Top 100 best museums in Missouri

The City Museum, situated in St. Louis, Missouri, is housed in the building of the former International Shoe Company factory. This unique location adds a touch of industrial charm to the museum, making it a distinctive landmark in the city.

Today, the Old St. Louis County Courthouse is a part of the Gateway Arch National Park and is managed by the National Park Service. It serves as a venue for historical exhibits and events, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and an opportunity to learn about the history of St. Louis and the United States.

Forest Park, located in the west of St. Louis, Missouri, USA, is a public park that spans an impressive area of about 555 hectares. This vast expanse of greenery offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle, providing a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities.

The Saint Louis Zoo is a large zoo located in Forest Park, Saint Louis, Missouri. It spans an impressive 36 hectares, providing ample space for the various animal species housed within. The zoo's location in Forest Park makes it easily accessible for visitors, and its size ensures a wide variety of animals and exhibits to explore.

The Missouri Botanical Garden, situated in the heart of Saint Louis, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. It first opened its doors to the public in the year 1859, making it a significant part of the country's botanical history.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is renowned for its neoclassical architecture and extensive collection of Asian art. This combination of architectural beauty and diverse art collection makes it a unique destination for art lovers.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is recognized as one of the leading art museums in the United States, attracting up to half a million visitors annually. The museum offers free admission, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

The Liberty Memorial, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a war monument dedicated to the American soldiers who served in World War I. This site also houses the National World War I Museum, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the war's history and its impact on the United States.

The Campbell House Museum, located in the Greater St. Louis area of Missouri, opened its doors to the public on February 6, 1943. This museum is a significant part of the city's cultural and historical landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into the Victorian lifestyle of Robert Campbell and his wife Virginia Kyle Campbell.

One of Carver's significant contributions was the establishment of a mobile agricultural school. He, or the teachers he trained, would travel to various farms with a cart full of teaching and demonstration equipment. This innovative approach allowed him to reach a wider audience, providing practical and accessible agricultural education to farmers in their own fields.

The Kansas City Zoo Aquarium, founded in 1909, is a sprawling 202-acre zoo located in Swope Park at 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, Missouri. It is home to nearly 10,000 animals and is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The zoo has grown significantly over the years, from a small building and 60 acres to its current size, with over 1,300 animals.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is a unique combination of a sculpture park and a museum for changing exhibitions. It is located in the city of Saint Louis, in the US state of Missouri. This location offers a unique blend of art and nature, providing a unique experience for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Missouri History Museum, nestled in the heart of Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri, is a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the rich history of Missouri. The museum offers a comprehensive look into the state's past, showcasing a wide range of historical artifacts and exhibits.

Gateway Arch National Park, previously known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, is a national park located in the heart of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. The park is centered around the Gateway Arch, the tallest arch in the world, standing at a height of 192 meters. The park was established in 2018 by President Donald Trump, making it one of the newest national parks in the United States. Despite its recent establishment, the park attracts approximately 4 million visitors annually.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, previously known as the Kansas City Toy and Miniature Museum, is situated on the campus of the University of Missouri Kansas City. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are exploring the university or the surrounding area. The museum's name change reflects its expanded focus on both toys and miniatures, offering a diverse range of exhibits for visitors of all ages.

The Liberty Memorial, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a war monument dedicated to the American soldiers who served in World War I. This historic site also houses the National World War I Museum, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the war's history and its impact on the world.

The National Museum of Transportation is a specialized museum that houses a collection of various transport items. These items are predominantly related to land transport, including road and rail. Visitors can expect to see a range of old cars, motorcycles, trucks, trains, trams/streetcars, buses, trolleybuses, and coaches. This diverse collection provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of land transportation over the years.

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened its doors in 1994, is located in Kansas City, Missouri. With an annual budget of $5 million, the museum attracts approximately 75,000 visitors each year, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts.

The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, located at 2658 Delmar Boulevard in St. Louis, Missouri, is a preserved historic site that was once the home of renowned composer Scott Joplin from 1901 to 1903. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and work of Joplin, who is best known for his ragtime compositions.

Within the grounds of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, you'll find the Lyon Schoolhouse Museum. This museum houses a collection of rare mementos that trace the history of the company from its founding to the present day. It provides a unique insight into the evolution of the brewery and its impact on the beer industry.

