The Aquarium At Union Station St Louis
St. Louis, Missouri is home to one of the most unique aquatic experiences you will ever encounter. The Aquarium at Union Station is an underwater wonderland that is perfect for people of all ages. From the moment you walk through the doors, you are transported to a world of breathtaking marine life that will leave you in awe.
The History of Union Station
Union Station was built in 1894 and served as a hub for train travel in the Midwest. It was once the largest and busiest train station in the world, but as air travel became more popular, train travel declined. The station was eventually closed in 1978 and sat abandoned for many years. In 1985, it was renovated and reopened as a hotel and entertainment complex, and in 2019, the aquarium was added to the list of attractions.
The Exhibits
The Aquarium at Union Station boasts a wide variety of exhibits that showcase marine life from all over the world. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Shark Canyon, which features a 250,000-gallon tank filled with sharks and other predatory fish, and the Jellyfish Gallery, which features a stunning display of colorful jellyfish. The Pacific Northwest exhibit showcases the beauty of the underwater world in the Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Cove exhibit is home to a variety of tropical fish and sea creatures.
The Touch Tank
One of the most popular attractions at the Aquarium at Union Station is the Touch Tank. This exhibit allows visitors to touch and interact with a variety of sea creatures, including starfish, horseshoe crabs, and sea urchins. It is a great way to experience marine life up close and personal.
The Mermaid Experience
The Mermaid Experience is a unique and interactive exhibit that allows visitors to get up close and personal with real-life mermaids. These performers swim around in a tank and interact with visitors, creating a magical and unforgettable experience.
The Conservation Efforts
The Aquarium at Union Station is committed to conservation efforts and education. They have several programs in place to help protect and preserve marine life, including a breeding program for endangered species and educational programs for schools and community organizations. They also have a strong focus on sustainability, with a goal to reduce waste and energy consumption.
The Dining Options
The Aquarium at Union Station offers several dining options for visitors. The Shark Bar is a popular spot to grab a drink and a bite to eat while enjoying views of the Shark Canyon exhibit. The Train Shed Restaurant offers a more formal dining experience, with a menu that features seafood and other fare inspired by marine life.
The Gift Shop
The Aquarium at Union Station has a gift shop that is full of unique and fun items for visitors of all ages. They offer a wide variety of souvenirs, including plush toys, t-shirts, and other marine-themed items. The gift shop is a great place to pick up a memento of your visit to the aquarium.
Plan Your Visit
If you are planning a visit to St. Louis, the Aquarium at Union Station is a must-see attraction. It is open seven days a week and offers a variety of ticket options, including combo tickets that include admission to other attractions at Union Station. You can purchase tickets online or at the box office.
Conclusion
The Aquarium at Union Station is a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed. From the stunning exhibits to the interactive touch tank and the magical Mermaid Experience, there is something for everyone at this underwater wonderland. Be sure to plan your visit to St. Louis and add the Aquarium at Union Station to your itinerary!
