Overview
The City Museum in St. Louis is a unique mixture of children's playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of unique, found objects. Housed in a former International Shoe building, it is an artistic repurposing of industrial materials, featuring caves, slides, climbing apparatus, and a rooftop ferris wheel.
Top Highlights
- The Caves: A network of man-made caves and tunnels to explore.
- 10-Story Slide: A spiral slide that descends through the building.
- Rooftop Garden: Features a Ferris wheel, school bus hanging off the edge, and skyline views.
- MonstroCity: An outdoor climbing structure made of wrought iron, fuselages, and more.
- Skakeless Park: An indoor skate park area (no skateboards required).
Things to Do
- Climb, crawl, and slide through the endless exhibits.
- Ride the rooftop Ferris wheel (weather permitting).
- Watch a circus performance at the Everyday Circus.
- Explore the architectural museum and art galleries within.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays are less crowded. Evening hours on weekends (when available) offer a different atmosphere. Wear comfortable clothes for climbing.
Entry & Visitor Information
- Admission: Ticket required for entry; rooftop access may be an add-on.
- Attire: Closed-toe shoes and pants are recommended for climbing and sliding.
Facilities Available
- Food court and bars
- Gift shop
- Restrooms
- Lockers
Travel Tips
- This is not a traditional museum; be prepared for physical activity.
- Knee pads can be helpful for adults exploring the caves.
- Keep a close eye on children as the layout is labyrinthine.
Nearby Places to Explore
- Washington Avenue Loft District: Nearby dining and nightlife.
- St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station: A short drive away.