St. Louis Union Station, a National Historic Landmark in the United States, is a former passenger train terminal located in St. Louis, Missouri. This historic site, once the world's largest and busiest train station, has been transformed into a hotel, shopping center, and entertainment complex. Today, it only serves local transportation: Metrolink.

The first building of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City was the R.A. Long Building at 928 Grand, which opened on November 16, 1914. It served as the bank's premises until a new $4.3 million building was constructed across the street at 925 Grand. This new building formally opened in November 1921 in Downtown Kansas City.

The Kansas City Museum is a historic site located in Kansas City, Missouri, United States. It was originally built in 1910 as a private family estate by lumber baron and civic leader Robert A. Long. The estate, named Corinthian Hall, was donated by Long's heirs in 1940 to become a public museum. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

The Samuel Cupples House is a significant historic mansion located in St. Louis, Missouri. It was constructed over a period of two years, from 1888 to 1890, by Samuel Cupples, a prominent figure of the time.

Branson is often referred to as "The Live Entertainment Capital of the World" or a "Family-friendly Las Vegas". It attracts nearly eight million visitors annually, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking entertainment and family-friendly activities.

The National Blues Museum, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a non-profit institution dedicated to the exploration and celebration of the musical history and impact of the blues. This museum provides an in-depth look into the roots and evolution of blues music, offering a unique experience for music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The American Jazz Museum is situated in the historic 18th and Vine district of Kansas City, Missouri. This location is not only significant for its rich history but also for its cultural relevance to the jazz music scene. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the district while exploring the museum.

The Arabia Steamboat Museum, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a unique historical institution that houses a vast collection of artifacts recovered from the Arabia, a steamboat that tragically sank in the Missouri River in 1856. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the everyday items that were onboard the steamboat when it sank.

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) is a significant cultural institution located in Kansas City, Missouri. Founded in 1990, it is situated in the historic 18th & Vine District, which was a vibrant center of African-American cultural activity during the first half of the 20th century. The museum is privately funded and is dedicated to preserving the history of Negro league baseball in America.

Hallmark Cards, a renowned American company known for its greeting cards and party goods, was founded by Joyce Hall on January 10, 1910. The company's headquarters are located in Kansas City, Missouri, a city known for its vibrant culture and history.

The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, also known as CAM St. Louis, is a dedicated space for contemporary art. It is situated at 3750 Washington Boulevard in the Grand Center Arts District of St. Louis, Missouri. The museum was established in 1980 and has undergone several name changes, including First Street Forum and the Forum for Contemporary Art, before settling on its current name.

The Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, fondly referred to as 'The Milly', is an art museum situated within the campus of Washington University in St. Louis. It is a part of the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts. The museum is known for its rich collection of art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as contemporary works from European and American artists of the 21st century.

The Griot Museum of Black History, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a wax museum that was established in 1997. It was initially known as The Black World History Wax Museum, but the name was changed to The Griot Museum of Black History in 2009. The term 'griot' in some West African countries refers to a historian, storyteller, praise singer, poet, or musician who is a repository of oral tradition and is often seen as a societal leader who preserves and shares cultural traditions of a community.

The Sheldon Concert Hall is renowned for its impeccable acoustics, which have led to its nickname, "The Carnegie Hall of St. Louis." This attribute has made it a preferred venue for musicians and public speakers alike, enhancing the quality of performances and speeches delivered on its stage.

The Jacques Dubreuil Guibourd House, also known as Maison de Jacques Guibourd or Maison Guibourd-Vallé, is a historic American house located in Sainte-Geneviève, Missouri. This location is significant as it provides a glimpse into the architectural style and history of the early 19th century in the region.

The exhibits at the Glore Psychiatric Museum provide a comprehensive look at the 130-year history of the adjacent state mental hospital. They also illustrate the evolution of mental health treatment throughout history. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the progression of mental health care.

The Louis Bolduc House, also known as Maison Bolduc, is a historic house museum located at 123 South Main Street in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri. This house is a significant example of poteaux sur solle ("posts-on-sill") construction, a traditional French Colonial architectural style of the early 18th century. It was the first historic structure in Ste. Geneviève to be authentically restored and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1970.

Base of the Arch offers the journey back in time to the 19th century migration, Native Americans' life and westward expansion.

