Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum
Explore the Victorian boyhood home of poet Eugene Field and discover antique toys, the Weatherbird exhibit, and St. Louis history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Victorian boyhood home of poet Eugene Field and discover antique toys, the Weatherbird exhibit, and St. Louis history.
"A gem of a museum with phenomenal exhibits and incredibly knowledgeable guides!"
🎯 Ask Questions!
Guides like Charlie are incredibly knowledgeable and love answering questions, making the tour engaging.
⏳ Check for Repairs
Water damage may affect access to parts of the house. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eugene Field's Victorian Home
Main House
Explore the boyhood home of renowned children's author Eugene Field, filled with antique furniture and historical charm.
St. Louis Toy Museum
Attached Museum
Discover a charming collection of antique toys, reflecting Eugene Field's passion as a collector.
Weatherbird Exhibit
Museum
A unique and phenomenal exhibit dedicated to the beloved Weatherbird cartoon.
Annie Malone Exhibit
Museum
Learn about the history of Annie Malone, a remarkable St. Louis figure, in this special exhibit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Water Damage Repairs
Book Tours in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask Questions!
Guides like Charlie are incredibly knowledgeable and love answering questions, making the tour engaging.
⏳ Check for Repairs
Water damage may affect access to parts of the house. Call ahead to confirm availability.
🧸 Toy Collector's Dream
The toy museum is a delightful surprise, showcasing Eugene Field's passion for collecting.
📚 Explore the Archives
The library archives and temporary exhibits add significant value to the campus experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask Questions!
Guides like Charlie are incredibly knowledgeable and love answering questions, making the tour engaging.
⏳ Check for Repairs
Water damage may affect access to parts of the house. Call ahead to confirm availability.
🧸 Toy Collector's Dream
The toy museum is a delightful surprise, showcasing Eugene Field's passion for collecting.
📚 Explore the Archives
The library archives and temporary exhibits add significant value to the campus experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum for its engaging tours and unique exhibits like Weatherbird and Annie Malone. However, some find the admission fee high, especially when parts of the house are under repair due to water damage, and suggest other historic homes in St. Louis might be better maintained.
"This historic home is a must for anyone in St. Louis - locals and tourists alike! The tour guide was so informative and engaging, responding to live-questions naturally and weaving them into the tour. The archives in the library, as well as their temporary exhibits which rotate out made the entire campus shine. I especially found the old furniture in the home, and the craftsmanship it contained, impressive."
Jaime Staengel
"What a gem of a museum! The Weatherbird exhibit is phenomenal. (Hoping for some Weatherbird merch in the future!!!).
Charlie gives an informational, detailed and entertaining tour of the Field House. Charlie really knows his history and enjoys sharing it with others. Would highly recommend this museum to anyone living in or visiting STL!"
Kim Moseman
"Among the numerous historic homes in town, this is unremarkable by comparison. The third floor was was under repair so fully 1/3 of the home is unavailable. The home is attached to a toy museum, as Mr. Field was a noted collector -- and even this collection is modest and not outstanding. The fee was excessive for the tour. In brief, other historic St. Louis homes are much better maintained or have better collections."
Mark Zeman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eugene Field House is located in St. Louis, Missouri. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method. Parking information should be confirmed directly with the museum.
Information regarding dedicated parking for the Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum is not extensively detailed online. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current parking guidance.
Due to ongoing repairs from water damage, some parts of the house may be inaccessible. It's crucial to contact the museum beforehand to inquire about current accessibility and which areas are open for tours.
Many visitors highly recommend taking the guided tour. The guides are praised for being informative, engaging, and knowledgeable about the history and exhibits. +1
The toy museum is part of the Eugene Field House experience. Tours typically cover both the house and the museum exhibits, including the Weatherbird collection.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Some visitors have noted the admission fee as excessive for the tour, especially if parts of the home are under repair. It's best to check the official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
Booking tours in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and ensure a quality experience, especially with knowledgeable guides.
Operating hours can vary, and it's essential to check the official Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum website for the most up-to-date information on opening days and times.
