Visiting Hours and Admission
Standard Hours (Summer 2025)
- Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday & Wednesday Closed
- Last entry 30 minutes before closing
Hours may change seasonally or for special events. Always check the official hours before planning your visit.
Admission
- General admission Free
- Ticketed experiences OMNIMAX® Theater, special exhibitions (e.g., “Pompeii: The Exhibition”), and Discovery Room require paid tickets
- Discounts Available for students, seniors, military, and groups
For ticket purchases and the latest pricing, visit the ticketing page or call 314.289.4424.
Ticketed Attractions and Membership
OMNIMAX® Theater
- Five-story IMAX® Dome with Laser technology
- Separate admission required (OMNIMAX® Theater)
Special Exhibitions
- Rotating attractions such as "Pompeii: The Exhibition" and STEAM-focused art installations
- Tickets required; photography (without flash) is generally permitted (Pompeii: The Exhibition)
Discovery Room
- Hands-on activities for children; timed-entry tickets recommended
Membership
- Benefits include free OMNIMAX® tickets, discounts, and special event access (Membership Info)
Key Exhibits and Special Experiences
Permanent Galleries
- Life Science Lab Hands-on biology and chemistry experiments
- Ecology & Environment Missouri habitats, sustainability, and renewable energy
- Human Adventure Explore medical history and human performance
- Structures & Engineering Interactive bridge and tower building
- Energy Stage Live science demonstrations (SLSC Explore)
Signature Experiences
- James S. McDonnell Planetarium Immersive astronomy shows on a 24-meter dome
- GROW Gallery Agriculture and sustainability, with a working greenhouse (SLSC GROW)
- Fossil & Dinosaur Exhibits Animatronic dinosaurs and dig pits
- MakerSpace Creative workshop for building and experimentation
Special Events
- First Fridays Monthly themed evenings with extended hours (Town & Tourist)
- Community STEM Showcases Annual celebrations of local scientific achievements
Accessibility, Amenities, and Visitor Guidelines
- ADA Compliance Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout
- Sensory Friendly Science Time Sundays 9:30–11:30 AM; quieter, more comfortable environment
- Service Animals Welcome
- Amenities Nursing rooms, free Wi-Fi, family restrooms, seasonal coat check
For more details, see the accessibility page.
Visitor Code of Conduct: Supervise children, respect staff instructions, and adhere to photography policies (Visitor Guidelines).
Travel Tips and Getting There
- Address 5050 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO
- Parking Available at Oakland Building and Planetarium (check for any closures)
- Public Transit Served by MetroBus; rideshare from downtown and Central West End
- Skybridge Connects the Oakland Building and Planetarium over I-64
Visual Aid: Science Center & Forest Park Map
Events, Programs, and Community Engagement
Youth Programs
- Youth Exploring Science (YES) Hands-on STEM research and mentorship for teens
- STEM Explorers Camp Week-long summer camps
- SciFest Themed community events and workshops (SLSC Programs & Events)
Community Partnerships
- Part of the Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District (ZMD)
- Collaborates with schools, nonprofits, and local businesses
Donor and Membership Societies
- Albert Einstein Society and Galileo Society: Support educational initiatives (St. Louis Moms)
Dining, Shopping, and Family Services
- Café Sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly meals; no outside food except for medical/infant needs
- Gift Shop Science kits, books, and souvenirs
- Family Amenities Stroller rentals, nursing rooms, and family restrooms (Explore St. Louis)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Science Center’s visiting hours?
A: Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday 9:30 AM–4:30 PM; Friday 9:30 AM–7:30 PM; closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Check official hours for changes.
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes. Ticketed attractions such as OMNIMAX® and special exhibits require a fee.
Q: Is the Science Center accessible?
A: Yes, with ADA-compliant facilities and sensory-friendly times.
Q: Are there group rates or memberships?
A: Yes, group rates and various membership levels are available.
Q: How do I get there and park?
A: By car (parking on-site), MetroBus, or rideshare. Skybridge connects the Oakland Building and Planetarium.
Nearby St. Louis Attractions
- Saint Louis Zoo
- Saint Louis Art Museum
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- Missouri History Museum and Forest Park’s trails and gardens
Combining your Science Center visit with these attractions makes for a memorable day in St. Louis (Explore St. Louis).
Summary and Planning Tips
The Saint Louis Science Center stands as a dynamic hub for science exploration and education. Free general admission, robust ticketed experiences, and a commitment to accessibility ensure all visitors can engage with world-class exhibits and programming. For the best experience:
- Check current hours and ticket availability before visiting
- Arrive early on weekends or during special events
- Explore membership options for added value
- Use the Audiala app for guided tours and real-time updates
Whether you’re attending a live science demonstration, exploring the GROW gallery, or enjoying the OMNIMAX® Theater, the Science Center offers something for everyone.
