The tallest monument in the Western Hemisphere, the Gateway Arch stands as a 630-foot memorial to America's westward expansion. Symbolizing the city of St. Louis and featuring a bird's-eye-view of the city and the Mississippi River, the Arch is an international tourist destination that attracts more than 4 million visitors each year.
Parking and Public Transportation at the Gateway Arch
The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which includes the Arch, doesn't have its own parking facilities. Street parking near the monument is available but limited. Several parking garages and lots, however, are situated within a 2-block radius.
The easiest way to access the Arch is via the Metrolink. Exit the train at the Laclede's Landing Station, a stone's throw from the Arch.
Best and Worst Times to Go to the Gateway Arch
The general rule is, the nicer it is outside, the busier the Arch will be. On summer days when the Cardinals are in town, the Arch is especially busy.
On weekday mornings during the spring and fall months, the Arch is usually filled with groups of school kids. To avoid large crowds and long waits, plan your visit for the late afternoon hours - near rush hour - when the school groups have departed for the day. Or else visit during the less crowded winter months.
Admission to the Gateway Arch
A ticket to the observation area at the top of the Arch goes for around 10 bucks. Tickets for children 15 and under are available in the $5 range. Discounted group rates are available for groups of 20 or more.
Must See/Do at the Gateway Arch
The "Journey to the Top" – Featuring enclosed trams that swing back and forth like Ferris wheel cars as they ascend, the voyage to the top is as memorable as the views once you get there.
The Old Courthouse – Not just a place to buy your Arch tickets, this historic structure (where the Dred Scott case was heard) features restored courtrooms and history galleries.
Food at the Gateway Arch
The Arch View Café, located on the riverfront dock beside the Arch, features casual fare in the $10-and-under range. There are no eateries inside the Arch, but dozens of restaurants located within walking distance.
Insider Tip for Visitors to the Gateway Arch
Especially during the spring and summer months, the Arch sometimes sells out of tickets to the top. Order online or call in advance to save your spot.
Author's Bio: Marcus Whelchel lives, writes, and romps in St. Louis with his wife, daughter and endless stream of weird thoughts.
Grant's Farm is a nearly 300-acre historic homestead and animal reserve in Grantwood Village, Missouri, near St. Louis. The former home of Ulysses S. Grant, it features a cabin built by the former president, opportunities to feed and interact with various animals, and more than 900 wild and exotic creatures.
Best and Worst Times to Go to Grant's Farm
Grant's Farm is generally busy the entire season that it's open (mid-April through Halloween). Weekdays in the spring and fall are usually busy with school groups on field trips. Weekends are even more crowded. The best way to beat the crowds is to arrive as soon as doors open (around 9 am), or wait until later in the afternoon, when the morning crowds have dispersed.
Must See/Do at Grant's Farm
The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales call the reserve home year-round and are arguably the top attraction.
Taking the kids to the Tier Garten to feed the camels and catch an animal show is a must-experience at Grant's Farm also.
Admission to Grant's Farm
Admission is free, as are the tram rides and animal shows. Feeding the goats and parakeets costs a nominal amount (a buck or so). Camel rides are available in the $5 range, and paddle boat rides cost closer to $10.
Private, behind-the-scenes tours are available in the $25 range.
Parking at Grant's Farm
Parking is ample, but costs over $10 per car. Seasonal passes are available for around $40.
Public Transportation to Grant's Farm
The Metrolink trains don't extend into Grantwood Village, and no other public transit options are feasible, either. Your own vehicle, a taxi, or Metro Call-a-Ride are your best options.
Food at Grant's Farm
The Brat House serves casual food (brats, pizza, fries, chicken fingers) at reasonable prices ($10 and under) in a Bavarian courtyard setting. They also offer patrons 21 and older complimentary samples of Anheuser-Busch beer products.
Other snack/beverage stands are spread throughout the grounds.
Insider's Tip to Visitors of Grant's Farm
Make sure the little ones are well-rested and ready to walk, because running strollers and wagons are turned away at the entrance. Strollers can be rented for a small fee.
Author's Bio: Marcus Whelchel lives, works, and writes in St. Louis, Missouri, with his wife, daughter, and endless stream of odd thoughts. Those who know him best would agree he is the intellectual rival of many of the animals at Grant's Farm.
