four lighted tennis courts, two soccer fields (one lighted), four softball fields (two lighted), two baseball fields, and a roller hockey rink.
Disc Golf: Home to the city’s only permanent disc golf course, featuring an 18-basket layout suitable for all skill levels, with weekly league events (UDisc).
Fishing: Two stocked lakes (Lake #1 and Lake #2) provide opportunities for catch-and-release fishing. Missouri fishing licenses are required for adults (Official Fishing Regulations).

Playgrounds and Family Areas

Accessible Playgrounds: Gus’s Playground and Theresa’s Splash Pad, designed in partnership with Unlimited Play, offer inclusive fun for children of all abilities.
Picnic Shelters: Multiple reservable pavilions and picnic tables ideal for family gatherings and community events.

Trails and Natural Exploration

Walking, Jogging, and Biking: Paved and gravel trails connect to the River des Peres Greenway and regional Great Rivers Greenway system, perfect for extended excursions (Great Rivers Greenway).
Birdwatching and Wildlife: Wetlands, mature trees, and lakes are habitats for a diverse array of birds and small animals, popular among nature lovers (Birding Hotspots).

Directions and Accessibility

Location: Bounded by Hampton Avenue, Jamieson Avenue, and the River des Peres.
Getting There: Easily accessible by car (ample parking at both main entrances), bike, or public transit. Multiple MetroBus routes serve the area (Metro Transit St. Louis).
Trail Connections: Linked to River des Peres Greenway for seamless access to other parks and neighborhoods.

Nearby Attractions

Francis Park: Renowned for its walking trails and playgrounds, just minutes away.
Missouri Botanical Garden, Tower Grove Park, and Forest Park: Iconic St. Louis destinations offering cultural and natural experiences.
Local Shops and Cafés: Explore Tamm Avenue’s eateries for a taste of local flavor.
River des Peres Greenway: Ideal for scenic cycling and extended outdoor adventures.

(blog.nidoproject.com)

Practical Visitor Tips

Bring waterproof boots if you plan to explore wetland areas such as John Pond.
Restrooms and water fountains are conveniently located throughout the park.
Trash and recycling bins are provided—help maintain the park’s cleanliness.
Alcohol is generally prohibited, except during permitted events.
Fishing licenses are required for adults; children under 16 may fish without a license.
Permits are needed for large gatherings; check with the Parks Department for details.

Community, Culture, and Events

Willmore Park’s open design and central location make it a beloved community gathering space. Regular events—including outdoor concerts, wellness programs, and seasonal festivals—foster a strong sense of neighborhood connection (Better Life Home). The park also serves as a venue for cultural celebrations, educational workshops, and volunteer-driven clean-ups, reflecting the spirit of social inclusion and local pride.

Environmental Highlights

As one of St. Louis’s largest parks, Willmore Park is integral to urban biodiversity and sustainability. Its wetlands, lakes, and cypress-lined creeks provide vital habitat for migratory birds and native wildlife. Ongoing landscaping and conservation efforts by volunteers and organizations help preserve its ecological richness, while educational signage and community programs promote environmental awareness (St. Louis City Talk).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Willmore Park’s visiting hours?
A: The park is open daily from dawn to dusk (some amenities may be available until 10:00 PM).

Q: Is there an entrance fee or are tickets required?
A: No, entry is free and no tickets are needed.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, dogs must be leashed except in the leashless Southwest City Dog Park.

Q: Is the park accessible?
A: Yes, Willmore Park offers wheelchair-accessible paths, restrooms, and playgrounds.

Q: What amenities are available?
A: Sports fields, disc golf, fishing lakes, accessible playgrounds, trails, picnic shelters, and restrooms.

Q: Are there guided tours or events?
A: The park hosts seasonal events and occasional educational programs. Check St. Louis Events Calendar for up-to-date listings.

Summary and Travel Tips

Willmore Park encapsulates the best of St. Louis’s recreational, cultural, and environmental offerings. From its historic roots and landscaped trails to its accessible amenities and active community life, the park is a welcoming destination for residents and visitors of all backgrounds. Whether you’re planning a family picnic, looking for outdoor exercise, or seeking a quiet spot for birdwatching, Willmore Park delivers a unique blend of history, nature, and local charm (Official St. Louis Parks Department).

Tips for Travelers:

Arrive early for the best spots at picnic areas and playgrounds, especially on weekends.
Download the Audiala app for audio guides and up-to-date event tips.
Respect wildlife and park rules to help preserve this community treasure.

References

Willmore Park History and Significance (St. Louis Hills History)
Park Guide and Community Events (Better Life Home)
Birdwatching and Disc Golf Feature (Birding Hotspots), (UDisc)
Official St. Louis Parks Department Information (Official St. Louis Parks Department), (Metro Transit St. Louis)
Community Reviews and Park Insights (St. Louis City Talk)