From its inception, scarcely more than a decade after the end of the Civil War, Forest Park has been a glorious place — beautiful and serene, full of excitement and discovery. Forest Park is an urban oasis filled with people, destinations, and recreation that reflect our interests, culture, and history. More than a symbol of the beauty and tradition of our city, Forest Park has been called the soul of St. Louis, the community's gathering place, and our regional backyard.