If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis you’ll no doubt want to stop by Gateway Arch National Park. The 630-foot monument was built to symbolize the United States’ expansion to the west. It’s the tallest arch in the world, the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere, and the tallest memorial in the United States.
As a photographer I loved photographing the Gateway Arch. From the grounds I found the architecture of the arch to be stunning especially seeing the sun reflect off of it on a sunny day. If you are planning on visiting the St. Louis Arch I’d recommend buying tickets before hand to go to the top as well.
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About the Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch is the centerpiece of Gateway Arch National Park on the St. Louis riverfront. It was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, who won the national design competition for the memorial in 1948. Construction ran from February 1963 to October 1965, when the final keystone section was set into place on October 28, 1965.
Here are the key facts at a glance:
- Height: 630 feet (192 meters), the tallest arch in the world.
- Width at base: 630 feet, exactly as wide as it is tall.
- Architect: Eero Saarinen, with structural engineer Hannskarl Bandel.
- Built: 1963 to 1965.
- Shape: a weighted catenary curve, the shape a free-hanging chain makes when held at both ends.
- Material: a stainless steel outer skin over an inner carbon steel structure.
- Location: downtown St. Louis, Missouri, on the Mississippi River.
The monument symbolizes St. Louis’s role as the “Gateway to the West” during the 19th-century westward expansion of the United States. It was originally part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which was renamed Gateway Arch National Park in 2018. At 630 feet, it remains the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere.
When you visit the Gateway Arch you can ride to the top. A one-of-a-kind tram (a chain of small pod-like cars that stay level as they climb the curve) carries you 630 feet up to the observation deck, where windows look out over St. Louis and the Mississippi River. The ride takes about four minutes up and three minutes down.
Getting to the Gateway Arch in Missouri
You’ll find the Gateway Arch located directly downtown in St. Louis on the Mississippi River. There is a Metrolink Station located on the north side of the park. I’d recommend paying for parking at the InterPark garage near the arch but you can also find street parking around the city and walk to the Gateway Arch.
Gateway Arch on Google MapsGateway Arch Pictures
Here are some of my photos of the Gateway Arch in Missouri. For gear, a 24-70mm zoom is my go-to here. It’s wide enough for the full arch and the grounds but still lets you punch in on the stainless steel details. The arch is also a fantastic subject after dark, so it’s worth brushing up on night photography if you want to capture it lit up at night.
Mississippi River Overlook
Across the Mississippi River you’ll find the Mississippi River Overlook which gives you a great view of the Old Courthouse and Arch. Just keep in mind I have been told by many people that the area can be dangerous so going with a few people may be ideal.
One thing I found odd about the view was the fact that there is a power line directly in your view of the Arch. Granted this is easy enough to clean up in Photoshop.
Mississippi River Overlook on Google Maps
Frequently Asked Questions about Gateway Arch
What is the Gateway Arch?
The Gateway Arch is a 630-foot monument located in St. Louis, Missouri. It’s the tallest arch in the world and was built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States.
When was the Gateway Arch built?
Construction of the Gateway Arch began on February 12, 1963, and was completed on October 28, 1965.
Who designed the Gateway Arch?
The Gateway Arch was designed by architect Eero Saarinen.
How much does it cost to visit the Gateway Arch?
Walking the grounds of Gateway Arch National Park and visiting the museum are free. The paid attraction is the tram ride to the top, which runs roughly $19 to $23 for adults and $14 to $18 for kids ages 3 to 15, with prices varying by date. Tickets often sell out in summer, so book ahead and check the official site for current pricing.
Can you go to the top of the Gateway Arch?
Yes. A tram ride takes you to the observation deck 630 feet up for a wide view over St. Louis and the Mississippi River. I highly recommend booking tram tickets in advance if you visit, since they sell out, especially in summer.
How tall is the Gateway Arch?
The Gateway Arch is 630 feet (192 meters) tall, making it the tallest arch in the world and the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. For comparison, it stands 75 feet taller than the Washington Monument.
How wide is the Gateway Arch?
The Gateway Arch is 630 feet wide at its base, exactly the same as its height. That equal height and width is a big part of what gives the arch its balanced, symmetrical look.
What is the Gateway Arch made of?
The outside of the Gateway Arch is made of stainless steel while the interior is made with carbon steel.
Is the Gateway Arch accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the Gateway Arch provides wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and other accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
What are the hours of operation for the Gateway Arch?
The park grounds are open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round. The visitor center and museum are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day). The last tram to the top leaves one hour before closing. The arch is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Are there any events held at the Gateway Arch?
Yes, the Gateway Arch hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. You can check the archpark site for more event specifics.
Is there parking at the Gateway Arch?
Yes and no, while there are no dedicated parking lots directly at the Gateway Arch you’ll find plenty of garages nearby. You can use this map on the official Gateway Arch website to find more details of parking.
The Gateway Arch is the icon of St. Louis, and it rewards photographers at every hour, from morning light on the grounds to the stainless steel glowing at night. If you visit, give yourself time to shoot it from the park, ride the tram to the top, and head across the river to the Mississippi River Overlook for the full skyline.
