We all know about the more famous museums in the United States, like the Smithsonian, or the Metropolitan Museum of Art. But did you know that there are hundreds of lesser known museums with amazing collections just waiting to be explored? Here are few of those great museums that we think you need to know about.

1. City Museum, St. Louis – this one has something for everyone. Several of our friends who have vacationed in St. Louis have recommended this one as a must see. This museum features a 10-story spiral that you can climb through – it was once used to move inventory through a shoe factory. Slides are another popular attraction at this museum, too.

2. National Museum of Health and Medicine, Washington, DC – this museum boasts an impressive collection of many artifacts, some dating back to the Civil War. One of the more popular exhibits is an extensive archive of items related to the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, including the bullet that ended his life.

3. The Tenement Museum, New York City – New York City has as rich history that is woven with the stories of those who immigrated to this country from other nations. This museum, located the Lower East Side in an apartment building over 150 years old, features guided tours that tell just a few of the stories of those who came here looking to live the American Dream.

These are just a few of the many museums across the nation that are well worth the trip, and would enhance any vacation with the treasure trove of exhibits that they showcase.