by Roger Karnehm

Created on: September 22, 2010

A visit to the Gateway Arch, Museum of Westward Expansion, or the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial will all bring you to the same location:  a beautiful park along the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown St. Louis, Missouri.  If you admire the Gateway Arch only from ground level, you will be missing a great deal.   Below the Gateway Arch is the Museum of Westward Expansion,  which is just one of many activities you can enjoy at the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.

While admission to the area below the Gateway Arch is free, there are choices within the Memorial that require fees.  With today’s current emphasis on security, you must go through a security checkpoint similar to those found at airports.  Once through security you will find a small gift shop, museum store, movie theater, access to the top of the Arch, and the Museum of Westward Expansion.

The museum details the history of the West during the 19th century.  There are displays depicting the lives of both the American Indian and early intrepid pioneers.  Explorers Lewis & Clark are highlighted.  Don’t miss the small room devoted to the history of baseball in St. Louis.  The open floor plan makes exploring the museum extremely easy.  Museum staff is available for questions and at times will set up special hands on demonstrations and talks.

If you have not ridden the unique tram to the top of the Arch, then do it.  On a recent visit ticket prices were $10 per adult.  You can always check their website for current ticket prices.  Buy your tickets as soon as you enter as they are on a timed admittance.  Each little car holds up to five people and stays level as you travel to the top of the 630 foot arch.  It takes about four minutes.  Upon disembarking you have a short flight of stairs before you enter the observation area.  While it is narrow and some might find slightly claustrophobic, the view will more than reward you for conquering your fear of heights.  And yes, the swaying is normal.  

There are also two movies that each requires a ticket.  One movie is a documentary on the building of the Gateway Arch and the other is entitled “Lewis & Clark:  Great Journey West.”  You can buy a combo package to save money.  If you have a National Park Passport you will also save a few dollars on each ticketed activity. 

If you find yourself in St. Louis with nothing to do (impossible), and have never been to the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, treat yourself.

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