Saint Louis Science Center
A premier destination for interactive science exploration with free general admission, captivating exhibits, and engaging OMNIMAX shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Saint Louis Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier destination for interactive science exploration with free general admission, captivating exhibits, and engaging OMNIMAX shows.
"Free admission makes this a must-visit for families and anyone curious about science!"
🎯 Free General Admission!
Enjoy most of the Science Center for free! Special exhibits, Planetarium, and OMNIMAX have extra costs.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early for free parking. If full, the $15 lot is an option. Consider public transport.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Exhibit
Galleries
Roar with excitement among life-sized dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays that bring prehistoric worlds to life.
Space Science Pavilion
Galleries
Explore the cosmos with interactive exhibits on space exploration, planets, and the universe. A must-see for aspiring astronauts!
Life Science Lab
Galleries
Discover the wonders of biology, from fascinating amphibians like Nottasnake to the intricate workings of living organisms.
Pompeii: The Exhibition
Special Exhibit Hall
Step back in time to witness the daily life and dramatic end of Pompeii through ancient artifacts and immersive experiences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free General Admission is a Game Changer
+1Parking Can Be Tricky, Plan Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free General Admission!
Enjoy most of the Science Center for free! Special exhibits, Planetarium, and OMNIMAX have extra costs.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early for free parking. If full, the $15 lot is an option. Consider public transport.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll need 2-3 hours for free exhibits, more if you add special attractions.
🍕 Food & Drink Options
Café offers pizza and more. Picnic tables available outside for a budget-friendly meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free General Admission!
Enjoy most of the Science Center for free! Special exhibits, Planetarium, and OMNIMAX have extra costs.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early for free parking. If full, the $15 lot is an option. Consider public transport.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll need 2-3 hours for free exhibits, more if you add special attractions.
🍕 Food & Drink Options
Café offers pizza and more. Picnic tables available outside for a budget-friendly meal.
✨ Special Events
Check out 'Up Late' for adult-only nights with music and cocktails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Saint Louis Science Center for its free general admission and engaging, interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages. The dinosaur and space exhibits are frequently highlighted as favorites. However, some guests have noted that parking can be a challenge, and special ticketed attractions can add up, impacting the overall value for some.
"The Science Center is very fun and educational. I love all the interactive exhibits they have. The admission is free! There is a free parking lot at the Forest Park entrance and you can find free street parking at either entrance. Every time we go we spend 2-3 hours there. If you only plan on going once, I would definitely plan on being there more than 3 hours."
Will Gausman
"Great fun. Free admission. Parking was tricky they blocked off half of their parking lot due to tree concerns. The museum offers free parking but if full there is a second option but will cost $15. Public bathrooms are clean. We spent 3 hours just at the free sections. One can pay for The planetarium, the IMAX theater, and any other special programs. They have picnic tables outside the front door and a nice green area. Four stars just because of the parking situation."
Rachael Esau
"Our son is a big dinosaur fan, so we decided to go before our dinner reservations on the hill. We had a great time walking around and looking at all the cool stuff. They do have a café inside serving pizza and other stuff. You can grab a beer or cider if you so choose. Good place to let your kids run off some energy, especially on a rainy day."
Rachel C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Saint Louis Science Center is located at 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110. It's easily accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, but be mindful of parking availability.
The Science Center offers free parking in its lot. However, it can fill up quickly. If the main lot is full, there's an alternative lot for a $15 fee. Some visitors have reported tree concerns blocking parts of the lot.
Yes, several Metro bus routes serve the area around the Saint Louis Science Center, making it a viable option for those who prefer not to drive. Check the Metro Transit website for specific route information.
While some street parking might be available, it's often limited and can be challenging to find, especially during peak hours. Relying on the designated parking lots is generally more reliable.
