Through live performances on a state-of-the-art stage and an array of films, talks and listening booths, this museum will teach you about the blues.
The National Blues Museum is a fun and interactive institution dedicated to the history of one of the preeminent forms of expression and art in the modern history of the United States. It stands in a renovated historic building in downtown St. Louis. Arrive at the suitably glitzy portico, which shows off the museum’s name in lights.
Venture inside and see if you can recognize the many musicians who have influenced the blues genre. The museum celebrates blues music, seeing it as the foundation for many of the American pop songs we listen to today. Use the displays about music to learn about national history and culture in the U.S.
Listen to the introductory talk from a docent, who will explain the relevance of the blues genre and the museum. Examine the traveling exhibits on a variety of themes, told through vintage photographs, old magazines and paintings. The museum even puts on regular live music performances on its stage, which has an impressive sound system.
Check out the iconic instruments and costumes that have helped to shape the blues and trace its history back to its African origins. Watch the various short films and listen over headphones to samples in the booths.
The site opens daily check the official website for exact opening times. There is a fee to enter with discounts for seniors, students and youths. Young children can enter the museum for free.
The National Blues Museum is in the downtown district making up the center of St. Louis. Ride a train to the 8th & Pine station, which is just a 5-minute walk southwest from the museum. If driving, park your car in the metered street spaces.
Look around the area for other nearby highlights such as the America’s Center Convention Complex, the Citygarden Sculpture Park and the Old Courthouse.