The Missouri Mines State Historic Site is a significant industrial monument that spans ten hectares. It is situated in Park Hills, within the St. Francois County of Missouri. This site offers a unique glimpse into the industrial history of the region and the United States as a whole.

The Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site is a significant location in Kansas City, Missouri. It is a state-owned property that preserves the house and studio of the renowned Missouri artist, Thomas Hart Benton. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and work of Benton in the very environment where he created his art.

Route 66 State Park is a public recreation area that is situated on the Meramec River. This park is located at the site of the former town of Times Beach in Missouri. The town was bought, dismantled, and decontaminated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency after the discovery of widespread dioxin contamination in the 1980s. Today, fields of wild grass and brush grow where the homes of evacuated residents once stood.

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum is situated at 206-208 Hill Street, Hannibal, Missouri, on the west bank of the Mississippi River in the United States. This location is where the famous author Mark Twain, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, lived from 1844 to 1853. The museum has been open to the public since 1912 and was designated a National Historic Landmark on December 29, 1962.

The Saint Louis Science Center, established in 1963, is a complex of buildings that includes a science museum and a planetarium. It is located in the southeastern corner of Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri. The center was originally founded as a planetarium and has since expanded to include a variety of scientific exhibits and educational programs.

The College Basketball Experience, located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, is a 41,500-square-foot fan-interactive facility. This facility includes the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, making it a significant destination for basketball enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of college basketball and explore the achievements of some of the sport's greatest figures.

The 1855 Harris-Kearney House, located in the Westport neighborhood of Kansas City, Missouri, is a historical site that offers a glimpse into the city's past. This Greek Revival mansion, the oldest brick residence in the city, was built in 1855 and was owned by Col. John 'Jack' Harris and his wife Henrietta. The house was moved to its current location at 4000 Baltimore in 1922.

The Amoureux House, also referred to as the Beauvais–Amoureux House, is a historical site located in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri. The house was constructed in 1792 by Jean-Baptiste St. Gemme Beauvais II, who had relocated from Kaskaskia, Illinois. This historical building offers a glimpse into the architectural style and living conditions of the late 18th century.

Fort Davidson, situated near the town of Pilot Knob in Missouri, is a significant historical site as it was the location of the Battle of Fort Davidson during the American Civil War. This fortification was built by Union Army soldiers and successfully repelled Confederate attacks during the battle on September 27, 1864. Today, visitors can explore this site and learn about its rich history.

The Patee House, also known as the Patee House Museum, is a historic site located at 12th Street and Penn in St. Joseph, Missouri. Completed in 1858, it was originally a 140-room luxury hotel and was one of the best-known hotels west of the Mississippi River. The museum offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur of the 19th-century hotel industry.

The Bollinger Mill State Historic Site is a state-owned property located in Burfordville, Cape Girardeau County, Missouri. This site preserves a mill and a covered bridge, both of which were built before the American Civil War. The mill and the bridge are significant historical landmarks that provide a glimpse into the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the area and the people who lived there.

The collections of the St. Louis Mercantile Library are diverse and extensive, falling into one of four categories. These include the General (Core) Collection, the John W. Barriger Railroad Library, the Herman T. Pott National Inland Waterways Library, and the Art Museum. Each of these collections offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of the region.

Watkins Mill, located in Lawson, Missouri, is a well-preserved woolen mill that dates back to the mid-19th century. It is protected as the Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, which not only preserves the mill itself but also its machinery and business records. This site offers a unique glimpse into the industrial history of the United States.

Shaw Nature Reserve, previously known as Shaw Arboretum, is a vast 2,400-acre private non-profit nature reserve situated in Gray Summit, Missouri. It operates as an extension of the Missouri Botanical Garden, providing a large and diverse natural environment for visitors to explore.

The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is housed in a building designed by the globally acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Andō, who is a Pritzker Prize laureate. The foundation opened its doors to the public in October 2001, offering a unique architectural experience to its visitors.

One of the key features of Montauk State Park is its fish hatchery, which is particularly known for rainbow and brown trout angling. This makes the park a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Dickerson Park Zoo, situated in Springfield, Missouri, is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The zoo houses over 500 animals, representing 160 different species. This wide variety of animals provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with creatures from all over the world.

The Endangered Wolf Center, located in Eureka, Missouri, near St. Louis, is a non-profit wildlife facility. The center is dedicated to the preservation and reintroduction of critically endangered species of wolves into the wild. It is a place where visitors can learn about the importance of these animals and the efforts being made to ensure their survival.

