Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum - A wooden dock with a house on it
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Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum

4.5
·1k reviews·Saint Charles, United States

Explore full-scale boat replicas and exhibits detailing the epic 1804 Lewis & Clark expedition.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum - A wooden dock with a house on it

Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore full-scale boat replicas and exhibits detailing the epic 1804 Lewis & Clark expedition.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A wealth of knowledge about the explorers, with a highly recommended documentary and friendly staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎥 Watch the Doc First

Highly recommended! The 45-min film sets the stage perfectly for the museum exhibits.

💰 Affordable Entry

Expect a small, reasonable entry fee for adults and children. Great value for the history!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Full-Scale Boat Replicas

Full-Scale Boat Replicas

Boathouse (below museum)

See meticulously crafted replicas of the iconic vessels that carried Lewis & Clark on their historic journey.

In-Depth Expedition Documentary

In-Depth Expedition Documentary

Museum theater

A 45-minute film provides rich historical context, revealing details often missed in textbooks.

Artifact & Route Exhibits

Artifact & Route Exhibits

Museum galleries

Explore artifacts and detailed maps showcasing the challenges and discoveries of the Corps of Discovery.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Expedition

The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum offers a glimpse into the epic journey. Consider watching the 45-minute documentary first to enrich your museum visit. Entry fees are minimal, making it an affordable stop.

Boat Access & Exhibits

While the full-scale boat replicas are a highlight, they are housed below the museum and may be viewed from a distance. Exhibits detail the expedition's route and artifacts, including Native American items. Some visitors note dustiness and a desire for closer boat access.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Staff are often available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lewis and Clark Boat House and Museum. Fantastic museum with artifacts from 1804 expedition. Looked through all the medicines but couldn’t find the “thunderclapper” pills. #history #stcharlesmo #lewisandclark
@alishoaga
3 likes • 174 views

🎥 Watch the Doc First

Highly recommended! The 45-min film sets the stage perfectly for the museum exhibits. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry

Expect a small, reasonable entry fee for adults and children. Great value for the history! Reddit

What a fabulous morning I had in #saintcharlesmissouri visiting a lot of the #lewisandclark history. It’s amazing what we forget that we learned in school and by the time we’re adult age and able to appreciate it.#lewisandclarkexpedition #lewisandclarkboathouseandmuseum #fyp #saleslife #stcharlesmemorialpark #missouri
@teresa_pfeffer
107 likes • 1.2K views
I made a promise to myself to seek out new adventures & explore unfamiliar territories. Just recently, I embarked on a journey to the Lewis and Clark museum, and to my surprise, it turned out to be a blast. For those who are new to St Charles and have a love for history, this place is an absolute must-visit. Even if history isn't exactly your cup of tea (trust me, I get it), this place is still wo...
@zuliibethh
13 likes • 386 views

🏞️ River View Deck

Enjoy a moment by the Missouri River from the deck outside the museum. Peaceful spot. Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Plenty of parking available, making arrival and departure hassle-free. Reddit

American Adventurer RV Vlog #126: Getting Inspired and Learning The History of Westward Expansion at the Lewis and Clark Museum! #explorers #lewisandclarktrail #manifestdestiny #usaroadtrip #travelvlogger
@the.american.adventurer
107 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎥 Watch the Doc First

Highly recommended! The 45-min film sets the stage perfectly for the museum exhibits. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry

Expect a small, reasonable entry fee for adults and children. Great value for the history! Reddit

🏞️ River View Deck

Enjoy a moment by the Missouri River from the deck outside the museum. Peaceful spot. Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Plenty of parking available, making arrival and departure hassle-free. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff

Visitors consistently praise the helpful and knowledgeable staff. Ask them questions! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum to be an informative and affordable destination, particularly recommending the in-depth documentary and the friendly staff. While the boat replicas are a highlight, some guests noted they are viewed from a distance and that certain exhibits could benefit from updates. Overall, it's a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts.

"Wonderful museum with a wealth of knowledge about the explorers.
My favorite part was the very well made documentary. It's about 45min long but I highly recommend watching it in full before you tour the museum. It describes in great detail things your history books never tell you. The artifacts are well displayed and very interesting.
There's a gift shop and a deck to sit outside and enjoy a view of the fast flowing Missouri river. The boathouse in underneath the museum and the boats are interestingly made.
There is a small entry fee to visit the museum."

Miriam Simonsen

"This was a fun idea to do with my son, who is learning about the expedition in school. The people were kind and the entrance fee is minimal ($7-adults, $3children) but overall it was underwhelming. It took me longer to drive there than to walk through and everything was very dusty and appeared run down a bit. The taxidermy in particular was pretty crusty looking. I wish the boats were more accessible. They're behind bars and away from the public, which I understand but you can barely see them. Cute little gift shop."

