The Rooftop Terrace offers patrons a self-guided tour of the cityscape to the west, east, and south of the Central Library. Six information panels explain the past and present of the immediate surroundings, including how early planners carved the city from 80-foot bluffs, and the proper terms for the architectural flourishes on nearby buildings, such as modillion, festoon, and flora. Enjoy a game of chess with the Library’s famous giant chess pieces.

Discover plants, insects, and birds that live in or drop by the rooftop native plant garden. Find out more about these species in our Missouri Native Plants coloring book.