21 Interesting Facts about Gateway Arch National Park

Dan October 1, 2023

Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a symbol of westward expansion and a tribute to America’s pioneering spirit. The centerpiece of the park is the Gateway Arch, an iconic stainless steel structure that stands 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen, the arch was completed in 1965 and has since become an emblem of St. Louis and a significant landmark in the nation’s history.

The arch is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, dedicated to honoring President Thomas Jefferson’s vision of a nation expanding westward. The park also encompasses the Old Courthouse, a historic federal building with a rich history, including being the site of the Dred Scott case, a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights. The Old Courthouse serves as a museum, providing insight into the nation’s past and its journey towards justice and equality.

Visitors to Gateway Arch National Park can embark on a journey to the top of the arch, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city of St. Louis. The museum beneath the arch, renovated in 2018, provides an immersive, educational experience, narrating the story of westward expansion, Lewis and Clark’s expedition, and the challenges faced by pioneers.

The park is a hub of cultural events, gatherings, and educational programs, inviting people to engage with the nation’s history and heritage. The serene surroundings of the Mississippi River and the arch’s elegant design make the park a place of contemplation and reflection, inviting visitors to ponder the nation’s past and envision its future.

What about Gateway Arch National Park interesting facts? Here are 21 interesting facts about Gateway Arch National Park.

1. Iconic Structure: The Gateway Arch, the park’s focal point, stands as the tallest man-made monument in the United States.
2. Unique Design: The arch was designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen, known for his innovative and modernist architectural designs.
3. Symbol of Expansion: The arch symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States, paying tribute to Thomas Jefferson’s vision of the nation’s growth.
4. Stainless Steel Structure: The arch is made of stainless steel and rises to a height of 630 feet, providing breathtaking views of St. Louis from the top.
5. Arch Construction: Construction of the arch commenced in 1963 and was completed in 1965.
6. Visitor Center: The underground Visitor Center serves as the starting point for tours and exhibits, offering a comprehensive overview of the park’s history.
7. Retro Trams: Trams take visitors to the top of the arch, reminiscent of the 1960s, providing a unique journey to the observation deck.
8. Arch Weight: The Gateway Arch weighs approximately 17,246 tons.
9. Jefferson National Expansion Memorial: The park was initially established as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in 1935 and later re-designated as Gateway Arch National Park in 2018.
10. Saucer Section: The cross-section of the arch is an equilateral triangle, and it transforms into an elongated catenary curve at the top.
11. Foundation Depth: The foundations of the arch reach depths of 60 feet on the southern leg and 80 feet on the north leg.
12. Arch Dimensions: The arch is 630 feet (192 meters) wide at the base and spans 630 feet from leg to leg.
13. Sustainability: The arch is designed to sway in the wind and can withstand high winds and earthquakes.
14. National Historic Landmark: The Gateway Arch was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987.
15. Arch Exterior Cleaning: The exterior of the arch is cleaned using a detergent and water mix that doesn’t harm the stainless steel.
16. Symbolism: The arch’s triangular shape symbolizes the pioneers’ “Gateway to the West.”
17. Visitor Count: The Gateway Arch National Park attracts over three million visitors each year.
18. Old Courthouse: The park also includes the historic Old Courthouse, which played a significant role in the Dred Scott case.
19. Sunset Views: The arch at sunset offers breathtaking views, with the sun setting directly behind it from the west.
20. Jefferson’s Role: Thomas Jefferson, who envisioned westward expansion, played a pivotal role in the Louisiana Purchase, further motivating the construction of the arch.
21. Illumination: The arch is illuminated at night, providing a stunning visual display and enhancing its presence in the St. Louis skyline.

Gateway Arch National Park is more than just an architectural masterpiece; it is a living testament to America’s pioneering spirit and the relentless drive to explore the unknown. Standing proudly on the banks of the Mississippi River, the arch embodies the spirit of westward expansion, symbolizing the gateway to new opportunities and the unyielding pursuit of a brighter future. As visitors ascend to the top of this stainless steel marvel and gaze upon the vast expanse of St. Louis and the mighty Mississippi, they are reminded of the indomitable human spirit and the remarkable journey that has shaped the nation.

This park is a tribute to the resilience and ambition that define the American identity—a reminder that challenges are met with determination, and aspirations are turned into soaring achievements. Gateway Arch National Park beckons all to delve into its history, embrace its architectural grandeur, and celebrate the enduring legacy of exploration. It encapsulates the nation’s story, encouraging us to stand tall, dream big, and venture forward into the unknown with unwavering resolve, just as those early pioneers did, forging a path to a brighter and boundless future.