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Cahokia Mounds Museum Society: Gateway to Ancient America

Explore the mysteries of ancient America at Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near St. Louis. Grounds open daily!

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The Cahokia Mounds Museum Society serves as the visitor and educational hub for the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. Though the Interpretive Center is currently closed for renovations, the grounds remain open, inviting exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and offering insights into the sophisticated Mississippian culture that thrived here centuries ago.

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Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on trails and potentially climbing Monks Mound.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
  • Check the Cahokia Mounds website or call ahead for information on outdoor tours and special events.
  • Download the Cahokia AR Tour app for an enhanced experience with virtual tours.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Cahokia Mounds is located near Collinsville, Illinois, just off Interstates 55/70 and 255. From I-55/70, take Exit 6 (Highway 111) and turn right onto Highway 111 South. At the stoplight, turn left onto Collinsville Road. The site is about 1.5 miles on the right. From I-255, take Exit 24 (Collinsville Road) and turn left onto Collinsville Road. The Interpretive Center is about 1.5 miles on the left. There is free parking available at the site.

  • Public Transport

    While direct public transportation to Cahokia Mounds is limited, the Madison County Transit Bus #18 travels between downtown Collinsville and downtown St. Louis, stopping at the Emerson Park Metrolink station in East St. Louis. The bus also stops at Black Lane/Fairmont Ave. and Collinsville Road, a 0.76-mile walk to the Interpretive Center. A single ride on the MCT bus is around $1-$3.

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The Cahokia Mounds Museum Society plays a vital role in supporting and interpreting the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, a remarkable archaeological site that was once the center of the Mississippian culture. From around 800 to 1400 AD, this city flourished, boasting a population larger than many European cities of the time. Today, the site preserves over 70 earthen mounds, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who once called this place home. While the Interpretive Center, which houses museum exhibits, a theater, and a gift shop, is currently closed for renovations, the grounds remain open for exploration. Visitors can walk the trails, climb Monks Mound (the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas), and imagine the bustling city that once stood here. The Cahokia Mounds Museum Society actively works to reacquire and protect portions of this prehistoric city, ensuring that this important cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. The society also provides educational programs, including guided tours, nature hikes, and events that celebrate Native American culture. The grounds are open from dawn until dusk, offering a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the ingenuity and complexity of the Mississippian people. The Cahokia Mounds Museum Society has also developed an Augmented Reality application that can be used on smart phones and tablets to experience virtual tours of the Grand Plaza and Monks Mound.

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