Gateway Arch National Park

Set in the city of St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park serves as a memorial to Thomas Jefferson’s role in opening the west, leading to the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century; the explorers, pioneers and rebels who helped shape American history; and Dred Scott — and his wife, Harriet — who sued for their freedom from slavery.

Formerly the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, the national park now consists of the Gateway Arch; an underground visitor’s center beneath it; the Museum of Westward Expansion; and St. Louis’ Old Courthouse, two blocks west of the arch.

The Flora And Fauna

Set on 91 picturesque acres, Gateway Arch is the smallest national park in the United States. An urban oasis of ornamental turf grass, bald cypress trees, shrubs and flowers, it includes Zen gardens and even a native grass meadow.

Situated between the prolific habitat of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis, the park welcomes urban-adapted species, like raccoons, white-tailed deer and Canada geese. Meanwhile, resident birds include mourning doves, northern cardinals, robins, house finches and blue jays. Not to be overlooked are the insects — like Monarch butterflies and buzzing bees — which are crucial to its ecology.

The Weather

St. Louis summers are hot and muggy, while its winters are cold and snowy. On average, the park sees 42 inches of annual rain, most of it falling between May and August, its busiest months. Crowds are much smaller in January and February, though spring ushers in an increase in visitors. Fall is a pleasant time to visit, though crowds can peak, as they do in November and December, when kids are out of school.

Keep an eye on current conditions on the park’s website.

The Viewpoint

A unique conveyance system takes visitors from the lower-level lobby to the top of the arch. Featuring eight five-passenger trains per leg, the capsules run at a rate of 340 feet per minute, a 10-minute ride round trip. From the observation platform at the top, plate-glass windows offer expansive views to the east and west.