Carondelet Park

Carondelet Park, established in 1875, is the third largest park in the city of St. Louis, Missouri. Encompassing nearly 180 acres, the park is situated in the southeastern portion of the city, just west of Interstate 55, and is accessible from the Loughborough Avenue exit. The park is bounded by Holly Hills Boulevard to the north and Loughborough Avenue to the south.

The park's topography is varied, featuring undulating landscapes shaped by underground caves and sinkholes. This natural terrain creates a picturesque effect, which has been enhanced by city-led development efforts over the years. Scenic drives, introduced in 1890, wind through the park following the natural ridge lines. In 1913, nine sinkholes were joined to form Horseshoe Lake, one of two lakes now present in the park.

Most of Carondelet Park consists of open lawn areas interspersed with mature oak and hickory trees that provide ample shade. The park boasts several historical structures, many of which were built before the 1920s. These include the Boathouse (1918), Music Stand (1898), and Music Pavilion (1898). The wood-frame Alexander Lyle House, dating back to circa 1850, predates the park itself and was initially used as the park director's residence before being converted into a senior center in 1931.

Carondelet Park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors. A 1.6-mile bicycle path winds through the park, and there are numerous sports facilities including tennis courts, softball fields, baseball diamonds, and soccer fields. The park also features playgrounds, stocked fishing lakes, picnic areas, and horseshoe pits. In 2014, the one-mile Carondelet Connector was opened, linking the park's trail system to the nine-mile River des Peres Greenway.

On the eastern edge of the park, adjacent to Interstate 55, visitors will find a modern recreation center operated by the YMCA. This facility offers additional amenities and programs for community members of all ages.