City Museum
An ever-evolving art installation and playground made from found objects, offering slides, caves, and unique adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
City Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ever-evolving art installation and playground made from found objects, offering slides, caves, and unique adventures.
"The best $30 I’ve ever spent in my LIFE. Would love to go back one day!"
Wear comfy clothes & shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be climbing, crawling, and sliding. Think activewear, not a fashion show!
Bring a water bottle :droplet:
Stay hydrated, especially during long exploration sessions. Refill stations are available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Slides
Throughout the museum
From a 10-story slide to winding metal tubes, these are the heart of the adventure. Prepare for thrills!

The Caves & Tunnels
Lower levels
Get lost in a labyrinth of secret passages, crawl spaces, and hidden chambers. An explorer's dream!

Repurposed Art Installations
Various exhibits
Discover unique sculptures and structures made from salvaged industrial materials. Art meets adventure!

The Rooftop (Optional)
Rooftop
Offers unique views and more slides, but can be hot and may not be worth the extra cost for everyone.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unexpected
Plan for the Whole Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy clothes & shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be climbing, crawling, and sliding. Think activewear, not a fashion show!
Bring a water bottle :droplet:
Stay hydrated, especially during long exploration sessions. Refill stations are available.
Consider the 'Ultimate Combo' carefully :ticket:
Many find the rooftop and pinball room extras not worth the cost.
Keep track of little ones :child:
Tunnels can be disorienting. Consider a watch or something for younger kids to stay connected.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy clothes & shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be climbing, crawling, and sliding. Think activewear, not a fashion show!
Bring a water bottle :droplet:
Stay hydrated, especially during long exploration sessions. Refill stations are available.
Consider the 'Ultimate Combo' carefully :ticket:
Many find the rooftop and pinball room extras not worth the cost.
Keep track of little ones :child:
Tunnels can be disorienting. Consider a watch or something for younger kids to stay connected.
Embrace the chaos :sparkles:
It's an art installation and playground combined. Let go and have fun!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the City Museum as a unique, thrilling, and unforgettable experience for all ages. Its blend of art, adventure, and repurposed industrial elements creates an unparalleled playground. While some find extra attractions costly or underwhelming, the core experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a must-visit in St. Louis.
"This is the best museum I've ever been to! Words can't describe what it truly is. There had to been over 50 slides easily. Even an 8 story slide!! Awesome fun for kids and adults. Pinball hall was nostalgic. Lots of crazy art and sculptures everywhere. Food places throughout. We didn't pay extra for the roof experience and I'm glad we didn't because we couldn't even finish the entire inside in about 4 hours. Definitely plan a whole day here. It really is a one of a kind experience. If you come to St. Louis do not pass this up. There is something for everyone."
Sean Moore
"This is a great place to bring your children and let them run wild. They will be crawling through caves, tunnels, slides and other fun things. They will have a blast.
Don't bother with the extra $6 for the pinball room. There are only 15-20 very old machines, nothing new and no classic machines."
Steve Butterfield
"So fun! Our kids (4-8) could have spent hours here. As an adult there’s a lot of places I don’t fit but this would have been a dream for me as a kid. So many places to climb and explore. If you have young toddlers it will probably feel like a nightmare to keep track of them though because some tunnels you don’t know where they go. I think 4, almost 5 is the right age to be able to let them loose, especially if they have an older sibling to follow around.
We did the ultimate combo which included the rooftop and the pinball hall. That was not really necessary. For some reason I thought the pinball hall was something more imaginative then just 20 pinball machines in a little roped off area- it’s not. And half of them didn’t work. Even if you love pinball I’m guessing there are more fun places to do that.
The rooftop is alright- there’s a few slides open (and a few were closed) and a precarious Ferris wheel (that I’m sure was safe but made me nervous) but it was very hot and I’m not sure worth the extra cost- the kids would have had plenty of fun in the main building and still wouldn’t have gotten bored. I would recommend the standard ticket unless you just really want to go to the roof. Also- don’t miss the circus show!"
Brittany Shields
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The City Museum is located in downtown St. Louis. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including buses, also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services.
Yes, there are parking lots and garages near the City Museum. Be prepared for potential fees, especially on busy days. Some visitors recommend arriving early to secure a spot.
If you're staying in downtown St. Louis, walking is a viable option. The museum is centrally located and part of the urban landscape.
For families, driving and parking or using a ride-sharing service is often the most convenient. This allows for flexibility with gear and tired little ones.
