The St. Louis Aquarium is a popular tourist destination in Missouri, attracting visitors of all ages with its stunning exhibits and interactive experiences. As a family-friendly attraction, the aquarium offers a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world and learn about the importance of conservation and marine life. With its grand opening in 2020, the St. Louis Aquarium has quickly become a must-visit destination in the region, and its popularity continues to grow.
As with any popular attraction, one of the most common questions visitors ask is about the cost of admission. In this article, we will delve into the details of how much the St. Louis Aquarium costs, including ticket prices, packages, and special deals. We will also explore the various exhibits and experiences available at the aquarium, as well as the benefits of purchasing an annual pass.
Ticket Prices and Packages
The St. Louis Aquarium offers a range of ticket options to suit different budgets and preferences. General admission tickets start at $24.99 for adults and $19.99 for children aged 2-12. Children under 2 years old are admitted free. Seniors and military personnel receive a discounted rate of $22.99 for adults and $18.99 for children aged 2-12.
In addition to general admission, the aquarium offers several packages and add-ons to enhance your visit. These include:
- Aquarium Explorer Package: This package includes general admission, a behind-the-scenes tour, and a souvenir cup. It costs $44.99 for adults and $34.99 for children aged 2-12.
- Sea Life Encounter Package: This package includes general admission, a sea life encounter experience, and a souvenir cup. It costs $54.99 for adults and $44.99 for children aged 2-12.
- Annual Pass: The aquarium offers an annual pass that grants unlimited admission for one year. The cost is $69.99 for adults and $59.99 for children aged 2-12.
- Group Rates: The aquarium offers discounted rates for groups of 10 or more people. Contact the aquarium directly for more information.
Exhibits and Experiences
The St. Louis Aquarium features a range of exhibits and experiences that cater to different interests and ages. Some of the highlights include:
The Shark Tunnel
Get up close and personal with sharks, stingrays, and other marine animals in this 120-foot-long tunnel. The Shark Tunnel is a must-see exhibit for any aquarium visitor. (See Also: How Much Is Tampa Aquarium? Admission Prices Revealed)
The Coral Reef Exhibit
Explore the vibrant colors and diversity of the coral reef, featuring a stunning array of fish, sea fans, and coral.
The Sea Life Encounter
Get hands-on experience with marine animals such as stingrays, sharks, and sea stars in this interactive exhibit.
The Penguin Exhibit
Watch the antics of the aquarium’s colony of African penguins, featuring a large viewing area and interactive experiences.
The Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Take a guided tour behind the scenes of the aquarium, featuring a behind-the-scenes look at the aquarium’s operations, animal care, and conservation efforts.
Benefits of an Annual Pass
Purchasing an annual pass to the St. Louis Aquarium offers several benefits, including: (See Also: How Long To Spend At Sea Life Aquarium? Ultimate Guide)
- Unlimited Admission: Enjoy unlimited admission to the aquarium for one year.
- Free Parking: Annual pass holders receive free parking at the aquarium.
- Discounts on Food and Merchandise: Annual pass holders receive discounts on food and merchandise at the aquarium.
- Exclusive Events: Annual pass holders receive invitations to exclusive events and experiences at the aquarium.
Special Deals and Promotions
The St. Louis Aquarium often offers special deals and promotions throughout the year. Some of the current deals include:
- Discounted Tickets for Military Personnel: The aquarium offers discounted tickets for military personnel and their families.
- Student Discount: The aquarium offers discounted tickets for students with a valid student ID.
- Senior Discount: The aquarium offers discounted tickets for seniors aged 65 and older.
- Group Discounts: The aquarium offers discounted rates for groups of 10 or more people.
Recap
In conclusion, the St. Louis Aquarium offers a range of ticket options and packages to suit different budgets and preferences. With its stunning exhibits and interactive experiences, the aquarium is a must-visit destination for families and marine life enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer visit, the St. Louis Aquarium has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit the St. Louis Aquarium?
A: The best time to visit the St. Louis Aquarium is during the weekdays, avoiding peak summer months and school holidays. This will help you avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks into the aquarium?
A: Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the aquarium. However, please note that there are designated eating areas and food and drink vendors available throughout the aquarium.
Q: Are the aquarium’s exhibits wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the St. Louis Aquarium is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing easy access to all exhibits and areas. (See Also: Ripley’s Aquarium How Long to Visit? Plan Your Day)
Q: Can I take photos and videos at the aquarium?
A: Yes, you are allowed to take photos and videos at the aquarium for personal use. However, please note that flash photography and tripods are not permitted in certain exhibits.
Q: Do you offer birthday party packages?
A: Yes, the St. Louis Aquarium offers birthday party packages for children aged 5-12. Contact the aquarium directly for more information and to book your party.