Gateway Arch National Park

Introduction

Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a symbol of America's westward expansion. The park was initially established as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in 1935 to commemorate several key historical events: the Louisiana Purchase, the subsequent westward movement of American explorers and pioneers, and the role of St. Louis as the "Gateway to the West". The park's centerpiece, the Gateway Arch, was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and structural engineer Hannskarl Bandel in 1947. Construction of the arch began in 1963 and was completed in 1965.

The Gateway Arch stands at 630 feet (192 m) tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States. It was constructed as a tribute to Thomas Jefferson's vision of a continental United States and to honor the pioneers who helped shape the nation.

Gateway Arch National Park covers approximately 91 acres (37 hectares) in downtown St. Louis. The park is situated along the west bank of the Mississippi River and includes the Gateway Arch, the Museum at the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse, and a portion of the riverfront. The park's urban setting makes it one of the few national parks located within a major city, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Gateway Arch National Park is a popular destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. In recent years, the park has seen an average of around 2.5 million visitors annually.  For more information, visit the park's wikipedia site.

Top Activities

Tram to the Top of the Arch:  The tram consist of 16 small, egg-shaped tram cars (pods) to the top of the 630 feet (192 m) arch.  Conceived by Dick Bowser, it can carry 3,500 people per 8 hour day.  Each tram can carry 40 passengers. Tickets, especially in peak season, can be difficult to get.  You can purchase tickets on-line.

The Old Courthouse is a significant historical landmark within Gateway Arch National Park. Constructed between 1839 and 1862, it is one of the oldest standing buildings in St. Louis.

The Old Courthouse is perhaps best known for being the site of the first two trials of the Dred Scott case in 1847 and 1850³. Dred Scott, an enslaved African American man, sued for his freedom in this courthouse, leading to a landmark Supreme Court decision that intensified national debates over slavery and ultimately contributed to the onset of the Civil War. Additionally, the courthouse was the venue for Virginia Minor's case in the 1870s, which argued for women's right to vote.

Free guided tours are available, offering in-depth insights into the courthouse's history and architecture.