Gateway Arch
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The Gateway Arch is a remarkable national monument in St. Louis, Missouri. This impressive stainless-steel structure is an architectural and engineering masterpiece that symbolizes American progress and spirit. Located in the city's heart, the Gateway Arch is a 630-foot-high arch spanning the Mississippi River in Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park.
Construction on the Gateway Arch began in 1961 and was completed in 1965, making it the tallest artificial monument in America. The inspiration for the Arch's design was based on an ancient mathematical formula known as the catenary curve, which provides the shape of a hanging chain. This arch served as a symbol of America's progress as it was being built during the height of the Cold War. The monument's conception dates back to the 1930s and 1940s when negotiations began between the federal government and the city of St. Louis to commemorate America's westward expansion and celebrate St. Louis's role as the Gateway to the West.
The Gateway Arch offers visitors two unique experiences, including a ride to the top of the arch and a museum to explore beneath it.
How to Get There
The Gateway Arch is located in downtown St. Louis, and is also near the cities of Florissant and St. Charles. The nearest airport is the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, which is located about 14 miles away. Another nearby airport is the MidAmerica St. Louis Airport, approximately 24 miles away. Transportation to the Gateway Arch is readily available by car, bus and train. The MetroLink light rail system has a station just a few steps from the monument.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Gateway Arch
Visit Gateway Arch
You can explore the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which opened in 2018 and covers over 200 years of American history and social and cultural phenomena, providing insight into the Westward expansion. The exhibits include interactive displays, films and artifacts that offer a look at the lives of pioneers, explorers and Native Americans. You can also ride to the top of the arch, enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime view of the city of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.
The spring and fall seasons are the best times to visit the Gateway Arch as the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the Arch is open year-round, so you can visit any time except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Day.
Ticket Information
You can buy tickets online or at the Gateway Arch ticket center if you're interested in the standard Tram Ride to the Top experience. Online ticket sales are available 24 hours before your desired visit date. The Gateway Arch ticket center also sells Tram Ride to the Top tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost of tickets depends on the type of experience you choose. A standard tram ride to the top will cost $15 for adults, $11 for children ages 3-15 and $13 for seniors over 60.
Family-Friendly Options
Gateway Arch offers a variety of outdoor activities, including biking, mini golf and riverboat cruises. Families can enjoy the Arch's indoor attractions, such as the Museum of Westward Expansion and the Journey to the Top tram ride. The Arch also features a playground and the Lewis and Clark Explorers' Play Area, where kids can climb, slide and learn about the famous explorers.
You can also enjoy the Arch's numerous events throughout the year that are perfect for families, including movie nights and holiday celebrations. Various dining options include a food court, cafés and a full-service restaurant. Make sure your group stays fueled and hydrated throughout the day. You should consider booking a private tram ride to the top of the Arch. This will ensure that your group can experience the breathtaking views together without the crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
For a full experience, start by visiting the Museum at the Gateway Arch located at the base of the structure. Remember to visit the Arch Store, where you can purchase souvenirs to remember your experience. After exploring the museum, take the tram to the top of the Arch for breathtaking city views. Visit during the early morning or late evening to capture the best photos with the soft sunrise or sunset light. During the day, the top of the Arch can become crowded, and capturing clear photos might take a lot of work.
For visitors who want to learn more about the construction and engineering of the Arch, the "Monument to the Dream" documentary is aired hourly in the movie theater near the Arch's base. This documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and successes of building the Arch.
For a unique experience, consider taking the Skyline Dinner Cruise. This two-hour cruise offers a three-course meal, live music, and stunning views of the Gateway Arch and the St. Louis skyline. It's an excellent way to see the Arch from a different perspective while enjoying a delicious dinner.
Gateway Arch Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Literally right across the bridge from downtown St. Louis, this RV park is the closest RV park to Gateway Arch in all of St. Louis. While it’s actually located in Illinois, you can even walk across the state line to the famous St. Louis monument, as it’s just over a mile away. It even offers access to St. Louis via public transportation. You’ll also be able to take advantage of fantastic skyline views and the scenic banks of the Mississippi River right at your doorstep.
As the only RV park in St. Louis proper, this is easily the closest park to downtown St. Louis. You can be at the St. Louis Gateway Arch in under 10 minutes. Other main attractions, from the riverboat cruises to the Cardils stadium are also just minutes from this park. You can easily walk to plenty of shops and restaurants from the park, and if you’re feeling up for some exercise, the Gateway Arch is just a 2 mile walk away.
Cahokia RV Parque is located right across the Mississippi River, under 10 minutes from Gateway and most major attractions in St. Louis. Located in Cahokia, Illinois, the area’s got a small town feel despite quick and convenient access to the city. The park is also just outside of the St. Louis Airport and next door to the Prairies Golf Club.
Activities Near Gateway Arch
Things to Do
Hiking
If you love the outdoors, plenty of recreational options like hiking, biking and walking trails at Forest Park are available. This massive urban park, approximately six miles from the Gateway Arch, boasts over 1,000 acres of green space.
Nature Watching
The 22.5-acre Post-Dispatch Lake in Forest Park is not only a great spot for paddle boarding, but you can also observe various flora and fauna. Surrounding the lake, native wildflowers and grasses provide habitats for dragons, butterflies and bees. You may also see various songbirds and waterbirds, including American pelicans and bald eagles.
Fishing
Visitors can also go boating or fishing on the Mississippi River, which flows just a stone's throw from the Gateway Arch. Some of the fish species you may catch include flathead, blue and channel catfish, white and hybrid striped bass, as well as shovelnose, pallid, and lake sturgeon.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Spring weather in St. Louis can be unpredictable with chances of thunderstorms and cool temperatures. Therefore, visitors should pack light layers of clothing, including waterproof jackets, hats and umbrellas. In the summer, the temperature can soar into the 90s, and the humidity can make the heat feel oppressive. Visitors should pack light, breathable clothing, such as cotton or linen; sunscreen; sunglasses; and hats to keep them cool and protected.
During the fall, the weather is mild with cool temperatures and less chance of rain. Pack warm clothing, including sweaters; jackets; and comfortable, closed-toe shoes. In the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, accompanied by occasional snowfall. Visitors should pack heavy winter clothing, including coats, hats, gloves and boots, to keep them warm and comfortable during their visit.
Safety & Accessibility
The use of drones or other remote-controlled devices is prohibited. For people with disabilities, the Gateway Arch offers assistive options including accessible parking spaces and restrooms. Wheelchair-accessible pathways and elevators are also available to provide easy access to the Arch's observation area. Visitors with severe vision or hearing loss can request special devices for audio and visual assistance.
Conclusion
The Gateway Arch is an iconic monument worthy of its United States National Park status. From breathtaking views to fascinating educational experiences, this magnificent structure offers something for everyone who visits it. If you're looking for a unique experience that blends history, education and adventure, a trip to the Gateway Arch will surely be one you won't forget.
FAQ
There are a few camping options available near the Gateway Arch. The closest campsite is St. Louis RV Park and Cahokia RV Parque.
Several RV parking spaces are available on-site with easy access to the Arch and surrounding attractions. The RV parking areas are spacious and well-maintained.
The monument can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. You should know that the Arch offers limited food and drink options, so bringing snacks and water is a good idea.
Several exhibits and activities are geared towards children, including a Junior Ranger program and interactive museum exhibits. Additionally, the Arch features beautiful city views, making it a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
Except for service animals, pets are not allowed inside the monument. However, visitors can take their furry friends for a walk in several nearby parks.