Wow, I'm just blown away by this center. I knew about Lone Elk Park, but didn't know the World Bird Sanctuary was tucked away in the same area. We came here for a Boy Scout event. We first saw a show led by an employee which was a ton of fun. We got to meet several birds, and a couple of them flew over our heads back and forth between trainers. The highlight was meeting a one year old bald eagle. My son and I learned they don't get the white feathers until around age 5. After the presentation was over the kids all played on the playground. I then went to the rest of the open air exhibits for the birds. At the end we did a short hike back through the woods to the main visitor center. It was a perfect day to be out in the woods with my son. I would highly recommend this as a stop for the whole family. read more

This place is great! Tucked away in Fenton, The World Bird Sanctuary is a terrific way to spend an afternoon alone or with friends or the family. I went on the weekend and while parking seemed small, there was just enough space. Avian Avenue is a huge stretch of path that is flanked by a variety of beautiful birds in big enclosures. There is an on-site bird hospital, and you will be able to see convalescing birds by the modest gift shop. I spent about 90 minutes strolling the Avenue, and it was lovely. The trails are no joke. Good shoes are needed, and I wouldn't take little kids or older adults on the trail. That being said, the hiking is great. ONE SET OF BATHROOMS. By the parking. Plan accordingly. For real. It's a brisk hike from the end of Avian Avenue back to the bathroom. Friendly staff, affordable entry. Worth a visit! read more

See all

After visiting Lone Elk Park, we decided up whipped back around and visit the bird sanctuary to check it out. As we paid, the staff was so nice with guiding us through where everything was and where to park. It's a bit over you arrive because everything is all over the place but it was so fun. They have a gift shop and a play area for kids. Do plan on wearing comfortable shoes (obviously because it's a park) and watch out for some gravel areas. So much to do and see, we really enjoyed everything. A few of the owls, eagles and vultures we see in our area but it was nice to learn more about them. I think this is a nice hidden gem and I would come back with other that haven't been. read more

See all

Located in the St.Louis area,this Sanctuary is nestled in a 300 acre forest and is home to many bird species and is a must for any nature lover. Open daily from 8am-5pm,there is a $12.00 per car entry fee which is a bargain. After you park,there is a paved path that takes you onto Avian Avenue . Each bird species is in an enclosed area with fantastic descriptions on each bird variety. Very easy to understand. At the end of the paved trail,you can continue on a crushed gravel path that will take you back to the main area or you can just circle back on the paved path. There is a small amphitheatre and gift shop as well as public restrooms.j Once you leave,make sure you drive thru the Lone Elk Park which is adjacent to the Sanctuary. This is a free park and you might see a few elk or bison Definitely a fun way to enjoy the outdoors for any nature enthusiast. read more

See all

Well worth a visit, this sanctuary has a nice wood chip loop trail to view mostly rescued raptor species from all around the globe. They charge $12 per car to enter. There are clean accessible bathrooms and a gift shop for your souvenirs. The wooded location provides a nice shaded walk. Check the website for special events. read more

See all

If you love animals, you will LOVE this place! We saw tons of birds, obviously, but we also saw wildlife that was wandering around, such as racoons and deer. It was very quaint and adorable. We love owls, but we were also excited to learn about other types of birds. I was amazed by how big some of them were. I was also impressed by how clean the cages were and how well-adjusted the birds seemed to be. Each cage has the bird's name and how they ended up there. It also has educational content about the species. We walked around for about an hour and still didn't see everything, so I can't wait to go back! read more

THEY LET ME HOLD AN OWL (did the handling experience) It's next door to lone elk park. Plenty of parking spots. You can walk around and just revel in the majesty of birds of prey. I highly recommend holding one. Katie was super knowledgeable. There summer camp was also sharing the space so we got to see several bonus birds...my fav was this GIANT black vulture from Australia read more

World Bird Sanctuary - Burr the Owl - Parks Near Me - Valley Park, Missouri

I was invited along on a behind-the-scenes tour (a prize someone won) and I was so impressed! Our guides were completely knowledgeable & answered all of our questions. The beautiful birds we were able to see up close was such an unbelievable experience! Their back stories were also shared. This beautiful place is such a treasure! I'm very grateful to all of the staff who obviously care very deeply! read more

