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Best of St. Louis

Museums

Museums that offer a deep dive into history without the overwhelming crowds that make it impossible to see the exhibits.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Soldiers Memorial Military Museum image 1
Soldiers Memorial Military Museum image 2
Soldiers Memorial Military Museum image 3
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Beautiful Art Deco building offers comprehensive military exhibits with moving displays like the Ghost Army. Calm, respectful atmosphere features wide walkways and tactile exhibits for the blind. Admission is free, making it easy to explore detailed, educational presentations.

Admission is free, making it easy to explore the high-quality exhibits. The museum features moving displays like the Ghost Army and Tuskegee Airmen, plus tactile exhibits for the blind that add a unique touch.

People are saying

"I learned so much about St. Louis's military history and local service members."

"I learned so much about the courageous Tuskegee Airmen at the museum."

"It's cool that the museum is free to visit."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free.

2

The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

3

Parking is very limited at the museum.

02
Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum image 1

Small museum in a restored building offers working rotary phones and vintage switchboards for hands-on fun. Volunteers with industry experience share stories, creating an engaging atmosphere. Exhibits include early phones and designer models from the 90s.

Exhibits showcase early phones with magneto cranks, operator switchboard equipment, and designer phones from the 90s. Volunteers run the museum with care, making it informative and engaging for all ages.

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."

"The museum tours are fabulous, thanks to the guide's knowledge."

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.

03
Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis image 1

Two floors display intricately detailed miniatures that captivate with impressive craftsmanship. Quiet and focused, the space invites art enthusiasts and crafters to explore historical and whimsical scenes. Kid-friendly without distractions, it offers a unique, thoughtful museum experience.

Exhibits feature detailed miniature buildings that require close attention to appreciate. The collection is unique and expansive, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and patience.

People are saying

"The miniature exhibits here are packed with hundreds of intricate details."

"It's so kid friendly with amazing miniature homes and doll houses."

"The miniature masterpieces here are so cool, with amazing attention to detail."

Good to know

1

Admission is $8 per person, making it an affordable visit.

2

Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early.

3

The second floor is only accessible by stairs, which may be challenging for some visitors.

04
Missouri Civil War Museum image 1

Museum shines with authentic artifacts in a beautifully restored building. Friendly staff guide visitors through thoughtful exhibits that offer deep historical insights. Atmosphere shifts from dark and cool downstairs to warm upstairs, enhanced by informative videos.

Beautifully restored building houses authentic artifacts and excellent displays. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, making the museum very informative and well thought out.

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.

05
Soulard Art Gallery image 1

Gallery space splits into two long hallways with rooms for 14 resident artists, creating an intimate, artist-run vibe. Exhibits feature affordable local art in many mediums like sculptures and photography. Frequent guest shows keep the collection fresh and the atmosphere funky and eclectic.

A quaint artist-run space with several resident artists, it showcases an eclectic mix of modern styles including recycled art, sculptures, photography, pottery, and paintings. Frequent guest exhibits keep the collection fresh and the vibe lively.

People are saying

"I found the local art here to be fantastic and affordable."

"I found the local art gallery to be a treasure trove of wonderful art."

"The resident artists run their own gallery rooms here."

Good to know

1

The gallery features rotating exhibits every 5 weeks, showcasing local artists.

2

Art prices are very affordable, making it accessible for all visitors.

3

The gallery is run by 14 resident artists who are available for discussions.

06
Old Courthouse image 1

Greek Revival architecture shines with an iconic cast-iron dome and vibrant frescoes. Restored courtrooms and interactive displays bring history alive, especially the Dred and Harriet Scott gallery. Calm atmosphere with echoes in the rotunda adds a unique sound experience.

Restored courtrooms and interactive displays bring 19th-century law and history to life. Exhibits like the Dred and Harriet Scott gallery and โ€œPathways to Freedomโ€ highlight important historical moments with artifacts and photographs.

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."

"It's a nice free museum to visit."

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.

07
Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis image 1

Historic Federal Reserve building offers marble architecture and interactive exhibits that explain economics clearly. Visitors enjoy lifting a real gold bar and receive free shredded money souvenirs. Security checks ensure a safe, educational experience for all ages.

Educational and interactive exhibits introduce economics concepts clearly for all ages. Visitors can handle a twenty-eight-pound genuine gold bar and explore US monetary policy in a secure, well-laid-out space with free admission.

People are saying

"It's so interactive and informative, definitely Kid Friendly for learning."

"It's interesting how many facts about cash you can learn here."

"This museum is interactive and fun for all ages, especially lifting the gold bar."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free with no payment required.

2

Visitors must bring a valid ID for entry due to security checks.

3

The museum offers interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.

08
National Museum of Transportation image 1

Sprawling museum campus offers interactive exhibits and rare cars in a friendly, accessible setting. Outdoor gardens and well-maintained grounds invite self-paced exploration. Multiple rides and activities create a fun environment for all ages.

Transportation and auto collections include rare cars and interactive exhibits. Restoration shop doors open for viewing old equipment. The museum is accessible and engaging for all ages, including toddlers.

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."

"You'll love the museum's vintage cars and historic trains."

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.

09
The Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries image 1

Concert hall offers superb acoustics and a cozy atmosphere with historic charm. Unique exhibits like the mini golf art display add fun to the small gallery. Comfortable, tiered seating ensures great views during events like the orchestra's Final Fantasy concert.

Unique exhibits and events happen regularly, including a mini golf exhibit that blends art and fun. The small art gallery offers a quiet space with cool displays, often paired with concerts like the orchestra playing Final Fantasy music.

People are saying

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

"Parking was super easy and close by."

"I loved the mini golf exhibit at the museum!"

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.

10
Historic Train Collection image 1

Historic trains and trolleys offer interactive rides and climbing exhibits. Expansive outdoor and indoor spaces showcase a car collection and transportation memorabilia. Family-friendly energy blends with hands-on experiences across varied terrain.

A large collection of trains and trolleys fills the museum, with many exhibits allowing climbing inside. The museum also features an impressive car collection and various historical memorabilia related to transportation.

People are saying

"This place is so kid friendly, my little ones loved the train ride."

"I loved the museums here; there were so many trains and trolleys to see."

"The historic train collection is cool, especially the U.P. 4006."

Good to know

1

Admission costs over $20 per person, which is a significant expense.

2

A season pass offers 43 train rides, making it a good value.

3

The museum features a small train ride around the grounds for kids.

11
Griot Museum of Black History image 1

Small museum offers well-crafted wax figures and detailed historical artifacts that highlight Black history in St. Louis. Exhibits include personal accounts and female fiber artists' rug hooking drawings in the basement. Visitors find a peaceful, inspiring atmosphere ideal for deep learning.

Exhibits highlight Black history and achievements with detailed facts and personal accounts. The basement features female fiber artists' rug hooking drawings that stand out.

People are saying

"You'll learn so much about Black history and St. Louis's past here."

"I thought this museum was a must-visit hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is $10 for adults, making it affordable for most visitors.

2

Free street parking is available around the museum for easy access.

3

Photos are only allowed in the entrance area and gift shop.

12
Vintage Car Collection image 1

Museum features Vintage Car Collection with over 20 cars in a well-organized space. Exhibits are informative and perfect for family activity. Atmosphere suits both enthusiasts and families, engaging visitors for hours.

Many great exhibits feature a Vintage Car Collection with remarkable displays. Plenty to explore makes it a fun and informative spot for a family activity lasting a few hours.

People are saying

"I found the museum very nice and informative."

"These historical sites are perfect for a family activity."

"The vintage car collection is really cool."

Good to know

1

Admission is $10 for adults, with children under 12 free.

2

The museum is open from 10am to 5pm, closed on Mondays.

3

Parking is free on-site, but fills up quickly on weekends.

13
St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum image 1

Modern museum features interactive survivor stories and a large permanent exhibit on Holocaust history. Exhibits highlight personal stories of diverse victims, including Jewish and LGBT individuals. Atmosphere is somber and respectful, promoting remembrance and education to prevent future tragedies.

Exhibits provide personal stories and cover all Holocaust victims, including Jewish, political, non-Aryan, and LGBT individuals. The museum offers a strong connection to local history and focuses on preventing future tragedies through education.

People are saying

"This Holocaust museum is beautiful, somber, and deeply moving."

Good to know

1

The admission fee is around $12, making it affordable for most visitors.

2

A visit typically takes about one to one and a half hours.

3

The museum features opportunities to hear from Holocaust survivors during special events.

14
Scott Joplin House State Historic Site image 1

Partially restored historic house offers live piano performances and intimate guided tours focused on ragtime music and Scott Joplin's life. Enthusiastic staff provide informative private tours in a quiet, educational setting. Visitors enjoy cultural heritage through music and period furnishings.

A developing museum focused on Scott Joplin's life offers private tours by arrangement. Staff are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making visits informative.

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.

15
Museum of Illusions - St. Louis image 1

Museum thrills with interactive exhibits and a vortex tunnel that dazzles all ages. Space feels inviting and fun despite some noise and crowding. Visitors enjoy mind-altering illusions while respecting personal space.

Interactive exhibits create a trippy and fun experience that surprises the eyes. The vortex tunnel stands out as a favorite, and people of all ages enjoy the engaging displays.

People are saying

"I had a lot of fun exploring all the illusions."

"The museum staff were so helpful explaining everything."

"It's a fun, engaging experience perfect for a date night."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $34 per person, with discounts available for EBT cardholders.

2

Expect to spend about 45 minutes exploring the museum.

3

The museum is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly destination.

16
St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum image 1

Heritage museum showcases authentic artifacts and a walk of fame that honors legendary players. Exhibits are compact and engaging, offering fresh content regularly. Visitors enjoy free ice-cold water and nearby food options for comfort.

Packed with Cardinals history and legendary players, the museum offers a compact and engaging walk through memorable moments. A walk of fame leads up to it, and new exhibits keep the content fresh.

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.

17
The Field House Museum image 1

Historic home offers impressive old furniture and realistic animal displays. Knowledgeable guides provide engaging tours with natural answers. Rotating exhibits and a well-stocked library archive add variety and depth.

Unique exhibits include Egyptian pyramids and realistic animal displays. The museum features a rotating archive and temporary exhibits, offering a diverse and fascinating experience.

People are saying

"The historical sites tour was informative and engaging."

"The museum tours are so informative and engaging."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for guests, even during events like games.

2

Reservations are recommended for guided tours to ensure availability.

3

The museum features rotating temporary exhibits that may vary by visit.

18
National Blues Museum image 1

Museum blends intimate live music with rich blues history exhibits. Visitors enjoy interactive stations and an art gallery celebrating Queens of Blues. Atmosphere stays relaxing and inviting, perfect for music and history lovers.

Exhibits offer a comprehensive overview of blues history with objects, photos, and testimonies. Interactive stations and an art gallery featuring the Queens of Blues highlight the cultural legacy and roots of blues music.

People are saying

"The museums here have really cool interactive exhibits."

"You'll learn the full history of blues music here."

"The live music here is in an intimate room with great sound."

Good to know

1

The museum is only open 16 hours total for the week, from 11 AM to 3 PM.

2

The National Blues Museum charges $15 for admission.

3

The tour is suitable for people with mobility issues.

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