St Louis Zoo To St Louis Aquarium
Introduction
St Louis, Missouri is home to some of the most amazing attractions in the United States. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the world-renowned St Louis Zoo, the city offers a plethora of places to explore and enjoy. However, there is one attraction that has been making headlines for quite some time now - the St Louis Aquarium at Union Station.
The St Louis Aquarium is a state-of-the-art facility that houses over 13,000 animals and 44 different species. It is one of the most impressive aquariums in the country and has quickly become a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. But where did the idea for the St Louis Aquarium come from, and how does it compare to the St Louis Zoo? In this article, we will take a journey through time and nature to explore the St Louis Zoo and the St Louis Aquarium.
The History of the St Louis Zoo
The St Louis Zoo was founded in 1910 and is one of the oldest zoos in the country. It is also one of the largest, with over 16,000 animals and 600 species. The zoo has always been known for its commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education, and has won numerous awards for its efforts.
In the early days, the St Louis Zoo was a small park with a few animals and a handful of visitors. However, over the years, it has grown into a world-class facility that attracts millions of visitors every year. Today, the zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, from exotic birds and big cats to insects and reptiles.
The St Louis Zoo Today
The St Louis Zoo is a beloved destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and animal lovers. It offers a wide variety of exhibits and attractions, including the Penguin and Puffin Coast, the Primate House, and the Sea Lion Sound. The zoo also has a number of educational programs and events, such as Zoo Adventures, Zoo Nights, and Zoo Camps.
One of the most notable things about the St Louis Zoo is that it is free to the public. Visitors can explore the zoo at their leisure, take guided tours, or attend animal encounters. The zoo also has several restaurants and gift shops, as well as a train ride that takes visitors on a tour of the park.
The Birth of the St Louis Aquarium
The St Louis Aquarium at Union Station opened its doors in December 2019, after years of planning and construction. The aquarium is located inside the historic Union Station building, which was once the largest train station in the world. The building had been vacant for many years before being renovated and transformed into a world-class aquarium.
The St Louis Aquarium is a 120,000 square foot facility that features a variety of exhibits and attractions. It is home to over 13,000 animals and 44 different species, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The aquarium also has a number of interactive exhibits, such as touch pools and a virtual reality experience.
The St Louis Aquarium Today
The St Louis Aquarium has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in St Louis. It offers visitors a unique and immersive experience, with exhibits that showcase the wonders of the underwater world. The aquarium also has a variety of educational programs and events, such as Behind the Scenes tours and Sea Turtle Rescue.
One of the most impressive things about the St Louis Aquarium is its commitment to conservation and sustainability. The aquarium has a number of initiatives in place to reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote environmental awareness. For example, the aquarium uses a state-of-the-art filtration system that recycles 95% of the water in the exhibits.
St Louis Zoo vs St Louis Aquarium
So, how do the St Louis Zoo and the St Louis Aquarium compare? Both attractions offer visitors a unique and exciting experience, but they are quite different in terms of their focus and offerings.
The St Louis Zoo is primarily focused on land animals, with exhibits that showcase everything from big cats to insects. It is a free attraction that offers visitors the chance to explore at their leisure, with a variety of educational programs and events.
The St Louis Aquarium, on the other hand, is focused on the underwater world, with exhibits that showcase everything from sharks to sea turtles. It is a paid attraction that offers visitors a more immersive and interactive experience, with a variety of educational programs and events.
Ultimately, both the St Louis Zoo and the St Louis Aquarium are must-visit destinations in St Louis. Whether you are a nature lover, animal enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, these attractions offer something for everyone.
Conclusion
The St Louis Zoo and the St Louis Aquarium are two of the most impressive attractions in the United States. They offer visitors a unique and exciting experience, with exhibits that showcase the wonders of the natural world. Whether you are exploring the vast expanse of the St Louis Zoo or diving into the depths of the St Louis Aquarium, you are sure to be amazed and inspired by the beauty and diversity of nature.