Upon arrival, grab a map from the information desk or use the Science Center's app (if available) to plan your visit. This will help you locate specific exhibits and facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Saint Louis Science Center is free for everyone! This includes access to many of the main galleries and exhibits. +1
While general admission is free, special ticketed attractions include the Planetarium shows, OMNIMAX films, and temporary exhibitions like Pompeii: The Exhibition.
Ticket prices for the Planetarium and OMNIMAX vary. It's best to check the official Saint Louis Science Center website for current pricing and show schedules.
Yes, purchasing tickets for special exhibits, the Planetarium, or OMNIMAX online in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows or during busy periods, to secure your spot.
The Science Center may offer group rates and membership options that provide benefits like discounted or free access to special exhibits. Check their website for details on 'st louis science center membership'.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Dinosaur Exhibit, the Space Science Pavilion, and the Life Science Lab. The Pompeii: The Exhibition is also a highly recommended special attraction.
Absolutely! The Saint Louis Science Center is incredibly kid-friendly with many interactive exhibits designed to engage young minds. It's a great place for families to learn and have fun together.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the free exhibits. If you plan to see special exhibits, the Planetarium, or OMNIMAX, allocate at least 3-4 hours or more.
Yes, the Science Center often hosts live science shows and demonstrations. The 'Fire it Up' science show has been highlighted as particularly engaging for families.
'Up Late' events are special 21+ evenings at the Science Center, featuring themed activities, cocktails, and music, offering a unique adult-only experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a café inside the Science Center that serves items like pizza and other options. You can also purchase alcoholic beverages like beer and cider.
The Science Center provides picnic tables outside the front door, suggesting that bringing your own food for an outdoor meal is a welcome option for visitors.
The café typically offers casual dining options such as pizza and other kid-friendly meals. It's a convenient choice if you need a quick bite during your visit.
Information on specific dietary options at the café is not widely detailed, but casual cafés often have some basic choices. It's advisable to check with the staff upon arrival for current offerings.
Bringing your own food and utilizing the outdoor picnic tables is generally the most budget-friendly option. Café prices can add up, especially for families.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Saint Louis Science Center. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
The Dinosaur Exhibit, with its imposing skeletons, and the Space Science Pavilion, with its celestial displays, offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Pompeii exhibition also provides unique historical backdrops. +1
Mornings on weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering clearer shots without many people in the background. However, the lighting within the exhibits is generally designed for viewing, not necessarily for optimal photography.
Tripods and professional camera equipment may require special permission or may not be allowed to ensure the safety of exhibits and the flow of visitor traffic. It's best to check the Science Center's policy beforehand.
You can find many visitor-shared photos on platforms like Instagram using hashtags like #saintlouissciencecenter or by searching for 'saint louis science center photos' on Google Images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The 'Fire it Up' science show is a particular hit, offering engaging demonstrations that keep children entertained and learning. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 To keep costs even lower, take advantage of the free parking (arrive early!) and consider bringing your own lunch to enjoy at the outdoor picnic tables. 👫 Couples & Adults
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Free Admission
This accessibility fosters a sense of community and encourages repeat visits. Many locals and visitors alike appreciate the opportunity to explore the ever-changing exhibits and permanent collections without the pressure of a high admission fee. It transforms the Science Center from a one-time destination into a regular spot for learning and discovery.
Exploring the OMNIMAX and Planetarium
The McDonnell Planetarium, a landmark in Forest Park, offers live star shows and presentations that explore astronomy and the universe. Visitors can learn about constellations, planets, and the latest discoveries in space science.
Special Exhibitions: Pompeii and Beyond
Visitors could explore authentic artifacts, learn about daily life before the disaster, and experience the dramatic re-creation of the eruption. Reviews suggest that while these special exhibits come with an additional cost, they are often highly engaging and worth the price for the unique learning opportunities they provide. These temporary exhibitions add significant value to the Science Center's offerings, providing fresh content and drawing visitors back for new discoveries. Past exhibitions have covered a range of subjects, from dinosaurs to the science of games, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to explore.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit