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St. Louis Gateway Arch Riverfront

Author: Erin Callier

Categories: St. Louis History Tours Family-Friendly



Since 1965, when construction workers placed the final piece of steel at the apex of the Gateway Arch, over 25 million sightseers have journeyed to the top. Also known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, the Arch stands as the 630-foot tall gatekeeper to the Midwest, making it the tallest national monument in the United States, and the 4th most-visited tourist attraction in the world. Its juxtaposition between the Mississippi River and the historical city of St. Louis provides sightseers with much more than a bit of vertigo at journey's end. Whether you check out the exhibits in the Museum of Westward Expansion, take a ride to the top, dine on the riverfront, or indulge in one of the many activities or exhibits, a visit to the Gateway Arch Riverfront offers a multitude of fun things to see and do.


 Gateway Arch Riverfront Attractions


Journey To the Top
Visiting the Gateway Arch without a trip to its top is like eating a banana split minus the whipped cream. Depending on the time of year, over 6,000 people take one of two trams to the top every day. The south leg tram flashes back to the 19th century and the era of steamboats and bustling mercantilism. The north leg tram allows travelers to experience the riverfront of 1965, when construction workers connected the two legs of this architectural wonder. Once you reach the top, you can see beautiful views of downtown St. Louis, the Mississippi, and the Illinois landscape. Trams leave every 10 minutes from 9:20 a.m.-5:10 p.m. in the Winter (Labor Day-Memorial Day) and 8:20 a.m.-9:10 p.m. in the Summer (Memorial Day-Labor Day). Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for youths, and $3 for children.

Museum of Westward Expansion
Like so many St. Louis Museums, admission is free to this testament to exploration and adventure. Peruse the interesting Native American artifacts, learn how the West was won, and discover what it took to survive where the buffalo roamed.

Giant Screen Movies
Narrated by actor Jeff Bridges and produced by National Geographic , the documentary Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West depicts the dramatic adventures of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark on their 1804 expedition through territories unknown. Shown every hour from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. during the Winter and 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. during the Summer. Admission: $7 for adults, $4 for youth, $2.50 for children.

Monument to the Dream
This award-winning documentary portrays the construction of the historically significant steel monument and the great heights that workers went to in order to complete the project. Watch this compelling movie and you will have the answer to the inevitable question, “How'd they do that?” Shown every hour from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Winter and 9 a.m.-8 p.m. in the Summer. Admission: $7 for adults, $4 for adults, $2.50 for children.


Riverboat Cruises
Like journeymen past, take a ride down the “Mighty Mississippi” aboard the Tom Sawyer or Becky Thatcher. These 19th century steamboat replicas offer many different types of cruises down the muddy river. See the Arch from a different angle on a Sightseeing Cruise or dine in style on a Dinner Cruise. For more information call 314-923-3048 or visit www.gatewayarchriverboats.com

Bike Rentals
No time to see all the sights on foot? Bicycle rentals are available below the Arch's Grand Staircase for those who desire a relaxed excursion on two wheels. Travel as far as your feet can peddle, and see more city sights like the Old Courthouse, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and much more. For more information call 877-982-1410.

Carriage Rides
The extravagance of a horse-drawn carriage is all too fitting in the historical setting of downtown St. Louis. If you have not seen enough of the riverfront by foot, nor pedal, you must add a horse and carriage to your excursion and see the downtown sights with the added charm and romance only a carriage ride can offer. Look for them along the riverfront or Laclede's Landing anytime after 4 p.m. For more information call 314-621-3334.

The Old Courthouse
A visit to the Old Courthouse is a must for history buffs. Located just steps away from the Arch grounds, the Old Courthouse was the site of the famous Dred Scott slavery case when it was not so very old. A restored 1860s courtroom, dramatic murals, and revolving exhibits demonstrate the richness of St. Louis history to all who visit. Admission is free.

Fair St. Louis & Live on the Levee
The picturesque landscape, the imposing river, and the astounding architecture of the St. Louis Riverfront create the perfect setting for large gatherings and events. Every Fourth of July weekend, Fair St. Louis invades the Gateway Arch Riverfront and makes for a great party. Later in July is the month-long get-together, LIVE on the Levee, in which great musicians, great food, and great fun all come together on the riverfront. For more information on events held on Arch grounds, visit www.gatewayarch.com.

