Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch: A Monumental Attraction in St. Louis

Overview

The Gateway Arch is an iconic 630-foot-tall stainless steel monument located in downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen and engineer Hannskarl Maaßen Breuer, it was completed in 1965 as part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. This blog post will guide you through visiting the Gateway Arch, including where to stay, eat, and what activities to enjoy in this vibrant city.

Where to Visit

The Gateway Arch

  • Address: 100 Washington Ave, St Louis, MO 63102
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm (April to October), 9 am to 4 pm (November to March)
  • Admission: $12 for adults, $6 for children aged 3-15

Explore the Grounds

  • The monument is surrounded by a beautiful park with walking paths, gardens, and picnic areas.
  • Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Arch and the Mississippi River from various viewpoints.

Where to Eat

Iconic St. Louis Cuisine

  • Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: A local favorite since 1929, serving unique frozen custard treats like the famous “Concrete.”
  • Pappy’s Smokehouse: Enjoy authentic barbecue in a casual atmosphere.
  • Crown Candy Kitchen: This historic candy store and ice cream parlor has been a St. Louis staple since 1913.

Dining near the Gateway Arch

  • The Pintkeller: A modern American bistro with a focus on local ingredients, located within walking distance of the Arch.
  • Brenner’s Steakhouse & Chop House: Upscale dining experience serving top-quality steaks and seafood.

Where to Stay

Hotel Options near the Gateway Arch

  • Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch: Conveniently located adjacent to the Arch, offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • The Westin St. Louis: A stylish hotel with a rooftop pool and bar overlooking the city.

Activities Tips

Explore the City

St. Louis is rich in history and culture. Some must-visit attractions include:

  • City Museum: An interactive art museum featuring eclectic exhibits, playgrounds, and entertainment.
  • Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour: Learn about the history of this iconic brewery while enjoying samples of their finest beers.

Outdoor Activities

The Gateway Arch area offers several parks and recreational spaces for outdoor fun:

  • Forest Park: One of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering a variety of activities like biking, walking, or boating.
  • Kiener Plaza: A vibrant public space with a playground, skate park, and plenty of greenery.

Shopping

St. Louis offers unique shopping experiences:

  • The Loop: A lively commercial district filled with eclectic shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Grand Central Market: An indoor market featuring local vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and more.

Conclusion

Visiting the Gateway Arch is an unforgettable experience that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty. This blog post has provided you with a comprehensive guide to exploring this iconic attraction, including where to eat, stay, and enjoy other activities in St. Louis.