Historic Hill: A Nostalgic Journey Through the Saint Louis Zoo
Explore Historic Hill at the Saint Louis Zoo: Where architectural charm meets fascinating animal encounters in a nostalgic setting.
Historic Hill, the oldest part of the Saint Louis Zoo, offers a charming blend of animal exhibits and architectural marvels. Featuring the iconic 1904 World's Fair Flight Cage and Spanish-style buildings from the 1920s, this area provides a unique glimpse into the zoo's rich history and diverse animal collections.
A brief summary to Historic Hill
- 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, Missouri, 63110, US
- +1314-781-0900
- Visit website
Local tips
- Take your time to explore the architectural details of the Bird House, Primate House, and Herpetarium.
- Visit the Cypress Swamp (formerly the Flight Cage) to see a variety of native waterfowl species.
- Observe the primates in the Primate House and explore the outdoor Primate Canopy Trails.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Historic Hill using public transport, take the MetroLink train to the Forest Park/DeBaliviere station. From there, transfer to the MetroBus route #90 Hampton South or the Forest Park Trolley. Both the bus and trolley stop within a short walking distance of the Zoo's North Entrance on Government Drive. From the North Entrance, Historic Hill is a short walk into the zoo. A single fare on the MetroBus or MetroLink is $3.
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Walking
If you are already in Forest Park, follow the signs towards the Saint Louis Zoo. Once inside the zoo, navigate towards the center of the park. Historic Hill is located near the Lakeside Crossing area and is easily accessible by foot from most areas within the zoo.
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Driving
If driving, approach the Saint Louis Zoo via I-64 and follow signs for the Zoo's parking lots. All-day parking is available in the North and South Lots. Parking fee is $20 per car. Limited street parking is available in Forest Park. From the parking lot, follow the signs to the Zoo's main entrance and then proceed to Historic Hill.
Discover more about Historic Hill
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Hill
0.0 km
Explore Historic Hill at the Saint Louis Zoo: Where architectural charm meets fascinating animal encounters in a nostalgic setting.
St.Louis Award Pine Tree
0.4 km
Discover the St. Louis Award Pine Tree in Forest Park, a unique sculpture honoring community contributions since 1965.
Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial
0.6 km
Visit the Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial in St. Louis to explore the roots of physical culture and appreciate a landmark dedicated to fitness history.
Forest Park Fountain
1.0 km
A revitalized landmark in Forest Park, offering beauty and recreation at the Grand Basin.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest
1.2 km
Explore a natural oasis within St. Louis's Forest Park, with diverse habitats and peaceful trails in the Kennedy Memorial Forest.
1893 & 1904 World's Fair Ferris Wheel Axle
1.6 km
Explore the historic 1893 & 1904 World's Fair Ferris Wheel Axle in St. Louis, a monument to innovation and nostalgia that captures America's fair history.
Round Lake Fountain
1.8 km
A picturesque and historic fountain in Forest Park, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into St. Louis's early 20th-century artistry.
Victorian Footbridge
1.9 km
Step back in time on this beautifully preserved Victorian-era bridge in Forest Park, a testament to St. Louis's rich history and architectural charm.
Portland and Westmoreland Places
2.1 km
Experience the grandeur of St. Louis's past in the elegant Portland and Westmoreland Places, a historic gem in the Central West End.
Washington Terrace Clock Tower
2.3 km
Explore the historical Washington Terrace Clock Tower in St. Louis, a symbol of architectural elegance and community spirit that captures the essence of the city.
World’s Largest Chess Piece
2.7 km
Visit the World's Largest Chess Piece in St. Louis: a record-breaking, 20-foot-tall King that celebrates the city's vibrant chess scene.
St. Louis Walk of Fame
2.8 km
Explore the St. Louis Walk of Fame, an outdoor tribute to the city's legendary figures in arts and entertainment, located in the vibrant Delmar Loop.
Holy Corners Historic District
2.8 km
Explore St. Louis's Holy Corners Historic District: A blend of stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance in the heart of the Central West End.
7-11 Alien
2.9 km
Explore the quirky 7-11 Alien in St. Louis, a fascinating historical landmark that celebrates the city's unique history and culture.
