Whether you’re a kindergartener or a curious adult, the Saint Louis Science Center has a summer experience tailored just for you. As one of the only free-admission nonprofit science museums in the country, the Science Center brings hands-on learning to life across 10 interactive galleries in the heart of Forest Park.
And this summer, it’s hosting programming that spans ancient history, exciting visuals, cutting-edge cinema, and even an after-hours event for grownups.
Travel back in time with POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION
Open through September, POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION brings to life the story of a city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. With nearly 150 authentic artifacts—including a 6.5-foot marble statue of Aphrodite, rare glasswork, frescoes, and gladiator gear—this immersive exhibit allows visitors to walk the streets of Pompeii, explore Roman villas, and witness the final moments of a thriving civilization.
An immersive 4D simulation recreates the two-day eruption, engaging visitors’ senses with sights and sounds. The exhibit also features body casts of real victims preserved by volcanic ash, offering a deeply moving glimpse into history.
Tickets start at $15 for members with dynamic pricing for nonmembers based on the date and amenities. Kids ages 4 and younger get in free but still require a ticket.
Get lost in light and sound: Laser Shows return
This summer marks the return of a beloved tradition: Laser Shows at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium. Running June 20 through August 10, these shows celebrate five decades of audio-visual magic.
Each performance sets music from legendary artists—Taylor Swift, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Queen, and more—to a stunning, full-dome laser display that wraps around the entire space. With weekend shows selling out fast, it’s a sensory journey you won’t want to miss.
Tickets are $13 for the public and $11 for members.
Blockbusters on a giant scale: Films at the OMNIMAX
Do you want to cool down indoors? The Science Center’s OMNIMAX® Theater offers a one-of-a-kind moviegoing experience with its five-story dome screen and IMAX® with laser projection.
This summer’s lineup includes:
- The Blue Angels: Fly alongside Navy pilots through a full season of elite aerial training.
- Superhuman Body: Dive deep into the wonders of the human body and the technologies changing healthcare.
- T. REX: Follow a true fossil dig story, and see the mighty dino brought to life with CGI.
- Wild Rescue: Meet the wildlife heroes working to save orphaned and injured animals.
- Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation: Watch Earth’s raw power unfold through explosive eruptions and molten terrain.
Showtimes and ticket info are at slsc.org/explore/omnimax-theater/.
Science Center Up Late: Experience Sound
Science gets a grownup twist with the launch of “Science Center Up Late,” a new after-hours event series for ages 21 and older.
The inaugural event, “Experience Sound,” takes place July 19 and transforms the museum into an interactive celebration of audio in all its forms.
Highlights include:
- A planetarium sound bar inspired by Japanese jazz cafés (Jazu Kissa)
- Quantum Disco—a silent disco with multiple channels of music beneath the T. rex
- Pop-up jams with handmade instruments in the Play-A-Long lounge
- “Two Scientists Walk Into a Bar” Q&A sessions with local STEM experts
- Demos of custom car audio systems
- Local drinks from Steampunk Brew Works and STilL 630, plus themed snacks
Tickets are $20 or $15 for members.
Support the Mission
As a nonprofit, the Science Center relies on the community’s support to keep its doors open and exhibits thriving. Becoming a member not only helps bring more hands-on science to the community—it comes with great perks, too. Think free parking, tickets to the OMNIMAX® Theater and Planetarium shows, exclusive event invites, and discounts throughout the museum.
From prehistoric predators to futuristic audio bars, the Science Center offers a little something for everyone this summer. Whether you join for yourself or give a membership to a fellow science lover, it’s a fun way to give back and stay curious all year long.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of the Saint Louis Science Center. For more information on the Saint Louis Science Center and this year’s exhibits and events, visit slsc.org.