This place is awesome!! I had a lot if fun and there are a ton of beautiful birds from all over the world. Their cages are spacious and they are very well taken care of. There are a ton of hiking trails so you can go see the wild birds of Missouri after seeing the birds at the sanctuary. It cost $12 per car to enter an it is most definitely worth it. They have bald eagles, owls, hawks, falcona, emus, and so much more! There were some birds there that had been injured and nursed back to health by the sanctuary. read more

World Bird Sanctuary - Hawk - Parks Near Me - Valley Park, Missouri

If you're doing Lone Elk when this place happens to be open, you really must stop in and check it out at least once. It's not free, but the admission is per vehicle and it's worth every penny. Amazing staff, amazing birds. They do good work. Give it a look. read more

This place is awesome! I wasn't quite sure what to expect when we came here. You pay $12 once you get in for a vehicle. There are many birds in exhibits that you can explore yourself. When we came there was an employee feeding the birds and he was being great and answering all of our questions. They also have an amphitheater. There are a few trails as well. The trails loop around through the forest and the one we took took us back around and we actually ended up coming back in through the front entrance. This is also right next to lone elk park so you can go visit there right after you are done here. They also had a nice birding patio at the end of the exhibits with some picnic table spots. The animals look well taken cared of and I felt that the price was extremely worth it for all that you get to do. read more

See all

Pretty awe inspiring! Some of the birds here are big hams and will interact with you, which is generally hilarious. The staff is super helpful and informative, and it's really great these amazing birds have a safe place as many of them are unable to be in the wild. I still can't believe the beautiful eagles! Just a lovely place all around. read more

World Bird Sanctuary - Parks Near Me - Valley Park, Missouri

See all

Very cute place with descriptions on every animal. Of course please support this place if possible! read more

See all

If you haven't been- go. You won't be disappointed. So many different and exotic types of birds to get up close too. Very cool experience.

This sanctuary was fantastic, lots of different birds in nice large exhibits for people to see. They also do a nice show in the afternoon where they have some birds fly around the crowd and teach about them and conservation. I learned quite a bit and was very fun! read more

World Bird Sanctuary - Eagle showing - Parks Near Me - Valley Park, Missouri

This is a great place that cares for birds of all sorts - often large ones. We saw owls, eagles, vultures, emus, hawks, cranes. It is about 18 miles west of St. Louis off Hwy 44. They have an asphalt trail that is an out and back - probably 1/2 mile long or so - lots of cages were Eagle Scout projects. They have a small area up front with cages for smaller birds, a playground for kids, and a building (down the hill) with some exhibits. It took us about an hour and a half to see everything. Very well cared for; there are shows if you plan it right. There's a picnic area and a few hiking trails (with hills). Can make it as short or as long as you like. read more

We arrived around lunch. We had brought a picnic lunch and ate ate the picnic area, which was super clean. There's a small playground adjacent. We spent a very warm afternoon here. It was great to see so many birds up close. Nice little hiking trail to round out the afternoon. If you are nearby, it is worth checking out. Actually within St. Louis city limits but it feels like the wilderness. read more

Best part of Lone Elk park hands down. These are all birds that can't be put in the wild for one reason or another. I love that it tells you why they are there. Great for kids and adults. It's worth the trip in my opinion. read more

See all

We drove through the bird sanctuary with our daughter recently and I wasn't quite sure what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised how great it was even socially distanced. Our daughter sat on her lap while the staff showed us different animals and gave us some fun facts about each one. Even from a distance our daughter had a great time and oddly enough the snake was definitely her favorite! read more

An amazing place to visit in west St Louis County right of Highway 44. They have an animal hospital on the premises and they help take care of Eagles, Raptors, Owls and many other birds they may need help in some way. They have events and shows throughout the year that are entertaining and educational. A great place to take the kids. read more

See all

I have been bringing my grandchildren to see the birds over the years and have thoroughly enjoyed our visit every time. We love that it is not so big that it takes all day to tour but large enough for young kids and toddlers aren't overwhelmed. It's a lovely area of St. Louis county so don't miss the drive through park located across the road. Don't forget to take a picnic and enjoy the outdoors. read more

