Visitor Guide to the Gateway Arch: Top Attractions and Activities

Standing tall against the St. Louis skyline, the Gateway Arch is not just an iconic monument but a symbol of America’s westward expansion. Honestly, I didn’t understand its appeal, but when in St. Louis, a visit is required. And I’m glad I did. I learned so much about the Arch, American history, and St. Louis’s role in forming our nation. Recognized for its unique design, the Arch draws countless visitors eager to learn about its rich history and enjoy its various attractions. It was the one thing I knew about St. Louis before visiting. After all, it is an international icon right on the Mississippi River (and one of the best things to do in Missouri).

Understanding what to expect when visiting this architectural marvel can help improve your experience.

This guide aims to inform you about the must-see locations and activities at the Gateway Arch, helping you navigate your adventure with ease. From the fascinating history to fun facts, prepare to explore all this monument has to offer.

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Parking at the Gateway Arch

Regarding parking, the Gateway Arch National Park does not offer this on-site, so getting your ducks in a row well before you arrive is a good idea. The Stadium East Garage, a stone’s throw away, offers a reasonable parking rate of $9 for the first five hours. You can even snag this preferred parking online beforehand, a savvy move to reduce travel stress. Remember: even with a ticket in hand, you should give yourself a 15-30-minute buffer to pass security checks before entering the Arch. Arrive early to soak in the experience without any rush. You can always walk around the museum if you arrive too early.

Things to do at the Gateway Arch

Visiting the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is an adventure with various activities. Whether you’re interested in America’s history, stunning views, or peaceful green spaces, the Gateway Arch National Park has something for everyone.

Start by exploring the six exhibit galleries at the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which offer a rich interactive experience. Immerse yourself in historical scenes, including a full-sized log house and a scale model of the 1852 St. Louis Riverfront. Honestly, as someone with minimal knowledge of this area, it was a bit overwhelming. I’m glad we split our time before the Tram to the Top and again after so I could soak it in.

Stroll along the five miles of pedestrian pathways in the beautiful 91-acre park. Lose yourself in the serenity of the reflecting ponds and the shade of native Missouri trees. For the little explorers, there’s the Lewis & Clark Explorers’ Garden with unique vantage points to spy the Eads Bridge and the mighty Mississippi River.

Hungry or fancy some shopping? The Arch Café and The Arch Store are conveniently situated in the tram lobby. There, you can grab a bite to eat or pick up a special memento from your visit.

While the Old Courthouse undergoes renovations, you can still admire its historic architecture and the tales it holds by walking around its exterior.

All these activities in the park weave together the rich fabric of this national treasure, making the Gateway Arch an unforgettable visit in a major city like Saint Louis.

Tram Ride to the Top

Experience a unique ride on the Gateway Arch tram. Journey to the top in one of the eight pods, each accommodating five people. During this four-minute ascent, you can see the impressive engineering that went into building the Arch and the tram.

Despite the snug space, which might challenge those with claustrophobia, the sights from the top are worth it. Plan and book your tram ride in advance, as the tickets are a hot commodity!

Expect gorgeous views of the city and the Mississippi River, which stretches for miles. The windows are relatively small, so be prepared to bend over to see out. Before heading down, you have a few minutes to read about the various St. Louis buildings, take photos, and enjoy the views.

The descent is a swift 3-minute journey back to the ground, where interactive exhibits await to enrich your knowledge of the Gateway Arch’s history. You can even see a small tram and how it works!

The Museum at the Gateway Arch

Explore America’s westward expansion at The Museum at the Gateway Arch. With free admission, visitors can dive into history through interactive exhibits, playing a part in the central city’s rich heritage. From learning how the Gateway Arch was constructed via the documentary film on-site to engaging hands-on with the displays, the museum provides a free educational experience for all ages set against the backdrop of this international icon.

Virtual Reality Theater

Step back in time with the Gateway Arch’s Virtual Reality Theater. Visitors can slip on a 3D headset and find themselves in a 360-degree re-creation of the 1850s St. Louis riverfront. Here, you’ll learn through sight and sound about the bustling community of the past, from the dockworkers to the slaves and the settlers bound for the West. This cutting-edge experience perfectly blends art, history, and technology, adding an extra educational dimension to your Gateway Arch visit.

Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse is a building soaked in historical significance. It is where Dred Scott (an enslaved person) began his landmark legal battle for freedom. Although currently undergoing renovations, the courthouse remains a key site for reflection on pivotal civil rights cases. Once reopened, new galleries will invite visitors to learn about events such as the Dred Scott decision and Virginia Minor’s trailblazing case for women’s suffrage. For now, one can still marvel at the structure’s restored exterior and ponder its historical contribution to America’s story.

Riverboat Cruises

Finally, complement your Gateway Arch experience with a delightful riverboat cruise. From March to November, you can sail on the Mississippi River, enjoy the skyline, and view the Gateway Arch from a different perspective. With diverse cruise themes, including a dinner or brunch option and affordable ticket prices, the riverboat cruise offers an enchanting escape that mixes history and leisure on the water.

Important Things to Know Before Visiting the Gateway Arch

Before embarking on your journey to the awe-inspiring Gateway Arch in St. Louis, remember a few key points to ensure a smooth experience. First and foremost, it’s wise to purchase tickets for the Gateway Arch attractions well in advance. Availability can be tight, and spots fill up quickly, so planning will secure your chance to enjoy all the Arch offers. When you arrive, expect to go through a security checkpoint similar to airport security procedures. Given that this can take up to 30 minutes on busy days, arriving early is advised, giving you plenty of time to pass through without rush.

It’s also important to note that while the Gateway Arch symbolizes inclusivity and innovation, the Tram Ride to the Top isn’t fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments. If accessibility is a concern, contact the Arch, as accommodations may be made to support your visit. There are a few stairs, and the pod is relatively tiny.

Given that the Gateway Arch National Park offers a wide range of attractions, including an interactive museum, riverboat cruises, and expansive green spaces, you’ll want to allow for more than three hours to fully engage with the experience.

How Long does it take to tour the Gateway Arch?

When planning the logistics of your visit to the Gateway Arch, timing is everything. Allocate at least 30 minutes for the pre-tram security process, as a smooth entry is crucial for enjoying your day. The tram ride is a quick excursion up and down, with approximately 4 minutes to ascend and 3 minutes to descend (with about 5-10 minutes at the top). However, the sights from the top can captivate you for longer, so don’t rush!

In addition to the tram ride, you’ll want to spend at least one to two hours in the museum. It’s packed with exhibits that delve into the history and significance of the Gateway Arch. Remember, the tram operates every 10 minutes, so while access to the top is efficient, the overall experience merits several hours.

What are the Gateway Arch’s Hours of Operation?

Visitors to the Gateway Arch should take advantage of its regular hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM for most of the year. For those embracing the summer warmth from the Saturday before Memorial Day until Labor Day, the Arch extends its welcome from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Always double-check the operating times before your visit, as they can change. The current hours and pricing arrangements should stay consistent through 2025, making planning straightforward.

Is there a restaurant at the Gateway Arch?

Yes. There is a cafe outside the museum for you to enjoy a meal, snack or beverage. It’s got a lot of grilled items – burgers, hot dogs, ribs, chicken.

How Big is the Gateway Arch?

The Gateway Arch is the tallest arch globally; it reaches an impressive 630 feet (192 meters) skyward. Matching its height, the Arch also spans 630 feet from one base leg to the other, creating a perfect balance. The Gateway Arch is the tallest building in Missouri and claims the title of the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Its robust foundations burrow 60 feet below the surface, supporting a remarkable total weight of 43,226 tons.

Final Thoughts

I’m not a huge history buff, but I’m really glad I got to visit St. Louis and explore the Gateway Arch. The museum was also worth visiting to learn about it. I wish I had seen how the tram worked before going on it; I probably would have been more relaxed!

Gateway Arch National Park gives visitors a unique blend of city and park vibes. It’s an urban exploration haven with smooth paths – no hiking boots are needed! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, though! After our visit, Spencer and I walked along the waterfront to soak it all in!

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