The Jefferson Landing State Historic Site is a historic district located in Jefferson City, Missouri, United States. It is maintained by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and includes several state-owned properties. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region and the state.

The Missouri State Penitentiary, located in Jefferson City, Missouri, has a rich history dating back to 1836. It was operational until 2004, making it the oldest operating penal facility west of the Mississippi River before its closure. This historical significance adds to the intrigue and appeal of the site for visitors.

The Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site is a state-owned property located in New Madrid, Missouri. It is maintained by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and serves as a historic house museum and state historic site. This site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the wealthy and influential Hunter-Dawson family.

Arrow Rock State Historic Site is an open-air museum located in the village of Arrow Rock, Missouri. The site covers a geographic formation and a part of the village, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the area's history and natural beauty.

The Deutschheim State Historic Site, located in Hermann, Missouri, is a state-owned property that preserves a variety of historic structures. These include houses, a barn, and a winery, all of which were built and utilized by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. This site offers a unique glimpse into the lives and experiences of these immigrants during this period.

Powell Gardens, located in Kingsville, Missouri, is a sprawling 970-acre botanical garden that is a short 30-mile drive east of Kansas City. The garden is home to an impressive 6,000 varieties of plants, with 225,000 plants showcased in seasonal displays. Visitors are welcome to explore the garden during daylight hours, for a fee.

The Kraus House, also known as the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park, is a unique architectural marvel located in Kirkwood, Missouri. This house was designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who is known for his distinctive style and innovative designs. The house stands as a testament to Wright's architectural prowess and offers a unique insight into his design philosophy.

The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden is a significant part of the Kauffman Legacy Park. This 2-acre botanic garden is located in Kansas City, Missouri, and is a testament to the beauty and diversity of plant life. Visitors can explore the garden and enjoy the tranquility it offers amidst the bustling city.

Peace Park, also known as McAlester Arboretum, is a serene location situated on the University of Missouri campus in Columbia, Missouri, United States. This park is a popular spot among students, faculty, and local residents. It offers a tranquil environment for relaxation and reflection, making it a great place to visit for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city life.

The Historic Daniel Boone Home, located in Defiance, Missouri, United States, is a significant site that offers a glimpse into the life of the Boone family. The house was constructed by Nathan Boone, the youngest son of the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone. Nathan and his family resided in this house until 1837, providing a unique insight into the lifestyle of the early 19th century.

The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site is a state-owned property situated in the city of Lexington, Missouri. This site is significant as it was established to preserve the grounds where an important battle of the American Civil War took place.

Liberty Jail, located in Liberty, Missouri, United States, is a historical site that served as the county jail of Clay County from December 1834 to 1853. This jail holds significant historical value and provides a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting site for tourists interested in history.

The Daum Museum of Contemporary Art is located on the campus of State Fair Community College. Constructed in 2002, the museum houses the collection of local investor Harold F. Daum. This museum is a significant cultural asset to the community and offers visitors a chance to explore contemporary art.

The Saint Louis University Museum of Art, also known as Doris O'Donnell Hall, is the official art museum for Saint Louis University. It is conveniently located at 3663 Lindell Boulevard in St. Louis, Missouri. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike who are interested in exploring the rich art culture of the city.

Rockcliffe Mansion, a significant historical landmark, is situated in Hannibal, Missouri, USA. It was constructed in 1898 by John J. Cruikshank, Jr, a descendant of Scottish immigrants who amassed his wealth through the lumber industry. This mansion stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era and the prosperity of its original owner.

The Kansas City Garment District Museum is situated in the Garment District of Kansas City, Missouri. Specifically, it is housed in the lobby of the Poindexter Building, which is owned by DST Systems Inc. This location is central and easily accessible, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The Lemp Neighborhood Arts Center, also known as 'The Lemp', is a non-profit performance space, art gallery, and community center. It is situated in the historic Benton Park neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri. This center is not just a place to appreciate art, but also a hub for community activities and events.

The Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum is situated at 12 Hancock Ave in Lemay, St. Louis County, Missouri. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history of telecommunication in a historic setting.

The Independence Visitors' Center, which was dedicated on May 31, 1971, is a significant site in Independence, Missouri. It is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The center is a key location for visitors interested in the history and culture of the LDS Church and the city of Independence.

