VEX Robotics World Championship
Get ready for the world’s largest robotics competition!
From April 21–30, 2026, the VEX Robotics World Championship, presented by the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, makes its St. Louis debut at The Dome at America’s Center in the heart of the city.
This high-energy event unites elementary through college aged students from more than 2,200 VEX IQ, VEX V5, and VEX U Robotics Competition teams from nearly every U.S. state and dozens of countries. The student-designed and built robots showcase innovation, teamwork, and advanced technical skill in fast-paced matches as they compete for the world champion title.
Meet the Teams
Welcome to the ultimate robotics showdown! Before the competition heats up, take a moment to get to know the future innovators. This video introduces the incredibly talented and dedicated teams from around the world who are competing in this year’s VEX Robotics World Championships.
Your Essential Guide to the Gateway City
St. Louis is bursting with one-of-a-kind attractions, restaurants and entertainment options for you to explore before and after your conference duties are done.
Let this be your guide to the best restaurants, shopping, entertainment and attractions the gateway city has to offer.
Traffic & Parking Guide
Planning your arrival for the 2026 VEX Robotics World Championship? View the official traffic map for designated team drop-off locations, pedestrian entrances, and preferred parking at the America’s Center.
Pick your Cuisine
Fun Zone - Booth #9101, Hall 4, America’s Center
While you’re busy building the future at the VEX Robotics World Championship, take a break and discover a little St. Louis magic!
Booth #9101 | Hall 4 at the America’s Center Convention Complex
Open daily | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
This interactive space is your launchpad to explore the city, from hidden gems to must-see attractions just minutes away.
Explore
Meet Local Favorites (select days):
Tuesday, April 21 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍 Fun Zone Booth | Adventures of Intrigue
Friday, April 24 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍 Fun Zone Booth | The Magic House, Museum of Transportation, The Muny
Monday, April 27 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍 Fun Zone Booth | The Butterfly House, Contemporary Art Museum
Tuesday, April 28 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍 Fun Zone Booth | Missouri History Museum, Campbell House
Thursday, April 30 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍 Fun Zone Booth | Eugene Field House & Toy Museum
Create
Interactive Art Experience:
🗓 Saturday, April 25
⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 St. Louis Fun Zone (Booth #9101, Hall 4)Join local artist Kenneth Randle from the Kranzberg Arts Foundation for a hands-on, STEM-inspired art experience.
You’ll create your own custom piece to take home, blending creativity with engineering thinking.
No experience required
Fully guided, step-by-step
Walk away with something you built
A different kind of competition, no judges required.
Give back
Make an impact while you’re here:
Wednesday, April 22 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday, April 23 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday, April 26 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday, April 29 | ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
During each conference wave, one day is dedicated to giving back, with quick, hands-on projects that support the local community.
Get involved:
Assemble Smile Kits and Hygiene Kits
Build STEM-themed book bundles with a stuffed animal (yes, you get to stuff it). Supported by United Way of Greater St. Louis, these activities are designed to be meaningful, easy to join, and worth your time.
St. Louis knows how to have a good time!
When the day’s matches wrap, the fun doesn’t stop!
During the 2026 VEX Robotics World Championship, some of St. Louis’ top attractions will open their doors for special after-hours activities designed for teams and their families.
After a day of competition, it’s the perfect chance to relax, explore and make memories of the city that will last a lifetime.
So, where will we see you?
Adjacent to Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village is all about sports. At the entertainment district, you and your crew can hang out in the outdoor spaces or grab food at a local restaurant.
Where: Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave., St. Louis, MO 63102
When: April 22
What: After you refuel at local haunts such as Katie’s and Salt + Smoke, enjoy yard games at Sports & Social.
How much: Free games
Multistory treehouses, underground tunnels, enchanted caves and sprawling labyrinths beckon explorers to this all-ages attraction. Weirdly wonderful and endlessly inventive, City Museum boasts repurposed architectural treasures transformed into immersive worlds of climbable, crawlable art. Can you think of a better place to play?
City Museum will offer VEX teams and their families discounts any day of their stay – plus, private event nights!
Where: City Museum, 750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, MO 63103
When: April 24 (7 to 10pm), April 27 (7 to 10pm) and April 30 (6 to 9pm)
What: During private event nights, all City Museum spaces, except the rooftop and pinball hall, will be open. 314DJ will set up in Arch Hall, while Karaoke Ashley keeps the energy going in Beatnik Bob’s. Snack stands will also be open for food purchases.
How much: $16 per person
Once one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals in the world, St. Louis Union Station is now a wellspring of family-friendly activity. Anchored by the St. Louis Aquarium and the St. Louis Wheel, it also boasts a ropes course, a mirror maze, a miniature golf course, a selfie experience, a classic carousel and three new amusement rides – all of which will stay open late for you!
Where: St. Louis Union Station, 1820 Market St., St. Louis, MO 63103
When: Sunday, April 26
What: Don’t miss the 3D light show in the Grand Hall – whales swim, flowers dance and fireworks burst in the stunning experience created by Technomedia Solutions, an award-winning collaborator with Cirque du Soleil. Union Station Aquarium will close at 5:00pm.
How much: Prices vary
In a one-of-a-kind experience, dozens of towering lanterns and light displays will illuminate the Saint Louis Zoo. Don’t miss Animals Aglow on a special night designed for you!
Where: Saint Louis Zoo, 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, MO 63110
When: April 29
What: Animals Aglow celebrates the culture, art and beauty of traditional lantern festivals that have been celebrated in China for centuries. The illuminated displays will spotlight Chinese lanterns and folklore as well as wildlife from Africa, South America and the Arctic.
How much: The Saint Louis Zoo will offer a discounted price ($17.95 per person) for Animals Aglow – simply call the group ticket line at 314-646-4781 and reference the “robotics convention.” Note: During regular business hours, the Saint Louis Zoo is free for all.
Upcoming Events in St. Louis
Learn More
Show Your Badge
A variety of Explore St. Louis partners will be offering discounts for VEX attendees. Simply present you conference badge or use the special offer codes provided for online booking to take advantage of these offers.
Cool Kids
From interactive museums and animal encounters to sprawling parks and creative makerspaces, discover why St. Louis is a world-class destination for kids of all ages. This guide highlights the best free attractions, entertainment complexes, and outdoor adventures to help you plan the perfect family getaway.
Traveling Teens
From tech-infused mini golf and high-speed go-karts to world-class contemporary art and trendy neighborhood hangouts, discover the spots that actually impress teenagers. This guide covers the best high-energy adventures, photo-worthy landmarks, and unique entertainment districts across the Gateway City.
Get Out and Explore
See St. Louis through a new lens with guided tours that make it easy to experience more in less time. From walking tours through historic neighborhoods to food tours, architecture highlights, and behind-the-scenes experiences, there is a tour for every interest and schedule. Along the way, you will discover how places like City Foundry STL, St. Louis Union Station, and Gateway Arch National Park are part of a city that continues to evolve while celebrating its history.
Whether you have an hour or an afternoon, tours offer a simple, engaging way to explore between matches. We can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself!
