Gateway Arch National Park: A Monument to Westward Expansion
Explore America's westward expansion at the iconic Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, offering stunning views and rich history.
Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a monument to the westward expansion of the United States. The park's centerpiece, the iconic Gateway Arch, is the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere and offers visitors stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. The park also includes the Museum of Westward Expansion and the Old Courthouse, making it a compelling destination for history buffs and sightseers alike.
A brief summary to Gateway Arch National Park
- St. Louis, Downtown, Missouri, 63102, US
- +1314-655-1600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tram tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines and ensure your preferred time slot.
- Arrive early to allow ample time for security checks, which are similar to airport security.
- Consider visiting during the spring or fall for moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Take advantage of the free ranger-led tours to learn more about the park's history and significance.
- Check the park's calendar for festivals, events, and concerts happening on the riverfront.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Gateway Arch National Park is accessible via St. Louis's MetroLink Light Rail. Exit at the 8th and Pine Streets or Laclede's Landing station and follow the signs to the Arch, a 10-minute walk. The trip from St. Louis Lambert International Airport to the Gateway Arch is approximately 28 minutes, with trains departing every 15-20 minutes. A single MetroBus or MetroLink ride costs $3.
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Walking
From downtown St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the riverfront. The Arch is visible from many points in the downtown area. A grand staircase leads from the St. Louis levee to the base of the Gateway Arch. Be prepared for a security check at the entrance.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that Gateway Arch National Park does not have its own designated parking lots. However, there is a preferred parking program at the nearby Stadium East Parking Garage, located at 200 S Broadway. Pre-purchasing parking at iparkit.com/TheArch is highly recommended, especially on Cardinals game days. The discounted rate is $10 for 5 hours. If parking is not pre-purchased, event day rates will apply. Alternatively, RV or oversize parking is available on Leonor K. Sullivan Drive, south of the Poplar Street Bridge, about a 1/3 mile walk to the park.
Discover more about Gateway Arch National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort San Carlos Historical Marker
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Commemorating the westernmost battle of the American Revolution, fought in St. Louis at Fort San Carlos.
The Security Building
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Moll's Clock
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Clamorgan Alley - Historical landmark
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Arcade Building
0.7 km
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Gateway park
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St. Louis City Hall
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Sawcoff Memorial
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Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture
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A St. Louis landmark in Aloe Plaza, the Meeting of the Waters Fountain symbolizes the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers with stunning sculptures.
Historic Trinity
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Landmarks Association of St Louis, Inc
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The Franklin of Soulard
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Soulard Station
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Lafayette Square
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Scott Joplin House State Historic Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
Museum at the Gateway Arch
0.1 km
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The Gateway Arch
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Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France
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CityArchRiver
0.2 km
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St. Louis Riverfront
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant St. Louis Riverfront, where history meets scenic beauty along the Mississippi River, perfect for every tourist's adventure.
Museum of Westward Expansion
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Old Courthouse
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Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
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Kiener Plaza Park
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Mastermind Room Escape - St. Louis
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Busch Stadium
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Laclede's Landing
0.7 km
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Laclede's Landing Wax Museum
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National Blues Museum
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Citygarden Sculpture Park
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Essential places to dine
Ruth's Chris Steak House
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Carmine's Steak House
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Chili Mac's Diner
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Three Sixty
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Salt + Smoke
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The Old Spaghetti Factory
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Sugarfire Smoke House
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Aubergine
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Sauce on the Side
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Broadway Oyster Bar
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Wheelhouse Downtown
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Sen Thai Asian Bistro
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Al's Restaurant
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Blood & Sand
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Idol Wolf at 21c St. Louis
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Arch Store
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Poppi
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Weaving The Dream
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Nola.B Boutique
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STL Millionaire Mindset
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La Femme Rebelle Clothing
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Y.B. Unique Creations
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LUXE Department Store
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Garment District®
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Frenchtown Records, Antiques & More
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The Sudsy Soapery Natural Products St. Louis Handcrafted Wholesale Soap
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Soulard Spice Shop
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Fashionablee Late Boutique
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Vincent's 12th Street Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Trust
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Form Skybar
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Paddy O's
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Tin Roof
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The Crack Fox
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Social Bar & Grill Soulard
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Maggie O'Brien's
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International Tap House, Soulard
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Planter's House
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1860 Saloon, Game Room, & Hardshell Café
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Historic Crossroads
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Another Level
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Visions Ultra Bar
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Da Yack Shack
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