*The 1904 World’s Fair exhibit at the Missouri History Museum*
Looking to blend summer fun with educational value? These St. Louis history museums for kids offer engaging, hands-on experiences that bring the past to life, all within driving distance of the city. From ancient civilizations to westward expansion, this roundup covers the top destinations for family-friendly historical learning in and around St. Louis.
Missouri History Museum – Forest Park
Located in the heart of Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum offers free admission and features exhibits spanning from the founding of St. Louis in 1764 to modern times. Kids can dive into local culture, explore city milestones, and walk through time at one of the region’s best educational spots.
History Clubhouse – Inside Missouri History Museum
Specially designed for families, the History Clubhouse is an interactive exhibit space featuring kid-sized versions of St. Louis landmarks. Children can roleplay in a 1904 World’s Fair cafe, explore a steamboat on the Mississippi, or build their version of the city skyline. Timed-entry tickets are required to maintain a comfortable, safe experience.
Gateway Arch National Park & Museum
Explore the Museum at the Gateway Arch to learn about Westward Expansion, Native American history, and St. Louis’s pivotal role in shaping the country. With modern exhibits and family-friendly displays, it’s a great introduction to both local and national history.
Old Courthouse – Reopened May 2025
As part of the Gateway Arch grounds, the Old Courthouse reopened in 2025 with new and powerful exhibits. Families can learn about Dred Scott’s landmark case, early civil rights struggles, and how courtroom decisions shaped American life. Its restoration enhances accessibility and education for all ages.
Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum – St. Charles
This riverside museum lets kids get hands-on with the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Families can explore a full-scale replica of the explorers’ keelboat, browse exhibits, and learn about early American exploration in a tactile, accessible way.
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site – Hartford, Illinois
Just across the river, the Lewis and Clark Historic Site features a replica of Fort Clatsop, the explorers’ winter encampment. Inside, kids can watch an educational film, explore reconstructed frontier cabins, and dive into the details of America’s earliest exploration missions.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site – Collinsville, IL
For a look even further back, visit Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the remains of the largest pre-Columbian city north of Mexico. The site includes miles of trails, Monks Mound, and an informative museum on Mississippian culture—a fascinating glimpse into early indigenous civilizations.
National Museum of Transportation – St. Louis County
Perfect for vehicle-loving kids, the National Museum of Transportation features a huge collection of cars, trains, trolleys, and planes. With over 70 locomotives and outdoor exhibits, it’s a blend of engineering, design, and hands-on history exploration.
Ste. Genevieve Museum Learning Center – Ste. Genevieve, MO
Step into Missouri’s oldest town and visit this newly renovated museum that highlights local history, pioneer life, and even dinosaur fossils. The Ste. Genevieve Museum Learning Center is ideal for children interested in archaeology, artifacts, and the region’s history.
Final Thoughts
These St. Louis-area history museums offer rich opportunities for families to learn while creating summer memories. Whether you’re exploring a World’s Fair cafe, hiking around ancient mounds, or stepping into a historic courtroom, each destination helps your child understand the region’s deep and diverse past.
Content for this summary was derived from original reporting by St Louis Magazine
