With its beautiful landscape, Missouri boasts an abundance of spots – from deep green gorges to lush meadows brimming with colorful wildflowers – that look like they belong in an old-fashioned storybook. Next time you’re itching for a bit of outdoor fun, head to Forest Park in Missouri, a sprawling park that’s home to the Jewel Box and these giant turtles. It’s also right across the highway from the Saint Louis Zoo.

A stroll through Forest Park in St. Louis promises a lot of natural beauty and whimsy, including giant turtles that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a storybook.
Google/Andrew Piorkowski - Googeids
Nestled among the 1,300 acres of Forest Park, Turtle Playground has been a popular destination for kids of all ages since it debuted in 1996.
Google/Vicki Kaffenberger
Even if you’re just a kid at heart, you’ll love these massive turtle sculptures that are perfect for snapping photos as the little ones climb and explore.
Google/Thomas Ferguson
Famed Missouri artist Bob Cassilly, who has since passed away, created the massive sculptures that draw countless visitors to Turtle Playground. You’re probably already familiar with his work, including City Museum.
Trip Advisor/Christophe

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A gift to the children of St. Louis by Sonya “Sunny” Glassberg, the seven massive turtles were designed by Richard Claybour and sculpted by Cassilly.
Trip Advisor/rduinc
The seven turtles – three large and four small – all have their own names in honor of Glassberg’s children and grandchildren. Take a moment to meet Richard, Sally, and Tom, her children and the three larger turtles.
Trip Advisor/Management
Antonio, Adam, David, and Emily are the smaller turtles named after her grandchildren.
Google/yayahey
See if you can tell the differences between the types of turtles displayed – red ear slider, snapping, box, and Mississippi map. The playground also features seven massive turtle eggs.
Google/Thomas Ferguson
Here’s the official website of Forest Park. Or, stop by its Facebook page.
Google/Chloe Sanders

Have you been to Turtle Playground in Missouri? Share your experience in the comments! For another storybook adventure, visit Big Oak Tree State Park in East Prairie.

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Turtle Park, St. Louis, MO 63139, USA