Kiener Plaza Park, Saint Louis

Kiener Plaza, a great gathering spot in downtown St. Louis, offers one of the best views of the Old Courthouse and the Gateway Arch. Because of its central location, the Plaza often plays host to public events including outdoor free movies and a winter festival. It is also regularly used as a rallying point for demonstrations and protest marches.

In the 1800s, the area was home to a jail that used to hold prisoners awaiting trial at the Old Courthouse, including slaves who sued for their freedom.

Originally developed in 1962, the plaza is named for Harry Kiener, a local philanthropist and steel company executive, who was also a former member of the USA Track & Field team competed at the 1904 Olympics in St. Louis.

His namesake park has a wide stone paved plaza, a number of paths and a grassy lawn that can accommodate a variety of events. Among other amenities here are bicycle parking grove, a shade garden with café tables and chairs, marble circular and organic wooden benches to rest on, as well as a fenced off creative children’s playground with an amazing floor.

In his will Kiener left the city a bequest to build a fountain and athletic statue. Pursuant to that, in the center of the plaza is a fountain with a splash pad and a statue called "The Olympic Runner" by Willam Zorach.

Why You Should Visit:
In between sightseeing, this is a perfect place for parents to sit and recharge, while their kids expend a little extra energy.
The diverse elements of the plaza are supplemented by a bistro area well fitted for an enjoyable family brunch/lunch/dinner outing.