Boathouse at Forest Park | St Louis

The Boathouse at Forest Park is a premier lakeside destination situated within St. Louis’s iconic Forest Park, offering a unique blend of scenic dining, recreational boating, and event hosting. It has evolved into a beloved gathering spot that combines natural beauty with culinary excellence and outdoor activity, appealing to families, couples, tourists, and local residents alike.

Location and Setting

The Boathouse is located at 6101 Government Drive along the edge of Post-Dispatch Lake, one of the central lakes in Forest Park. This prime location offers sweeping views of the tranquil water surrounded by lush parkland, walking trails, and mature trees. The peaceful waterfront ambiance is a defining feature, providing a serene escape within the urban environment of St. Louis. The Boathouse’s proximity to other Forest Park attractions like the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and Science Center adds to its appeal as part of a full-day visit.

Architectural and Design Features

The building itself is designed to complement its natural setting, featuring expansive windows and outdoor patios that maximize lake views and daylight. The interior balances rustic charm with modern comfort, combining natural wood finishes, open spaces, and tasteful decor. This creates a relaxed yet refined atmosphere ideal for casual dining or special occasions.

Dining Experience

Since its extensive renovation and rebranding in 2018, the Boathouse has become known for its innovative yet approachable menu that highlights American fare with regional and international influences. The culinary direction emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, smoked and grilled preparations, and unique flavor combinations crafted by Executive Chef Jack MacMurray III.

Menu Variety: The Boathouse offers a diverse menu covering appetizers, entrées, salads, sandwiches, and desserts, with options catering to a variety of tastes including meat lovers, seafood fans, and vegetarians.

Signature Appetizers: Highlights include almond-encrusted flash-fried shrimp paired with a tangy citrus-Thai sweet chili sauce, Szechuan-style sticky pork spare ribs featuring a smoky, sweet glaze, and smoked brisket served with toasted ravioli in a savory Memphis-style marinara.

Entrées: Signature dishes include smoked chicken and shrimp penne with andouille sausage and Cajun Alfredo sauce, a roasted portobello Reuben sandwich layered with juniper sauerkraut and Gruyère cheese, and barbecued salmon croissant with Boursin cheese. These dishes reflect a balance of comfort food and creative twists.

Brunch Service: Available Friday through Sunday starting at 8:00 AM, the brunch menu offers classics such as eggs benedict, omelets, and freshly baked pastries, designed to cater to weekend crowds and families.

Desserts: The Boathouse’s famous World’s Fair Éclair-a decadent sundae featuring a filled éclair shell, whipped cream, hot fudge, vanilla ice cream, and a cherry on top-is a crowd favorite.

Beverages: Two outdoor bars serve an array of craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails, including whiskey lemonades and margaritas, perfect for enjoying on the patios overlooking the lake.

Recreational Activities: Boating and Rentals

The Boathouse operates in partnership with Big Muddy Adventures to offer a full suite of non-motorized watercraft rentals on Post-Dispatch Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy the water in a variety of ways during warmer months (spring through fall):

Paddle Boats: Ideal for families or small groups, paddle boats are available at $25 per hour or $40 for two hours.

Kayaks: Single kayaks rent for $15 per hour, doubles for $20 per hour, with discounted rates for longer rentals.

Canoes: Offered at $20 per hour with options for two or three passengers.

Stand-Up Paddleboards: Available for $15 per hour, these provide a popular way to exercise while enjoying lake views.

Bikes: Bicycle rentals include helmets and locks and cost $15 per hour.

All rentals come with life jackets and safety instructions. The lake’s calm waters and scenic surroundings create a peaceful experience for both beginners and more experienced paddlers.

Events and Private Functions

The Boathouse is a sought-after venue for a range of private and corporate events. Its lakeside location, combined with flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, makes it ideal for:

Weddings: The Boathouse provides a romantic setting with scenic views and customizable packages for ceremonies and receptions.

Corporate Events and Parties: With catering services and event planning assistance, it hosts company meetings, holiday parties, and team-building events.

Community Gatherings: Seasonal events, fundraisers, and social occasions often take place here, leveraging the park’s central location and natural beauty.

The venue offers tailored catering menus and has spaces that can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger groups, all backed by professional service staff.

Hours and Visitor Information

Operating Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Friday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (with weekend brunch service beginning at 8:00 AM)

Hours may adjust seasonally or for special events.

Reservations: Recommended for dining and event bookings, especially on weekends and holidays.

Accessibility: The Boathouse is wheelchair accessible, with ample parking nearby in Forest Park lots.

Significance and Appeal

The Boathouse at Forest Park is more than just a restaurant or boat rental spot-it is an integral part of the Forest Park experience, blending recreation, nature, and culinary excellence. It offers visitors an opportunity to relax by the water, enjoy high-quality food and drink, and partake in outdoor activities that highlight the park’s natural beauty. Whether it’s a family outing with paddle boating, a romantic lakeside dinner, or a festive event, the Boathouse serves as a dynamic hub fostering community connection and appreciation for St. Louis’s treasured urban park.

This combination of scenic charm, vibrant menu offerings, recreational options, and event capabilities makes the Boathouse a uniquely appealing destination within one of America’s greatest urban parks.