[FULL GUIDE] 100 Things to Explore and Experience at Gateway Arch National Park

Key Takeaways:

• Gateway Arch National Park offers a variety of experiences, from outdoor adventures to historical exploration, all in the heart of St. Louis.
• The iconic Gateway Arch stands as a symbol of American expansion, and the park offers both breathtaking views and fascinating exhibits.
• Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of westward expansion, enjoying riverfront activities, or exploring the park’s cultural offerings, there’s something for everyone.

Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. The park’s centerpiece is the iconic Gateway Arch, standing 630 feet tall and symbolizing the westward expansion of the U.S. The Arch was completed in 1965 and remains an architectural marvel. Today, the park offers much more than just a view from the top—it’s a hub for history, culture, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the history of the westward expansion, taking a riverboat cruise, or enjoying the lush green spaces of the park, Gateway Arch National Park provides a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

100 Things to Do at Gateway Arch National Park:

#1 Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch: Take the tram to the top of the Arch for stunning views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

#2 Visit the Museum at the Gateway Arch: Explore exhibits on the history of westward expansion, featuring artifacts, multimedia displays, and interactive installations.

#3 Take a Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi: Hop on a riverboat for a scenic cruise along the mighty Mississippi River, offering a unique perspective of the Gateway Arch.

#4 Walk the Gateway Arch Grounds: Stroll around the beautiful grounds surrounding the Gateway Arch, perfect for taking in the views and relaxing in the park.

#5 Explore the Old Courthouse: Visit this historic courthouse, where landmark cases, including the Dred Scott case, were argued.

#6 Hike the Arch Riverfront Trail: Enjoy a walk or bike ride along the riverfront, where you can explore various scenic spots and historic landmarks.

#7 Have a Picnic at Luther Ely Smith Square: Relax and enjoy a picnic in this beautiful, park-like square located next to the Gateway Arch.

#8 Visit the Gateway Arch Park Overlook: Head to the park’s overlook for a panoramic view of the Gateway Arch and the surrounding St. Louis skyline.

#9 Check Out the Underground Visitor Center: The visitor center offers insights into the park’s history and features exhibits on the construction of the Arch.

#10 Take a Guided Walking Tour of the Arch: Join a guided walking tour to learn about the history of the Gateway Arch and its importance to St. Louis.

#11 Catch a Performance at the Gateway Arch Theater: Attend a film screening or live performance at the theater located in the park’s underground visitor center.

#12 Explore the Great River Road: Travel along this historic scenic byway, which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding countryside.

#13 Stop by the St. Louis Riverfront: The St. Louis Riverfront offers great views of the Arch, shops, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

#14 Take a Sunset Cruise on the Mississippi River: Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise, where you can admire the changing colors of the river and the Arch at dusk.

#15 Check Out the Historic St. Louis Suspension Bridge: Walk across this historic bridge for great views of the river and the Gateway Arch.

#16 Tour the National Park’s Cultural Exhibits: Learn more about the cultural significance of the park through exhibits showcasing the city’s history and its connection to American expansion.

#17 Visit the Lewis and Clark Monument: See this monument honoring the famous explorers who charted the western territories during their journey to the Pacific Ocean.

#18 Take a Bike Ride on the Riverfront Trail: Rent a bike and explore the beautiful riverfront trail, perfect for a scenic ride along the Mississippi.

#19 Attend the St. Louis Cardinals Game: Catch a game at Busch Stadium, just a short walk from the Gateway Arch, for a classic American baseball experience.

#20 Visit the Citygarden Sculpture Park: Explore this outdoor sculpture park with modern art installations located just a few blocks from the Arch.

#21 Visit the Missouri History Museum: Learn about Missouri’s rich history at this museum, which includes exhibits on St. Louis’s role in the expansion of the United States.

#22 Catch the Fireworks at the Arch: During special events or holidays, the park often hosts fireworks shows that light up the Gateway Arch against the night sky.

#23 Relax in Kiener Plaza: Take a break and relax in Kiener Plaza, a park that’s home to fountains, sculptures, and open green spaces.

#24 Explore the Old Cathedral: Visit the Old Cathedral, an iconic church located near the Gateway Arch, and admire its stunning architecture and history.

#25 Try Local Cuisine at the Riverfront: Sample delicious local food at one of the many riverfront restaurants, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining.

#26 Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown St. Louis, taking in the beauty of the Arch and surrounding areas.

#27 Visit the St. Louis Science Center: This interactive science museum is a great family-friendly destination, featuring hands-on exhibits and fun learning opportunities.

#28 Explore the St. Louis Art Museum: Discover world-class art collections at the St. Louis Art Museum, located in Forest Park, just a short drive from the Arch.

#29 Walk Along the Mississippi Riverwalk: The Mississippi Riverwalk offers scenic views, walking paths, and access to the river’s edge for a peaceful experience.

#30 Attend the St. Louis Blues Concerts: Check out the St. Louis Blues music scene by attending concerts and events near the Arch throughout the year.

#31 Go Ice Skating at Steinberg Skating Rink: Visit Forest Park in winter to go ice skating at the historic Steinberg Skating Rink, a popular local spot.

#32 Explore the St. Louis Zoo: Spend a day at the St. Louis Zoo, one of the best free zoos in the country, offering a fun family outing near the Arch.

#33 Visit the Gateway Arch Museum: Dive deep into the history of the Gateway Arch at the museum located at the base of the Arch.

#34 Take a Historical Walking Tour of Downtown St. Louis: Discover the history of St. Louis through a walking tour that includes key landmarks and the story behind the city’s growth.

#35 See the Arch from the Mississippi River: Take a river cruise to get a unique view of the Gateway Arch from the water.

#36 Attend a Cultural Festival at the Arch: Participate in one of the cultural festivals or public events hosted at the Gateway Arch throughout the year.

#37 Visit the St. Louis Gateway Arch National Park Store: Browse the park’s gift shop for souvenirs, including Arch-themed merchandise and books on the park’s history.

#38 Join a Gateway Arch Photography Workshop: Take part in a photography workshop focused on capturing stunning shots of the Arch and surrounding park.

#39 Take a Scenic Drive Around the Park: Drive through downtown St. Louis for great views of the Arch, the river, and the city’s historic buildings.

#40 Relax at the Gateway Arch National Park Lawn: Lay out a blanket on the expansive lawn near the Arch and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

#41 Take a Picnic at the Kiener Plaza: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in Kiener Plaza, a beautiful park area near the Arch.

#42 Explore the City Museum: Visit the City Museum, an interactive museum made from repurposed architectural elements, just a short distance from the Arch.

#43 Walk the St. Louis Riverfront: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverfront to see more views of the Mississippi River and the iconic Gateway Arch.

#44 Tour the St. Louis City Hall: Explore the historic St. Louis City Hall, located near the Arch, to admire its impressive architecture and learn about the city’s government.

#45 Take a Brewery Tour: St. Louis is home to a variety of breweries; take a tour to sample local brews and learn about the city’s brewing history.

#46 Enjoy a Boat Ride in the Arch River: Explore the waters near the Arch with a peaceful boat ride offering beautiful views of the park and downtown St. Louis.

#47 Take a Walking Tour of the St. Louis Underground: Discover St. Louis’s hidden underground world, including tunnels and historic buildings below the city’s surface.

#48 Explore the Busch Stadium Tour: Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Busch Stadium, home to the St. Louis Cardinals, and learn about the history of the team.

#49 Relax at the Gateway Arch Park Overlook: Enjoy great views of the Arch, Mississippi River, and the St. Louis skyline from this elevated overlook.

#50 Catch a Movie at the Wehrenberg Theaters: Watch the latest films at the Wehrenberg Theaters, a local movie chain near the Gateway Arch.

#51 Visit the Gateway Arch Park Overlook: Head to the overlook for panoramic views of the Arch, the Mississippi River, and the city skyline.

#52 Explore the Historic St. Louis Riverfront: Stroll along the historic St. Louis riverfront to admire its charm and learn about its significance in the city’s history.

#53 See the Gateway Arch at Night: Visit the Gateway Arch after dark to see it beautifully lit up against the night sky for a magical view.

#54 Attend a Jazz Concert at the Arch: Enjoy live jazz performances during the summer months, celebrating the music culture of St. Louis.

#55 Catch a Riverboat Tour at the Arch: Set sail on a riverboat from the Arch for a scenic tour along the Mississippi River.

#56 Visit the Old Courthouse for Historical Tours: Take a historical tour of the Old Courthouse, where landmark cases, including the Dred Scott case, were heard.

#57 Go on a St. Louis Architecture Tour: Discover the stunning architecture of St. Louis with a guided tour of its historic buildings, including the Gateway Arch.

#58 Watch a Baseball Game at Busch Stadium: Take in a St. Louis Cardinals game at Busch Stadium, just a short walk from Gateway Arch National Park.

#59 Attend the St. Louis Art Fair: Check out the annual St. Louis Art Fair, which features art exhibits, music, and entertainment, held near the Arch.

#60 Walk Through the Gateway Arch Museum: Learn about the history and construction of the Gateway Arch at this museum, offering interactive exhibits and visuals.

#61 Explore the Mississippi River Basin: Discover the ecosystem of the Mississippi River Basin, which plays a vital role in the region’s wildlife and economy.

#62 Go on a Historical Walking Tour: Discover the city’s rich history by taking a walking tour through downtown St. Louis, including landmarks near the Gateway Arch.

#63 Relax at the Gateway Arch Lawn: Spend a relaxing afternoon at the Gateway Arch Lawn, where you can lay down a blanket, have a picnic, or enjoy the surroundings.

#64 Take a St. Louis Historic Food Tour: Indulge in local culinary delights by joining a food tour of St. Louis, sampling dishes inspired by the city’s history.

#65 Walk the Riverfront Trail: Explore the scenic Riverfront Trail, which stretches along the Mississippi River and offers beautiful views of the Gateway Arch.

#66 Enjoy a Summer Movie Night in the Park: Join a summer movie night event hosted near the Arch, perfect for family-friendly entertainment under the stars.

#67 Explore the Missouri Botanical Garden: Visit one of the oldest botanical gardens in the U.S., just a short drive from Gateway Arch National Park.

#68 Take a Day Trip to the St. Louis Zoo: Enjoy a fun-filled day at the St. Louis Zoo, one of the top zoos in the country, located near Forest Park.

#69 Shop at the Arch’s Gift Shop: Find unique souvenirs and Gateway Arch-themed gifts at the park’s official gift shop.

#70 Go on a Nighttime Photography Tour: Capture stunning nighttime photos of the Gateway Arch, its surrounding landscape, and the St. Louis skyline.

#71 Visit the Gateway Arch’s Legacy of Westward Expansion: Learn about the historical significance of the Arch in commemorating the westward expansion of the United States.

#72 Attend the St. Louis Film Festival: Watch independent films and documentaries at the St. Louis Film Festival, which takes place near the Gateway Arch.

#73 Explore the Citygarden Sculpture Park: Discover modern art installations at the Citygarden Sculpture Park, just steps away from the Arch.

#74 Visit the National Blues Museum: Explore the National Blues Museum, located near the Arch, to learn about the history and influence of blues music in St. Louis.

#75 Walk Along the Gateway Arch Promenade: Take a scenic walk along the promenade, which connects the Gateway Arch with the surrounding park and riverfront.

#76 Take a Free St. Louis Public Art Tour: Enjoy a self-guided public art tour that leads you through St. Louis’ vibrant art scene, including pieces near the Arch.

#77 Attend the Great River Road Festival: Experience local culture, music, and food during the Great River Road Festival held along the riverfront, near the Arch.

#78 Discover the Old St. Louis Courthouse: Visit the Old Courthouse, where you can explore the building’s history and learn about its importance in legal cases like Dred Scott.

#79 Participate in a Riverfront Clean-Up: Join a volunteer riverfront clean-up to help preserve the natural beauty of the Gateway Arch’s surroundings.

#80 Take a Virtual Tour of the Gateway Arch: Experience the Gateway Arch from the comfort of your home with a virtual tour, allowing you to explore its history and architecture.

#81 Go Horseback Riding in Forest Park: Head to Forest Park, just a short distance from the Arch, for a horseback riding adventure through one of the largest urban parks in the U.S.

#82 Visit the St. Louis Gateway Arch Park Overlook: Take in breathtaking views of the Arch and the river from the elevated Gateway Arch Park Overlook.

#83 Explore the St. Louis Science Center: Spend a day at the St. Louis Science Center, just a short distance from the Arch, for hands-on exhibits and interactive learning.

#84 Attend a Free Outdoor Concert: Enjoy live music at one of the free outdoor concerts held near the Gateway Arch throughout the summer months.

#85 Take a Sunset Photography Walk: Capture beautiful photographs during a sunset walk around the Gateway Arch, as the setting sun casts stunning colors over the park.

#86 Join the Gateway Arch Preservation Tour: Learn about the conservation efforts taken to preserve the Gateway Arch’s structure, ensuring its longevity for future generations.

#87 Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Arch Grounds: Explore the Gateway Arch grounds on your own, following a self-guided tour to learn more about the park’s history and attractions.

#88 Visit the St. Louis Art Museum: Check out one of the country’s most renowned art museums, just a short drive away from Gateway Arch National Park.

#89 Have a Waterfront Dining Experience: Dine at one of the many restaurants located along the riverfront, offering stunning views of the Gateway Arch and Mississippi River.

#90 Take a Yoga Class at the Arch: Join a yoga class held in the park, where you can enjoy stretching and breathing exercises with the Arch as your backdrop.

#91 Explore the St. Louis Aquarium: Dive into marine life at the St. Louis Aquarium, located near the Gateway Arch, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages.

#92 Enjoy a Craft Beer at a Local Brewery: St. Louis is known for its craft beer scene, so stop by a local brewery for a taste of the city’s finest brews.

#93 See the Arch During the Day and Night: Visit the Gateway Arch at both sunrise and sunset to experience its beauty during the changing light.

#94 Take a St. Louis Riverfront Walking Tour: Walk along the St. Louis Riverfront for a guided tour, learning about the city’s history and how the river shaped its growth.

#95 Visit the St. Louis Art and History District: Explore the district near the Arch, home to galleries, museums, and historic buildings that tell the story of St. Louis.

#96 Visit the Anheuser-Busch Brewery: Take a tour of the iconic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, located near the Arch, to learn about the brewing process and enjoy tastings.

#97 Join a St. Louis History Walking Tour: Discover St. Louis’s rich history with a guided walking tour that takes you through the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

#98 Explore the St. Louis Union Station: Visit the historic St. Louis Union Station, now a shopping and entertainment hub, just a short distance from the Gateway Arch.

#99 Celebrate Independence Day at the Gateway Arch: Celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and festivities at the Gateway Arch, one of the best places to watch the show in St. Louis.

#100 Take a Family-Friendly Walk Around the Arch: Enjoy a leisurely family walk around the Gateway Arch, exploring the park’s open spaces and interactive exhibits.

Concluding

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