Saint Louis Science Center

Introduction to the Saint Louis Science Center

Just south of Forest Park's Oakland Avenue border lies the Saint Louis Science Center. This free museum features more than 700 hands-on exhibits covering topics such as animals, space, weather, and skyscrapers. Among the favorite exhibits are the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, the OMNIMAX Theater, a flight simulator, and the GROW pavilion, which is dedicated to agriculture. Kids will particularly enjoy (or be frightened by) the life-size T. rex.

Visitor Experiences

According to past visitors, the Saint Louis Science Center provides numerous ways to keep kids of all ages entertained. Families especially appreciated the free admission. However, some adult visitors noted the crowded atmosphere, especially on Saturdays and during school breaks. Additionally, some adults felt there were too few exhibits that catered to their interests. The lack of free parking also irritated some recent visitors.

Location and Logistics

Proximity to Other Attractions

Located near Forest Park, the Saint Louis Science Center is about 4 miles from downtown St. Louis. For those using public transportation, the closest MetroLink station is Central West End, which is situated less than a mile northeast of the museum.

Operating Hours and Admission

The museum is open Thursday to Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. General admission is free, but tickets for certain activities, such as planetarium shows, can be purchased through the online ticket portal. Parking fees range from $12 to $15, depending on the day.

Additional Amenities

Other on-site facilities include several gift shops and casual dining venues. For more information, visit the Saint Louis Science Center's website.