Gateway Arch, St. Louis

The Gateway Arch stands as an iconic monument in St. Louis, Missouri, symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States and serving as a poignant memorial to the pioneers who shaped the nation's destiny. At 630 feet (192 meters), this stainless steel structure is the tallest arch in the world and the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere.

Designed by architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965, the Gateway Arch reflects St. Louis's role as the "Gateway to the West" for the countless settlers who passed through the city on their journey towards new frontiers. Its sleek, inverted catenary curve design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also an engineering marvel, inviting visitors from around the globe to marvel at its grandeur.

The Arch is equipped with a unique tram system that transports guests to the observation deck at the top, offering sweeping views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. The journey to the top is an attraction in itself, as small capsules smoothly ascend the interior of the Arch, providing an unusual and thrilling experience.

At the base of the Gateway Arch is the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which provides context and history about the monument and the era it commemorates. Interactive exhibits and historical artifacts tell the stories of Native Americans, explorers, pioneers, and rebels who made the westward expansion possible.