Midwest · Misuri

Gateway Arch, St. Louis

Historic Half day difficulty: Easy with kids: yes

The tallest stainless steel arch in the world, 192 meters gleaming over the Mississippi River in St. Louis, a symbol of the gateway to the American West. Inside, a tiny capsule-shaped tram climbs up to a viewing deck at the very top of the curve.

The pop wink

In Percy Jackson's «The Lightning Thief», the heroes visit the Gateway Arch and live through a scene of danger at the top. Your child can ride up in the capsule and peer out the same little windows of the viewing deck.

With kids

Ride the capsule-tram that climbs up inside the arch
Peer out the viewing deck's little windows at the river and the city
Put your hand on the giant base and look up toward the curved top
Remember the Percy Jackson scene at this very arch

Accessibility: 6+ years for the capsule; tight spaces, not suitable for those who fear enclosed places

With family

Watch the museum film about how they built such an arch
Stroll through the park by the Mississippi River at the foot of the monument
Take the family photo with the whole arch behind you from the lawn
Talk about the pioneers who set out west from here

Full listing, routes and recommendations at Mi País — Gateway Arch, St. Louis. ← All destinations