October is easily the BEST month to live in St. Louis! The summer humidity has worn off but the warmer temps tend to linger. Plus, the daylight is still plentiful before the clocks fall back, making it the perfect time to enjoy the absolutely gorgeous spots to leaf peep. I’m sharing my favorite spots to get the best Instagram-worthy photos.
The Muny, Forest Park // Very well known, but absolutely cannot be left off this list! Head to The Muny for the most bright, fiery-red circle of trees during peak season. The park typically updates their website and social media when the colors are in full force. Give yourself time here, it’s a popular spot…so if you want photographs sans-strangers, you may need to be patient. It’s also a spot with benches – making it perfect for picnics, reading a book, or just enjoying the view. You can always count on seeing a sweet couples or family photo session here!
Art Hill, Forest Park // Looking for another spot to head to in Forest Park? The top of Art Hill has another semi-circle of brightly colored trees that peak right around the same time as the Muny trees. There are plenty of benches located within the colorful trees, so grab some to-go food and make it an outdoor picnic!
Tilles Park // Centrally located off of McKnight and Litzinger in Ladue, Tilles Park is usually well known for its acclaimed Winter Wonderland drive-thru light display. However, it’s one of my favorite, less crowded spots to look for fall colors. You won’t find the fiery red colored trees that The Muny or Art Hill offers, but you’ll find a spectrum of colorful oranges, yellows and changing greens as you walk or drive through. The park features a 0.9 mile foot and bike path loop and has restrooms, water fountains, pavilions, a fishing pond and plenty of room to socially distance from the other park-goers. It also has a stellar playground – which is unconfirmed since I don’t have kids – but the 9 year old in me tells me it looks like peak fun.
Elk Park // I haven’t personally been here yet to see the leaves (but plan to!) – however, I think this would be an amazing spot based on my previous visit, to peep some magical fall colors while also seeing wildlife up close. Elk Park is a free, drive-through park with bison, elk, deer, turkeys and more. Expect close encounters! It takes around 30 minutes to drive through, but could always take longer if the wildlife blocks traffic or if it’s a crowded day. On my last visit to Elk Park, elk wandered just feet from our car – it was truly amazing!