The Boathouse In Forest Park
The Boathouse in Forest Park has been a favorite spot for generations of St. Louisans.
The Boathouse is the entrance to Post-Dispatch Lake and the Grand Basin. Both lakes were drained and the entire area has become an extraordinary gathering place for large public events, intimate picnics, casual dining, boating, sledding, strolling and, most of all, enjoying Forest Park.
Located at the north end of Post-Dispatch Lake, the Boathouse is the perfect spot to view the park. Gazing out at the lake, visitors can get away from urban life and get the feel of being far out into the country.
The Forest Park Master Plan dictated that the old structure be demolished and a new Boathouse be built to accommodate visitors to the park along with new boats, a restaurant and, most important, a facility that will fit into the environment of the park.
Designed by St. Louis architect Laurent Torno, the new Boathouse is reminiscent of the tradition of boathouse cottages of the Midwest in the early twentieth century. The new facility is designed for year-round use and includes air conditioning and heating, a new stone fireplace for winter use, a fully equipped kitchen, and expanded restrooms.
An additional catering area on the north side of the boat storage facility allows for simultaneous use by the public and private parties.
The Boathouse restaurant features a "family- friendly" menu and both indoor and outdoor seating.
Boaters can travel from the boathouse throughout Post-Dispatch Lake, around a wildlife island and a picnic island, and into the fully restored Grand Basin, where 8 new large fountains provide a dramatic view night and day.
The boathouse design, construction, and 60 new boats were made possible by a gift from the Jack Taylor family to Forest Park Forever.
 Official Web Site of the City of St. Louis
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