St. Louis, Missouri, is a city rich in cultural and historical attractions. Here are some of the key museums and libraries you can explore in St. Louis.
Museums
City Museum
An eclectic museum in downtown St. Louis, City Museum combines a playground, funhouse, and architectural marvel, created from repurposed architectural and industrial objects.
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
Focusing on contemporary art from around the world, this museum features rotating exhibitions of both established and emerging artists.
Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum
This museum offers hands-on learning experiences for children of all ages, with exhibits focused on creativity, curiosity, and learning through play.
Missouri Civil War Museum
Located at Jefferson Barracks, this museum offers exhibits on Missouri’s role in the Civil War and its impact on the state and nation.
Missouri History Museum
Also located in Forest Park, this museum offers exhibits on the history of Missouri and St. Louis, including its role in westward expansion and the 1904 World’s Fair.
National Blues Museum
Dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of blues music, this museum features interactive exhibits and live performances.
Pulitzer Arts Foundation
This museum offers contemporary art exhibitions and installations in a unique building designed by Tadao Ando. It emphasizes innovative and thought-provoking art experiences.
Saint Louis Art Museum
Located in Forest Park, this museum houses an extensive collection of art from around the world, spanning 5,000 years of history. Admission is free, and it hosts special exhibitions throughout the year.
Libraries
Covenant Theological Seminary Library
Specializing in theological and religious studies, this library supports the academic and spiritual needs of the seminary community.
Kenneth and Nancy Kranzberg Art & Architecture Library – Washington University
Its valuable print holdings and the access it provides to all the major art and architecture databases make the Kenneth and Nancy Kranzberg Art & Architecture Library the best of its kind in the region.
Mercantile Library – University of Missouri-St. Louis
Founded in 1846, this library is one of the oldest in the West, with special collections focusing on Western Americana, transportation, and local history.
Pius XII Memorial Library – Saint Louis University Libraries
Serving Saint Louis University, these libraries offer academic resources, research support, and special collections, including rare books and manuscripts.
St. Louis County Library
With multiple branches throughout the county, this library system offers extensive collections, public programs, and community services.
St. Louis Public Library – Central Library
An architectural gem located downtown, the Central Library offers extensive collections, special exhibits, and public programs. It’s a hub for community activities and learning.
Thomas Jefferson Library – University of Missouri-St. Louis
This library supports the academic programs at UMSL, providing access to many books, journals, and digital resources.
Webster University Library
Serving the students and faculty of Webster University, this library offers a wide range of academic resources and research support.
These museums and libraries reflect the rich cultural and intellectual heritage of St. Louis, providing valuable resources and experiences for residents and visitors alike.
