The story of the largest creatures ever on Earth will come alive at the Saint Louis Science Center as part of a new special exhibition: The Blue Whale Story. Running from May 23, 2026, to January 10, 2027, the exhibition presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand alongside a graceful ocean giant. Learn more about this exhibition at: slsc.org/blue-whale.
About “BLUE” and the Size of Blue Whales
The featured specimen on display in The Blue Whale Story is a nearly 80-foot long, female blue whale named “Blue,” that was recovered after the tragic passing of nine endangered North Atlantic blue whales that became trapped in sea ice off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, in 2014. Through hands-on experiences; life-sized replicas of Blue’s skeleton, heart and jaws; and first-hand scientific discovery; the exhibition offers the rare opportunity to feel the awe, wonder and respect for one of Earth’s most extraordinary creatures without leaving the Gateway City.
Blue whales are immense — the largest animals to have ever lived on Earth! These whales:
- Grow to more than 100 feet in length (larger than a full tennis court or standard semi-truck).
- Weigh up to 400,000 pounds (equal to about 33 male African elephants or one Boeing 747 airplane with no passengers).
- Have the largest heart ever found in the animal kingdom (weighing more than 400 pounds and measuring the size of a small car).
- Carry approximately 1,300 gallons of oxygen in their lungs.
- Have tongues that weigh nearly 8,900 pounds.
About The Blue Whale Story
Produced and circulated by the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto, Canada, The Blue Whale Story gives scientists and guests the rare opportunity to gain a better understanding of these rare creatures. Life-sized replicas allow visitors to experience the whale’s huge size up close and discover how they evolved from a wolf-sized, deer-like mammal called Pakicetus that lived on land 50 million years ago. Guests will also discover how blue whales feed, breathe and communicate through interactive areas within the exhibit. Another area of the exhibition invites individuals to recognize why protecting these gentle giants is essential to keeping our oceans healthy for future generations.
Tickets to The Blue Whale Story will go on sale to Science Center members on April 11 and everyone on April 18. Ticket prices are $8 for Science Center members; $16 for adults (ages 13-59); $12 for children (ages 5-12); $14 those ages 60 or older and military personnel; and $10 per person for groups of 10 or larger. Purchase tickets online at slsc.org, by phone at 314-289-4424 or in person at the Science Center box office.
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