Emmanuel DeHodiamont House
3.0 km
Discover St. Louis's oldest privately-owned home, the Emmanuel DeHodiamont House, a unique blend of 1830s vernacular and Gothic Revival architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Saint Louis Zoo
0.2 km
Discover wildlife wonders at Saint Louis Zoo, a free admission destination with over 600 species and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Wild Lights at the STL Zoo
0.2 km
Discover the magic of Wild Lights at the STL Zoo, where stunning light displays and festive cheer create an unforgettable holiday experience.
Forest Park
0.4 km
Discover the beauty and history of Forest Park, a premier destination in St. Louis with scenic landscapes, cultural attractions, and recreational activities.
Saint Louis Art Museum
0.8 km
Explore timeless artworks, cultural experiences, and serene gardens at the Saint Louis Art Museum in the heart of Missouri.
Apotheosis of St.Louis/Statue of St.Louis
0.8 km
Explore the Apotheosis of St. Louis, a magnificent statue in Forest Park celebrating the city’s rich history and artistic heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
Art Hill
0.8 km
Discover the scenic beauty and artistic allure of Art Hill in St. Louis, a perfect blend of nature and culture in Forest Park.
Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor & Education Center
1.2 km
Explore the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor & Education Center in St. Louis for an enriching experience and gateway to the wonders of Forest Park.
Missouri History Museum
1.2 km
Discover Missouri's captivating past at the Missouri History Museum, an engaging destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Cabanne House
1.6 km
Explore the historical charm of Cabanne House in St. Louis, a preserved gem showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local heritage.
Saint Louis Science Center
1.7 km
Discover interactive exhibits and celestial wonders at the Saint Louis Science Center, a hub for curiosity and learning in St. Louis.
Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum
1.9 km
Explore modern and contemporary art at the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, a cultural gem in St. Louis showcasing diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions.
Washington University in St. Louis
2.5 km
Discover the beauty and culture of Washington University in St. Louis, a premier private university offering stunning architecture and a vibrant campus life.
World Chess Hall of Fame
2.6 km
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of chess at the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis, where art and intellect converge.
Planet Walk
2.8 km
Discover the wonders of our solar system at Planet Walk in University City, a unique outdoor museum offering a cosmic journey for all ages.
The Delmar Loop
2.8 km
Explore the vibrant Delmar Loop, where shopping, dining, and cultural experiences collide in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri.
Essential places to dine
Panorama Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience exquisite dining at Panorama Restaurant with breathtaking views of St. Louis' skyline in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Boathouse at Forest Park
0.7 km
Savor American cuisine with breathtaking lake views at Boathouse at Forest Park - a must-visit dining spot in St. Louis.
Stone Turtle Restaurant and Bar
0.7 km
Discover Stone Turtle Restaurant and Bar: A gastropub in St. Louis serving inventive dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
Ruthie's Bar & Grill
1.3 km
Experience delicious grilled cuisine in the scenic surroundings of Forest Park at Ruthie's Bar & Grill – where great food meets stunning nature.
Louie
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Louie in Clayton – where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion.
Charlie Gitto's On the Hill
2.2 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining at Charlie Gitto's On the Hill in St. Louis - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Fork & Stix
2.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Thailand at Fork & Stix - a must-visit Thai restaurant in the heart of St. Louis.
Zia's on The Hill
2.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Zia's on The Hill in St. Louis - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Prime 55 Restaurant & Lounge
2.4 km
Discover Prime 55 Restaurant & Lounge in St. Louis: where fresh ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Anthonino's Taverna
2.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors blended with American and Greek influences at Anthonino's Taverna in St. Louis.
K-Bop STL
2.4 km
Experience authentic Korean flavors at K-Bop STL, an affordable Asian restaurant in St. Louis offering delicious dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Brasserie by Niche
2.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Brasserie by Niche in St. Louis' Central West End - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and elegance.
The Tenderloin Room
2.4 km
Experience unparalleled fine dining at The Tenderloin Room in St. Louis—where exquisite steaks meet exceptional service.
Guido's Pizzeria & Tapas
2.4 km
Discover authentic Italian pizzas and vibrant Spanish tapas at Guido's Pizzeria & Tapas in St. Louis – a must-visit culinary delight.