Neature's neat! If you don't understand that reference than you need to do some Googling. The World Bird Sanctuary is one of the best place in STL to experience the outdoors and coolest avian wildlife North America has to offer! They have super straightforward hours and you don't need to pay for anything or have any sort of ticket. You park, and explore yourself! Most of the birds are tethered up (humanely) outside or are in a cage. You can get close up to tons of different eagles, owls, falcons, and even chickens! I assume because this is a Sanctuary that most/all the birds are rescued but I am not sure. The workers have scheduled times throughout the day where they talk about the birds to guests and walk them around for show. This is a prime time for a photo opp! They also have a gift shop if you are into that sort of thing. In the gift shop they have A MASSIVE SNAKE. I think it was some sort of boa...it's huge. On the flip side, they have a cute lil bunny that you are allowed to pet. In addition, they have plenty of huge and beautiful parrots. If you have never seen a Golden Eagle or Horned Owl up close, then you must make the short road trip here! They are soooooo cool and huge in person you will be amazed. Make sure to hit up lone elk park while you are out here because it's right across the street and is also free. Enjoy your neature walk! read more

See all

I would absolutely recommend anybody coming here to visit this park. It is free, but any amount of money donated to them goes to feeding the magnificent birds. They're very aided species of birds is astounding, and they try to have us many rare birds as possible, in order to help with the survival of their species. The information that they provide on each individual species of bird is wonderful for learning. No dogs are allowed here, and I cannot blame them for refusing entries two dogs, since they do not want the birds to be frightened. There is a trail to walk along after the bird sanctuary, which takes about 1 1/2 hours to traverse. read more

Came here because my sister thought it'd be fun and wanted to check out some birds, but it's sad to look at them. All I could think of was that song from the commercial about abused animals. https://youtu.be/9gspElv1yvc I guess if you're old, have young kids, enjoy wildlife photography, or just really like birds, this place will be good for you. If you're a young adult, like me, you'll be so bored. There's also an exhibition of birds they brought out, and I learned a few things, one being that vultures will vomit a lot (they stressed this part because of the amount they feed on carcasses to stay full but would be willing to throw it up to lighten up and fly away) to void off hyenas that threaten them or come too close. read more

See all

The Sanctuary does wonderful work, preserving endangered species so that they can hopefully thrive in the future. They are open 8-5 363 days a year. I must admit that it does sadden me to see these creatures tied up and caged. It is in their best interests, but it does make a person sad to see. WBS takes in hundreds of birds a year in order to rehabilitate them and re release them into the wild. Children love coming to see the raptors, and often times seem to stand in dead silence as they stare in awe. This is a wonderful place to visit in order to learn about these creatures and our impact on the world around us. read more

World Bird Sanctuary - Photo by Jennifer B - Parks Near Me - Valley Park, Missouri

See all

What a wonderful establishment! We visited there yesterday and was very impressed with how clean everything was, the enclosures and bathrooms. The staff working there are incredibly knowledgeable and give so much information on what you're looking at. We paid to be able to hold an owl and it was the best experience ever! Buzz was adorable and we got to learn all about her and where she was from and how she helps with their educational programs. The girl who brought her out to us was awesome and we learned so much about Tawny owls from her. Thank you! After we got to see a barn owl do his flying routine, and learn about how they're in trouble with people using rat poison to get rid of rodents. I had no idea and will definitely be spreading the word around. Then we got to see a great horned owl and finally a Harris Hawk. Honestly a once in a lifetime experience for me and you can tell how much these birds are loved and cared for by the people who handle them. I'm terrible with names but I believe it was CJ who taught us about those and he was great! The girl working at the gift shop was also very kind, helpful and had all the answers to my questions. Thank you so much for an epic afternoon of learning about my favorite birds. Hands down worth the 2.5 hour drive to get there. Would drive 5 to have the same experience. Please consider going if you haven't, they're doing so much for these amazing animals and like all establishments times are hard with the pandemic. Thank you thank you thank you for my lifelong dream of being up close and personal with an owl that was not stressful or harmful to them. read more

This is a super cool, family friendly and education experience to do on a nice afternoon! They have so many beautiful eagles and hawks, it is so impressive. All of the birds there are being rehabbed from injury. Some will be released back into the wild but those with more detrimental injuries are kept and maintained for educational and breeding purposes. The staff is so knowledgeable and friendly. Really a neat place. Plus, you can pop over and do some hiking on the Chubb trail if you're so inclined, its right next door! read more

I absolutely love birds of all kinds and seeing them made me feel so happy I will be back

A fantastic place to observe birds otherwise seen from a distance. Very well done. Thanks STL Co.

