Midwest - Impressed with St. Louis

I was at Harrah's St. Louis Casino for several days, and took their shuttle to the Arch. I explored St. Louis for several hours, riding the Metrolink and visited the Fine Arts Museum, Missouri History Museum and the Westward Expansion Museum (in the "basement" of the Arch); as well as the "LOOP" district.
That these museums were free was nice.
I reside in NYC, and was very impressed with how clean the St. Louis streets were, NYC always has litter.
Who is paying to keep (most) of their museums free?

Glad to read your positive impressions of my hometown! St. Louis has a populous that cherishes our free attractions. Between special taxation districts and generous donors, we strive to keep our attraction free. This is one tax most of us don't mind paying.

Yay for STL! I'm happy someone enjoyed my hometown as much as I do.

Back in 1970 a Zoo-Museum district was established which covered both the city of St. Louis and St. Louis County (they are separate entities), which was a very forward-looking way to finance the cultural activities throughout the region. Growing up there, you take for granted that you just pop into the zoo for a couple hours on a nice day or stop by the art museum for an hour...it's a real gift!

I cannot wait to take my kids to the Arch and Forest Park. Maybe next year.