Christa Mabrey

"It's a great and wonderful experience. Been here a few times. The people here are nice. Been in the museum and the artifacts are nice. Even saw the native American artifacts which is nice cause I have some native American in me. Anyone who wants to come here I highly recommend it and come see this place yourself. It's worth seeing. To the people who work here. You guys are amazing. Thank you for the amazing experience"

Gregory Jenner

What People Like

Informative documentary
Friendly and helpful staff
Affordable admission fees

What People Dislike

Boats viewed from distance
Some exhibits dusty

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Specific directions can be found on their official website or by using GPS navigation. Reddit

Information on public transportation options may vary. It's best to check local transit schedules or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information.

The driving distance will depend on your starting point. For example, from St. Louis, it's a significant drive, so plan accordingly. Reddit

The museum is situated near the Missouri River, offering scenic views. Check local listings for other historical sites or parks in the vicinity.

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the museum, many historical sites strive to accommodate visitors. Inquire directly about ramps, elevators, and accessible viewing areas.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees are generally very reasonable, with separate, affordable rates for adults and children. Reddit

Advance booking is typically not required for general admission, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for any special events or group visit policies.

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum's official website for the most current hours of operation before your visit.

Discounts may be available for specific groups such as children, seniors, or military personnel. Inquire at the ticket counter or check the museum's website for details.

While walk-in purchases are common, some venues offer online ticket sales for convenience. Check the museum's official website to see if this option is available.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see full-scale replicas of the Lewis & Clark expedition boats, detailed exhibits on their journey, historical artifacts, and Native American items. Reddit+1

A typical visit can take around 1-2 hours, especially if you watch the introductory documentary. Some visitors found the tour itself to be quite brief. Reddit

The boat replicas are housed below the museum and are viewed from a distance, behind barriers. Some visitors wished for closer access. Reddit

Yes, there is a gift shop offering souvenirs and items related to Lewis & Clark and the expedition. Reddit+1

Exhibits are generally informative and well-presented, though some visitors noted areas that appeared dusty or slightly run-down. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there might be vending machines or a small snack area. It's best to check their facilities.

Policies on outside food and beverages can vary. It's advisable to confirm with the museum if picnicking is allowed in designated areas or if food is restricted to specific zones.

Yes, there are likely dining options in the surrounding area. You can find various restaurants, cafes, and eateries by exploring the local vicinity.

The types of cuisine available will depend on the local offerings, but you can typically find a range of options from casual diners to more formal restaurants.

Given the potential for limited onsite dining, packing a lunch or snacks can be a practical option, especially for families or those planning a longer visit.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff.

The full-scale boat replicas offer unique photo opportunities. The deck overlooking the Missouri River also provides scenic backdrops. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos of the boat replicas, though they are viewed from a distance. Capture their scale and craftsmanship. Reddit

Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around historical sites and museums to ensure safety and preserve the integrity of the location. Check specific regulations.

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for indoor exhibits. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the boat replicas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum can be an engaging stop for families, especially if children are learning about the expedition in school. The affordable entry fee makes it a budget-friendly outing. Reddit Consider watching the introductory documentary together, as it provides a solid foundation for understanding the exhibits. While the boat replicas are impressive, note that they are viewed from a distance, which might require some imagination from younger children. The staff's friendliness is a big plus for families, as they can often answer questions and make the experience more interactive. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum is an excellent choice. The entry fee is minimal, making it an accessible historical experience without a significant financial commitment. Reddit The museum offers a wealth of information and a unique glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history. Packing your own snacks or a lunch can further reduce costs, as onsite dining options are limited. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Expedition's Vessels

The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum showcases full-scale replicas of the boats that were crucial to the Corps of Discovery's journey. These vessels, including a keelboat and pirogues, were engineered for the challenging conditions of the Missouri River and beyond. While visitors can admire these impressive reconstructions, it's worth noting that they are housed below the main museum and viewed from a distance, which some find limits the immersive experience. Reddit

These replicas are not just for show; they represent the ingenuity and hard work of the expedition's members. Understanding the design and purpose of these boats provides a deeper appreciation for the logistical feats accomplished by Lewis and Clark. The museum aims to educate visitors on how these boats facilitated exploration, trade, and scientific discovery across vast, uncharted territories. Reddit

For those interested in maritime history or the specifics of 19th-century watercraft, the boathouse offers a tangible connection to the past. Despite the viewing limitations, the sheer size and detail of the replicas are a testament to the historical significance of these iconic vessels. Reddit

Enriching Your Museum Visit

Many visitors highly recommend starting their experience at the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum by watching the 45-minute documentary. This film is praised for its depth, offering historical context and details about the expedition that are often omitted from standard history lessons. Watching it beforehand can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the exhibits you'll encounter. Reddit

The museum itself features a variety of exhibits detailing the expedition's route, challenges, and discoveries. You'll find historical artifacts that bring the journey to life, including items related to Native American cultures encountered along the way. While the exhibits are generally well-presented, some reviews mention that certain areas might appear a bit dusty or dated, suggesting a need for ongoing maintenance. Reddit

Beyond the exhibits, the museum offers a gift shop and a deck with views of the Missouri River. The staff are consistently highlighted as being exceptionally friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, eager to share insights and make your visit more enjoyable. Reddit

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