Gyro House
2.5 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Gyro House in St. Louis - where delicious gyros meet warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
St Louis Art Museum Gift Store
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and art-inspired treasures at the St. Louis Art Museum Gift Store.
The Green Shag Market
1.3 km
Explore The Green Shag Market: St. Louis' premier destination for antiques, vintage collectibles, and unique furniture pieces.
Cool Stuff Period
1.3 km
Explore an eclectic mix of home goods, art, and furniture at Cool Stuff Period in St. Louis – a must-visit for unique finds and local crafts.
Golden Key Gift Shop
2.0 km
Explore the Golden Key Gift Shop in St. Louis for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the heart of the city.
Euclid Vintage
2.4 km
Explore unique vintage clothing in the heart of St. Louis at Euclid Vintage, where every piece tells a story and style meets nostalgia.
TurningsByTessier (Made on The Hill)
2.6 km
Explore TurningsByTessier in The Hill, St. Louis - your destination for unique handcrafted gifts that embody local artistry and culture.
Provisions St Louis
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Provisions St Louis, a charming boutique in the heart of the Central West End.
Q Boutique
2.6 km
Explore Q Boutique in St. Louis for unique gifts, local crafts, and a warm shopping experience in the vibrant Central West End.
All Things Retro
2.6 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at All Things Retro in St. Louis, where nostalgia meets style in an inviting boutique atmosphere.
Special Occasions &More LLC
2.6 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Special Occasions & More LLC, your ultimate destination for unique gifts in St. Louis' vibrant Central West End.
Funky Buddha
2.7 km
Discover a unique gift shop in Delmar Loop, Funky Buddha offers eclectic treasures and local crafts perfect for any souvenir or gift.
Pitaya
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Explore Pitaya, a chic women's clothing store in St. Louis' Delmar Loop, where trendy styles meet unique finds for every fashionista.
The Hill Antique Market
2.7 km
Unearth unique vintage treasures at The Hill Antique Market, a charming destination in St. Louis for antique lovers and curious tourists alike.
Sunshine Daydream Loop
2.7 km
Explore the eclectic offerings of Sunshine Daydream Loop, your go-to gift shop in University City, Missouri, for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
This !
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Explore This Store in the Delmar Loop, University City - A Fashion Haven for Unique Styles and Local Flair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Keagan's Pub & Patio
1.5 km
Experience the heart of St. Louis dining at Keagan's Pub & Patio, where traditional pub fare meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Palomino Lounge
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Palomino Lounge, a cocktail bar in St. Louis known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
Blue Dine And Lounge
2.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Blue Dine And Lounge in St. Louis, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
2.4 km
Discover the flavors of America at Applebee's Grill + Bar in St. Louis, offering a family-friendly atmosphere and a diverse menu of classic dishes.
Brass Bar
2.4 km
Discover the sophisticated charm of The Brass Bar in St. Louis' Central West End, where artisanal cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Rosie's Place
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rosie's Place, a top bar in St. Louis offering a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Platypus
2.5 km
Discover the lively charm of Platypus Bar in St. Louis, where unique cocktails and a fun atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
La Gasolina
2.5 km
Discover La Gasolina in St. Louis: A lounge where creativity meets comfort, offering unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Lazy Tiger
2.6 km
Discover Lazy Tiger, a stylish cocktail bar in St. Louis' Central West End, offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for cocktail enthusiasts.
International Tap House, Delmar
2.6 km
Discover a beer lover's paradise at International Tap House in Delmar Loop, featuring an extensive selection of craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pagan Wine Bar
2.6 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere and exquisite wine selection at Pagan Wine Bar, a beloved spot in St. Louis' Central West End.
Brennan's
2.7 km
Discover Brennan's, a premier bar and restaurant in St. Louis, blending exquisite small plates, fine wines, and premium cigars in a charming setting.
Three Kings Public House
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Three Kings Public House in University City, a must-visit gastropub in the Delmar Loop.
Dressel's Pub
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Dressel's Pub, where local flavors meet a welcoming ambiance in the heart of St. Louis.
The W Karaoke Lounge
2.9 km
Experience the thrill of karaoke in University City's vibrant Delmar Loop at The W Karaoke Lounge, where every night is a song-filled celebration.
