Visiting the Gateway Arch

No trip to St. Louis would be complete without visiting the Gateway Arch. Designed by Finnish immigrant Eero Saarinen, construction on the Arch began in 1961. In addition to designing the arch, Eero designed everything from chairs, to college campuses, to corporate headquarters.

The exterior of the Arch was completed in October of 1965 while the internal tram system was finished two years later in 1967. If you’re claustrophobic, the tram might not be for you, but if you can brave the ride up the views are spectacular. Get a birds eye view of the “Old St. Louis County Courthouse” or gaze out upon the Mississippi River.

Outside, the views of the Arch itself are worthy of the stiff neck that you’ll have afterwards. From ground level, it’s difficult to believe that you can actually take a tram to the top. The Arch’s stainless steel exterior is definitely picture worthy. If you’re ever in St. Louis, be sure to visit this iconic national landmark.