The Ultimate Guide To Drace Park St. Louis: 5 Must-Know Updates On History, New Pavilions, And The 2023 Renovation
Drace Park, a nine-acre historical and recreational gem nestled in the heart of Town and Country, Missouri, remains a premier destination for St. Louis County residents seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As of today, December 23, 2025, the park has undergone significant and exciting changes, securing its status as one of the most modern and well-equipped parks in the region.
The latest updates—including the construction of a brand-new, state-of-the-art picnic pavilion and a complete playground overhaul—have redefined the visitor experience. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the park's rich history, its current amenities, and the fresh, cutting-edge improvements that make Drace Park an essential stop on any St. Louis park tour.
Drace Park: A Quick Biography and Essential Visitor Information
Drace Park is not merely a patch of green space; it is a meticulously maintained, nine-acre property that serves as a vital historical and recreational hub for the City of Town and Country. The land was gifted by the Drace Family, and the City officially acquired the property in 2000, transforming it into the beloved public space it is today.
- Location: 2310 Cedar Valley Road, Town and Country, MO 63131
- Area: Approximately nine acres.
- Ownership/Operation: City of Town and Country, Missouri.
- Historical Significance: Home to three preserved historic log cabins dating back to the 1800s.
- Accessibility: Located just east of Interstate 270 (I-270) and south of Clayton Road, making it easily accessible from West County and the greater St. Louis area.
- Key Features: New Picnic Pavilion, Playground, Restrooms, Natural Play Area, Multi-Use Asphalt Trail, Historic Log Cabins.
The Phoenix Pavilion: Drace Park’s Brand-New Construction Update
One of the most significant and recent developments at Drace Park centers on the complete replacement of its main gathering structure. The original Drace Park Pavilion was tragically destroyed by fire, which was caused by Fourth of July fireworks.
In response, the City of Town and Country moved swiftly to replace the structure, transforming a loss into a major capital improvement project. The new pavilion, which was nearly completed in the most recent fiscal year, represents a major upgrade for park users.
The design and construction process, which saw bid packages reviewed in late 2023 and early 2024, focused on creating a superior, long-lasting amenity. The new structure was designed with several modern goals in mind:
- Durable Materials: The new pavilion utilizes robust, durable materials to ensure longevity and resistance to the elements.
- Open Structure: The design is an open structure, specifically engineered to be free of climbable railings, addressing both safety and aesthetic concerns.
- Maximized Utilization: The new space is intended to maximize utilization, providing a flexible and welcoming area for families, community groups, and private parties.
This replacement project ensures that Drace Park continues to offer essential amenities, including a barbecue grill, electricity, and a ceiling fan, all housed within a contemporary and safer structure for gatherings and shade.
A Modern Upgrade: The 2023 Playground and Natural Play Area
Beyond the pavilion, families visiting Drace Park will immediately notice the completely revitalized children's play area. The park's Playground Renovation Implementation Project was a major focus for the city, culminating in a full replacement completed in 2023.
This renovation moved away from older, traditional equipment toward a more innovative and sensory-rich environment. The new design is centered around a "more natural" play experience, integrating elements that encourage exploration and imaginative play.
Key features of the new playground include:
- Astroturf Flooring: A major upgrade to the park's safety and cleanliness is the installation of astroturf flooring, which provides a soft, all-weather surface for children.
- Natural Play Area: The design incorporates a natural play area, which complements the park's wooded setting and encourages children to interact with nature-inspired structures.
- Modern Equipment: The entire playground infrastructure was replaced, offering a fresh, engaging, and compliant experience for all age groups.
The park’s continuous improvement efforts, often guided by the Drace Park Playground Master Plan, ensure that the facilities remain cutting-edge and meet the evolving needs of the Town and Country community.
The Three Historic Log Cabins: A Glimpse into St. Louis County’s Past
What truly sets Drace Park apart from other St. Louis County Parks is its dedication to preserving local history. The park is home to three authentic, relocated log cabins, each offering a tangible connection to the area’s 19th-century heritage.
These structures were carefully moved to the park by the Town and Country Historical Society and the City to save them from demolition and integrate them into a dedicated historic area. The cabins include:
- The Kropp Cabin: Dating back to 1855, the Kropp Cabin is one of the most prominent historical artifacts in the park, offering interpretive information about early settlers in the region.
- The Oge Cabin: This cabin holds a special place in local lore, as it was the location of the first post office in the area, providing a crucial link for communication and commerce.
- The Third Historic Cabin: Another cabin was relocated from its original site on Conway Road to Drace Park, further cementing the park’s role as a repository of local architectural history.
These historical log cabins provide a quiet, reflective counterpoint to the energetic playground and pavilion areas. Visitors can walk the multi-use asphalt trail that winds through the nine-acre property, pausing to appreciate the preserved history alongside the modern amenities.
Drace Park Amenities: More Than Just a Playground
While the new playground and pavilion are the main attractions, Drace Park offers a full suite of amenities designed for a complete outdoor experience. The park is an ideal spot for a quick break, a family picnic, or a peaceful nature walk.
The park’s location, just off a major highway, makes it a convenient stop, yet its mature trees and thoughtful layout ensure a tranquil atmosphere. The park’s restrooms are noted for being clean and well-maintained, a small but important detail that enhances the overall visitor experience.
Whether you are a history enthusiast interested in the 1800s cabins, a parent looking for a safe and modern play space, or simply a resident seeking a scenic spot for a walk, Drace Park's recent investments in its infrastructure—from the new pavilion to the astroturf flooring—ensure it remains one of the premier parks in the St. Louis County area.
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