🛗 Tram Ride to the Top: If you were to prioritize a single activity at Gateway Arch, prioritize this one. Riding to the top of the Arch is an exciting and unforgettable experience. The journey itself is fun, and the views at the top are spectacular.
🛥️ Riverfront Cruise: Visitors can tour the Mississippi River on a refurbished old-timey riverboat, which provides unique views of St. Louis and the bridges that cross the river.
📜 Old Courthouse: This historic courthouse – home of the infamous 1857 Dred Scott v. Stanford case – provides opportunity to view 1800s architecture and learn about St. Louis’ fascinating history.
🖼️ Museum: The refurbished museum under the Gateway Arch walks visitors through the history of westward expansion in the United States, including the injustices committed against Native Americans. Interactive exhibits and captivating historical replicas make the experience a memorable one.
🌳 Reflection Ponds: Those looking for some quiet can seek refuge around one of the two reflection ponds that sit next to the Gateway Arch.

🏙️ St. Louis: There is lots to do for first-time visitors in St. Louis. The city offers fun experiences, delicious food, live entertainment, and fascinating museums to explore. Consider attending a Cardinals, Blues, or St. Louis City SC game during baseball or hockey season, respectively.
🌳 Forest Park: This famous urban park is a ~20 minute drive from Gateway Arch. It offers many free activities, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri History Museum, and The Muny.
🌺 Missouri Botanical Garden: Do you like flowers? If so, look no further than the Botanical Garden.
🍺 Anheuser-Busch Brewery: If you like beer, you will love the guided tours and seasonal events at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery.
🏞️ Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: Located across the Mississippi River in Illinois, this historic site provides opportunity for outdoor adventure and historical learning.
🏞️ Southern Illinois State Parks: Those looking to escape the city can find refuge in Southern Illinois, home of Giant City State Park, Little Grand Canyon, Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest, Jackson Falls, and other outdoor spots.

📅 When to Visit: Gateway Arch National Park is easy to visit year-round. In fact, it offers special seasonal events throughout the year. If you’re in the area on Fourth of July, try to catch the Arch’s famous fireworks show.
⌚ How Long to Visit: Visitors can experience Gateway Arch in as little as a few hours, but could spend a full day there. First-time visitors to St. Louis can easily spend a week in the larger metropolitan area.
🚗 How to Get There: The park is easy to access by car or through St. Louis’ MetroLink. Preferred parking is available at the Stadium East Garage. More information about transportation options can be found at the Gateway Arch website.
🛏️ Where to Stay: There are plenty of hotels near the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis.
🧳 What to Bring: Bring very little with you, if possible. Visitors entering the Arch are required to pass through a security checkpoint, so I generally try to only carry my phone, wallet, and keys to make the process quicker.

✅ DO make plans in St. Louis if visiting the area for the first time. Gateway Arch is at its best when combined with nearby experiences in the city.
✅ DO contact me at paulintheparks@gmail.com for more detailed recommendations on things to do in St. Louis. I’ve lived near the city for most of my life, so have done just about everything there is to do in and around the city.
❌ DON’T leave valuables in your car, and keep your car locked. As with every major city, car break-ins are common. Take the proper precautions when visiting.