One of the biggest perks of parenthood is getting to relive childhood with your kids. When my son finally became old enough to truly interact with and explore the world, every playground, museum, and more became our oyster. Watching them experience something for the first time — or experiencing it with them for the first time — is truly magical.
And I don’t think a bigger play space for kids or adults exists than the City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri.
This sprawling playland is a treasure trove of sensory delights. Housed in an old shoe factory in the downtown area, City Museum has been around for 25 years, but it certainly hasn’t stayed the same. It’s an artist-built playground with both indoor and outdoor spaces to explore, and it boasts over 29,000 artifacts.
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Why the City Museum is great for kids and families
The best part of the experience is how much it encourages kids to roam and explore. There are maze-like twists and turns that promote independent, thoughtful play. It can feel nerve-wracking to let them wander, but a little pre-planning can make it a safe, fun experience for all. Parents should follow the museum’s recommendations:
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Designate a meeting spot. If you get separated for too long, pick a spot in the museum to meet so everyone can stay calm.
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Label your loved one. Write your name and contact information on a wristband your child can wear, so if they’re found by another family or staff member, someone can contact you immediately.
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Make sure your child knows what to do. Tell them to find a mom, another caregiver, or a staffer if they can’t find you — and remind them not to leave the building or floor with anyone they don’t know.
Of course, parents can also join in on the fun and tackle the obstacles with them. And if not, there’s a bar on the first floor where adults can hang out while the kids go feral.
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For childless adults, the fun is there too
The aforementioned bar is a great spot to grab a drink, but even if you’re not into climbing or crawling through tunnels, there’s still plenty to see. Wander the fourth-floor gallery filled with contemporary art, or explore the architectural floor to admire salvaged pieces from historic buildings. Adults can also take a guided walking tour that gives insight into the history of the artifacts and highlights pieces that are easy to miss.
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Up on the rooftop
One of the coolest areas to explore is the rooftop space towering over St. Louis. It’s an eclectic wonderland with a 10-story slide, climbable tubes, a Ferris wheel, and even an abandoned bus perched dramatically at the edge of the roof. The rooftop also has a planetarium dome and a bar. It’s open from March to October (weather permitting) and offers a play area that people of all ages will enjoy.
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More things to see
The attractions at City Museum feel endless. While you’re there, you can check out:
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Caves: A man-made chamber filled with wild sculptures and mythical creatures.
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Pinball Hall: A vintage game room with machines from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s.
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Artquarium: With both real and sculptural animals, this space is perfect for sensory seekers. Visitors can dip their hands in a tank for a “fish manicure” and meet the beloved axolotls.
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Slides: Beyond the rooftop, there are tons of toddler-friendly slides — and even one that takes you from the fifth floor all the way down to the first.
And that’s still not everything. There are treehouses, tunnels, quirky collections, and even the world’s largest pencil. The best part? General admission is just $20 online and $23 at the window. Your ticket gets you access to all four floors and a new labyrinth to explore, though the Pinball Hall and rooftop require an extra fee. Locals can snag an annual pass for $40, which offers discounts on food, souvenirs, and more. Your child — and your inner child — will thank you for this experience.
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This story was originally published by TravelHost on Nov 25, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.