Nestled in the vibrant Washington Avenue Loft District of St. Louis, Missouri, the City Museum is a marvel of creativity and imagination. Housed in the former International Shoe building, this unique attraction is a playground for all ages, blending art, architecture, and adventure in a way that defies conventional museum expectations. Since its opening in 1997, City Museum has enchanted visitors with its eclectic mix of repurposed industrial objects and whimsical installations, making it a must-see destination.
The brainchild of artist Bob Cassilly and his then-wife Gail, City Museum was born from a desire to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. The Cassillys purchased the largely vacant shoe factory in 1993, and construction began almost immediately. The museum’s development was kept under wraps until its soft opening on New Year's Eve in 1996, and by October 1997, it was fully open to the public. Bob Cassilly's artistic direction continued to shape the museum until his passing in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and innovation.
From the moment you step inside, City Museum offers a sensory overload of sights and sounds. The first floor greets you with a life-size Bowhead Whale that you can walk through, leading to a massive fish tank visible from the mezzanine. Above, tunnels crafted from old refrigerating coils and tree houses invite exploration, while the floor is adorned with the largest continuous mosaic in the United States. These vibrant tiles snake up columns, adding to the museum's whimsical charm.
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One of the museum’s most popular features, the Enchanted Caves and Shoe Shafts, are a testament to Cassilly’s vision. These hand-sculpted tunnels wind through the building, reaching up to the tenth floor. Originally part of the shoe factory's distribution system, the Shoe Shafts now house thrilling slides, including a ten-story spiral that offers an exhilarating descent from the roof to the ground floor.
Outside, MonstroCity is a playground of epic proportions. This outdoor jungle gym features two Sabreliner 40 aircraft fuselages suspended high above the ground, a castle turret, and an intricate network of slinkies and climbing structures. This area is as much a visual spectacle as it is a physical challenge, inviting visitors to climb, crawl, and explore.
The roof of City Museum is not to be missed. Here, an old-fashioned Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of St. Louis, while a school bus teeters on the edge of the building, providing a thrilling photo opportunity. A 24-foot tall praying mantis sculpture looms over the scene, adding to the surreal atmosphere.
City Museum is as much about participation as it is about observation. The fourth floor’s Art City allows visitors to engage in art and craft projects, fostering creativity in a hands-on environment. The museum also features a circus school, offering daily performances and workshops for aspiring acrobats of all ages.
Scattered throughout the museum are various oddities and attractions that capture the imagination. The third floor houses the world’s largest pair of underwear and a collection of vintage pinball machines, while the Vault Room on the second floor displays a 19th-century bank vault complete with massive doors and safety deposit boxes.
City Museum is a living testament to Bob Cassilly’s artistic genius. His ability to see potential in discarded materials and transform them into interactive art has inspired countless visitors. The museum continues to evolve, with new exhibits and expansions keeping the experience fresh and exciting for returning guests.
In conclusion, City Museum is not just a museum; it’s an adventure. Its blend of art, history, and play creates a space where imagination knows no bounds. Whether you’re sliding down a ten-story chute, exploring hidden tunnels, or marveling at the eclectic art, City Museum promises a day of wonder and discovery in the heart of St. Louis.
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