Yes, downtown St. Louis has numerous hotels within walking distance or a short drive of the City Museum, making it easy to plan an overnight stay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices can vary, but it's often around $30 per person. It's highly recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, especially for peak times.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is strongly advised, particularly for weekends and holidays. This can save you time waiting in line and guarantee entry.
General admission grants access to the vast majority of the museum's attractions, including the slides, caves, tunnels, and art installations. Extra experiences like the rooftop or pinball room may require an additional fee.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or during specific promotions. It's best to check the City Museum's official website or contact them directly for any current discount information.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and by day of the week. Always check the official City Museum website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a unique, ever-evolving art installation and playground made from repurposed industrial objects. Expect slides, caves, tunnels, climbing structures, and quirky art. It's an adventure for all ages!
Absolutely! Many adults find it even more fun than kids, with challenging climbs and nostalgic elements. It's a fantastic workout and a unique experience.
It's great for all ages, but younger toddlers might be challenging to keep track of. Ages 4-5 and up are often ideal for independent exploration.
Comfortable, athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes are a must. You'll be climbing, crawling, and sliding, so avoid anything restrictive or that could snag.
Yes, getting lost is part of the fun! The interconnected tunnels and caves can be disorienting, so stay aware of your surroundings and your group.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the City Museum has several food and drink options, including cafes and a restaurant. You can find snacks, meals, and beverages throughout the venue.
Food options typically include casual fare like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. Some reviewers mentioned a local beer selection, though one noted it was warm.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. It's best to check their specific policy on their website or upon arrival.
Prices are typical for attractions, meaning they might be a bit higher than off-site options. Many visitors find it convenient to eat there to maximize their time.
While specific options can vary, most casual dining spots offer some basic vegetarian choices. It's advisable to inquire directly with the food vendors for the most accurate information.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and the unique environment. Some areas might have specific restrictions.
Every corner is a photo opportunity! Look for the intricate art installations, the unique slides, and the panoramic views from higher levels. The caves offer dramatic lighting.
Absolutely! Your smartphone camera is perfect for capturing the spontaneous and often quirky moments.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash in certain areas if it might disturb others or if there are specific signs. Professional photography setups might require permission.
People capture action shots on slides, candid moments in tunnels, unique art details, and wide shots of the sprawling, eclectic space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Consider bringing a watch or a simple way to keep track of your kids, as it's easy to get separated in the maze-like environment. While the rooftop and pinball room are extra, many families find that the general admission offers more than enough fun for a full day, making it a great value.
🧑🤝🧑 Adults Seeking Adventure
It's a fantastic place for a group of friends or a unique date. You'll get a great workout while exploring, and the quirky art and industrial design provide plenty of conversation starters. Embrace your inner child and dive into the adventure – you won't regret it!
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value: Plan to spend a full day here to get the most out of your ticket. Pack your own water bottle to refill and consider bringing snacks if allowed (check policy). Prioritize the main attractions, as they are the most impressive and time-consuming.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Repurposing
This unique artistic vision means that the museum is always changing. New installations are added, and existing ones are modified, ensuring that repeat visits can offer fresh discoveries. It's this commitment to ongoing creation that makes the City Museum a dynamic and surprising destination, appealing to those who appreciate unconventional art and innovative design.
Navigating the Labyrinth
Key advice for navigating: Wear comfortable, athletic clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Be prepared for tight spaces and uneven surfaces. While it's exhilarating, if you're claustrophobic, some areas might be challenging. Many visitors recommend a full day to truly explore, as you can easily spend hours getting lost in the maze-like structure.
Beyond the Slides: Unexpected Attractions
Don't overlook the smaller details: the quirky sculptures, the repurposed machinery, and the sheer ingenuity behind each exhibit. For those interested in a bit of nostalgia, the pinball room (though some find it underwhelming) offers a chance to play classic games. The variety ensures there's something to capture everyone's imagination, making it more than just a playground.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit