Grant’s Farm | St Louis

Grant’s Farm is a historic and expansive 281-acre estate located in Grantwood Village, Missouri, just south of St. Louis. The farm holds significant cultural and historical importance as the former property of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a prominent Civil War general. The farm later became the private estate of the Busch family, famed for founding Anheuser-Busch, who purchased the land in 1903. Since opening to the public in 1954, Grant’s Farm has evolved into a popular family-friendly attraction that blends wildlife encounters, historical sites, and recreational activities, all set within a beautiful natural landscape.

Historical Background

Grant’s Farm originally was part of a much larger property owned by Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia Dent Grant. The farm includes “Hardscrabble,” a log cabin built by Grant himself in 1855 before his presidency. This cabin is unique as it is the only remaining structure hand-built by a U.S. president prior to taking office, making it a rare and treasured historical artifact. The site offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century farm life and Grant’s early years.

In the early 20th century, the Busch family acquired the estate. They transformed the farm into a working ranch and developed it with a focus on preserving natural habitats and agricultural practices, while also showcasing their renowned Clydesdale horses. The Busch family’s contributions have helped maintain the farm’s legacy as both a historical site and a place for community recreation.

Main Attractions and Experiences

Tram Tour: Visitors typically begin their visit with a narrated tram ride that winds through Deer Park, a large, open area where a variety of exotic and native animals roam freely. This area is home to animals such as American bison, deer, antelope, elk, yaks, and many others. The tram provides informative commentary about the animals, the farm’s history, and the Busch family legacy, allowing visitors to experience wildlife in a naturalistic setting without leaving the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Animal Encounters: After the tram tour, guests can explore interactive animal areas. Children and adults alike can enjoy feeding domesticated goats, observing farm animals, and, at certain times, riding camels. These encounters are designed to be educational and engaging, fostering a connection with animals and farm life.

Budweiser Clydesdale Stables: One of the farm’s most famous features is its majestic Budweiser Clydesdales. The horses live in German-style stables that reflect traditional European architecture and craftsmanship. Visitors can tour the stables, meet the horses, and learn about their training, care, and the role they play in Anheuser-Busch’s heritage and marketing. The stables are often a highlight for visitors, especially those interested in equine history and culture.

Biergarten (Bauernhof): Grant’s Farm features a German-style courtyard known as the Bauernhof, which serves as a casual dining and social space. Visitors over the age of 21 can enjoy two complimentary beers, usually including Budweiser and Bud Light, as part of their admission experience. The atmosphere captures the essence of a traditional German beer garden with picnic tables, shaded seating, and often live music or entertainment, making it a popular spot for relaxation and socializing.

The Busch Family Mansion (The Big House): While the mansion itself is not generally open for tours, it stands as a prominent architectural landmark on the property. The mansion reflects early 20th-century elegance and the affluence of the Busch family, who played a major role in the history of the estate.

Visitor Information and Amenities

Operating Season and Hours: Grant’s Farm is open seasonally from mid-March through the first weekend of November, typically operating daily from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Seasonal variations and special events may adjust hours. The farm closes during the winter months for maintenance and preservation.

Admission and Parking: Entry to Grant’s Farm is free, emphasizing community accessibility and family-friendly recreation. However, visitors must pay a parking fee, which is currently set at $15 per vehicle. This helps support maintenance and operations without charging for the main experience itself.

Facilities: The farm provides ample amenities including picnic areas, restrooms, walking trails, gift shops, and food concessions. The grounds are well maintained and stroller-friendly, suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels.

Educational and Community Role

Grant’s Farm functions as both an educational resource and a recreational destination. Its combination of wildlife, history, and cultural heritage programming offers visitors meaningful insight into Missouri’s agricultural and presidential history, as well as the Busch family’s legacy. Educational signage and staff-guided tours enhance understanding of animal species, conservation efforts, and the historical significance of the farm’s buildings and landscapes.

The farm also hosts seasonal events such as holiday celebrations, animal feeding sessions, and family-oriented festivals, contributing to its role as a community gathering place.

Summary

Grant’s Farm is a multifaceted destination that blends historic preservation, wildlife conservation, and recreational enjoyment on a sprawling estate near St. Louis. Visitors experience a unique combination of nature and history-from exploring Ulysses S. Grant’s original log cabin and wandering among free-roaming bison, to meeting the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales and enjoying traditional German hospitality in the Biergarten. Its free admission policy, diverse attractions, and family-friendly environment make it a treasured local landmark and a must-visit site for tourists seeking both educational value and leisurely outdoor fun.