The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, which is mostly recognised as an iconic monument, is actually a part of a national park. The Dred Scott case, the Louisiana Purchase, and the 19th-century westward expansion were all commemorated by the construction of the arch. Not far from the Gateway Arch National Park (formerly known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial) is also where the Lewis & Clark expedition started.

Today, you may visit significant locations including the Old Courthouse, the Visitor Center, and the Museum at the Gateway Arch in addition to the arch itself. For refreshments and souvenirs, there is a shop and cafe. To find out about all the attractions you simply must see when visiting Gateway Arch National Park, keep reading this guide.

What to Do
The two primary attractions at Gateway Arch National Park are the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse. Construction on a 630-foot stainless steel arch to commemorate the spirit of the western pioneers started in 1963 and was completed in 1965. The arch, which is also the tallest landmark in the US, is built to endure earthquakes and powerful winds. 1 Riding the egg-shaped tram system up to the top of the gleaming arch is the nicest thing to do in this 90.96-acre park. You can exit at the top to take pictures, then ride in the pod back down the arch's leg.
This 45 to 60 minute event, which is available year-round, requires reservations.

Another must-do activity to provide crucial context is to visit the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which is situated directly beneath the arch. Through displays, exhibits, presentations, and an educational film, you may learn about St. Louis' role in the westward migration. The museum is free to enter, however the tram ride, movie, and riverboat tour all have additional costs.

The lower floor of the arch's visitor centre is where the park film "Monument to the Dream" is shown. This 35-minute video, which is available year-round, requires reservations. Learn about the westerly extension and the building of the arch.

Don't forget to read about the Dred Scott case, which was heard between 1847 and 1850, and see the Old Courthouse, one of the city's oldest structures remaining in existence. The anti-slavery movement and the outbreak of the Civil War both benefited greatly from both trials. The documentary "Slavery on Trial: The Dred Scott Decision" is shown in the Dred Scott Gallery for free to learn more about the case. The courthouse is a significant link to St. Louis' past and is included in the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom maintained by the National Park Service.

Programs and Events
While the other national parks in the system are mostly focused on natural landscapes, hiking, and outdoor activities, Gateway Arch National Park is unique among all of them. Giving yourself the gift of historical knowledge is the key concept here. Thus, park programming is a crucial component of the puzzle.

Outdoor Programs: Meet a park ranger at the West Entrance Plaza for a daily walking tour of the park, where you'll see the Eads Bridge, the Mississippi River and riverfront, and Paw Paw trees. This tour will give you a thorough understanding of the park's history and significance in St. Louis' role in the westward expansion. The preparations for Lewis and Clark's expedition, the Santa Fe Trail, and the founding of St. Louis are also covered.
Museum Touch Stations: Every day, park rangers are stationed at podiums around the museum, prepared to give a 10-minute discussion about St. Louis' history.
Rangers will offer 60-minute tours on St. Louis Riverfront Cruises, highlighting the city's history along the Mississippi River, on the weekends through the end of May. Visitors can meet at Riverboats at the Gateway Arch, which is located below the arch. Adults should budget $21 and children aged 3 to 15 should budget $11.

Hotels in the Area
The Gateway Arch is not far from several hotels in downtown St. Louis. Here are the top places to lay your head, each well rated and conveniently situated:

Unquestionably one of the greatest family-friendly hotels in the city is the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. Kids can choose a toy or treat when they arrive, and everyone will enjoy the sizable pool with its private cabanas, beverage service, and city views. Select from a range of lodging options, the majority of which provide breathtaking views of the Gateway Arch, and book a spa treatment or indulge in in-room dining.
The renowned City Museum is within walking distance of the St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. This historic hotel is unlike any other. A lounge that plays a 3D lightshow detailing the history of the resort is also located in the Grand Hall, arguably St. Louis' most magnificent lobby. Grab a bite at the Station Grille or the Train Shed Restaurant, grab a cup of coffee in the Grand Hall Market, or enjoy family-friendly dining at the 1894 café. Choose some dessert from the kid-favorite Union Station Soda Fountain.
The Mississippi Riverfront and Busch Stadium are just a few of the attractions in downtown St. Louis that are easily accessible by foot from the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch. On-site amenities include a Starbucks, a fitness facility, a steakhouse, and a sports bar. The proximity to the Gateway Arch, though, is what really draws people in.

Getting There
In the centre of downtown St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park is situated along the Mississippi River. It will be preferable to take Interstates 44, 55, 64, and 70 to get to the park.

Take the Metrolink Lightrail in St. Louis from any stop and get off at 8th and Pine or Laclede's Landing for accessibility by public transit as well. The memorial is a roughly 10-minute walk from there.

Visit our section on St. Louis public transit for more details on using the Metrolink.

Guidelines for Your Visit
The busiest times of year at the arch are spring and summer. Visit in the fall or winter if you can to avoid crowds and waits.
Unless you have an annual America the Beautiful park pass, entrance to the park costs $3.
Although the Old Courthouse, the Gateway Arch complex, and the park grounds all have numerous accessibility features, people with disabilities might find it difficult to get to the top of the Gateway Arch because it is not wheelchair accessible and requires the ability to stand and climb numerous stairs. But entry to the foyer, gallery, theatre, and museum shop is available to everyone.
Dogs are permitted in the complex's grassy areas, but not in the museum or the arch.