City Museum, Saint Louis (must see)

Housed in the former International Shoe Company factory and warehouse, the City Museum is made largely from repurposed architectural and industrial objects. Popular with both residents and tourists, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and bills itself as an “eclectic mixture of children’s playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel.” Here, visitors are encouraged to touch, climb, and play freely among the exhibits.

The museum was founded by artist Bob Cassilly, who served as its artistic director until his death in 2011, and his then-wife, Gail Cassilly. Since opening in October 1997, the venue has continually expanded, adding new attractions. In 2008, a ten-story slide was installed, starting from the roof and descending to the entrance of the Enchanted Caves. It has become one of the museum’s most popular features, which runs through the center of the building up to the 10th floor.

The first floor features a life-size Bowhead Whale that visitors can walk through to view a large fish tank from the mezzanine food court. The floor is covered with the largest continuous mosaic in the U.S., which extends up the columns.

The second floor houses The Shoelace Factory, where antique braiding machines produce colorful shoelaces for sale, while the third floor offers circus performances and concerts. The fifth floor contains the Lofts at City Museum, apartments ranging from 1,300 to over 2,800 square feet. On the roof, guests can enjoy an old-fashioned Ferris wheel and a wide ramp slide.

Outside, MonstroCity amazes visitors with two Sabreliner 40 aircraft fuselages suspended high in the air, along with a fire engine, castle turret, and other whimsical structures. It’s often described as the world’s largest playground—truly fun for all ages.

Tip:
Be prepared to move, climb, and sweat! Knee pads are highly recommended (and sold in the gift shop). Visit on a nice day to enjoy the outdoor areas—the extra $5 for rooftop access is well worth it.