All free museums and attractions to visit in Missouri

Missouri (United States) has a lot to offer for you culturally, even if you're on a budget, including free museums, free activities and free attractions. 60 museums and attractions in Missouri can be visited without charge.

Are you looking for free things to do in Missouri? These are the best places to visit:

  1. Old Courthouse1

    Old Courthouse

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  2. Forest Park2

    Forest Park

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  3. Saint Louis Zoo3

    Saint Louis Zoo

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  4. Nelson-atkins Museum of Art4

    Nelson-atkins Museum of Art

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  5. Saint Louis Art Museum5

    Saint Louis Art Museum

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  6. George Washington Carver National Monument6

    George Washington Carver National Monument

     Diamond, MO
    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.
  7. Laumeier Sculpture Park7

    Laumeier Sculpture Park

     Sunset Hills, MO
    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.
  8. Missouri History Museum8

    Missouri History Museum

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  9. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art9

    Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  10. Anheuser-Busch10

    Anheuser-Busch

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  11. The Money Museum11

    The Money Museum

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  12. Kansas City Museum12

    Kansas City Museum

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  13. Samuel Cupples House13

    Samuel Cupples House

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  14. Hallmark Visitors Center14

    Hallmark Visitors Center

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  15. Contemporary Art Museum15

    Contemporary Art Museum

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  16. Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum16

    Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  17. The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum17

    The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum

     Ste. Genevieve, MO
    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.
  18. Route 66 State Park18

    Route 66 State Park

     Eureka, MO
    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.
  19. Saint Louis Science Center19

    Saint Louis Science Center

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  20. Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park - Amoureux House20

    Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park - Amoureux House

     Ste. Genevieve, MO
    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.
  21. St. Louis Mercantile Library21

    St. Louis Mercantile Library

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  22. Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site22

    Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site

     Lawson, MO
    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.
  23. The Pulitzer Foundation For the Arts23

    The Pulitzer Foundation For the Arts

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  24. Jefferson Landing State Historic Site24

    Jefferson Landing State Historic Site

     Jefferson City, MO
    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.
  25. Arrow Rock State Historic Site25

    Arrow Rock State Historic Site

     Arrow Rock, MO
    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.
  26. Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden26

    Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  27. Daum Museum of Contemporary Art27

    Daum Museum of Contemporary Art

     Sedalia, MO
    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.
  28. Saint Louis University Museum of Art28

    Saint Louis University Museum of Art

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  29. Independence Visitors’ Center29

    Independence Visitors’ Center

     Independence, MO
    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.
  30. Bruce R. Watkins Center30

    Bruce R. Watkins Center

     Kansas City, MO
    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.
  31. The Champ Clark House31

    The Champ Clark House

     Bowling Green, MO
    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.
  32. Missouri State Museum32

    Missouri State Museum

     Jefferson City, MO
    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.
  33. Soldiers Memorial Military Museum33

    Soldiers Memorial Military Museum

     St. Louis, MO
    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.
  34. Harry S. Truman National Historic Site34

    Harry S. Truman National Historic Site

     Independence, MO
    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.
  35. Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site35

    Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site

     Florida, MO
    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.
  36. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park36

    Taum Sauk Mountain State Park

     Middle Brook, MO
  37. 37

    Battle of Athens State Historic Site

     Revere, MO
    The Battle of Athens State Historic Site is a significant location in Clark County, Missouri. It is an historic battlefield and state park situated along the banks of the Des Moines River. This site is where the Battle of Athens took place in 1861 during the American Civil War. It is one of the northernmost places in the state and offers a unique insight into a pivotal moment in American history.
  38. 38

    Museum of Art and Archaeology

     Columbia, MO
    The Museum of Art and Archaeology is an integral part of the University of Missouri. It is situated at Mizzou North, on Business Loop 70 West in Columbia, Missouri. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for visitors.
  39. 39

    St. Louis Zoo - The Bayer Insectarium

     St. Louis, MO
    The Bayer Insectarium is a unique facility located within the Saint Louis Zoo in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. This insectarium is a dedicated space for the study and display of a wide variety of insects. It provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating world of insects and their importance in our ecosystem.
  40. 40

    Crisp Museum

     Cape Girardeau, MO
    The Crisp Museum, also known as the Rosemary Berkel and Harry L. Crisp II Museum, is a prominent U.S. museum situated on the River Campus of Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors.
  41. 41

    Belger Arts Center

     Kansas City, MO
    The Belger Arts Center is home to a fine art collection and also hosts various art exhibitions. The Center organizes three exhibitions annually, providing a dynamic and ever-changing display of art. These exhibitions showcase a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, offering something for every art enthusiast.
  42. 42

    Branson Centennial Museum

     Branson, MO
  43. 43

    Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center

     Kirkwood, MO
  44. 44

    Economy Museum at the St. Louis Fed

     St. Louis, MO
  45. 45

    Springfield Art Museum

     Springfield, MO
  46. 46

    NRA National Sporting Arms Museum

     Springfield, MO
    The National Rifle Association of America (NRA) was established in New York in 1871. Originally, it was an organization that advocated for marksmanship for military personnel. However, in more recent times, it has become a proponent for the right of citizens to own firearms. This shift in focus has made the NRA a significant and influential organization in the United States.
  47. 47

    The Moto Museum

     St. Louis, MO
  48. 48

    CClay County Museum and Historical Society

     Liberty, MO
    The Clay County Historical Society Museum, located in Liberty, Missouri, is housed in a historic building dating back to 1865. This local history museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region in a setting that is itself a part of that history.
  49. 49

    Dent County Museum

     Salem, MO
  50. 50

    Samuel J. Butcher Museum

     Carthage, MO
  51. 51

    Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum

     Gladstone, MO
  52. 52

    Museum of Missouri Military History

     Jefferson City, MO
  53. 53

    Pulaski County Museum & Historical Society

     Waynesville, MO
  54. 54

    Old Stagecoach Stop

     Waynesville, MO
  55. 55

    Harlin Museum

     West Plains, MO
  56. 56

    Nodaway County Historical Society

     Maryville, MO
    The Nodaway County Historical Society Museum, located in Maryville, Missouri, is a repository of the history of Nodaway County in the United States. It provides a comprehensive overview of the county's past, making it an informative destination for those interested in local history.
  57. 57

    Boone County Historical Society

     Columbia, MO
  58. 58

    Missouri Institute of Natural Science

     Wilson C, MO
  59. 59

    Jim the Wonder Dog

     Marshall, MO
  60. 60

    World Chess Hall of Fame

     St. Louis, MO
    The World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) is a nonprofit institution that is situated in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri. This location is known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic architecture, making it an interesting area to explore for tourists. The WCHOF is a key part of this neighborhood, contributing to its cultural richness and diversity.