St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station offers 120,000 square feet of underwater wonder inside the beautifully renovated historic train station. Kids can get hands-on with jellyfish touch tanks, watch playful otters perform their antics, and stand in awe beneath the massive 250,000-gallon shark tank featuring a walk-through tunnel that puts you right in the action.

• ✓Walk-through shark tunnel with 250,000-gallon tank overhead and around you
• ✓Hands-on jellyfish touch tanks where kids can gently interact with moon jellies
• ✓Playful river otter exhibit with underwater viewing windows
• ✓Interactive kids' play zone with water-themed activities
• ✓Stingray touch pool where kids can feel the smooth rays glide under their fingers

1. 1.Arrive right when they open (9 AM) to beat the crowds and have the touch tanks practically to yourself,afternoons can get busy with school groups.
2. 2.Download the aquarium app before your visit to access the interactive scavenger hunt that keeps kids engaged throughout the exhibits.
3. 3.Park in the Union Station garage which connects directly to the aquarium entrance,no need to go outside, perfect for hot summers or rainy days.
4. 4.Don't miss the otter feeding demonstrations (check schedule at entry),they're incredibly entertaining and educational for kids.
5. 5.Combine your visit with the St. Louis Wheel and mini-golf also located at Union Station for a full day of entertainment without moving your car.

Weekday mornings (Monday-Thursday at 9 AM opening) offer the most relaxed experience with smaller crowds. Fridays and Saturdays extend hours until 6 PM, giving you flexibility but expect more visitors, especially during school breaks.

Tickets typically run $25-30 per person with discounts for children under 3. The aquarium is fully accessible and stroller-friendly. Food options include the Food Hall at Union Station just outside the aquarium exit with multiple family-friendly vendors.

Open year-round with consistent indoor climate-controlled comfort, making it an excellent rainy day or hot summer escape. Check their website for special holiday events like Halloween-themed activities in October and festive decorations during the winter season.

The Union Station Food Hall (connected to the aquarium) offers diverse options from pizza to BBQ in a family-friendly setting. For sit-down dining, try Landry's Seafood Kitchen also inside Union Station, which has a kids' menu and continues the aquatic theme.