City Museum in St. Louis Is Unlike Any Other Attraction

Have you ever worn knee pads to a museum? Probably not, but you just might want some when you visit the City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri. This whimsical museum showcases traditional collections alongside live circus performances, colorful art installations, and fantastical indoor and outdoor play spaces. It promises an over-the-top experience for both kids and adults.

Before you even enter the doors of the City Museum, you know you’re in for something unique. Maybe you spot the Ferris wheel making its rounds on the roof—or perhaps you see the airplane fuselage that seems precariously perched above the entrance. Your eyes dart from one bizarre element to another!

The City Museum started in 1997 when founders Bob and Gail Cassilly purchased a former shoe factory with a vision of creating something “weirdly wonderful” for kids and adults. Both were classically trained artists with an interest in sculpture and architectural preservation. They turned a bunch of artists and engineers loose to create an indoor/outdoor interactive space that functions as both a museum and a playground. It’s a feast for the eyes—and a lot of fun.

My family has visited the City Museum many times over the years, and yet, we’ve never seen or done it all. When my sons were toddlers, we were a little overwhelmed by the open chaos, always a bit nervous the kids could make a break for it and head down a slide to another floor (after all, there are over 30 slides!). Just imagine if the Chutes and Ladders game were three-dimensional, with arching tunnels instead of ladders to climb. 

Over the years, as our boys grew into young adults, we gave them the freedom to explore, knowing they could disappear into a cavernous tunnel in the ceiling, and we would somehow manage to reunite eventually. We also found plenty of things to enjoy together, from the outside MonstroCity playground, where I wished I had knee pads, to the Pinball Hall, with its collection of vintage pinball games.

As my family found, the City Museum is one of the rare attractions that is truly fun for both kids and adults. You can slide along the smooth bowls and rippling ridges of the skateless skate park, climb through an extensive man-made cave system, or take a whirl down the ten-story spiral slides that were originally part of the shoe factory.

If that sounds a bit too active for you, don’t worry. There are also calmer activities, like exploring salvaged St. Louis architectural remnants, admiring axolotls in aquariums, or checking out the strange collection of items that were lost and found in outhouses. Head up to the rooftop to take in views of downtown St. Louis.

With all that you are seeing and doing at the City Museum, you’ll surely work up an appetite. Adults may want to relax with a wine slushy in Boone’s Cabin Inn, and families can grab a snack or meal at one of several cafes, each with a personality all its own. My personal favorite is Beatnik Bob’s, where you’ll find a giant pair of underwear on display (don’t ask me why). Save room for dining after you leave the museum, as you can't leave St. Louis without sampling the city's signature thin-crust pizza and ooey-gooey butter bars!

After visiting the City Museum, you may be tempted to explore more of the unique side of St. Louis. Hit the charming Delmar Loop neighborhood to find a vibe that perfectly complements the museum, or take time to find the city’s best hidden gems.

Before heading to the City Museum, check out the FAQs for great tips for planning your own visit. I’ll leave you with one final tip of my own: If you forget to bring knee pads, you can purchase them in the museum shop, which is worth a visit for its eclectic stock, even if you are venturing out without them. But I must say, I recommend them if you are over 20.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.