What was once the site of the International Shoe Factory now became one of the must-visit urban playgrounds in the United States. Thanks to Bob Cassilly, an artist and sculptor, the City Museum can now be visited by any kid at heart and play in its 600,000 square-foot space which consists of various types of playground-like entertainment made up of donated and abandoned industrial and architectural objects which are then recycled to make the fun exhibits on-site today.
Unlike most museums where their exhibits are only displayed and not allowed to touch, all exhibits in the City Museum are made to be played with. Since its opening in 1997, it has drawn over millions of tourists because of its fun, eclectic vibe and has also won a ton of local and international awards.
Some of the features that stand out in City Museum are its jungle gym made up of 2 airplanes, two 10-storey slides, a rooftop Ferris Wheel, a human-sized hamster wheel, multi-floor slides, and many others. The world's largest pencil and the world's largest underpants are also displayed here.
There' nothing organized in the City Museum. Exhibits and displays seem to just appear on every corner, which tourists and locals love. It was named one of the "great public spaces" by the Project of Public Spaces.
Bob Cassilly died on 2011, but the museum is still being taken care of by a group of artists called "Cassilly's Crew." Since the museum is accepting any sorts of objects as donation, the whole museum is always under construction for new displays and revamp of other existing exhibits.
Daily live circus acts can also be found on the third floor called the Everyday Circus, where 6-80 years old guests are welcome to watch. You also cannot miss the Enchanted Caves and Shoe Shaft, sculpted by Bob Cassilly himself. Once you go in this ornate cave-like system, different creatures seem to be staring at you from every direction. The whole cave stretches from the center of the museum all the way to the 10th floor.
If you get hungry and tired don't worry, a food court is located in the Mezzanine. In the 3rd floor, a bar and coffee shop can also be found. Check out the museum's websites for their schedule of operations and ticket prices. If you ever find yourself in St. Louis, Missouri, make sure to check this place out.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