I've been wanting to go here for awhile, as I love animals, and was looking for something free or cheap to do as a date with my hubby. I chose the first Saturday of the month, because they offer tours of the wildlife hospital then, which sounded cool. It's not far out at all and I highly suggest driving through Lone Elk Park while you're out there. It's well marked from the highway. I didn't quite know what to expect, but when we pulled up, it was very woody and much of what you see is outdoors, so dress accordingly. There are maps available and posted so it's easy to see what there is to do. There is the gift shop/nature center (where they have tropical birds, tiny owls, reptiles, bats, and more), the wildlife hospital, two outdoor areas where bird perch, and a walkway where there are large outdoor aviaries on either side. At first, you can't help but feel sorry for the birds who are tethered to their perches. However, I felt better when I read the explanation that they spend 80-95% of their day perching. Also, most or all of the birds would not survive if they were allowed to fly away because they have wing injuries, are tame, or have other ailments (several of them had cataracts or other eye problems). The WBS is focused on education, awareness, and conservation. Without these birds, they would not be able to meet their mission. I especially loved watching two pelicans fight over fish and play with their food- very entertaining! It was also cool to see the bats hanging, and there is a friendly chicken who walks free in the nature center and you can pet her. I wanted to take her home! The tours of the wildlife hospital start at noon - which wasn't on the website. Luckily, we were there soon before, so we got a personal tour. We were the only ones taking advantage of it. A nice volunteer walked us through the hospital and showed us each area. There is an intake area where they assess the birds that come in and give them medical treatment. One thing I learned was that by Missouri law, birds of prey either have to be rehabilitated and released or euthanized. The WBS can't just keep them if they are injured, with a few exceptions (they have a permit that occasionally allows them to if one of their birds has died). The coolest part was seeing the "patients" and hearing their stories. There were 4 hawks and 2 owls being treated when we were there. They are kept in little cages, fed and cared for until they are releasable. It was a $5 donation and took about 45 minutes, and we got to ask a bunch of questions. I highly recommend coming when you can have a tour! They have a lot of cool events - I plan on going back for some in the future! read more

Very, very pleasantly impressed. I had low expectations before jaunting up the hillsides of Lone Elk State Park / Castlewood region. Every Sunday at 1:30pm they have a free, shaded outdoor show in the small amphitheatre involving different birds. The variety of birds or birds of prey I should say was amazing. The setting is beautiful. Quite a bit of renovation and new buildings complete in September 2010. If you are bored on a Sunday afternoon and want a free activity, come out here. When you are done, there is a nice restored trail with fresh wood chips at the end of the gravel long walkway of birds. You can take that all the way down to the end of the park. when you are done with the park, I recommend you take your car and drive through the Lone Elk Park. We saw elk, but more importantly, we saw a heard of Bison LITERALLY 3 feet from my driver side window. Was scary. read more

I wanted to take my son somewhere new yesterday so we ended up going to the World Bird Sanctuary. Like most others, it weighs a bit heavy on the heart to see such gorgeous creatures tethered to perches or inside cages. However, I do understand these creatures cannot be released into the wild for various reasons and I will support any place that exists to care for and help animals. Check out their website, under the Exhibits tab, to learn more about each inhabitant and how it came to the World Bird Sanctuary. It was really cool to see these magnificent birds up close. We saw several different kinds of owls, eagles and hawks. There were also chickens, cranes, turkeys, parrots, pelicans...even a raven named Lenore. It's a pretty cool resource located in Valley Park. Remember, while technically free, they do accept donations. read more

