The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Nature Center is located on South Riverside Drive, just east of Main Street. Since 1985, it has served as an educational facility concentrating on exhibits that relate to the Lewis and Clark expedition that occurred in 1804. In fact, its current location is located near the camp site that Lewis and Clark used during their expedition.
Inside and outside of the Boat House, guests can learn about life in the early 19th century. Replicas of boats, homes, campsites and the Missouri River ecosystem are on display. The house is operated by the Discovery Expedition, a non-profit company that promotes the education and study of American history.
This location houses the archives and resource center for historical activities and events in the Saint Charles area, including city and county will, probate, circuit court and naturalization records. The building is on the National Register of Historic Landmarks.
Laumeier Sculpture Park is a 105-acre outdoor museum in Sunset Hills, Missouri, near St. Louis. It features 60-plus outdoor sculptures including the iconic modernist sculpture "The Way." A popular destination for arts aficionados across the Midwest, it draws more than 300,000 visitors a year.
Parking and Public Transportation at Laumeier Sculpture Park
Parking at Laumeier Sculpture Park is both ample and free.
The Metrolink trains do not extend into Sunset Hills, so public transit is not an option.
Best and Worst Times to Visit Laumeier Sculpture Park
The park is so sprawling that it never really feels crowded, even on busy summer days. Still, if you prefer peace and quiet, plan your trip for a weekday during the school year. Throughout much of the summer, Laumeier hosts large art camps for youths.
Admission to Laumeier Sculpture Park
Admission is absolutely free, no strings attached. Donations are welcome, but no pressure from staff to donate.
The park hosts a few ticketed special events throughout the year, including the annual Art Fair, which costs around $10 to enter.
Must See/Do at Laumeier Sculpture Park
The indoor galleries; The behemoth outdoor sculptures are the main attractions, but Laumeier's inner substance is worth perusing as well.
The tours: the free, interactive tours led by a museum docent are a hit, as are the self-guided sight/sound tours. You can visit the park's website to download the self-guided audio tour to your smartphone.
Other Places to Visit Near Laumeier Park
The renowned St. Louis Art Museum in Forest Park is just a 15-minute eastward trek down I-44. The king of outdoor monuments in St. Louis, the Gateway Arch, is 20 minutes away as well.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Laumeier Sculpture Park
Although mostly flat, parts of the park are quite hilly, so wear comfy walking shoes.
If you have a young child who likes to climb, take them to the Children's Sculpture Garden at Laumeier. Otherwise, keep them off the sculptures -- the otherwise laid-back staff frown heavily on using the art as jungle gyms.
Author's bio: Marcus Whelchel lives, works, writes, and stares at large outdoor sculptures in St. Louis, Missouri, with his wife and daughter.
