Art Hill, Illinois Ozarks Travel Guide

4.9 (2467)

Experience the beauty and history of St. Louis at Art Hill in Forest Park, home to the Saint Louis Art Museum and year-round activities.

Art Hill, nestled in Forest Park, is a beloved St. Louis landmark offering stunning views of the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Grand Basin. Known for its recreational opportunities, cultural events, and historical significance, it's a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Art Hill

35-43 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, Missouri, 63110, US
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Monday 6 am-10 pm
Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
Thursday 6 am-10 pm
Friday 6 am-10 pm
Saturday 6 am-10 pm
Sunday 6 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Art Hill.

Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing meal with scenic views of the Art Museum and Grand Basin.
Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for the best lighting for photography.
Check the local events calendar for seasonal activities like summer concerts or winter sledding.
Explore the Saint Louis Art Museum at the top of the hill for a full cultural experience.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

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Explore Art Hill on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Art Hill, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Grand Center area, walk southwest on Olive Street towards N Grand Blvd. Continue for about 0.5 miles until you reach the Forest Park entrance on N Grand Blvd. Follow the signs towards Art Hill, located near the Saint Louis Art Museum. The walk should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Public Transport

Take the MetroLink train to the Forest Park-DeBaliviere station. From there, you can catch a bus or walk to Art Hill. Alternatively, take the MetroBus to a stop near Forest Park. Check the Metro Transit website or app for specific routes and schedules. A one-ride bus ticket costs $1, and a one-ride train ticket costs $2.50. A 2-hour pass good for both bus and train is $3. A one-day adventure pass costs $5.
Driving

Drive to Forest Park and follow signs for the Saint Louis Art Museum. Free parking is available in the Saint Louis Art Museum East and West Lots. Paid parking is available in the Saint Louis Art Museum Underground Lot for $15 per day or $5 for members. Limited street parking may also be available. Be aware that Forest Park entrances and roads may be closed due to events.

Discover more about Art Hill

Art Hill, located in the heart of Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri, is more than just a grassy slope; it's a vibrant hub of culture, recreation, and history. Named for its proximity to the Saint Louis Art Museum, which sits majestically atop the hill, Art Hill has been a focal point for community gatherings and artistic expression for over a century.The hill's history is deeply intertwined with the 1904 World's Fair, also known as the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. Forest Park served as the fairgrounds, and Art Hill provided a grand approach to the Saint Louis Art Museum, which was designed by Cass Gilbert for the fair. Today, visitors can explore this rich history through monuments, statues, and plaques commemorating significant events and figures.Art Hill offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The gently sloping expanse of grass is ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor activities. During the summer, Art Hill hosts outdoor concerts, festivals, and movie nights under the stars. In the winter, when snow blankets the landscape, it transforms into a popular sledding spot, continuing a tradition that began with the World's Fair construction workers.At the base of Art Hill lies the Grand Basin, a picturesque reflecting pool flanked by fountains and lush greenery. Visitors can stroll along the pathways encircling the basin, taking in its beauty and tranquility. The Saint Louis Art Museum, with its world-class art collections, is a short walk up the hill, offering a seamless blend of outdoor beauty and artistic enrichment.