The Eugene Field House, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a historic house museum that was built in 1845. It was the residence of Roswell Field, who served as an attorney for Dred Scott in the landmark Dred Scott v. Sandford court case. This case was a significant event in American history, making the house a site of historical importance.

Several monuments have been erected in honor of Bruce Riley Watkins, including the Spirit of Freedom fountain at Brush Creek Boulevard and Cleveland Avenue, and the Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center at Blue Parkway and Cleveland Avenue. Additionally, Bruce R. Watkins Drive, a major thoroughfare in Kansas City, was completed on October 22, 2001. All these landmarks are within walking distance of the Watkins Brothers Memorial Chapel, a family business co-founded by Theron Watkins.

Sea Life Kansas City is an interactive aquarium that is situated at the Crown Center in Kansas City, Missouri. It offers a unique experience for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of aquatic creatures. The location is easily accessible and provides a fun and educational outing for families and individuals alike.

The Champ Clark House, also known as Honey Shuck, is a historic house museum located at 207 East Champ Clark Drive in Bowling Green, Missouri. This landmark is the only known surviving home of James Beauchamp Clark, a prominent US Congressman of the early 20th century. It is situated in the seat of Pike County, offering a glimpse into the life and times of this influential figure.

The Missouri State Museum, established in 1919, is situated in Jefferson City, Missouri. The museum is conveniently located on the ground floor of the state capitol building. This location not only provides easy access for visitors but also adds a historical significance to the museum itself.

The Soldiers Memorial Military Museum is situated in the heart of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Its address is 1315 Chestnut Street. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, and it is surrounded by other attractions and amenities.

The Glenn House, located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, is a historic home that dates back to 1883. This two-story, Late Victorian style painted brick dwelling is a testament to the architectural prowess of the era. It offers a unique glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to experience the charm and elegance of the late 19th century.

The August Sehrt House is a significant historical site located in Augusta, St. Charles County, Missouri. This house, built around 1860, stands as a testament to the history and culture of the area. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past, providing a unique perspective on the life and times of its original inhabitants.

The Lexington Historical Museum is a significant site that houses a collection of historic items related to Lexington, Missouri. These items provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, making it an interesting destination for tourists who are keen on history.

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is a significant establishment in the United States, dedicated to preserving and showcasing documents, books, and other historical materials related to the 33rd president, Harry S. Truman. Visitors can explore a wealth of information about Truman's presidency and his impact on the nation's history.

The Pleasant Hill Historical Society Museum, located at 125 Wyoming St. in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, is a public museum and research library. It is a place where visitors can explore the rich history of Pleasant Hill through various exhibits and resources.

The Trailside Center, located in Kansas City, Missouri, serves multiple roles as a tourist center, museum, and community facility. It is a place where visitors can learn about the local history and culture, while also participating in community events.

The Museum of Contemporary Religious Art (MOCRA) holds the distinction of being the world's first interfaith museum of contemporary art. It is dedicated to engaging with religious and spiritual themes, providing a unique platform for artists and visitors alike to explore these subjects through the medium of contemporary art.

The Harry S. Truman National Historic Site is a protected area located in Grandview and Independence, within Jackson County, Missouri. This site was established to preserve and showcase the historical significance of the 33rd President of the United States, Harry S. Truman.

The 1859 Jail Museum, originally known as the Jackson County Jail and Marshal's House, is a historic site located in Independence, Missouri. Constructed in 1859, it served as a county jail for Jackson County until it was decommissioned and replaced in 1933. Today, it stands as a public museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Dedicated to the victims of Civil War. Museum that helps to interpret this American period.

The Harvey M. Vaile Mansion, located at 1500 North Liberty Street in Independence, Missouri, is a significant example of Second Empire architecture. Built in 1881 for businessman Harvey M. Vaile, the mansion stands as a testament to the architectural style of the period and the wealth of its original owner.

The Hollywood Wax Museum, located on Highway 76 in Branson, Missouri, is a two-story establishment that showcases wax replicas of various celebrities. This museum is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in seeing lifelike representations of their favorite stars.

The Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site is a publicly owned property located in Florida, Missouri. It is maintained by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. This site is dedicated to preserving the birthplace of the renowned author, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name, Mark Twain.