Yes, the museum features rotating temporary exhibits, such as the Annie Malone exhibit, and a permanent Weatherbird exhibit. These add significant value to the visit. +1
Visitor opinions vary. While some find it unremarkable and the fee excessive, others praise the informative tours and unique exhibits like Weatherbird and Annie Malone, considering it a worthwhile historical gem. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can tour Eugene Field's Victorian boyhood home, explore the St. Louis Toy Museum with antique toys, and see special exhibits like Weatherbird and Annie Malone. +1
Yes, tour guides, particularly one named Charlie, receive high praise for being informative, detailed, and entertaining. They are adept at answering questions and weaving them into the tour. +1
The Weatherbird exhibit is a unique and highly regarded collection at the museum, dedicated to the popular Weatherbird cartoon. Visitors hope for future merchandise related to it.
The house was the boyhood home of Eugene Field, a noted children's author. It also has connections to Dred Scott's attorney and St. Louis's history of freedom suits.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to inquire with your tour guide or museum staff upon arrival about whether photography is permitted inside the house and museum.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Eugene Field House & St. Louis Toy Museum primarily focuses on historical exhibits and does not typically have an on-site restaurant. Visitors usually dine at nearby establishments in St. Louis.
The museum is located in St. Louis, which offers a wide array of dining options. You can find various restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods catering to different tastes and budgets.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside historical homes and museums to protect the artifacts. It's advisable to consume any food or beverages outside the exhibit areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's recommended to ask your tour guide or museum staff for clarification on whether photos are permitted inside the house and museum exhibits.
The Victorian architecture of the house itself, the antique toys in the museum, and any special exhibits like Weatherbird or Annie Malone offer unique photographic opportunities. +1
While general photography rules apply, specific restrictions for social media sharing are usually not highlighted. Always respect the museum's guidelines and avoid flash photography if it's prohibited.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking for any temporary exhibits that might be particularly engaging for younger visitors. It's also wise to inquire about the current accessibility of the house due to ongoing repairs, ensuring the most enjoyable experience for everyone in the family.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the archives in the library and any temporary exhibits, which often delve into specific aspects of local history, such as the Annie Malone exhibit. The depth of knowledge shared by the guides further enhances the historical immersion.
🧐 Budget-Conscious Travelers
To make the most of your visit, try to go during weekday mornings when crowds are typically lower, potentially allowing for a more personalized and in-depth experience with your guide. Always check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Eugene Field House
Beyond Field's personal history, the house also holds connections to pivotal moments in American history. It was the home of Alexander Field, Eugene's father, who served as the attorney for Dred Scott in his landmark legal case. This connection underscores the house's place within the broader narrative of civil rights and justice in St. Louis. The museum also touches upon St. Louis's history concerning freedom suits, adding another layer of historical depth to the visitor experience.
Recent challenges, such as water damage, have impacted the house, necessitating restoration efforts. This situation highlights the ongoing need for preservation of such historical landmarks. Despite these challenges, the dedication of individuals and organizations aims to ensure that the Eugene Field House continues to educate and inspire future generations about its rich history and literary legacy.
The Enchanting St. Louis Toy Museum
A particular highlight of the museum is the Weatherbird exhibit. This unique collection is dedicated to the beloved Weatherbird cartoon, a fixture in many newspapers. Visitors have expressed great enthusiasm for this exhibit, with some even hoping for future merchandise related to it, underscoring its popularity and unique appeal.
In addition to the Weatherbird, the museum also hosts other significant exhibits, such as the Annie Malone exhibit. This showcases the history of Annie Malone, a remarkable St. Louis figure, further enriching the museum's offerings with local history and inspiring stories. The combination of historical toys and curated exhibits makes the St. Louis Toy Museum a captivating part of the overall visitor experience.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
It's crucial to be aware of the ongoing repairs due to water damage. As noted in reviews and social media, certain sections of the house might be temporarily inaccessible. Therefore, checking the museum's official channels or calling ahead to confirm which areas are open is a practical step to avoid disappointment.
While some visitors have found the admission fee to be on the higher side, especially if parts of the house are closed, many agree that the unique exhibits, such as the Weatherbird and Annie Malone collections, along with the detailed historical insights provided by the guides, make the visit worthwhile. Exploring the archives in the library also adds another layer to the experience, making it a comprehensive dive into St. Louis's rich history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit