20 Best Architectural Buildings in Missouri: A Comprehensive Guide

Missouri is home to an impressive array of architectural marvels that span various styles and historical periods.

These buildings reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage and its innovative spirit.

From modern structures designed by renowned architects to historical landmarks that have stood the test of time, Missouri’s architectural landscape offers something for everyone.

Why are these buildings worth exploring?

They not only showcase remarkable design and engineering but also tell the story of Missouri’s development over the years.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply looking to explore the state, these buildings are sure to leave a lasting impression.

1. Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, stands 630 feet tall, making it the world’s tallest arch and Missouri’s tallest accessible structure.

Designed by Eero Saarinen, the arch was completed in 1965 and is made of stainless steel.

Built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States, it forms a striking inverted catenary curve.

This iconic monument acts as a symbolic gateway to the West and is a notable example of mid-20th-century modern architecture.

Forty blocks of St. Louis were demolished to build the Gateway Arch and its surrounding park, reflecting its massive scale and importance.

Learn more about the structure’s history and design from ArchDaily.

2. Union Station

Union Station in St. Louis opened on September 1, 1894. Designed by Theodore Link, it quickly became one of the busiest and largest train stations in the world.

The station’s design features three main areas: the Headhouse, the Midway, and an expansive Train Shed. It covers a total area of 11.5 acres.

Today, Union Station serves as a vibrant hub with shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the St. Louis Aquarium.

It combines historical architecture with modern amenities, making it a must-see.

Learn more about Union Station’s history and attractions.

3. Jesse Hall

Jesse Hall is an iconic building on the University of Missouri campus.

Constructed in 1892 after the original Academic Hall burnt down, it was later renamed after MU president Richard Henry Jesse.

The hall’s dome is a key feature, evolving over the years. Jesse Hall stands as a symbol of tradition and history at Mizzou.

4. Sainte Genevieve Historic District

The Sainte Genevieve Historic District in Missouri is known for its unique blend of architectural styles.

Established as a National Historical Park in 2020, it showcases buildings from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The district features fine examples of French Colonial architecture, including the Louis Bolduc House.

This house is a prime example of “posts-on-sill” construction and marks the first authentic restoration in Ste. Genevieve.

Early American influence is also evident, with structures reflecting the transition from French rule to Spanish and American governance.

5. Saint Louis Art Museum

The Saint Louis Art Museum is a noted institution located in Forest Park, St. Louis.

Designed by Cass Gilbert, the Main Building was constructed for the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition.

The museum also includes the East Building, designed by David Chipperfield.

The facade features over 20 medallions of influential artists, showcasing intricate architectural details.

Learn more about its architecture here.

6. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a striking architectural landmark in Kansas City, Missouri.

Designed by Safdie Architects, it opened on September 16, 2011. The building is located at 1601 Broadway Boulevard and connects the Kansas City Live entertainment and Crossroads districts.

The center features two main performance venues: the 1,600-seat Helzberg Hall and the Muriel Kauffman Theatre.

Helzberg Hall is known for its unique acoustics and hosts the Kansas City Symphony. The theatre supports various performances, including ballet and opera.

Its design includes a stunning glass façade that visually connects the interior with the exterior environment.

This architectural gem helps boost social, educational, and economic vitality in the region.

Further details can be explored at Safdie Architects, ArchDaily, and Dezeen.

7. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri, is an iconic landmark, known for its expansive collection of art from around the world.

The museum opened on December 11, 1933, and includes more than 35,000 works of art. It is famous for its Asian art collection.

In 2007, the Steven Holl-designed Bloch Building was added, receiving praise for its innovative and modern design.

8. Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France

The Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, also known as the Old Cathedral, is located in St. Louis, Missouri. It holds the distinction of being the first cathedral west of the Mississippi River.

Built in 1834, the Old Cathedral is steeped in history.

It was dedicated by Pierre Laclede and Auguste Chouteau, the founders of St. Louis, in 1764 for religious purposes that were previously called the “church block”.

This basilica, now a historic landmark, continues to be an important religious site in the city (visit here).

9. Eads Bridge

The Eads Bridge, built over the Mississippi River, connects St. Louis, Missouri, and East St. Louis, Illinois. It was the first bridge in St. Louis and the first in the U.S. to use steel structurally.

Designed by James Buchanan Eads, the bridge features three steel and cast-iron arches supported by four masonry piers.

It showcases an innovative use of steel and caissons for its piers, which was unprecedented at the time.

Completed in 1874, the Eads Bridge remains a significant landmark, marking a pivotal point in engineering history.

10. Kansas City Public Library

The Kansas City Public Library stands out with its unique architecture and community features.

The library moved into its current building in 2004, transforming an old bank vault into a movie room with a 35-ton steel door.

The library’s parking garage facade resembles a giant bookshelf, showcasing book spines that are 25 feet tall.

Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour on the Rooftop Terrace, offering views and information about Kansas City’s architectural history.

11. Samuel Cupples House

The Samuel Cupples House is a historic mansion located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Built between 1888 and 1890, it showcases Romanesque Revival architecture.

The house was commissioned by Samuel Cupples, a wealthy entrepreneur. It includes 42 rooms and 22 fireplaces.

The home also serves as a gallery for fine and decorative art. Learn more about its design and art collection at the Saint Louis University website.

12. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, located in Independence, Missouri, is the resting place of the 33rd president of the United States.

Opened in 1957, it’s the first presidential library built under the 1955 Presidential Libraries Act.

The museum offers exhibits about Truman’s presidency and the post-World War II era.

Visitors can explore Truman’s life, his political career, and the historic 1948 election. This is a must-see for anyone interested in American history and politics.

Learn more about visiting at Harry S. Truman Library and Museum.

13. St. Francis Xavier College Church

St. Francis Xavier College Church, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.

Built in 1884, it serves both the local parish and Saint Louis University.

The church’s design was influenced by a 19th-century cathedral in Ireland.

Its historical significance was recognized when it became a City Landmark in 1976.

The interior underwent renovations in the 1980s.

It features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. Visitors often admire its impressive tower, which was added in 1914.

14. Missouri State Capitol

The Missouri State Capitol is a striking example of neoclassical architecture with elements of the Beaux-Arts style.

Designed by Tracy Warren, it stands as the third permanent structure to serve as the state’s seat of government in Jefferson City. The building, completed between 1913 and 1917, is notable for its grand dome.

Past capitol buildings in Jefferson City suffered from fires, making this the third iteration.

The total construction cost at the time was around $5 million. The Missouri State Capitol remains a central landmark and houses the Missouri General Assembly.

15. National World War I Museum and Memorial

The National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri, opened in 1926 as the Liberty Memorial.

It was designated by Congress as the official war memorial and museum for World War I in 2004.

This landmark has undergone various renovations.

It became a National Historic Landmark in 2006 and was recognized as a national memorial in 2014.

The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that educate visitors about World War I history.

The iconic architecture and expansive design make it a must-see site in Missouri.

16. Scott Joplin House

The Scott Joplin House is a state historic site located in St. Louis, Missouri. This house preserves the legacy of Scott Joplin, a famous ragtime composer.

The house is found at 2658 Delmar Boulevard. It was Joplin’s home from 1901 to 1903. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources maintains it.

An authentic player piano fills the air with Joplin’s melodies, giving visitors a taste of his music. The house also includes exhibits about his life and work.

Learn more about the Scott Joplin House here.

17. Saint Louis Zoo

The Saint Louis Zoo, located in Forest Park, is a prominent attraction known for its diverse range of animals and engaging exhibits.

Established in 1910, the zoo has grown to house over 16,000 animals representing 500 species.

Visitors can explore areas like Historic Hill, showcasing the Herpetarium and Bird House and Garden.

The architecture in these sections reflects the styles from the early 1900s, providing a unique blend of history and wildlife.

18. Kansas City Union Station

Kansas City Union Station has been a prominent landmark for over a century. Built in a Renaissance Revival style, its architecture is distinct and impressive.

Visitors can explore many on-site attractions, making it a popular destination.