I loved this place - probably because I love birds! I felt kind of bad seeing them tied up, but I understand why it's done. We had a wonderful time hiking through the forest preserve - listening to all the birds, hearing the leaves rustle in the wind - and when we took the tunnel trail, it was so cool discovering the body of water right after going under the tunnel. It was so peaceful and quiet - totally felt rejuvenated after hanging here for a while. Only thing I wish I did different is use some sort of bug spray. next time for sure. We also picked up several of the bird houses they had on display. Great price, great cause. read more

This is another great "free" attraction in St. Louis. I really wasn't sure what to think when we decided to check it out this past weekend. We were impressed by the facilities. My expectations were low due to our visit to a wild bird facility in the Florida Keys that was not nearly as nice or professional. Thanks to Ameren for sponsoring their amphitheater. There are awesome birds of prey in every direction, some in cages, many just sitting outside tethered to a small stand. We watched the Amazing Animal Encounters program, which this time featured a barn owl, great horned owl, baby turkey vulture and a white necked raven, which knew how to fold up donated cash and stuff it in a box. The trainers were very personable and eager to answer questions. We also ran into staff members out near the display cages that offered more education and answered questions. I say "free" in quotes because you really should plan on donating some cash when you go if possible. Definitely worth a couple of hours for both locals and tourists, with or without kids. read more

Whoa. I love this place! At first I was a bit disturbed, as some others were, by the tethering of the wildlife, but as I walked around, the information was very clear on why this method works. Gah! The owls! The eagles! The mighty falcons and hawks! It's fascinating to see the birds up close in this habitat. I spent two hours walking leisurely around the exhibits in 95 degree heat--that's how awesome this place is. Donate generously and enjoy the surroundings and the birds! read more

VEGAN REVIEW Guys, visiting the WBS was awesome, and I am pretty sure this place is great and on the up-and-up ethically with respect to animals. The focus on wildlife rehab seems really cool and authentic, the birds themselves are amazing, and no one seemed particularly unhappy in that way that breaks your heart at zoos. Highlights: - batball (upside-down, sleeping, incredible) - owlface (several!) - lots of raptors up close and personal - a sleeping armadillo - bald eagles looking all like America - chickens getting STOKED about corn: deeply appreciated by our St. Louisian friend. Vaguely unsettling: - Everything here appears to be made by a Boy Scout for an Eagle project. You can basically imagine them on a chain gang, just out of sight, splitting wood for another viewing pavilion or feeding enclosure en masse. read more

I love birds. I have a green cheek conure at home and try to get out in nature to view birds when I have time. The World Bird Sanctuary is a wonderful place to visit at any age. Not only do you get to see various bird species but you can also see bats, an armadillo, a rabbit, and some reptiles, too. Many of the birds can be seen tethered outside or in cage. The sanctuary also has fun events such as bat fest and owl night prowls. BTW owls are adorable. Though the WBS is free to visit, I suggest giving them a small donation. They run a bird hospital and need supplies to care for their residents. Near the hospital they have bird houses you can take if you drop a few dollars in a box. read more

The Owl Prowl educational presentations are interesting. We spent about an hour in a room getting to meet the different owls they had on hand. A couple of them were allowed to fly from handler to handler within the room. It's amazing to see these large birds fly inches over your head. In all, I think we saw 5 different owls. I recommend sitting towards the outside of one of the row of chairs. During the presentation one of the handlers walks the birds around the class and if you are on the outside you'll be right next to them. After the classroom presentation, one of the employees takes the group outside to look at some of the birds in their cages and also tries to call wild owls in using an audio tape. While we didn't get to see any owls fly in, I thought the whole expereience was pretty cool. read more

World Bird Sanctuary - Parks Near Me - Valley Park, Missouri

See all

Take an afternoon and a picnic to experience nature and its amazing creatures. This place nurses wild birds back to health. You can see eagles, owls, hawks, snakes and other birds. You can bring a picnic and sit on the many benches to take a break. They offer a gift shop and free will donations are also excepted. What are you waiting for go check out this place. read more

Really great way to spend some time, free admission. There were some construction works which already look great. The older enclosures made it difficult to take nice photos of the birds. read more