One of St. Louis’ most beloved fall traditions returns to the Missouri Botanical Garden, showcasing a record number of small business, artisans and artists throughout an extended footprint. Best of Missouri Market® is a must-do on any fall bucket list in St. Louis.
The market features 157 artisans and local businesses, specialty fall flavors at the Craft Beer and Cocktail Court, a miniature pumpkin patch, live music, and autumnal scenery.
In 2026, Best of Missouri Market runs Friday, October 9–Sunday, October 11, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Garden members can take part in an exclusive shopping hour on Saturday, 8–9 a.m.
Thank you to our sponsors: (Gold Sponsor) Missouri Life Magazine; (Silver Sponsors) Nora R. Stern & Waterway Carwash; (Bronze Sponsors) Hermannhof Winery and Inn, Kaldi’s Coffee Roasting Co., & Traube Tent Company
What to Do at Best of Missouri Market® 2026
At Best of Missouri Market®, visitors can explore the work of talented artisans, enjoy our new fine art and jewelry section, support local business owners, try new fall flavors from local eateries and drink vendors, and soak in the fall scenery of the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Explore 157 vendors, including A new expanded Indoor Space
In 2026, Best of Missouri Market® features 157 vendors selling food, crafts, native plants, herbs, beer, wine, craft spirits, custom jewelry, and more.
New this year, the Garden has extended the outdoor market to include an indoor area. This new area will be inside the Bayer Event Center, connected to the Garden’s Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center.
Try autumnal flavors at the craft beer and cocktail court
The Craft Beer and Cocktail Court showcases 14 wineries, distilleries, breweries, and other local spirit sellers. Guests 21+ can enjoy samples, sip on a drink while they shop, and take home a bottle or pack of their favorite flavor.
In 2026, the Craft Beer and Cocktail Court will be located near the Central Axis of the Garden, allowing guests to experience more the Garden’s fall blooms during the festival.
Explore the Kids’ Corner
Best of Missouri Market® is a family-friendly event, with a special area and activities designed specifically for our young guests.
The Kids’ Corner returns with face painting, a petting zoo (featuring a baby zebra this year), balloon art, crafts, and a pumpkin patch with sustainable pumpkin decorating. The Kids’ Corner is located at the Cohen Amphitheater, near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening and behind the Doris I. Schnucks Children’s Garden.
How to Get Tickets to Best of Missouri Market® 2026
Best of Missouri Market® is one of the Garden’s more popular signature events, and we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance.
Please note that all admission to the Garden during the market will be set at the event price. There are no early morning walking hours during signature events, and discounted admission for St. Louis City and County residents does not apply on Saturday, October 10.
As a reminder, the Missouri Botanical Garden never sells tickets on third-party platforms, including social media.
- General Adult Admission (13+) | $18
- General Children’s Admission (12 and under) | $9
- Garden Member Adults (13+) | $9
- Garden Member Children (12 and under) | Free
- Festival-Level Members | Free + 6 Free Tickets
Purchase Tickets in Advance
Where to Park During Best of Missouri Market®
The Garden offers parking outside of the Visitor Center, including several EV charging stations. There is no charge for parking at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
During Best of Missouri Market®, a portion of the parking lot will be used to host vendors. In the event that the parking lot is full, visitors should use the free parking at the overflow lots at the corner of Shaw Boulevard and Vandeventer. Shuttles will be running from this parking lot to the Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center throughout the festival.
As leaders in sustainability, we are also big fans of walking, biking, and public transportation. We offer bike parking near the Visitor Center and are conveniently located near two Metro bus stops.
Jessika Eidson | Public Information Officer
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