St. Louis Arch

St. Louis, often referred to as the "Gateway to the West," is famous for its stunning monument, the Gateway Arch. This towering structure symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting St. Louis. Rising to an impressive 630 feet, the St. Louis Arch offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this national icon so special.

 

What to Know

However, it is important to note that the Gateway Arch is situated in the Gateway Arch National Park. This park is not only the Arch but also the area around it and the history of the westward expansion of the United States. The Arch was designed by the American architect Eero Saarinen who wanted this grand structure to be a symbol of honor to the pioneers who moved west. 

Standing at 630 feet, it is the tallest man-made structure in the United States and the shape of the structure is as distinct as the Statue of Liberty. To get to the top of the Arch, you will be able to go for a ride in the arch trams that lead to the observation area at the apex of the Arch.

 

How to Get There 

The St. Louis Arch is situated right on the edge of the Mississippi River, and it is not difficult to locate since it is situated in the city of St. Louis. If you are arriving by air, the Arch is approximately a 25-minute drive from the St. Louis Lambert International Airport. Car owners are also able to find adequate parking space close to the venue. 

 

Getting there:

The Gateway Arch National Park is situated on 11th Street and takes the entrance at Memorial Drive Upon arriving, a visitor can walk to the Arch’s underground visitor center. This is where one can purchase tickets, get information on the exhibits, and more about the Lewis and Clark Expedition which was crucial to America’s westward expansion. 

 

Best Time to Visit

When’s the best time to visit the Gateway Arch National Park? If you want to avoid crowds and extreme weather, the spring and fall are ideal. Summers in St. Louis can get quite hot, and winter might limit your ability to enjoy the surrounding parks. But no matter the season, the views from the top of the Arch are always worth it.

In the spring and summer months, the park surrounding the Arch comes alive with greenery, offering visitors a chance to relax and soak in the beauty of the Mississippi River. Plus, the cooler fall months make it a perfect time to explore Forest Park or take a stroll along the riverbank.

 

Highlights

 

The Trip to the Top

The best thing that any tourist can do while in the Gateway Arch is to take a ride to the top. One can easily board a tram that runs through the legs of the Arch and go up. These trams are unlike any other trams you have come across – they are small capsule-like structures that give a feeling of being in an elevator or a ride in a fun fare. When you reach the top of the observation room, you are provided with a great view of the city of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. 

From up there, you will be able to view such facilities as the Forest Park, Busch Stadium, the downtown of the city and so on. You can even look East and see East St. Louis across the river. It is a perspective that provides one with the real feel of the historical and physical antecedents of the area. 

The Observation Area 

The observation area at the top of the St. Louis Arch is quite confined but the view is amazing. It is from the windows that one can be able to view the city of St. Louis and the vastness of the Mississippi River. You will be 630 feet above the ground so that you can view the city, parks, and other regions from a bird’s eye view. 

The feeling you get when you are standing on top of the Gateway to the West is incomparable. One can easily visualize the pioneers standing on this land and waiting for the time when they would be able to move westwards during the age of the frontier. 

History and Design

The history of the Arch is as interesting as the Arch itself. It was designed by an American architect Eero Saarinen in the year 1947 but the construction of the structure was started only in 1963. The Arch was designed to honor the memory of the Lewis and Clark expedition and all the other people who contributed towards the westward expansion of America. 

Saarinen’s idea was to make the structure very contemporary and the design very sleek and one that would not age. And, in fact, the Gateway Arch is now one of the most familiar symbols of the United States of America. 

Surrounding the Arch 

However, the area around the Arch, which is the main attraction of the city of St. Louis, is also interesting. The Gateway Arch National Park has quiet lawns and trails to walk along the Mississippi River. It is an ideal place for organizing a picnic or to have an opportunity to have a beautiful view. 

There is also the Museum of Westward Expansion situated in the visitor center below the Arch. This museum offers a broad overview of the westward expansion of America and contains sections on the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the people who settled the land. 

 

Features 

 

Unique Tram System 

Speaking of the peculiarities of the design, it is necessary to note that the arch trams are one of the defining elements of the St. Louis Arch. These small, oval-shaped pods take the visitors to the top in a manner that is somewhat sci-fi like. The tram system is exclusive and gives the viewer a bird’s eye view of how the Arch was built as the trams move around the legs of the Arch. 

National Park Status 

Most people are unaware that the Gateway Arch is under the National Park Service. This makes it one of the most visited national monuments in the U. S The National Park Service does its best to preserve the Gateway Arch National Park so that it continues to be a clean and informative site for people around the globe. 

Mississippi River Views

The proximity of the Mississippi River adds to the appeal of the St. Louis Arch. Whether you’re admiring the river from the top of the Arch or taking a riverboat cruise, the Mississippi River plays a significant role in the history and character of St. Louis Missouri.

 

FAQs

 

What to Know Before Visiting?

Before visiting, it’s essential to know that tickets for the tram ride to the top can sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. Also, the Gateway Arch National Park offers free access to the grounds, but there is a fee to enter the Arch and ride the tram.

How to Get There?

The St. Louis Arch is centrally located in downtown St. Louis, making it easy to reach by car, bus, or even bike. If you’re staying in the city of St. Louis, public transportation is a convenient way to get there.

What’s the Best Time to Visit?

The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the park’s green spaces are at their most beautiful. That said, the observation room at the top of the Arch is open year-round, so any time can be a great time to visit.

What are the Highlights of the Arch?

The trip to the top is the ultimate highlight, but don’t forget to explore the museum, take a walk along the Mississippi River, and relax in the Gateway Arch National Park.