City: St. Louis, MO

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (314) 544-5714

Address: 533 Grant Road

Description: Jefferson Barracks Park has more than 400 acres of campgrounds, ball fields, and lush green space. The historic area includes a field archery range, disc-golf course, lighted ball fields, a 2.7-mile paved trail, and the St. Louis County Veterans Memorial Amphitheater. Jefferson Barracks was established in 1826 as the country’s first “Infantry School of Practice,” and it served as a major military installation until 1946. Named in honor of former president Thomas Jefferson, the post played an important role in westward expansion, as Jefferson Barracks served as a gathering point for troops and supplies bound for service in the Mexican War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II. During the summer and fall months, the park plays host to a series of “Blues on the Mississippi” concerts, with local bands performing on Friday evenings. Check the Web site for schedule information.