Gateway Arch
St. Louis, Missouri · Accessibility score 2.1/5
Address: 200 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102
Phone: (877) 982-1410
About
The Gateway Arch stands as the tallest man-made monument in the United States, soaring 630 feet above the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown St. Louis. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965, this gleaming stainless steel catenary curve has become one of America's most recognizable landmarks and the centerpiece of Gateway Arch National Park.
The grounds surrounding the Arch offer sweeping views of the St. Louis skyline to the west and the Mississippi River to the east. Visitors can stroll through 91 acres of landscaped park grounds, relax near reflecting pools, and take in the sheer scale of the structure from every angle. The Old Courthouse, where the Dred Scott case was first tried, sits nearby and is included with park admission.
Beneath the Arch, the Museum at the Gateway Arch brings the story of westward expansion to life through six themed exhibit galleries. Interactive displays, historical artifacts, and film presentations cover topics from the Lewis and Clark expedition to the construction of the Arch itself. The museum underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2018 with modern, engaging exhibits suitable for all ages.
For those who want the full experience, a unique tram system carries visitors to an observation deck at the very top of the Arch. The small, egg-shaped capsules travel along tracks inside the monument's legs, and the four-minute ride is an adventure in itself. At the top, small windows offer views stretching up to 30 miles on clear days.
The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer scenic cruises along the Mississippi, providing a different perspective on the monument and the city. Whether you spend an hour or a full day, the Gateway Arch delivers a memorable experience that combines American history, architectural wonder, and stunning river views.
Accessibility
The museum and ground-level areas of the Gateway Arch are largely accessible to wheelchair users. Most of the museum exhibits beneath the Arch can be explored by visitors using wheelchairs or mobility devices, making the renovated galleries and their interactive displays available to a broad range of visitors.
The tram ride to the top of the Arch is not accessible to wheelchair users. The observation deck can only be reached via the tram capsules, which require navigating stairs and transferring into small compartments. Some interior slopes near the base may also exceed standard ADA grade requirements. Visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of these limitations when planning their visit.
The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are wheelchair accessible for boarding and the first level of the riverboat. However, upper decks are only reachable by staircase and are not ADA compliant. The 91-acre park grounds feature paved pathways that are generally accessible, offering excellent views of the Arch from ground level.
Contact Gateway Arch National Park directly at (314) 655-1600 for current details on accessible parking locations, restroom facilities, sensory accommodations, and any recent accessibility improvements. Staff can help plan a visit that works for your specific needs and confirm which areas and programs are currently accessible.
More accessible places in Missouri
- Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis)
- Missouri Botanical Garden (St. Louis)
- Saint Louis Zoo (St. Louis)
- Saint Louis Art Museum (St. Louis)
- City Museum (St. Louis)
- Forest Park (St. Louis)