Ulysses S. Grant National Historical Site, Saint Louis

I came here on a whim while needing to fill the time before a concert I was in town for. I am a fan of getting my NPS Passport stamped, so I was delighted that this location was on the list. This site was originally owned by slave owners, which the tour guides do a great job addressing at the beginning of the tour, but this information may be difficult for young kids if not prepared. Nothing explicit, however. As of summer 2022, masks are required. If you forgot yours, the front desk will provide you one and you do not need to wear one when outside. *Welcome Center* Features postal box if you're on the road and need to mail your postcards. Clean, large restrooms. Gift shop with lots of neat quotes from Ulysses S. Grant. An optional but educational film is played ever 30 minutes or so. You get your NPS cancellation stamps here. *The House & Grounds* This place is so neat! You can take a guided tour into the home where Grant's wife's family lived (and eventually Grant) during the 1800s. The color of the house was "Paris Green" and was selected as a way to flex the family's wealth back in the Victorian era. You can visit the summer kitchen, winter kitchen, the laundry room, chicken coop, ice house, and tour the entire first floor of the home. *Museum* There are artifacts and information in the welcome center, but in addition to that is a full museum featuring many items including Grant's uniform from his days in the Civil War. There are interactive galleries and elements for all ages to enjoy - plus it is air conditioned.

A spot that is easily missed on the way into Grant's Farm park but totally worth the visit. The museum is full of history of the Grant family that is largely unknown. The tour of the property was also very informative!