This historic homestead just outside St. Louis has more than 900 animals and a Bavarian farmhouse that serves up a hearty, traditional lunch.
Grant’s Farm is located on 281 acres (113 hectares) just south-west of St. Louis. This historic site offers more than 900 animals, a traditional Bavarian homestead, daily entertainment and award-winning Clydesdale stables. Locals have flocked to the park for more than five decades.
The farm was once owned by Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States. Step inside Hardscrabble, the restored log cabin Grant built on the property in 1855. Today the farm is run by the Busch family brewers, who pride themselves on old-fashioned hospitality.
The animals can be found in two main areas: Deer Park and Tier Garten. Hop on the tram, which runs frequently, for a tour of Deer Park, where zebras, bison and deer roam freely.
Tier Garten showcases kangaroos, reptiles and parrots, among other animals. Catch one of the regular shows held in the amphitheater. At these Animal Encounters you can see farm favorites, such as the elephants, interact with their keepers. Pick up a timetable from the entrance at the start of the day and plan your visit accordingly. There’s also a small petting zoo with child-friendly animals such as goats.
Admire the gentle giants of the Budweiser Clydesdale Stables. Have your photo taken with one of the 25 horses, including foals, and visit the gift shop, which has Clydesdale-themed memorabilia.
Stop for lunch at the Bauernhof, a traditional Bavarian farmhouse built by the Busch family in 1913. Sample German food such as bratwurst and pretzels. Visitors aged 21 years and over can enjoy free samples of Anheuser-Busch beer in the Hospitality Room.
The farm is open on weekends during spring and fall, and closed November through April. In summer it’s open Tuesday to Saturday, but times vary. (Check the official website for a schedule.) Entrance to the farm, tram rides and all shows are free. Pay for parking, or take a bus from downtown St. Louis.