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Gateway Arch Shopping

Any self-respecting tourist would be remiss if he or she returned from a visit to the Gateway to the West without a keepsake of some kind. Satisfying any souvenir craving is an easy feat at the shops adjacent to the riverfront.


The Museum Store
Not only will you travel to new heights at the Gateway Arch, but new lows as well. Journey 100 feet under the Arch grounds to shop at the Museum Store. The store offers a great selection of all things St. Louis, including books, videos, apparel, and much more. For more information call 1-800-537-7962.

The Levee Mercantile
Located in the Arch's Visitor's Center, the Levee Mercantile is a blast from the past, as a re-creation of a vintage general store that shows how a wide variety of provisions were harvested, prepared, and eaten in the 1800s. Sample and purchase some of the interesting fare. For more information call 314-231-0289.

St. Louis Souvenirs
Aptly named and perfectly located on Laclede's Landing, St. Louis Souvenirs is the best place to shop for souvenirs. Find Lewis & Clark collectibles, t-shirts, gifts, and a great deal more at this one-stop souvenir shop. (707 N. First Street , 314-241-3800).

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Gateway Arch Restaurants

Space is limited inside the steel walls of the Arch, but a plethora of delicious and unique eateries stand just steps from its base.


Arch View Café
Dine on burgers, chicken strips, and other indulgences in the arched shadow of the monument. Located on the Riverboat's docking barge, the Arch View Café is the closest restaurant to the Arch.

Gateway Arch Riverboat Dinner Cruise
Choose from a sit-down dinner of prime-rib, chicken, champagne, Alaskan Pollock, or a vegetarian dish with salad and dessert while you cruise down the Mississippi . Admire the incomparable St. Louis skyline while listening to the live jazz onboard. The boat boards at 7 p.m. and returns to dock at 9:30 p.m. Fare: $37 for adults and $18 for children (3-12). Reserved seating only. Call 877-982-1410 to reserve your table.

Hannegan's Restaurant & Pub
Enjoy the extensive menu of American cuisine at this replica of the U.S. Senate Dining Room. Named after New Deal politician Robert E. Hannegan, Hannegan's evokes all the excitement and richness of 1940s politics in the heart of historic Laclede's Landing. (719 N. Second St., 314-241-8877, www.hannegansrestaurant.com).

Jake's Steaks
For those in the mood for a casual and hearty meal, wander slightly west of the Arch toward Second Street . Guaranteeing one of the best steaks around, Jake's Steaks is a fun and festive dining destination just steps from the Riverfront on Laclede's Landing. (708 N. Second St., 314-621-8184, www.jakessteaks.com).

St. Louis Fish Market
If you're looking more for surf than turf, St. Louis Fish Market is a can't miss seafood restaurant that offers a great array of fishy cuisine, sushi, and an award-winning wine list. There is something for everyone at this seafood restaurant that serves a variety of steak and poultry as well. (901 N. First St., 314-621-4612, www.stlouisfishmarket.com).

Morgan Street Brewery
St. Louis keeps its reputation as a great brew-town with the Morgan Street Brewery. Wonderful ambiance, cozy interior, and fresh ale in the oldest building on historic Laclede's Landing provides wonderful respite after a trip 630 feet above the ground. (721 N. Second St., 314-231-9970, www.morganstreetbrewery.com).

nearby places of interest

Arch View Cafe
707 N. First St., St. Louis, MO 63102

Dine on burgers, chicken strips, and other indulgences in the arched shadow of the monument. Located on the Riverboat's docking barge, the Arch View Café is the closest restaurant to the Arch.

Gateway Arch Riverboat Dinner Cruise
50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63102

Choose from a sit-down dinner of prime-rib, chicken, champagne, Alaskan Pollock, or a vegetarian dish with salad and dessert while you cruise down the Mississippi . Admire the incomparable St. Louis skyline while listening to the live jazz onboard. The boat boards at 7 p.m. and returns to dock at 9:30 p.m. Fare: $37 for adults and $18 for children (3-12). Reserved seating only. Call 877-982-1410 to reserve your table.

Hannegan's
719 N. 2nd Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

A Laclede's Landing pub with a political theme and plush surroundings.

