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Monument · St. Louis, Missouri, Missouri
Gateway Arch
A 192-meter stainless steel arch on the banks of the Mississippi River, with a tram up to the observation deck and a museum about westward expansion.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965 on the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown St. Louis. At 192 meters tall and the same width at the base, it is the tallest monument in the United States and evokes the city’s role as a starting point for pioneers heading west.
The arch is clad in stainless steel and has the shape of a catenary, the curve of an inverted suspended chain. To reach the observation area, visitors ride in small five-seat capsules that travel inside the legs of the arch in about four minutes. At the top, narrow windows look out over the river, Illinois on one side and the city on the other.
Beneath the arch, the museum tells the story of westward expansion, from Lewis and Clark to Indigenous peoples. The monument is part of Gateway Arch National Park, the smallest national park in the country.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, including the overlook and the museum.
Best time
On clear days, in the morning; on summer weekends, book a time slot in advance.
How to get there
On foot, in downtown St. Louis; the 8th & Pine MetroLink station is about a 15-minute walk away.
Tip
The capsules are small and enclosed; if you feel uncomfortable in tight spaces you can stay in the museum and watch the film about the construction.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gateway Arch
How tall is the Gateway Arch?
192 meters, the same measurement as its base width.
How do you go to the top of the Gateway Arch?
In small five-person capsules that ascend inside the arch’s legs in about four minutes.
Do you have to pay to enter the Gateway Arch?
The museum and park grounds are free; the ride to the observation deck requires a ticket. Check the park’s website.