City Museum

About

City Museum isn't your typical museum. Housed in a former shoe warehouse in downtown St. Louis, it's a sprawling, hands-on playground built almost entirely from salvaged and repurposed materials. Founded in 1997 by artist Bob Cassilly, this one-of-a-kind attraction blends art, architecture, and adventure across multiple floors of tunnels, caves, slides, and climbing structures.

The museum spans four floors packed with surprises. You'll find miles of tunnels to crawl through, a full cave system, over 30 slides (including a 10-story slide through the building's center), and the world's largest pencil. MonstroCity, the iconic outdoor playground, features two salvaged airplanes, a fire truck, and a school bus suspended high in the air, all connected by bridges, tunnels, and walkways.

Up on the roof, a Ferris wheel spins while a vintage bus hangs dramatically over the building's edge. Inside, the Pinball Hall houses classic games from the 1950s through 1970s, and a full circus performance space adds to the creative energy. There are eight food options scattered throughout, so you won't go hungry during your visit.

Plan to spend at least five to seven hours here to truly take it all in. This is an active, physical experience, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes you don't mind getting scuffed. Knee pads can be helpful for tunnel crawling. City Museum is open to all ages, and adults will find just as much to explore and enjoy as kids do.

Located at 750 North 16th Street in St. Louis, City Museum sits in the heart of the city and is easily accessible from major highways. It's the kind of place that rewards curiosity, whether you're climbing through a hidden passage or simply watching the creativity unfold around you.

Accessibility

City Museum has an accessible entrance, accessible parking near the building, and accessible restrooms on multiple floors. The museum is housed in a multi-story building with elevators available to move between floors, making the main areas and pathways wheelchair accessible.

However, it's important to know that many of City Museum's signature attractions, including the smaller tunnels, caves, and slides, are not wheelchair accessible due to their nature as climbing and crawling spaces. The museum provides maps that indicate accessible routes, helping visitors plan which areas they can comfortably explore.

Staff members can open special doors throughout the building to make exploring easier for visitors with mobility needs. A complimentary wheelchair is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Service animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines. Family restrooms and changing stations are also available.

For visitors with specific accessibility needs, it's strongly recommended to call ahead at (314) 231-2489 before your visit. Staff can help you understand which areas will be accessible and plan the best route through the museum. Contact the venue directly for the most current details on accommodations and any recent accessibility improvements.

More accessible places in Missouri

• Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis)
• Missouri Botanical Garden (St. Louis)
• Saint Louis Zoo (St. Louis)
• Saint Louis Art Museum (St. Louis)
• Gateway Arch (St. Louis)
• Forest Park (St. Louis)