Missouri Civil War Museum - old newspaper office museum
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Missouri Civil War Museum

4.8
·690 reviews·St. Louis, United States

A privately funded gem showcasing Missouri's pivotal and complex role in the Civil War through detailed exhibits and videos.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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Missouri Civil War Museum - old newspaper office museum

Missouri Civil War Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A privately funded gem showcasing Missouri's pivotal and complex role in the Civil War through detailed exhibits and videos.

4.8
(690 reviews)

"Impressed by how much they had on display! Worth the visit!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Allocate Enough Time

You might spend more time than expected soaking in the history! ⏳

Support the Museum

It's privately funded! Your visit and purchases help preserve history. :heart:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Immersive Civil War Exhibits

Immersive Civil War Exhibits

Explore thoughtfully curated displays detailing Missouri's unique Civil War narrative, from Bleeding Kansas to key battles.

Informative Video Presentations

Informative Video Presentations

Gain deeper insights through engaging videos, including a particularly interesting one on the conflict between Missouri and Kansas.

Artifacts and Memorabilia

Artifacts and Memorabilia

Discover a wide array of well-labeled artifacts, guns, and memorabilia that bring the Civil War era to life.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Missouri Civil War Museum

This privately funded museum offers a deep dive into Missouri's pivotal role in the Civil War. Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the thoughtful displays and informative videos. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid potential crowds and fully appreciate the immersive exhibits.

Support a Local Gem

As a privately funded institution, your visit directly supports the preservation of Civil War history in Missouri. The inexpensive admission and on-site shop are great ways to contribute. Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable staff, often history teachers themselves, enhancing the experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Staff often available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A great reminder that this nation witnessed not just division, but a painful path toward unity. God bless America. 🇺🇸🙏 I’ll be visiting this museum again this November to lead a tour of both Gettysburg and Washington D.C.! if you wish to join me please visit the link in my bio. #abrahamlincoln #gettysburgbattlefield #HistoryTime #everydaylincoln #USHistory #civilwar
@everydaylincoln
190.9K likes • 2.3M views

Allocate Enough Time

You might spend more time than expected soaking in the history! ⏳ Reddit

Support the Museum

It's privately funded! Your visit and purchases help preserve history. :heart: Reddit

Slavery in Missouri ⛓️ I found this old #slavecabin while visiting the Lost History Museum in Valles Mines, #Missouri 🇺🇸 The cabin was built around 1840 and would have housed probably a family of #slaves in the area. After the #CivilWar it was transformed into a granary by a Swiss immigrant. 🌾🧑🏽‍🌾 Thankfully the cabin has been preserved by the Lost History Museum. This #museum has some of the olde...
@dylantheanthropologist
26.1K likes • 366K views
The Cole Camp Museum is a museum where you can get lost for hours reliving the early days of this historical town. Civil War buffs will enjoy the battle of Cole Camp display, which includes a diorama of the battle site and information about the war in Missouri. View pre-Civil War plantation life and war memorabilia, guns and other artifacts from the battle of Cole Camp, World War I and II item...
visitbentoncomo
3 likes • 232 views

Check Out the Shop

Find unique souvenirs, including Abraham Lincoln t-shirts. :tshirt: Reddit

Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Want an overview of EVERY Museum in Kansas City? Comment MUSEUM below for the list! Our new article includes a list of the best museums from the little known Antebellum home used as a Civil War field hospital during the Battle of Westport to the nation’s largest collections of historic toys, a museum dedicated to a sunken Steamboat, a WW1 museum, Jazz Museum and so much more! #kcmo #kansascit...
travelinmissouri
591 likes • 20K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Allocate Enough Time

You might spend more time than expected soaking in the history! ⏳ Reddit

Support the Museum

It's privately funded! Your visit and purchases help preserve history. :heart: Reddit

Check Out the Shop

Find unique souvenirs, including Abraham Lincoln t-shirts. :tshirt: Reddit

Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(690 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Missouri Civil War Museum for its thoughtful and informative displays, extensive collection of artifacts, and engaging video presentations. The museum's privately funded nature and affordable admission are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, with many visitors impressed by the depth of history and the knowledgeable, friendly staff. Some minor points of discomfort, like temperature variations and restroom location, were noted but did not detract significantly from the overall positive experience.

