


City Museum
About
City Museum is unlike any museum you've ever visited,it's a fantastical wonderland where kids can climb through a real airplane suspended in the air, slide down multi-story slides, and explore caves and tunnels made from repurposed architectural salvage. This is an active, hands-on adventure space where children are encouraged to touch, climb, and explore everything, making it one of the most unique family attractions in the country.
Highlights
- ✓The iconic school bus hanging off the building's edge and rooftop Ferris wheel
- ✓10-story spiral slide and multiple tube slides throughout the museum
- ✓MonstroCity,the outdoor climbing structures made from two real airplanes and fire trucks
- ✓The Enchanted Caves with underground tunnels and secret passages
- ✓Shoe Shaft,a three-story spiral slide made from giant slinkies
Pro Tips
- 1.Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip,sneakers are essential as you'll be climbing through tight spaces and on metal surfaces
- 2.Arrive right when doors open (10 AM) to beat the crowds, especially on weekends when it gets very busy by afternoon
- 3.Bring knee pads for younger kids and yourself if you plan to crawl through the caves and tunnels,your knees will thank you
- 4.Don't miss the secret passages and hidden rooms throughout the building; exploration and curiosity are rewarded here
- 5.Pack light,lockers are available, and you won't want to carry bags through tight spaces and slides
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Thursday) are least crowded. Friday and Saturday evenings offer extended hours until 9 PM, which can be magical with fewer families and the outdoor areas lit up, though toddlers may be too tired. Avoid weekends between 12-4 PM when crowds peak.
What to Know
Admission is $18 for adults and children (2 and under free), with discounts after 5 PM on late nights. The venue is largely NOT accessible for strollers or wheelchairs due to its climbing nature. Food is available on-site at the cafe, but options are limited, so consider eating before or after your visit.
Seasonal Notes
The rooftop and outdoor climbing areas (MonstroCity) are open weather permitting,summer offers full access but can be hot on metal surfaces. Winter visits mean indoor-only activities. Check for special holiday events and extended hours during school breaks.
Nearby Eats
Pappy's Smokehouse (3 blocks away) serves award-winning BBQ with kid-friendly options and casual atmosphere. For quicker bites, Citygarden sculpture park is nearby with food trucks and a great place for kids to run around post-museum.
More Activities Near St. Louis
Saint Louis Art Museum
The Saint Louis Art Museum offers a perfect introduction to world-class art for children of all ages,and it's completely free! Located in beautiful Forest Park, this impressive museum features special family programs, interactive galleries, and a diverse collection that spans ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern masterpieces, keeping kids engaged and curious.
Missouri History Museum
The Missouri History Museum offers an engaging, FREE journey through St. Louis history with hands-on exhibits that bring the past to life for children. Located in beautiful Forest Park, this highly-rated museum features interactive displays including the chance to explore a replica 1904 World's Fair pavilion, climb aboard historical vehicles, and discover how St. Louis shaped American history through kid-friendly storytelling.
Crown Candy Kitchen
Step back in time at this beloved St. Louis institution where kids can experience an authentic old-fashioned soda fountain that's been serving up sweet treats since 1913. Crown Candy Kitchen delights families with towering ice cream sundaes, classic malts and milkshakes, and a candy counter filled with hand-dipped chocolates and nostalgic sweets that'll make parents reminisce about their own childhoods.
Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo is an absolute gem for families,a world-class, FREE zoo spanning 90 acres in beautiful Forest Park with over 14,000 animals representing 600+ species. With its exceptional Children's Zoo, engaging animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly amenities, this consistently top-rated attraction offers incredible value and unforgettable experiences for kids of all ages.