The City Museum
St. Louis
Location:
The City Museum is located at 750 North 16th Street in downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Housed in a 600,000-square-foot, 10-story former International Shoe Company building, it is conveniently situated near Union Station and other iconic St. Louis landmarks, making it an accessible destination for locals and tourists alike. The museum’s grand exterior, with its industrial aesthetic and towering structures, immediately sets the tone for the unique experience inside. The area around the museum is filled with parking lots, public transportation access, and eateries, allowing for an easy visit as part of a day out in St. Louis.
History
The City Museum opened in 1997, founded by the late artist and visionary Bob Cassilly. Cassilly, a sculptor with a penchant for the extraordinary, envisioned a place where art, architecture, and play could intersect. He spent years turning the abandoned shoe factory into a surreal, interactive art space. He sourced materials from all over St. Louis, recycling items like chimneys, salvaged bridges, and discarded construction materials to create the museum’s labyrinth of tunnels, slides, and structures. Over the years, the museum has expanded, adding new exhibits and outdoor spaces while maintaining Cassilly's philosophy of turning found objects into art.
Interactive and Artistic:
The City Museum is an immersive playground for both the mind and body, where art blends seamlessly with architecture and play. Visitors can climb, crawl, and explore interconnected tunnels, caves, and bridges, which are crafted from a fascinating mix of reclaimed materials. Every corner of the museum reveals a new artistic installation—from sculptures to mosaics—giving the impression of stepping into a living, breathing work of art. Many of the museum’s exhibits are tactile, inviting guests to touch, explore, and become part of the artwork themselves. It’s a one-of-a-kind museum where creativity and curiosity thrive.
MonstroCity:
MonstroCity is arguably one of the most iconic features of the City Museum. This sprawling outdoor playground, built into the museum’s exterior, is a maze of suspended tunnels, bridges, and slides made from airplanes, fire trucks, and industrial salvage. Visitors can climb up old aircraft fuselages, crawl through hollowed-out pipes, and navigate a dizzying network of metal walkways and bridges. MonstroCity is not just for children—adults are encouraged to embrace their adventurous side, too. The combination of massive, repurposed objects and intricate design makes it a visually striking and thrilling part of the museum.
Caves:
A signature feature of the City Museum is its elaborate system of man-made caves that snake through the building’s lower levels. These caverns are dimly lit, enhancing the mystery and sense of adventure. Visitors can explore hidden passageways, climb spiral staircases that lead to nowhere, and slide down winding chutes into the darkness below. The caves also contain whimsical sculptures and designs, from towering columns to eerie, mythical creatures carved into the stone-like walls. This underground labyrinth is both an architectural marvel and a playground, offering a unique experience that mixes fantasy, art, and exploration.
Rooftop:
The City Museum’s rooftop adds a new dimension to the experience, offering spectacular views of St. Louis and a fresh set of exciting attractions. Guests can take a ride on the museum’s giant Ferris wheel, which sits on top of the building, providing panoramic views of the city. Other rooftop attractions include a large slide that spirals down several stories, a climbing tower that mimics the museum’s MonstroCity below, and a bus teetering precariously on the edge of the building. The rooftop is a must-see for anyone looking to add a thrill to their museum visit.
Art Installations:
Art is woven into the very fabric of the City Museum. Every wall, ceiling, and surface of the building features intricate, hand-crafted art pieces, ranging from mosaics to sculptures made from recycled materials. Cassilly’s vision was to create a museum where the line between art and play disappears, and he succeeded by embedding artistic installations into every interactive space. Visitors encounter statues, murals, and abstract art forms that encourage reflection and engagement. Art at the City Museum is not confined to gallery walls; it’s an all-encompassing experience that surrounds and immerses visitors at every turn.
Children and Adults:
While the City Museum is often seen as a child’s dream playground, it is equally enjoyable for adults. Many exhibits, including MonstroCity, the caves, and the rooftop attractions, are designed to engage both children and grown-ups, encouraging them to climb, crawl, and interact with the environment. For adults, the museum’s artistic elements add a layer of intrigue and appreciation beyond physical exploration. Whether revisiting childhood memories of play or marveling at the sheer creativity and ingenuity of the museum, adults find themselves just as captivated and engaged as the younger visitors.
Educational Programs:
Though the City Museum is known for its playful atmosphere, it also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops designed to foster creativity and learning. Schools and groups can book guided tours that focus on the museum’s artistic and architectural significance, as well as its environmental sustainability through the use of repurposed materials. Art and sculpture workshops, often aimed at children, allow participants to create their own pieces inspired by the museum’s exhibits. These educational programs ensure that visitors leave not only entertained but also enriched with a deeper understanding of art, architecture, and creativity.
Special Events:
The City Museum hosts a wide range of special events throughout the year, catering to families, artists, and thrill-seekers alike. Nighttime events, such as “City Nights,” transform the museum into an adult-oriented space with live music, cocktails, and unrestricted access to exhibits. The museum also offers seasonal events, including Halloween-themed nights and holiday celebrations that add a festive flair to the venue. Many local artists and performers are featured in the museum’s events, keeping in line with its mission to support the local creative community. These special events make the museum an ever-evolving destination for repeat visitors.
Accessibility:
The City Museum strives to be inclusive, offering accessibility options for visitors with disabilities. Many areas of the museum are designed to accommodate wheelchair users, and there are ramps and elevators that provide access to different levels. Additionally, staff members are available to assist visitors with mobility challenges. While some parts of the museum, like the caves and certain climbing structures, may not be accessible to all, the museum provides a wide range of exhibits and spaces that can be enjoyed by everyone. The museum continues to improve accessibility to ensure that all guests can have a fulfilling experience.
Food and Refreshments:
The City Museum features several dining options, ensuring that visitors can take a break and refuel during their day of exploration. The mezzanine level houses "Samwiches in the City," offering sandwiches, salads, and snacks in a casual, family-friendly environment. The rooftop café provides stunning views of St. Louis along with light refreshments. For a quick snack, visitors can stop by the museum’s concession stands, which offer popcorn, pretzels, and drinks. The museum’s focus on making the experience enjoyable for everyone extends to these dining options, where visitors can relax and recharge before diving back into the adventure..
Hours of Operation:
The City Museum typically has specific hours of operation, so it's a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on hours and admission.
Gift Shop:
No visit to the City Museum would be complete without a stop at the museum’s gift shop. Stocked with a wide variety of unique, quirky, and art-inspired items, the shop reflects the museum’s creative spirit. Visitors can purchase souvenirs such as T-shirts, books, and handcrafted jewelry, as well as toys and educational kits that encourage exploration and creativity.Many items in the gift shop are locally made, supporting St. Louis artisans and continuing the museum’s mission of fostering the local creative community. The gift shop provides a lasting connection to the museum’s playful and artistic atmosphere.
The City Museum
is a truly one-of-a-kind attraction that encourages creativity, exploration, and play in an artistic and unconventional environment. It's a must-visit for anyone in St. Louis looking for a memorable and immersive experience.
Please note that operational details and offerings may change over time, so it's a good idea to verify information on their official website before planning a visit.