"Thoughtful, informative displays & several videos. Tons of history to take in. The lady working on the day we visited was actually a history teacher throughout the school year! She was knowledgeable & friendly. Only good things to say about this museum! I could have spent all afternoon here! Worth the visit!"

Heather G

"Visited with my son today. We were both extremely impressed. Especially knowing that this is not a government funded museum. The artifacts, information and immersion in history were well worth the drive, the inexpensive admission and the time. Even picked up a great Abraham Lincoln tshirt. Sharing this with my son was amazing. Please go see and support this beautiful museum."

Steve Evans

"Very nice well done displays! Clean and well maintained museum! I was impressed by how much they had on display! Nice shop to browse through also. We didn't have a long time to spend there but if you only have 30 min or 2 hrs. its worth it!"

Marianne

What People Like

Informative and thoughtful displays
Impressive artifact collection
Knowledgeable and friendly staff

What People Dislike

Temperature variations
Restroom location

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Missouri Civil War Museum is located in St. Louis. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method. Many visitors mention it's 'worth the drive',Reddit suggesting it's accessible by car. Parking information should be available on their official website or by contacting the museum directly.

Information regarding dedicated parking for the Missouri Civil War Museum is not extensively detailed in online discussions. However, given its location, street parking or nearby public lots are likely options. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or call ahead for the most current parking guidance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Missouri Civil War Museum is known for its 'inexpensive admission'.Reddit While exact prices can vary, it's consistently described as affordable, making it a great value for the historical experience offered. Check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing.

Operating hours for the Missouri Civil War Museum can vary. Visitors have noted spending '30 min or 2 hrs',Reddit implying flexibility. It's best to consult the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most accurate and current opening and closing times, especially for specific days or holidays.

Advance booking for the Missouri Civil War Museum is generally not required, as it's often described as a place where you can visit for '30 min or 2 hrs'.Reddit However, for group visits or to ensure entry during peak times, it's always a good idea to check the museum's policy on their website or by calling ahead.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

To fully appreciate the Missouri Civil War Museum, allocate at least 1-2 hours. Engage with the 'thoughtful, informative displays' Reddit and watch the 'informative short movies' Reddit playing throughout. The staff, often history teachers, are knowledgeable and friendly, so don't hesitate to ask questions.Reddit

The museum focuses on its core exhibits detailing Missouri's Civil War history. While specific temporary exhibits aren't frequently mentioned, the permanent displays are extensive. Keep an eye on their official channels for any special programming or events they might host.

Yes, the Missouri Civil War Museum can be suitable for children, especially those with an interest in history. The displays are 'tasteful and well lit' Reddit with 'large enough print to be read easily'.Reddit Sharing the experience with a son was described as 'amazing'.Reddit However, the intensity of Civil War themes should be considered.

Visitor feedback indicates temperature variations within the museum, with one review mentioning it was 'warm upstairs and cool downstairs'.Reddit It's advisable to dress in layers to ensure comfort during your visit.

Restrooms at the Missouri Civil War Museum are located on the basement floor.Reddit Visitors should be aware of this when planning their visit, especially if mobility is a concern.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Missouri Civil War Museum does not appear to have on-site dining facilities. Visitors typically explore the museum and then head to nearby restaurants in St. Louis for meals. It's recommended to plan your dining arrangements accordingly.

While not explicitly stated, it's generally customary for museums to discourage outside food and drinks in exhibit areas to preserve the artifacts. It's best to consume any food or beverages before entering or after your visit.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by museum. While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, it's common for museums to allow personal photography without flash. To be certain, it's best to check the museum's official website or inquire at the entrance upon arrival.

The museum's 'well done displays' Reddit and 'impressive' collection of artifacts Reddit offer numerous photo opportunities. Focus on capturing the details of the exhibits, the informative labels, and any particularly striking artifacts to document your visit.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Missouri Civil War Museum offers an engaging historical experience for families. The displays are well-presented and informative, with clear labeling that makes them accessible for younger visitors.Reddit Sharing this history with children has been described as 'amazing'.Reddit

While the subject matter is serious, the museum's approach is tasteful,Reddit and the inclusion of videos can help capture children's attention. Consider discussing the themes beforehand to gauge your child's comfort level. The affordable admission and the opportunity to learn about a significant period in American history make it a worthwhile outing.

📚 History Enthusiasts

For dedicated history buffs, the Missouri Civil War Museum is a must-visit. The depth of information, particularly regarding Missouri's unique role as a border state, is extensive.Reddit You'll find 'tons of history to take in' Reddit and learn 'a great deal more about the war'.Reddit

The museum's collection of artifacts, videos, and detailed exhibits provides a comprehensive understanding of the conflict's impact on the region. Many visitors express a desire to return to 'soak up more',Reddit highlighting the richness of the content. The knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience for those eager to delve deeper into the Civil War era.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Missouri Civil War Museum is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Its 'inexpensive admission' Reddit makes it an affordable way to immerse yourself in significant American history. You can easily spend hours exploring the exhibits without breaking the bank.

Combine your visit with a packed lunch or explore nearby affordable dining options in St. Louis. The value offered by the museum, in terms of both the quality of exhibits and the depth of historical information, is consistently praised by visitors, making it a highly recommended stop for those watching their spending.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Missouri's Crucial Role in the Civil War

Missouri's position as a border state made it a critical battleground during the Civil War. The state experienced intense conflict, including guerrilla warfare, with factions like the Bushwackers and Jayhawkers clashing fiercely.Reddit The museum delves into these complex dynamics, highlighting battles like Lexington and Independence, and the impact of events like the Sacking of Osceola and the Lawrence Massacre.Reddit

This internal strife and divided loyalties are a central theme at the Missouri Civil War Museum. The exhibits aim to provide a comprehensive overview of how Missourians fought on both sides of the conflict, and the lasting impact of these divisions on the state. The museum's focus on this unique aspect of the war sets it apart from other historical institutions.

Beyond the major battles, the museum also touches upon the post-war era, including the activities of figures like the James-Younger gang,Reddit showcasing the continued ripple effects of the Civil War on Missouri society. This broader historical context offers a richer understanding of the period.

The Value of Private Funding

The Missouri Civil War Museum operates as a privately funded institution, a fact that many visitors highlight with appreciation.Reddit This model allows for a unique approach to curation and preservation, often resulting in a deeply personal and passionate presentation of history. The 'inexpensive admission' Reddit is a testament to their commitment to accessibility.

Visitors consistently praise the quality of the exhibits, noting they are 'thoughtful, informative, and well done'.Reddit+1 The dedication of the staff, many of whom are history teachers, further enhances the visitor experience, providing knowledgeable insights and friendly interactions.Reddit This community-driven support is crucial for the museum's continued operation and success.

Supporting this museum means directly contributing to the preservation of vital American history. The on-site shop offers a chance to take a piece of this history home, with items like Abraham Lincoln t-shirts being a popular choice.Reddit Your visit and purchases play a significant role in keeping these historical narratives alive.

Navigating the Museum Experience

When visiting the Missouri Civil War Museum, be prepared for a rich and detailed experience. The museum features 'several videos' Reddit that offer deeper dives into specific aspects of the war, such as the conflict between Missouri and Kansas, which one visitor found 'particularly interesting'.Reddit The displays are described as 'tasteful and well lit',Reddit with clear labeling and large print for easy reading.Reddit

Comfort is key, as you might find yourself spending more time than initially planned. One reviewer mentioned they 'could have spent all afternoon here!',Reddit and another noted they 'spent much more time here than I expected'.Reddit Wearing comfortable shoes is a practical tip Reddit to make the most of your exploration. Be aware that temperature can vary between floors, with one visitor noting it was 'warm upstairs and cool downstairs',Reddit so dressing in layers is advisable.

While the museum offers a wealth of information, it's worth noting that restrooms are located on the basement floor.Reddit Planning your visit with this in mind can ensure a smoother experience. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with visitors impressed by the depth of history and the quality of the presentation.

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