Griot Museum of Black History
Discover the rich tapestry of Black history at The Griot Museum of Black History in St. Louis, featuring lifelike wax figures and impactful exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Griot Museum of Black History
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich tapestry of Black history at The Griot Museum of Black History in St. Louis, featuring lifelike wax figures and impactful exhibits.
"This North St. Louis gem deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as the Missouri History Museum or City Museum."
📸 Respect Photo Policy
Photography is limited to the entrance and gift shop. Please honor the museum's request to preserve the exhibits.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully absorb the exhibits and information.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wax Figure Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Lifelike wax figures bring historical figures and pivotal moments to life, offering a unique visual narrative of Black history.
Josephine Baker Room
Dedicated exhibit space
Explore the legacy of the iconic entertainer and activist Josephine Baker, a brave figure in the French Resistance.
Slave Cabin Artifacts
Exhibit on slavery
Authentic artifacts, including a slave cabin, offer a poignant and direct connection to the harsh realities of the slave trade.
Contributions of Black St. Louisans
Later exhibits
Discover the achievements and contributions of influential Black individuals from St. Louis and beyond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to The Griot Museum
Photography Policy & Group Visits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Respect Photo Policy
Photography is limited to the entrance and gift shop. Please honor the museum's request to preserve the exhibits.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully absorb the exhibits and information.
🤝 Engage with Staff
The staff are knowledgeable and can provide valuable insights to enhance your visit.
🚗 Free Street Parking
Convenient free street parking is available in front and around the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Respect Photo Policy
Photography is limited to the entrance and gift shop. Please honor the museum's request to preserve the exhibits.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully absorb the exhibits and information.
🤝 Engage with Staff
The staff are knowledgeable and can provide valuable insights to enhance your visit.
🚗 Free Street Parking
Convenient free street parking is available in front and around the museum.
📝 Take the Quiz
Participate in the museum's quiz to test your knowledge and deepen your learning experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Griot Museum of Black History for its high-quality wax figures and informative exhibits that powerfully convey the African American experience. The staff are frequently noted for their knowledge and welcoming demeanor, enhancing the overall visit. While photography is restricted in exhibit areas, the museum is considered a valuable and moving educational resource for all ages.
"I recommend this museum. I had been in wax museums before, and I was greatly surprised at the high quality done on people that I’ve read about. The people at the front desk were able to give me a lot of information. I especially enjoyed the Josephine Baker room since I had actually seen her tomb in Paris. She was such a brave individual working in the French resistance. I wish more people would come and visit this place to learn about the history of the United States. The number of slave markets that were in St. Louis along the Mississippi river."
Erica Santella
"Great place work tons of information. Workers fill with information which made it even greater. You can't take pic but still so worth going to."
Chanelle Johnson
"[Visit: April 6, 2024] First visit and experience in St. Louis!
Super cute museum. The atmosphere is very calm and peaceful. The young lady at the entrance (who also answered the phone) was extremely welcoming and pleasant. She answered all of my questions prior to arriving, gave a brief introduction to the museum, and provided a handy quiz.
The museum recommends that the entrance area be the only area where photos can be taken, along with the gift shop. Most visitors have respected those requests (please continue to honor that request). This museum is excellent for small groups (i.e., 7-10 people), however, medium to large groups should definitely schedule a visit. This will allow the group to enjoy the museum as a whole, as well as complete the quiz without interfering with other guests.
All ages, levels of school, and types of communities are sure to gain insights, as well as test their skills in museum details. There is an option to check and verify answers at the end. Free street parking is available in front and around the museum.
I do hope the museum will expand. It was a pleasure."
The PhD
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Griot Museum is located in St. Louis, Missouri. It's accessible by car, with free street parking available in front and around the museum. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the North City area.
Yes, there is free street parking available in front of and around The Griot Museum of Black History.
The Griot Museum of Black History is located at 2727 St. Louis Ave, St. Louis, MO 63106.
While specific routes can vary, the museum is located in an urban area of St. Louis, so checking local bus routes that serve St. Louis Avenue would be advisable for public transport users.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in St. Louis and can drop you off directly at the museum's location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is reasonably priced, with adult tickets typically around $10 and children 12 and under around $5. It's a worthwhile investment for the historical insights gained.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events or group visits, is recommended to secure your spot.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not always readily available online. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about any available concessions.
Yes, but it's highly recommended that medium to large groups schedule their visit in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Photography is generally restricted to the entrance area and the gift shop. Visitors are asked to respect this policy to preserve the exhibits. +1
The museum features lifelike wax figures, historical artifacts, and exhibits detailing the African American experience, including the realities of slavery and the achievements of Black individuals.
Yes, The Griot Museum is an excellent place to bring children to learn about Black history in an engaging and informative way.
Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly and appreciate the exhibits.
The museum offers a quiz that visitors can take to test their knowledge of the exhibits, providing an interactive learning component.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Griot Museum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors may want to plan for meals before or after their visit.
Being located in St. Louis, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding areas. Exploring nearby neighborhoods will offer a variety of cuisines.
It's generally not permitted to bring outside food and drinks into museum exhibits. It's best to consume them outside the museum premises.
Based on available information, The Griot Museum does not feature an on-site cafe. Visitors should plan accordingly for dining.
The area around The Griot Museum in St. Louis offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, from casual eateries to more formal dining establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is restricted to the entrance area and the gift shop. Visitors are asked to refrain from taking photos within the exhibit halls to protect the artifacts and wax figures. +1
The restriction on photography is to preserve the delicate nature of the exhibits, particularly the wax figures and historical artifacts, and to ensure a focused experience for all visitors.
Yes, photography is permitted in the gift shop area of The Griot Museum.
Generally, the policy is strictly enforced. However, for special events or press visits, exceptions might be made with prior arrangement and museum approval.
The entrance area and the gift shop are the designated spots for photography. You can capture the museum's facade and items from the gift shop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum offers a quiz that can add an interactive element to the visit, helping children test their knowledge and retain what they learn. Consider visiting with smaller groups to allow children ample space to explore and absorb the information without feeling overwhelmed. The staff are welcoming and can provide introductions to the museum, making the experience smoother for families. Remember that photography is restricted in exhibit areas, so focus on the learning experience itself.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable staff who can offer additional context and stories that enrich the historical narrative. The museum's commitment to preserving and sharing these stories makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of Black history in America.
🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados
The museum also hosts various cultural events, including film screenings and art-related programs, making it a vibrant hub for artistic expression. +1Discover how art has been a vehicle for storytelling, resistance, and celebration within the Black community. The museum's dedication to showcasing these cultural facets makes it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the intersection of art, history, and identity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of Wax Figures
These figures are crucial for bringing to life individuals and events that might otherwise remain abstract. From iconic figures like Josephine Baker to lesser-known individuals who endured immense hardship, the wax figures serve as a tangible link to history. They allow visitors to visualize the past in a way that text alone cannot achieve, making the stories of resilience, struggle, and triumph more impactful.
The careful craftsmanship and attention to detail in the wax figures contribute significantly to the museum's educational mission. They serve as silent storytellers, prompting reflection and discussion about the profound impact of Black history on the United States. The visual impact is often cited as a highlight by visitors, making the experience memorable and thought-provoking.
Understanding the Slave Trade in St. Louis
The museum doesn't shy away from the difficult truths of this period. The inclusion of a slave cabin, for instance, offers a visceral understanding of the living conditions endured by enslaved people. This direct confrontation with the past is a core part of the museum's mission to educate and foster empathy.
By highlighting the historical presence of slave markets in St. Louis, The Griot Museum provides crucial context for understanding the broader African American experience. It underscores the importance of remembering this history and learning from it to build a more equitable future. The emotional weight of these exhibits is often noted by visitors, making it a profound part of their museum experience.
The Griot Museum's Role in Preserving Black Culture
+1Beyond its historical exhibits, The Griot Museum also serves as a venue for community events, film screenings, and artistic expressions, further solidifying its role as a cultural anchor.
+1 This multifaceted approach ensures that the museum is not just a repository of the past but a dynamic space that actively engages with the present and future of Black culture. By showcasing figures like Josephine Baker and Miles Davis, alongside everyday stories of resilience and achievement, The Griot Museum ensures that a diverse range of Black experiences are remembered and honored. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and ongoing contributions of African Americans to society.
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