Citygarden Sculpture Park, Saint Louis (must see)

Ever since its opening in 2009, Citygarden has prompted many a people to visit downtown St. Louis. Apart from contributing to the city's economy, the popularity of Citygarden has also led to the renewed interest in renovating the 16-block Gateway Mall.

Today it is hard to imagine, though, that prior to being converted to an urban park and sculpture garden, this site comprised two empty blocks of grass and nothing else. The idea to create a space to enable larger artworks to rest on wide lawns, whereas smaller spaces would be reserved for more private areas, was successful.

Currently, there are 24 sculptures here altogether, collectively worth around $12 million, if not more. Among these is a large bronze head lying on its side, by Igor Mitoraj; digital screens displaying walking people, by Julian Opie; and a bodiless pink suit, called “Big Suit”, by Erwin Wurm. Park visitors are allowed to touch the sculptures and even walk inside them. This means, though, that some of the works require more frequent maintenance, such as re-waxing. The materials used in the sculptures vary from metals — bronze, stainless steel, and cast aluminum — to fiberglass and even polyester.

Visitors to the garden can listen to an audio tour by dialing a special number on their mobiles. The tour is narrated by prominent locals (over twenty narrators in all) including former St. Louis Cardinals player Ozzie Smith and St. Louis Symphony Orchestra director David Robertson, as well as Jackie Joyner-Kersee, John Ashcroft, Jenna Fischer, and Kurt Warner.

The garden also features Ginkgo biloba trees, native plants, and spacious sidewalks. It is divided into three horizontal sections, designed to reflect the rivers and other natural characteristics of the St. Louis area. In particular, the northern limestone wall represents the Mississippi River bluffs, while the southern snaking meander wall stands is inspired by the region's waterways. Between the two zones are the rain gardens, larger trees, and larger sculptures, an area that represents a floodplain.

Why You Should Visit:
This park, unlike many other structure parks, allows guests to walk through the sculptures. There are also a few water features – a real treat on hot summer days!
No admission fee and you are free to roam.

Tip:
Night time provides a nice stroll through the garden filled with unique lighting.
Don't forget to stop into the cafe with patio service or enjoy a lunch from a nearby food truck!