The Saint Louis Science Center is a hands-on science museum and planetarium at 5050 Oakland Ave in Forest Park, Missouri. More than 700 interactive exhibits cover subjects from dinosaurs and fossils to space, weather, engineering and agriculture. General admission is free, so you can explore the galleries without buying a ticket; the OMNIMAX Theater, planetarium shows and some special exhibits have separate charges. Cross the Skybridge over Interstate 64 to reach the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, or plan a stop in the GROW pavilion to explore agriculture.
A planetarium that grew into a science museum
The Saint Louis Science Center began as a planetarium in 1963. It has since expanded into a complex of buildings in the southeastern part of Forest Park, including the main museum and the James S. McDonnell Planetarium. The main building’s interconnected rectangular sections, white metal panels, concrete surfaces and teal accents give it a futuristic look.
The center’s galleries cover a wide range of subjects, from biology, physics and ecology to space exploration and technology. More than 700 interactive experiences invite you to investigate scientific ideas through activities and displays. Admission to the general galleries is free; some exhibits and experiences require separate tickets.
Hands-on galleries and the GROW pavilion
The exhibits give you plenty to explore at different ages and interests. Dinosaur displays and fossil activities focus on prehistoric life, while galleries about energy, weather, ecology and space take you into other areas of science. The Skybridge over Interstate 64 links the main building to the planetarium, and its windows look down onto the traffic below.
GROW is an indoor-outdoor agricultural pavilion and gallery. Its displays explore agriculture and the journey of food from field to table. The Pompeii exhibit has included nearly 150 authentic artifacts, alongside an interactive film about the city’s destruction. Special exhibits can change, so check the center’s website for what is currently on view.
The planetarium and OMNIMAX Theater
The James S. McDonnell Planetarium is in a separate building linked to the main museum by the Skybridge. Designed by Gyo Obata, it has a thin-shell concrete roof that flares outward around a glass-enclosed exhibition area. Inside, a large artificial sky provides the setting for planetarium shows; the building also displays genuine space capsules.
The four-story OMNIMAX Theater uses a domed screen that fills much of your field of view. Films and planetarium shows are separate from general admission and require tickets. If either is part of your plan, check current showtimes and ticket details before visiting.
Planning your visit
The Science Center is at 5050 Oakland Ave in Forest Park. Its galleries are spread across a large complex, and there is enough to explore for a visit of several hours. Arriving earlier in the day can help you avoid busier periods. The center has a café, restaurant, gift shop and restrooms.
General admission is free, but paid parking and separately ticketed experiences can add to your visit costs. Free street parking is available nearby. The center also has a paid lot; parking details and any ticket-related arrangements are worth checking on the official website before you set out. The website is also the place to confirm current exhibits, showtimes and advance-ticket recommendations.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is admission to the Saint Louis Science Center free?
General admission to the galleries is free. The OMNIMAX Theater, planetarium shows and some special exhibits require separate tickets.
How long should you spend at the Saint Louis Science Center?
Plan on about 2 to 3 hours to explore. The center is large, with more than 700 interactive experiences across its buildings.
Is parking free at the Saint Louis Science Center?
The center has paid parking, and free street parking is available nearby. Check the official website for current parking details.
Does the Science Center have a planetarium?
Yes. The James S. McDonnell Planetarium is connected to the main museum by a Skybridge over Interstate 64. Planetarium shows require tickets.
