Museum of Westward Expansion, St. Louis

The Museum of Westward Expansion in St. Louis is a place that transports its visitors back in time to discover the history and heritage of the American West. It is located beneath the famous Gateway Arch – a monument commemorating the pioneering spirit of Americans and the westward expansion that shaped the nation.

This museum is an integral part of the Gateway Arch complex, which is an iconic symbol of St. Louis and the entire United States. The Arch, designed by Eero Saarinen, stands 630 feet tall and is the tallest man-made monument in the United States. It majestically rises above the banks of the Mississippi River, symbolizing the historical gateway to the western territories of the USA.

Inside the Museum of Westward Expansion, visitors can delve into knowledge about various aspects of frontier life, from the daily lives of settlers, through interactions with Native Americans, to the construction of the Gateway Arch. The museum features interactive exhibits that use modern technology to bring the era of westward expansion closer to its guests. Among the most significant exhibits are artifacts related to the Lewis and Clark expedition, models of settlements and forts, as well as reconstructions of life on the prairies.

The museum also offers educational documentaries that introduce visitors to the historical and cultural context of the westward expansion, as well as lectures and educational programs for children and adults. In addition to its rich exhibition offerings, the museum serves as the starting point for the ascent to the top of the Gateway Arch, where there is a breathtaking view of the city of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.