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Best of St. Louis

Historical sites

Walking through historical sites brings the weight of the past into the present.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site image 1
Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site image 2
Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site image 3
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Small historic site offers authentic history with free access and parking. Beautifully restored gardens create a quiet atmosphere perfect for reflection. Rustic home and accessible exhibits make learning comfortable and engaging.

Authentic historical information fills the museum and site, offering a clear view of life during a pivotal chapter in the nation's past. Free parking and entrance make it easy to explore the rich history and connect with the era's significance.

People are saying

"The historical sites have really knowledgeable and friendly rangers."

"I watched the movie about Grant's life; it was very interesting."

"The parking here is ample and free."

Good to know

1

The site is free to enter and offers free parking at the entrance.

2

To access the house, join a tour that occurs every hour.

3

Rangers provide informative speeches every hour or upon request.

02
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis image 1

Cathedral impresses with breathtaking mosaics and monumental architecture. Peaceful atmosphere invites reflection while friendly guides share deep historical insights. A small museum reveals rich mosaic artistry and history.

Stunning architecture and rich artwork define this historical site. Friendly guides offer detailed tours that share deep insights into its history and design.

People are saying

"You'll find the churches here absolutely beautiful and stunning."

"The mosaics inside this historical site are breathtaking and cover nearly every inch."

"The mosaic design here is truly unique and astonishing."

Good to know

1

There are free tours available throughout the day.

2

Visiting the cathedral is free of charge.

3

The cathedral hosts weddings, so access to the main sanctuary is not guaranteed.

03
Missouri Civil War Museum image 1

Museum shines with historic building charm and authentic artifacts that tell deep stories. Visitors enjoy informative videos and a nearby cemetery rich in history. Atmosphere shifts from cool downstairs to warm upstairs, enhancing the journey through time.

A beautiful historic building houses many amazing artifacts that offer a detailed look at the country's past. The museum features short, informative videos and a nearby cemetery rich in history.

People are saying

"I found the museum's exhibits and artifacts to be very interesting and well done."

"This historical site is packed full of amazing history."

"I found the collection interesting with many unique and original artifacts."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging near the museum.

2

The museum has an elevator for accessibility.

3

Admission fee is $10 for adults, with discounts available for seniors and students.

04
Old Courthouse image 1

Greek Revival architecture shines with an iconic cast-iron dome and vibrant frescoes inside. Calm atmosphere and echoes in the rotunda create unique sound dynamics. Historic courthouse features a museum with artifacts and interactive displays that bring American history to life.

A historic courthouse stands as a beautiful piece of history that survived a major fire. Inside, a museum offers artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring American history to life.

People are saying

"The Old Courthouse is a must-see part of the Gateway Arch National Park."

"I learned so much about the history of Saint Louis and the Scott family."

"The galleries offer stunning views of the dome and its frescoes."

Good to know

1

Entry to the Old Courthouse is free for all visitors.

2

The museum features updated exhibits curated by the National Park Service.

3

Visitors can access the second level via an elevator located on the first floor.

05
Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum image 1

Small museum in a restored building offers working rotary phones and vintage switching mechanisms for hands-on fun. Volunteers with industry backgrounds share stories, enriching the quiet atmosphere. Tours highlight telephone history, making it a rich spot for history buffs.

A vault of telephone history offers detailed exhibits on the evolution of phone technology. Staff provide informative tours that highlight key developments in communication.

People are saying

"The guided tour of these historical sites was fabulous, thanks to the knowledgeable guide."

"It's so Kid Friendly with interactive, hands-on exhibits kids can touch."

"Using the switchboard was a cool and refreshing experience."

Good to know

1

Admission is very affordable, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

The museum features exhibits on phone history from the late 1800s to 2012.

3

Volunteers, many with phone company backgrounds, provide informative tours.

06
Samuel Cupples House image 1

Victorian-era mansion offers historic craftsmanship across three floors filled with period furniture and museum-quality art. Water features and greenery create a serene campus atmosphere. Visitors enjoy self-guided tours with educational booklets for a rich experience.

Three stories of historic ambience fill the mansion with a strong sense of the past. Free tickets allow full access to explore museum-quality art and detailed historical elements throughout the house.

People are saying

"You'll see amazing historical details and museum-quality art here."

"The art and glass pieces in the galleries are beautiful."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Samuel Cupples House is free.

2

The tour is self-guided with informative booklets available.

3

There is a university parking garage nearby, about a seven-minute walk away.

07
Scott Joplin House State Historic Site image 1

Partially restored historic house offers live piano performances with player pianos from the early 1900s. Intimate guided tours reveal ragtime music history and the life of a notable composer. Visitors enjoy a quiet, educational setting that highlights cultural heritage and human rights issues.