Union Station’s historical significance and grandeur make it a must-see for anyone interested in architectural marvels in Missouri.

Find more information about this site here.

19. Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse in St. Louis is a significant architectural landmark. Dating back to 1839-1862, it stands as a testament to historic design.

This building once held the title of Missouri’s tallest habitable building, reaching 192 feet tall.

Noteworthy cases, such as the Dred and Harriet Scott freedom suit, were heard here, marking its place in American history.

The courthouse is now part of Gateway Arch National Park.

20. Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, also known as Shaw’s Garden, stands out as a key site for plant science.

Founded by Henry Shaw, its herbarium houses over 6.6 million specimens, making it the second largest in North America.

Architecturally, the Barnett-designed Museum Building, dating back to 1859, features Renaissance Revival style with a red brick facade and limestone trims.

The Linnean House, constructed in 1882, is the oldest greenhouse in continuous operation west of the Mississippi River. It shares historic landmark status with the rest of the Garden.

Architectural Styles Found in Missouri

Missouri boasts a rich variety of architectural styles, reflecting its diverse history and cultural influences.

Major styles include Colonial Revival, Modernist influences, and Gothic architecture.

Colonial Revival

Colonial Revival architecture is characterized by its grand, symmetrical design and inspired by early American colonial homes.

Common features include columns, brick facades, and gabled roofs.

This style was particularly popular in the early 20th century and can be seen in residential areas and public buildings across Missouri.

The Missouri Governor’s Mansion in Jefferson City showcases this style with its stately columns and decorative details.

Another notable example is the Harry S. Truman State Office Building, originally designed in a blend of classical and modern styles.

Modernist Influences

Modernist architecture in Missouri is marked by clean lines, functional design, and the use of new materials like steel and glass.

This style aims to eliminate unnecessary details and focuses on simplicity and efficiency.

Prominent mid-century modern homes and public buildings in Kansas City and St. Louis highlight these features.

Buildings like the Daniel Boone Regional Library reflect Modernist influences, with their emphasis on large, open spaces and minimalistic design.

Gothic Architecture

Gothic architecture in Missouri is distinguished by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.

These elements create an impression of height and light, often seen in churches and educational buildings.

Noteworthy examples include the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, featuring intricate stained glass and soaring spires.

Another is the historic Fort Leonard Wood, which includes several Gothic Revival structures contributing to its historic appeal.

Historical Significance of Missouri’s Architecture

Missouri’s architectural evolution reflects its early settlements, the transformative effects of the Industrial Revolution, and the changes following World War II.

Each period left a lasting mark on the state’s architectural heritage.

Early Settlement Structures

Missouri’s early architecture includes a mix of French colonial and American frontier styles.

Ste. Genevieve, Missouri’s oldest town, showcases some of the nation’s earliest French colonial buildings.

The Amoureux House, part of the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, is one of the few remaining poteaux-en-terre (post-in-ground) structures.

Log cabins, built by early American settlers, are also significant.

These simple structures, often with gabled roofs and centered chimneys, were practical and sturdy. Many of these buildings have been preserved and serve as a window into the state’s pioneer past.

Impact of the Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Missouri’s architectural landscape.

During this period, materials like iron and steel became widely used, allowing for taller and more complex structures.

The Wainwright Building in St. Louis, designed by Louis Sullivan in 1891, is one of the first skyscrapers and an excellent example of early steel-frame construction.

Factories and train stations also proliferated, showcasing functional and utilitarian designs.

These buildings, such as the Union Station in St. Louis, combined functionality with new architectural styles, including Beaux-Arts and Romanesque Revival, becoming landmarks in their own right.

Post-World War II Developments

After World War II, Missouri saw a shift towards modernism in architecture. This period emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials like reinforced concrete and glass.

The Gateway Arch, completed in 1965 in St. Louis, is the iconic symbol of this era. Designed by Eero Saarinen, it exemplifies modernist design principles with its sleek, stainless steel construction.

Suburban development also surged, leading to the creation of many mid-century modern homes. These houses, characterized by open floor plans and large windows, aimed to integrate indoor and outdoor living spaces, reflecting the era’s cultural and technological optimism.