Jake's Steaks
708 N. 2nd Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

This steak house on Laclede's Landing offers a relaxed atmosphere and down-to-earth prices that reflect its monicker of the "Coolest Steakhouse in St. Louis."  

Morgan Street Brewery
721 N. 2nd Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

St. Louis keeps its reputation as a great brew-town with the Morgan Street Brewery. Wonderful ambiance, cozy interior, and fresh ale in the oldest building on historic Laclede's Landing provides wonderful respite after a trip 630 feet above the ground.

SanSai Japanese Grill
20 Allen Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63119

Enjoy Japanese food that is fresh and fast. Grilled options and child menus available.

St. Louis Fish Market
901 N. First Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

If you're looking more for surf than turf, St. Louis Fish Market (314-621-4612, 901 N. First St.) is a can't miss seafood restaurant that offers an extensive variety of seafood, sushi, and an award-winning wine list. Dishes are served fresh and with artistic vision, well worth the price that you would gladly pay for any masterpiece. The endless menu offers something for everyone at this seafood restaurant, including a variety of steak and poultry.

Tigin Irish Pub & Restaurant
333 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO 63102

Tigin truly understands the meaning of being an Irish pub. Focusing on the essentials of Irish beer, classic bar food, and European sports, Tigin transports their guests to a small pub in Ireland. 

St. Louis Souvenirs
707 N. First Street, St. Louis, MO 63101

Aptly named and perfectly located on Laclede's Landing, St. Louis Souvenirs is the best place to shop for souvenirs. Find Lewis & Clark collectibles, t-shirts, gifts, and a great deal more at this one stop souvenir shop. (707 N. First Street , 314-241-3800).

Jake's Steaks
708 N. 2nd Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

This steak house on Laclede's Landing offers a relaxed atmosphere and down-to-earth prices that reflect its monicker of the "Coolest Steakhouse in St. Louis."  

Skybox
800 N. Third St., St. Louis, MO 63102

Skybox has more starpower than you can muster in most of St. Louis, with Nelly, Marshall Faulk, Darius Williams, and Larry Hughes all owning a share in this sports bar, featuring high-class events and normal game days.

The Big Bang
807 N. 2nd St., St. Louis, MO 63102

The Big Bang is a late-night hotspot with dueling pianos, audience participation, and hootin' and hollerin'.

Bike Rentals
Gateway Arch, St. Louis Riverfront, St. Louis, MO 63102

Stretch your legs and see famous national monuments as you explore all St. Louis has to offer on the quickest and easiest way to get around the city.

Carriage Rides
707 N. First St., St. Louis, MO 63102

The extravagance of a horse-drawn carriage is all too fitting in the historical setting of downtown St. Louis . If you have not seen enough of the riverfront by foot, nor pedal, you must add a horse and carriage to your excursion and see the downtown sights with the added charm and romance only a carriage ride can offer. Look for them along the riverfront or Laclede's Landing anytime after 4 p.m. For more information call 314-621-3334.

Fair St. Louis & Live on the Levee
707 North First Street, Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO 63102

The picturesque landscape, the imposing river, and the astounding architecture of the St. Louis Riverfront create the perfect setting for large gatherings and events. Every Fourth of July weekend, Fair St. Louis invades the Arch grounds and makes for a great party. Later in July is the month-long get-together, Live on the Levee, in which great musicians, great food, and great fun all come together on the Riverfront. For more information on events held on Arch grounds, visit www.gatewayarch.com.

Gateway Arch
707 N. First St., St. Louis, MO 63102

Since 1965, when construction workers placed the final piece of steel at the apex of the Gateway Arch, over 25 million sightseers have journeyed to its top. Also known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, the Arch stands as the 630-foot tall gatekeeper to the Midwest, making it the tallest national monument in the U.S. , and the 4 th most-visited tourist attraction in the world. Its juxtaposition between the Mississippi River and the historical city of St. Louis provides sightseers with much more than a bit of vertigo at journey's end. Whether you pop into a museum, patronize one of the unique eateries at river's edge, or indulge in souvenirs, a visit to the Gateway Arch grounds offers anyone and everyone a memorable experience and a bit of American history.