Preserved history highlights ragtime's role in American music and human rights issues. Knowledgeable guides share deep insights on Joplin's life and local history.

People are saying

"The historical sites here have passionate, knowledgeable guides."

"The museum guides are so knowledgeable about Scott Joplin and his era."

"The interpreters brought Joplin's time and music to life."

Good to know

1

Tours start on the hour, last 45 minutes, and have a small fee.

2

You can't see any of the house unless you participate in the guided tour.

3

The tour ends with a player piano performance of Joplin's rags.

08
St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum image 1

Heritage museum showcases authentic artifacts and legendary players from Cardinals history. Interactive memorabilia like bats and rings make exhibits engaging. Visitors enjoy free ice-cold water and nearby food options for comfort.

Extensive Cardinals baseball history fills the museum with authentic artifacts from every era. Exhibits highlight legendary players and memorable moments throughout the franchise's timeline.

People are saying

"You can experience Cardinals baseball history and hold legendary bats."

"I loved seeing all the Cardinals baseball history and memorabilia."

Good to know

1

The museum entrance is free for all visitors.

2

Parking around the park costs between $15 and $30.

3

Food and drink prices are similar to other ballparks, ranging from $12 to $17 per beer.

09
Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion image 1
Historical place museum

Mansion features restored architecture with detailed coving and historical furniture. Guides share local history stories, enriching the visit. Friendly dog adds a welcoming touch to the atmosphere.

Knowledgeable docent shares detailed stories about the house, its builders, and owners. The home offers an informative look into local history with well-preserved contents and background.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the house and its history from the friendly docent."

Good to know

1

Tickets are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly visit.

2

The tour guides provide in-depth knowledge about the mansion's history and furnishings.

3

The mansion is beautifully restored, offering a glimpse into St. Louis history.

10
The Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries image 1

Historic concert hall offers intimate setting with superb acoustics for clear sound. Blends historic architecture with modern upgrades, creating a cozy atmosphere. Tiered, comfortable seating enhances views and engagement.

A historic concert venue with a quaint, cozy atmosphere blends rich history and modern technology. The hall maintains a gorgeous, comfortable setting while preserving its historical look.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue with superb acoustics for concerts."

"Parking was super easy and close by."

"It's a gorgeous, historic hall that feels modern."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site, with reasonable rates for events.

2

Street parking is free a few blocks away if you're willing to walk.

3

The venue hosts a variety of musical events throughout the year.

11
Lemp Mansion image 1
Restaurant

Historic mansion boasts haunting atmosphere and rich past with beautiful architecture. Guests enjoy interactive actors and use paranormal tools during events. A hidden gem bar and small museum add depth to the immersive experience.

Historic ambiance fills the mansion, creating a rich sense of the past. A hidden gem bar inside adds to the deep history found throughout.

People are saying

"You have to do the haunted tour of this historical site; it's an experience of a lifetime."

"You have to try the murder mystery dinner here; it's so interactive and fun."

"The escape room was a lot of fun with clever clues."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Murder Mystery Dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The all-you-can-eat Sunday dinner is popular and offers a large variety of dishes.

3

Murder Mystery Dinners are interactive and require advance booking.

12
Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery image 1

Massive historic brewery offers guided tours revealing brewing secrets and Clydesdale horses charm visitors. Beautiful architecture and well-manicured grounds create a lively setting with a beer garden and free samples. Temperature shifts add to the dynamic experience.

Guided tours highlight the brewing process, brewery history, and famous Clydesdales. Tours last about 1.25 hours and provide detailed insights into the beer making and sustainability efforts.

People are saying

"I found the brewery tour informative and a fun way to spend a couple of hours."

"You get to sample freshly poured beer at the end of the tour."

"I learned so much about the brewery's history on the tour."

Good to know

1

The Beermaster Tour sells out fast, so order ahead of time.

2

The tours last about an hour each.

3

Expect a 40-minute wait for the $15 tour without a reservation.

13
National Museum of Transportation image 1

Sprawling museum campus offers interactive rides and vintage cars exhibits. Friendly atmosphere invites self-paced exploration of railroad history with climb-on displays. Well-maintained grounds and gardens create a comfortable environment for all ages.

Exhibits showcase railroad history and rare cars with detailed displays. Visitors can climb on some exhibits and hear engaging stories that bring transportation history to life.

People are saying

"It's a really fun and educational place for kids to explore."

"You'll see tons of historical trains and vintage cars here."

"It's an awesome outdoor space with many train exhibits."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure tickets as slots fill up quickly.

2

The museum offers a wheelchair for visitors needing assistance.

3

Expect a $100 admission fee for a family of four, including two seniors.

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