Gateway Arch National Park

Gateway Arch National Park, formerly known as Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, is located in St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1935, this urban national park spans 91 acres along the Mississippi River, commemorating the westward expansion of the United States.

The park's centerpiece is the iconic Gateway Arch, a 630-foot tall stainless steel structure designed by architect Eero Saarinen. Completed in 1965, the Arch stands as the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the Arch for panoramic views of St. Louis and the surrounding area.

Beneath the Arch lies the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which opened in its current form in 2018. The museum features exhibits on over 300 years of history, including the Native American experience, the pioneer era, and the construction of the Arch itself. Outside, the park grounds offer walking paths and green spaces along the Mississippi riverfront.

Another significant feature of the park is the Old Courthouse, a historic building dating back to the 19th century. It was the site of the Dred Scott case trials in 1847 and 1850, which played a crucial role in the events leading to the American Civil War.

The park also includes the Gateway Arch National Park Visitor Center, which serves as an information hub for tourists and provides educational resources about the park's history and significance.