Are you planning a visit to the St. Louis Aquarium and wondering how much you’ll need to budget for tickets? You’re not alone. Many families and friends want to know the ticket prices before they plan their exciting day at this popular attraction.
Key Takeaways
- Ticket Pricing: General admission costs $29.99 for adults and $19.99 for children ages 3-12, while kids under 3 enter for free.
- Membership Benefits: Annual memberships start at $135 for individuals and $200 for families, providing unlimited access and special perks.
- Discount Opportunities: Look for group rates, senior discounts, and seasonal promotions that can lower ticket costs significantly.
- Visitor Experience: Expect interactive exhibits and engaging shows that enhance learning and fun for all ages.
- Additional Costs: Budget for parking fees, food, souvenirs, and optional interactive experiences to ensure a complete visit experience.
- Accessibility: The aquarium is located at Union Station, offering easy access via public transit and available parking options.
Overview Of The St. Louis Aquarium
The St. Louis Aquarium features over 13,000 aquatic animals across 1,400 species. It emphasizes education, conservation, and connection with aquatic life, providing a fun experience for all ages.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary based on age and types of access. General admission tickets typically cost:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (Ages 13+) | $29.99 |
| Child (Ages 3-12) | $19.99 |
| Child Under 3 | Free |
Special Offers
Discounts might apply for groups, military members, and local residents. Check for online promotions, as purchasing tickets online can offer you savings.
Membership Options
Membership provides unlimited access to the aquarium for a year. Annual membership costs around $135 for an individual and $200 for a family of four. This option is great if you plan to visit multiple times.
Accessing the Aquarium
The aquarium is located within Union Station, making it easily accessible via public transportation or personal vehicle. Parking options are available, but it’s best to arrive early during busy weekends.
Hours of Operation
The St. Louis Aquarium operates daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Be sure to confirm the hours prior to your visit, especially during holidays.
Visitor Experience
Expect interactive exhibits and engaging shows featuring marine life. The aquarium aims to provide an immersive experience, encouraging hands-on learning. Plan ahead to enhance your visit with scheduled presentations and feeding times.
This overview offers essential details about ticket pricing and accessibility to help you plan your visit effectively.
Ticket Prices
Understanding ticket prices is essential for planning your visit to the St. Louis Aquarium. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with entry.
General Admission
Adults aged 13 and older pay $29.99 for general admission. Children aged 3 to 12 incur a fee of $19.99. Children under 3 enjoy free entry, making it a great option for families.
Child and Senior Discounts
Discounted tickets may apply for certain groups. For children, the standard admission price applies, but be on the lookout for special offers that may lower costs. Seniors often experience reduced rates—check the aquarium’s website for the latest details on pricing for seniors or groups.
Special Packages and Memberships
Look into special packages that might offer family rates or group discounts. Memberships are another fantastic option for frequent visitors. Individual memberships cost approximately $135, while a family membership (up to four people) is around $200. These memberships grant unlimited access to the aquarium throughout the year, plus additional perks like exclusive events and discounts in the gift shop.
Seasonal Promotions and Offers
The St. Louis Aquarium often features seasonal promotions and offers that can significantly reduce your ticket costs. Here are some of the promotions you might find throughout the year:
- Holiday Specials: Discounts or special rates often occur during holidays. For example, you might find reduced prices around the winter holidays or special family days.
- Membership Deals: The aquarium regularly offers promotional rates for new memberships, especially at the start of the year. If you’re considering frequent visits, check for any offers that provide extra savings.
- Local Resident Discounts: On certain days, local residents may enjoy discounted admission prices. If you live nearby, keep an eye out for these offers.
- Group Rates: Organizations or groups visiting together often qualify for discounted ticket pricing. Booking for ten people or more can lead to notable savings.
- Special Events: Look for special events like “Aquarium After Dark” that may feature reduced admission rates for a limited time. These events often provide a unique experience with themed activities.
- Promotional Codes: Occasionally, the aquarium partners with local businesses or organizations to distribute promotional codes. These codes can provide additional savings online.
Check the St. Louis Aquarium’s official website or sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on all current promotions and offers. Taking advantage of these seasonal deals enhances your visit while keeping your budget intact.
Additional Costs Beyond Admission
Visiting the St. Louis Aquarium incurs expenses beyond the ticket price. Understanding these additional costs helps you budget for your trip effectively.
Parking Fees
Parking fees apply if you plan to drive. The aquarium shares a space with Union Station, where parking generally costs about $12 for the day. Arriving early increases the chance of snagging a convenient spot.
Food and Beverages
You won’t find outside food allowed in the aquarium. Snack and meal options within the venue range from quick bites to sit-down meals. Plan for approximately $15-25 per person for meals and drinks during your visit.
Souvenirs
Souvenirs enhance your experience. The aquarium gift shop offers items like plush toys, educational games, and gear. Budget around $10-20 per person for fun keepsakes.
Interactive Experiences
Interactive experiences, such as animal encounters, offer unique opportunities. Prices for these encounters vary but expect to pay around $15-40 per person for exclusive hands-on activities.
Special Events
Check for seasonal events that might have extra costs. These events can provide unique experiences, often at an additional fee between $5-20. Explore the event calendar on the aquarium’s website before your visit.
Membership Upgrades
For frequent visitors, consider membership options. While memberships offer significant savings and perks, special upgrades may incur added fees. Review membership details for any potential upgrades that could enhance your experience.
Awareness of these additional costs ensures thorough planning and a more enjoyable visit to the St. Louis Aquarium.
Conclusion
Planning your visit to the St. Louis Aquarium can be both exciting and budget-friendly. By knowing the ticket prices and potential discounts you can make the most of your experience without breaking the bank.
Don’t forget to explore membership options if you think you’ll visit often. They can offer great value along with exclusive perks.
Keep an eye on seasonal promotions and check the aquarium’s website for the latest deals. With a little planning you’ll be all set for a fun-filled day surrounded by incredible aquatic life. Enjoy your adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices for the St. Louis Aquarium?
Ticket prices vary: general admission is $29.99 for adults (ages 13+), $19.99 for children (ages 3-12), and free for children under 3. Discounts may be available for seniors and groups. Check the aquarium’s website for the latest prices.
Are there any discounts or special offers for tickets?
Yes, the St. Louis Aquarium offers seasonal promotions, local resident discounts, and group rates. It’s best to visit their official website or sign up for the newsletter to stay updated on current offers.
How much do memberships cost at the aquarium?
Memberships at the St. Louis Aquarium cost around $135 for individuals and $200 for families of four. These memberships provide unlimited annual access along with exclusive events and discounts at the gift shop.
What additional costs should I expect when visiting?
In addition to admission, visitors should budget for parking fees (approximately $12), food and beverages ($15-25 per person), souvenirs ($10-20), and interactive experiences like animal encounters ($15-40). Seasonal events may have extra fees of $5-20.
What are the aquarium’s operating hours?
The St. Louis Aquarium operates daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the exhibits and shows.
How can I get to the St. Louis Aquarium?
The aquarium is conveniently located within Union Station, accessible by public transportation or personal vehicle. Parking options are available, making it easy for visitors to reach the attraction.
