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Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

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Gain a new perspective while cruising the Mighty Mississippi. With a variety of sightseeing, dinner, and specialty outings to choose from, a riverboat cruise makes a unique and relaxing way to experience the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis.

Available March through November. Cruise dates and times vary. Located on the St. Louis Riverfront below the Grand Staircase of the Gateway Arch.

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Gateway Arch Riverboats

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Review Highlights

“ Louis we decided to ride this riverboat along the river and it was such a fun experience! ” in 18 reviews

“ There were concessions on board, but no one minded that I brought a drink onboard with me that I had purchased in the arch cafe . ” in 2 reviews

“ You'll pass your dock and go under a few more bridges before turning around and heading back to the dock . ” in 13 reviews

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50 S Leonor K Sullivan Blvd

Saint Louis, MO 63102

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Take a relaxing cruise and discover the best view of the St. Louis skyline from replica nineteenth-century paddle-wheel riverboats, the Becky Thatcher and the Tom Sawyer. They were brought to St. Louis in 1964 so spectators could get a close-up view of the Arch as it was being constructed, and are the only riverboats on the St. Louis Riverfront today. During a variety of cruises offered, hear the waters churn and admire the view as you ride along the mighty Mississippi River, where Lewis and Clark completed their historic journey. