- St. Louis Adventure Tours
- Arch Sightseeing Tours
- Architectural Sightseeing Tours of St. Louis
- St. Louis Beer Tours
- St. Louis Bicycle Sightseeing Tours
- St. Louis Bus Tours
- St. Louis City Sightseeing Tours
- St. Louis Day Tours
- Escorted St. Louis Sightseeing Tours
- Gray Line Sightseeing Tours in St. Louis
- Guided St. Louis Sightseeing Tours
- Helicopter Tours of St. Louis
- St. Louis Historical Sightseeing Tours
- Small Group Sightseeing Tours of St. Louis
- St. Louis Tour Operators
- St. Louis Sightseeing Vacation Packages
- St. Louis Walking Tours
Absolutely Enjoying the Arch
The History of the Gateway Arch
The Arch took more than 2 years to complete. It was constructed from February 12, 1963 through October 29, 1965. The towering structure stands 630 feet high, the tallest national monument in the U.S. An interesting side note about the construction of the Arch is that it was built in two parts, which eventually met in the middle. Because of this kind of construction the margin of error in building was 1/64 of an inch. Because of this small margin of error, all surveying work was done at night so the sun wouldn't distort the measurements. The Arch's official name is the Jefferson National Expansion Monument and is dedicated to the former President and his visions of moving westward.
Head to the Top
Going to the top of the Arch is an activity that most visitors enjoy. However, if you have a fear of heights, this may not be the best option for you. Travel on a small tram to the very top of the Arch. While waiting for your tram explore the informational exhibit on whichever leg you choose. Trams hold 5 people and go up every 10 minutes.
Catch a Movie
Enjoy a quick movie in Tucker Theater while visiting the Arch. Here you can watch "Monument to the Dream" which is an award winning documentary about the construction of the Arch. The film is around 35 minutes long, making it a perfect way to pass the time while waiting to visit the top of the Arch.
See the Museum of Westward Expansion
This exciting museum gives you a taste of what life in the 1800s was really like. Look inside a covered wagon and see models of Native Americans and pioneers. This museum features several interesting artifacts including: rare Indian peace medals, a Sioux war bonnet, and several antique weapons.
Hop on a Riverboat Cruise
That's right, the Arch even features riverboat cruises. This is a great addition to the Arch's activities, especially since the monument is set right on the Mississippi River. The one hour cruises will take you down the Mississippi while your guides enlighten you on the role the river has played in St. Louis', and the Arch's histories. Your cruise takes place on a steamboat, which was once the main form of transportation up and down the Mississippi River.
Eat Lunch at the Arch View Cafe
Enjoy the great weather during the spring and summer at the Arch View Cafe. Set right outside of the Arch, along the Mighty Mississippi, this diner offers amazing views and casual cuisine. Munch on hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, salads, and fries while chatting about your experience at the Arch.
For more information about visiting the Arch, Click Here!