Gateway Arch National Park

When you think of St. Louis, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the breathtaking Gateway Arch. Standing at an impressive 630 feet, this stunning structure has become the symbol of the city and a key destination for travelers. But what makes the Gateway Arch National Park such a must-visit spot? Let's take a deep dive into its history, significance, and what you can expect when you visit.

What to Know

The Gateway Arch National Park is more than just the colossal arch; it is a historical park that illustrates St. Louis as the ‘Gateway to the West. ’ The park is the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial that celebrates the history of the westward expansion of America, the Louisiana Purchase, and the Lewis and Clark expedition. 

The park includes Gateway Arch, a museum that is part of the Gateway Arch, and the Old Courthouse where the Dred and Harriet Scott case among other significant cases was presided over. This area has been maintained by the National Park Service and the sightseeing as well as the information received is quite enthralling. 

How to Get There 

The park is situated in the heart of St. Louis and thus reachable by different modes of transport. Regardless of whether you are coming from other states or arriving at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, you will find that accessing the Gateway Arch National Park is very easy. If you are already in the city, then there are buses and Metrolink which will take you to the park gate. 

When you get there, there is enough parking space close to Busch Stadium and near the river; this will afford you a chance to tour the park as well as the downtown area. 

Best Time to Visit 

The Gateway Arch National Park is open all year round but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn. These seasons are not extreme and therefore, there are many things that one can do such as take a walk around the riverfront or visit the visitor center. 

Nonetheless, during summer, one gets an opportunity to access the site for more hours and even more touring, but in the winter season, it is less crowded hence less traffic. But do ensure that you dress appropriately if you are visiting during winter, the winds from the Mississippi River are cold! 

Highlights

There’s plenty to see and do within the Gateway Arch National Park, so here are some of the park's top highlights:

The Gateway Arch

The most prominent attraction of the park is, naturally, the Gateway Arch. This structure was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and was completed on the 28th of October in 1965 and represents modern engineering and design. The arch is built using stainless steel and has a height of 630 feet and a width of 630 feet and is the tallest man-made monument in the U.S. 

The Ride to the Top 

The other fun thing one can do at the park is to take the tram to the top of the arch. The tram ride is quite interesting; it slowly hoists one inside the arch as it gets to the top. There you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful sights of downtown St. Louis, the Mississippi River, and even Busch Stadium. It is a very beautiful experience that you cannot afford to miss. 

Museum at the Gateway Arch

Another place that would not let you down is the museum in the Gateway Arch. The museum represents the history of St. Louis and its role in the westward expansion process. There are exhibits on the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Louisiana Purchase, and the Dred Scott case, which was a major tragedy in the history of civil rights in America. The museum also has special displays which make the visitors engaged in the museum through fun and learning throughout their age. 

The Old Courthouse 

A few minutes’ walk from the arch leads to the Old Courthouse which is an integral part of the park. It was here that one of the most historical cases of the freedom of African Americans was tried, namely the Dred and Harriet Scott case. The building is the courthouse and it is a very beautiful building with a big dome and beautiful interior decoration of the 19th century.

What to Expect at Gateway Arch National Park

When you visit the Gateway Arch National Park, you’re stepping into a space where history, architecture, and natural beauty converge. The park is located along the Mississippi River, giving it a scenic backdrop that enhances your experience. From the moment you arrive at the visitor center, you’ll be drawn in by the park’s rich history and the awe-inspiring sight of the arch.

Be sure to take advantage of the National Park Service rangers, who are on hand to give guided tours and answer any questions you may have about the St. Louis Arch, the Lewis and Clark expedition, or the park’s significance to westward expansion.

Features

Some of the key features of the park include:

- The stainless steel construction of the arch symbolizes modern engineering.

- A visitor center that serves as the starting point for most tours and activities.

- The Gateway Arch Museum houses exhibits related to Lewis and Clark, westward expansion, and the Dred Scott case.

- Old Courthouse, the historic location of the famous Dred and Harriet Scott case.

FAQs

What is the Gateway Arch National Park? 

The Gateway Arch National Park is a park that is a National Park Service unit in St. Louis, Missouri. It celebrates the westward expansion of the United States and consists of the Arch, a museum, and the Old Courthouse. 

How tall is the Gateway Arch? 

It is 630 feet high and is the tallest man-made monument in the United States, the structure is made of stainless steel and represents the gateway to the west. 

Who designed the Gateway Arch? 

The arch was designed by a Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen. It was constructed in the 1940s when he emerged winner in a national design competition and the construction of the arch was finalized in October 1965. 

Can you go to the top of the arch? 

Yes! Tourists can take a tramway to the top of the arch and the view of St. Louis, the Mississippi River, and the other places is worth seeing. 

What is the significance of the Old Courthouse? 

The Old Courthouse is where the Dred and Harriet Scott case was heard, and this was one of the most important cases in the history of the American civil rights. It is also a memorial to Thomas Jefferson and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

Tips for Visiting Gateway Arch National Park

Ride to the Arch 

If you want to go to the top of the arch, one should buy tickets in advance since they run out quickly especially in summer. 

Wear Comfortable Shoes 

The park has various pathways and historical sites hence make sure you wear comfortable shoes. 

Pack a Camera

The scenic views of the arch as well as the Mississippi River is something one would not want to miss in their cameras. 

Visit Nearby Sites

Other nearby sites that you should also consider visiting include Busch Stadium, Citygarden, and the Old Courthouse. 

Other Notable Nearby Attractions 

Busch Stadium:

You gotta visit this stadium if you are a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. 

Old Courthouse:

This building was the courtroom where that exciting Dred and Harriet Scott case which is obviously a very significant case in the history of civil rights in the United States of America was presided over. 

Mississippi Riverboat Cruises:

Take a leisurely boat tour along the Mississippi River and listen to the stories about the river and its role. Or just put your headphones on and enjoy the peaceful environment of the riverside.