by Connie Earl Robertson

Created on: December 05, 2009   Last Updated: May 23, 2011

St. Louis, Missouri was the jumping off point for the settlers who wanted to go west and open up the frontier.  It was the last spot of civilization, and the last opportunity for settlers to purchase their supplies.  As a memorial to the many settlers who passed through St. Louis on their way west, a huge arch was built on the edge of the Mississippi River for everyone to see. The Gateway Arch is one of St. Louis' main attractions.

The Gateway Arch is 630 feet tall and 630 feet wide at its base. Trams leave every 10 minutes from both the north and south legs. They travel 4 mph and can carry up to five people.

Once you reach the observation room at the top you can look out at the city of St. Louis on the west, and on the east you can see Illinois and the Mississippi River. On a clear day you can see up to 30 miles away.

While you are at the Gateway Arch, you'll want to take advantage of the other attractions along the Riverfront. There are a variety of things you can do ranging from helicopter rides, museums and giant screen movies to river cruises.

Helicopter Tours

The office for the helicopter tours is located below the Grand Staircase in the Gateway Arch. There are a variety of tours that you can choose from starting from $35.00 per person. You will enjoy seeing St. Louis from the air. Be sure to keep your ticket stub for a $5.00 discount on a bicycle rental.

Bicycle Rentals

This is a fun way to see parts of the city of St. Louis. You can rent a regular bicycle or a quadcycle. Quadcycles are four wheeled bicycles with two bench seats across them. They can carry 2 to 6 people. Rental prices start at $15.00. The office is located below the Grand Staircase in the Arch.

Historic Old Courthouse

Two blocks from the Gateway Arch is the Historic Old Courthouse that was built in 1860. There are historical exhibits that you can enjoy.  These are constantly being changed. The Old Courthouse is full of history. It was here that the Dred Scott case was heard many years ago. Cases concerning a woman's right to vote were also heard here. Admission is free, however, there is a charge for the optional audio tour.

Giant Screen Movies

There are two giant screen movies that you can enjoy. One deals with the construction of the Arch itself and the westward trek of the wagon train pioneers. The other movie is about the amazing state of Alaska. They are shown at different times each day.

Museum of Westward Expansion

This museum is a wonderful way to learn about the westward expansion. You will learn all about the settlers, the mountain men and the Indians that were all an important part of this time in history. One of the most exciting things you'll do is look inside a covered wagon. This is something you won't want to miss, and admission is free.

Riverboat Cruise

There are two Riverboats you can choose from for your river cruise. One is the Mark Sawyer, and the other is the Becky Thatcher. There are a variety of different cruises.  On some you can have a meal aboard while enjoying the relaxing scenery.  Others are sightseeing or entertainment cruises.

Your trip to the Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri, is a trip that will remain etched in your memory forever. Your eyes will be opened to the sacrifice and trials of those who were willing to go before and settle an unknown land. It will make you forever grateful to these independent and courageous Americans.

Learn more about this author, Connie Earl Robertson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.