Cahokia Mounds is one of the most extraordinary places within reach of St. Louis and one of the least known to first-time visitors. About eight miles east of downtown, in Collinsville, Illinois, the state historic site protects the remains of a city built by Mississippian people that flourished roughly a thousand years ago and was, for a time, larger than many European cities of its day. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The centerpiece is Monks Mound, a massive earthen platform about 100 feet high that is the largest prehistoric earthen structure in North America north of Mexico. Around it lie smaller mounds, plazas and the Woodhenge area, where a circle of posts was used to track the sun. Today the grassy mounds look like gentle hills, and part of the visit is the effort of imagining the plazas, houses, markets and ceremonies that once filled them. Grounds and trails are open daily from dawn until dusk, with no admission or parking fee. The interpretive center is the place to understand what you are seeing, but it is going through changes, so read the next paragraph before you go.
How to visit
The site is at 30 Ramey Street in Collinsville, close to Interstates 55, 70 and 255, a 15 to 20 minute drive from the Arch in normal traffic. There is no fee to enter the grounds or to park. The interpretive center lobby is open Wednesday through Sunday during the day while exhibits are being worked on, and it has restrooms, a gift shop, a site model and a canoe exhibit.
The main exhibit gallery and orientation theater are closed for renovation, and the site offers its orientation film, City of the Sun, online instead. A donation is suggested for the interpretive center. Dogs must be leashed outside, and only service dogs are allowed inside the building.
What to expect
This is an outdoor visit, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Climbing Monks Mound is the highlight for most people, with views back toward the skyline and the Arch on a clear day, though the stairs are steep and the climb is a workout. Trails link the major mounds and the Woodhenge section, and a complete loop takes a couple of hours at a relaxed pace.
There is little shade, so water and a hat matter in summer, and the ground can be muddy after rain. Because the exhibit gallery is closed, a visit now leans more heavily on the landscape and on volunteers, who are on hand to answer questions.
Making the most of it
Watch the online orientation film before you go, walk to Monks Mound first while you are fresh, then loop through the plazas and the Woodhenge area. Pair the morning here with an afternoon at the Missouri History Museum or the Arch, which together tell the story of the river and of the people who lived along it, or use Cahokia as a free counterpoint to a day of ticketed downtown sights. Check the site's calendar before you drive over, because hours for the interpretive center and special events can change.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided outdoor visit to a World Heritage archaeological site, with Monks Mound as the main climb and a lobby with a site model and gift shop.
Best time
A clear spring or autumn morning, when the climb is comfortable and the views carry.
How long
Two to three hours for the mounds, trails and lobby.
Tips
Watch the online orientation film first, wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and check that the interpretive center is open before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History and archaeology lovers, hikers and anyone who wants a free half day away from downtown.
- Families
- Children enjoy climbing the mound, but the stairs are steep and there is little shade.
- Couples
- A quiet walk across a very old landscape with long views at the top of Monks Mound.
- Pair with
- The Arch grounds and the Missouri History Museum.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive.
Good questions
Is Cahokia Mounds free?+
There is no admission or parking fee for the grounds, and a donation is suggested for the interpretive center.
How far is Cahokia Mounds from downtown St. Louis?+
It is about eight miles east in Collinsville, Illinois, a short drive across the river.
Is the Cahokia Mounds museum open?+
The interpretive center lobby is open Wednesday through Sunday during the day, but the exhibit gallery and orientation theater are closed for renovation. The orientation film is available online. Check the site before you go.
Can I climb Monks Mound?+
Yes. Monks Mound is about 100 feet high and has stairs to the top, which are steep. The summit gives views toward the St. Louis skyline.
When are the grounds open?+
Grounds and trails are open daily from dawn until dusk.
