A year of events celebrating the past, present and future of University Parks officially kicked off on April 16, 2023 in connection with the opening of the new Ruth Park Woods Trail. See Event Details.

In 1923, University City opened its earliest parks. Lewis, Heman, Flynn and Eastgate debuted, along with a plan to name parks for mayors -- as parks developed and mayors retired. Today there are more than a dozen developed parks offering activities for everyone to stroll, roll, play, picnic, relax, enjoy sports and the arts, and to simply come together as a community.

Urban planners concur that city parks play a very positive environmental and economic-development role. They provide green space for exercise and recreation for everyone. UCity parks also provide a great setting for cultural programs.

The staff and volunteers of U City in Bloom hosted dozens of visitors to view the ceremonial opening of the trail by Mayor Terry Crow, along with student ambassadors from University City Hight School. Guided tours through the 1.2 mile trail revealed the the major work and flourishing plant and animal life.

Celebrating the past, present and future of our parks began with the distribution of the 2023 U City Calendar featuring photos of our parks.

The UCityParks100 volunteer committee is hard at work planning a series of activities, beginning with the centennial event in Ruth Park Woods. We’ll conclude our year-long celebration in November by honoring our veterans in Heman Park at the Memorial Fountain.

If you have questions or want to volunteer to help, contact Seymour.Parks@UCityParks100.org

To learn more, Follow us on Facebook @UCityParks100 or check this website often for news and events.

Left to Right: Lucy Rhoades, Natayvia Turks, Man Mayor Terry Crow, Elena Kellogg, Madelaine Province, Xavier Thomas