In the heart of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, you'll find an awe-inspiring architectural attraction that memorializes Thomas Jefferson's opening of the westward expansion of the United States. Gateway Arch National Park boasts unique architecture, many historical sites, and the grand Mississippi River. With its proximity to the heart of St. Louis, you'll never run out of things to do.
At Gateway Arch, you'll have opportunities to view its stunning architecture from the ground, the river, helicopter, or even from the top of the arch, which is easily accessible by its one-of-a-kind trams. Outside of the arch, the nearby areas have plenty of historical significance to learn about - you can visit the Old Courthouse, which housed two trials of the Dred Scott case and the Virginia Minor trial for women's suffrage. Take a riverboat cruise down the historic Mississippi, catch a film at the Dred Scott Gallery, or simply walk along the park trails to explore all that St. Louis has to offer.
The Old Courthouse at Gateway Arch National Park is undergoing renovations as part of the $380-million CityArchRiver project, which is the largest public-private partnership in the history of the National Park Service. It is closed to all visitors.
Located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, Gateway Arch National Monument is easily accessible, and you'll have no problem with road accessibility. However, because it is downtown, it might be a better idea to ditch the RV and hop on some public transportation to get to the arch.
There is RV or oversize parking available at Leonor K. Sullivan Drive, south of the Poplar Street Bridge. This will get you about 1/3 mile away from the park, so you'll easily be able to walk to the arch from here.
The St. Louis MetroLink Lightrail will take you within walking distance of the park. Exit at 8th and Pine and follow the signs to the arch. It should take about ten minutes to walk from the rail exit.
Although there are no RV camping options within Gateway Arch National Park, you'll find the St. Louis West KOA about 30 miles away. A 30 minute drive will take you to this well-appointed RV park that can accommodate RVs up to 90 feet in length.
This park is convenient to all the attractions of St. Louis and is only about one mile from Six Flags Amusement Park St. Louis. Due to its location, during the summer season, reservations are recommended.
This campground is open all year and has a pool that is open seasonally, a basketball court, and both cable TV and Wi-fi.
If you're headed to the Gateway Arch, it's almost essential to take the tram to the top of the arch. The unique tram system has 16 pods that will take five passengers each on the four-minute journey.
When you get to the top, you'll find large windows that give you panoramic views over east and west St. Louis.
St. Louis's Old Courthouse carries tremendous historical significance, and it is an excellent place to learn more about the city's judicial history and impact on the nation. In 1847 and 1850, it was the site of the first two trials of the Dred Scott case. Additionally, in 1970, it hosted Virginia Minor's case for women's suffrage.
If you've purchased the entry pass and Journey to the Top ticket, you'll get access to a free screening of "Monument to the Dream", which documents the construction of the arch.
Additionally, if you're interested in St. Louis's history, head to the Dred Scott gallery for a free screening of "Slavery on Trial: The Dred Scott Decision" or some seasonal exhibits about the westward exploration and expansion of the United States.
The Mississippi River runs right through the center of St. Louis. Explore the city from a different perspective and take a guided tour down the river on a 19th century replica steamboat.
While these are options throughout the year, there are many more cruises offered during the warmer months. These cruises will provide you with stunning views of both the arch and the city.
If you're itching for more excitement and adventure, head to the helicopter pad below the Arch and sign up for a helicopter tour. They're available during the summer and fall months, and you'll get to soar around and above the magnificent arch for one-of-a-kind views.
Located about half a mile outside of the park, this is more than just a library. Built in 1912, the Central Public Library will have something to pique anyone's interests - from stained glass windows, renaissance ceilings, historic photographs, temporary exhibits, and simply its grand, open spaces.
If you've got time, take a short walk to this stunning architectural landmark of St. Louis.