Journey To the Top
Gateway Arch Riverfront, St. Louis, MO 63102

See the city of St. Louis the way it was meant to be seen: from the top of its most famous monument, the Gateway Arch. 

Lumiere Place Casino
999 N. 2nd Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

New casino and luxury resort located on Laclede's Landing reflects a hip, urban ambiance.

Monument to the Dream
Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO

This award-winning documentary portrays the construction of the historically significant steel monument and the great heights that workers went to in order to complete the project. Watch this compelling movie and you will have the answer to the inevitable question, “How'd they do that?” Shown every hour from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Winter and 9 a.m.-8 p.m. in the Summer. Admission: $7 for adults, $4 for adults, $2.50 for children.

Museum of Westward Expansion
Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO 63102

Like so many St. Louis Museums, admission is free to this testament to exploration and adventure. Peruse the interesting Native American artifacts, learn how the West was won, and discover what it took to survive where the buffalo roamed.

Riverboat
50 N Leonor K Sullivan Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63102

Like journeymen past, take a ride down the “Mighty Mississippi” aboard the Tom Sawyer or Becky Thatcher, re-created river boats offering up a piece of St. Louis pioneer history.

Saint Louis Science Center: Omnimax Theater
5050 Oakland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

Attached to the St. Louis Science Center, The Omnimax Theatre offers amazing nature documentaries and films showcasing the beauty of life.

St. Louis Blues
1401 Clark Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103

The puck drops and it's a race on ice. The Blues are St. Louis's official team of the National Hockey League.  

St. Louis Cardinals
700 Clark Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

The Cardinals bring America's passtime to St. Louis, Busch Stadium to be more precise. The team won the World Series in 2006, their 10th national title.   

St. Louis Rams
901 N. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63101

Set, hike--the St. Louis Rams have been the city's official team of the National Football League for more than 70 years. The team plays at the indoor Edward Jones Dome from August until December.   

St. Louis University Billikens
#1 South Compton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103

The St. Louis University Billikens are part of the Atlantic 10 sports conference, competing in baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming and tennis.  

The Big Bang
807 N. 2nd St., St. Louis, MO 63102

The Big Bang is a late-night hotspot with dueling pianos, audience participation, and hootin' and hollerin'.

The Gateway Arch Riverfront Odyssey Theatre
St. Louis Riverfront, St. Louis, MO 63102

Narrated by actor Jeff Bridges and produced by National Geographic , the documentary Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West depicts the dramatic adventures of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark on their1804 expedition through territories unknown. Shown every hour from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. during the Winter and 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. during the Summer. Admission: $7 for adults, $4 for youth, $2.50 for children.

The Old Courthouse
11 North Fourth St, St. Louis, MO 63102

A visit to the Old Courthouse is a must for history buffs. Located just steps away from the Arch grounds, the Old Courthouse was the site of the famous Dred Scott slavery case when it was not so very old. A restored 1860s courtroom, dramatic murals, and revolving exhibits demonstrate the richness of St. Louis history to all who visit. Admission is free.

The Repertory Theater of St. Louis
130 Edgar Road, St. Louis, MO 63119

This St. Louis theater company is on a mission to bring high quality theater to the city for audiences of all ages. Performances suit a wide array of tastes; the company's line-up includes all types of theater from musicals to psycological murder mystery to comedy to experimental theater.   

Lumiere Place Casino: HoteLumiere
999 N. Second St., St. Louis, MO 63102

HoteLumiere is an elegant hotel connected to the Lumiere Place Casino, offering rich accomodations, terrific views of the St. Louis skyline, and most importantly, all the entertainment you can imagine.

Westin
801 Spruce, St. Louis, MO 63102

Bike Rentals
Gateway Arch, St. Louis Riverfront, St. Louis, MO 63102

Stretch your legs and see famous national monuments as you explore all St. Louis has to offer on the quickest and easiest way to get around the city.

Carriage Rides
707 N. First St., St. Louis, MO 63102

The extravagance of a horse-drawn carriage is all too fitting in the historical setting of downtown St. Louis . If you have not seen enough of the riverfront by foot, nor pedal, you must add a horse and carriage to your excursion and see the downtown sights with the added charm and romance only a carriage ride can offer. Look for them along the riverfront or Laclede's Landing anytime after 4 p.m. For more information call 314-621-3334.

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