To The Top Of Gateway Arch

It’s the tallest monument in the US and the Gateway to the West – the Gateway Arch of St. Louis.

   * * * * * * * * * * * * 

I’ve driven past the Gateway Arch many times on the highway and finally decided to see it up close. We set out to explore the Arch one fine morning in October.

Gateway Arch is a National Park and is managed with excellence. Past the lobby was an airport-style security stop and a descent to the basement level. I didn’t mind the security. The Arch is an iconic American symbol after all, and we wouldn’t want it to be a target for malfeasance.

Below decks is the exceptional Gateway Museum. Really, this was one of the best we’ve ever seen! Amazing interactive exhibits, lots of artifacts, and up close personal stories that brought the history of the American West to life.

Historical facts were presented with a level, even hand. Equal weight was given to indigenous cultures, Mexican/Spanish territories, as well as the migration of white settlers who moved westward. Made me proud.

The museum also presented the construction history of the Arch. Completed in 1965, it exemplifies Mid-Century Modern design. The shape is a Catenary Curve, the same as a chain hanging freely from two points. The height is equal to the width of the base.

Tram cars run on the inside of both legs. The cars are built like an Apollo space capsule. Tiny and cramped, they hold five people and are suspended on a contraption that’s a cross between a ferris wheel and a roller coaster.

There’s a mock-up in the lobby that lets you test how claustrophobic you’ll feel on the ride to the top. Gives you one last chance to chicken out.

Timed tickets get you a ride to the top of the Arch. You and four others are assigned a numbered car and directed to what looks like a bank of elevators.

The tram car swings and bumps along inside the curved arch during a mildly terrifying 4-1/2 minute ride.

At the top you see bottoms. Folks lean over to peer out the small slotted windows.

It’s 630 feet high at the apex, the floor is curved, and I swear the whole place swayed at little in the wind.

Viewing at the top is a bit cramped and crowded. You’re only allowed about 10 minutes to peek out the windows, and frankly that was enough for me.

The vista really was splendid. I could almost see our house 350 miles away.

A quick ride down in the bumpy capsule – it takes one minute less to come down – and we were on solid ground again. We walked the large park that surrounds the Arch to catch our breath.

You can stand right next to the giant legs and marvel at the immense size of this monument.

One last look behind us…

I’m really glad we went to the top of Gateway Arch, but I never need to do that again!

Gateway Arch