Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch: an architectural icon and national park in St. Louis

Gateway Arch is an emblematic monument located in Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis. The site combines historical, architectural, and recreational attractions, both inside the arch and on the park grounds and the Mississippi River waterfront. Entry to the monument is through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse; the arch legs are exit only. Visitors are advised to allow at least 15 minutes to go through security.

Main attractions at the Gateway Arch

The park offers a variety of experiences, some free and others ticketed. Among the highlights are:

• Tram Ride to the Top: a tram ride to the top of the arch for panoramic views of St. Louis. Tickets often sell out in advance, so purchasing them ahead of time is strongly recommended. Allow one hour for this activity.
• Museum under the Gateway Arch: a free museum with six innovative galleries, universal design, and interactive elements. No ticket required.
• Virtual Reality Theater: an award-winning indoor attraction that transports visitors to the 1850s St. Louis riverfront era through virtual reality headsets.
• "Monument to the Dream" documentary: a documentary film shown hourly.
• The Arch Store: the monument's gift shop.
• Arch Café: a café located on the premises.
• National Park Service Programs: interpretive and educational activities.

Admission to the museum is free, while the tram, the virtual reality theater, and the documentary are timed-ticket attractions. All visitors go through security screening.

Old Courthouse: history and architecture

The Old Courthouse, located near Luther Ely Smith Square, is a key destination for civil rights history and mid-19th-century Greek Revival architecture. The building houses four new exhibition galleries, two restored courtrooms, National Park Service programming, and a restored rotunda with original artworks. Admission is free and no ticket is required. The building is wheelchair accessible.

Riverboats & Riverfront: cruises and river activities

The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch operate from the St. Louis riverfront docks on the Mississippi River. The riverboat season runs from March to November. Options include St. Louis riverfront cruises, private charters, the Paddlewheel Café, and a riverside gift shop. The dock and the riverboat's first deck are wheelchair accessible. Helicopter tours are also offered. Parking on the riverfront levee is available for a fee if river levels permit.

Tickets and combos

Buying tickets in advance is recommended, as tram rides frequently sell out. Some tickets for indoor attractions are also available upon arrival at the Visitor Center desk. Combo packages such as Captain's View, Architects Vision, and Ultimate Explorer bundle several attractions. Hours vary depending on the location within the park; daily details and the holiday schedule can be found on the "Plan Your Visit" page.

Parking and access

The preferred parking is at Stadium East Garage, located at 200 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, two blocks from the park entrance on 4th Street. The walk to the Gateway Arch entrance takes approximately 7 to 10 minutes. The garage is wheelchair accessible and charges $10 for the first five hours; purchasing parking online at least the day before is recommended to get the discounted rate. Parking is available in all areas except reserved spaces.

Suggested itineraries and experiences

The site proposes several itineraries based on the length of the visit: a long weekend for those visiting St. Louis for a sporting event or a getaway; a full day for national park enthusiasts who want to explore the Gateway Arch, the riverfront, and the Old Courthouse; an afternoon or evening on the riverfront ideal for celebrations; and a five-hour half-day that includes the free museum, the virtual reality theater, and the documentary. Morning, afternoon, and evening itineraries are also offered, as well as a three-day experience.

Surroundings and green spaces

Gateway Arch National Park has more than 91 acres of urban green space, including reflection ponds, gardens, and paved paths. The park offers an interactive map with points of interest, accessible walking routes, parking areas, MetroLink stations, and passenger drop-off areas. The Old Courthouse and the Gateway Arch are the main landmarks within the park.

Participation and community

The site invites visitors to submit photos from their visits to the Gateway Arch, the riverboats, the Old Courthouse, and the national park for a chance to be displayed in an exhibit in the tram loading areas or on social media. You can also get involved as a member, work at the park, or subscribe to the newsletter.

Location and contact

200 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102