At A Glance
Location: 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63112
Hours: Daily 10am – 5pm
Price: Free
History/Overview
The Missouri History Museum was originally constructed as the first national monument to memorialize Thomas Jefferson. The Museum’s purpose is to document St. Louis’ history from its founding in 1764 up to today.
The Museum is located within iconic Forest Park and is housed on the site of what was the 1904 World’s Fair main entrance. In fact, proceeds from the fair were used to build the Jefferson Memorial Building, which was opened to the public in 1913.
What to Expect at The Missouri History Museum?
The Museum is a wonderful place for the entire family. You can expect to see many exhibits that showcase historical parts of St. Louis’ history. For example, in the Missouri History Museum’s Grand Hall, you’ll find “The Spirit of St. Louis” suspended above visitors.
You can also learn more about the city’s rich baseball history, starting at the Browns and going all the way to today’s St. Louis Cardinals. Perhaps the best part is you get a glimpse of what life was like on the Mississippi River and get to see remnants from the 1904 World’s Fair.
If you have children don’t forget to check out the History Clubhouse. This is a special gallery for children with lots of hands-on activities.
FAQs
Yes, admission is free thanks to the Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District. They also offer a schedule of special rotating exhibits which are also free.
In 1913, the Museum’s first building was constructed on the site that once housed the main entrance to the 1904 World’s Fair. The building also served as the first national monument to commemorate Thomas Jefferson.