Gateway Arch National Park | Travel Guide
Gateway Arch, somewhat controversially, has recently become one of the newest National Parks in the United States National Park System. The park is different from any others, as it is more focused on history and architecture as opposed to a natural standpoint.
All that being said, the complex area is incredibly beautiful. A pair of photogenic ponds, along with beautiful trees and freshly mown grass dot the complex. The incredible Mississippi River stands on one side of the park, where visitors can see barges, take riverboat tours, and witness the Gateway Geyser at noon each day.
The Gateway Arch National Park also contains the famous Old St. Louis Courthouse, where the landmark Dred Scott Case was tried. Unfortunately, the Courthouse was closed during the time that we visited.
The actual arch is an incredible experience. A futuristic downstairs area, that includes one of the best museums that I've ever visited which contains information about St. Louis, Native American history, and Westward Expansion is located here. There is also a movie theatre located down there, along with a cafeteria, and a gift shop.
Finally, it was time to take the tramway to the top. The tram takes around four minutes to make it to the top, where I was personally was a little bit freaked out. The views are great, and the experience overall is incredibly worthwhile. Overall, I would highly recommend a visit to the Gateway Arch National Park.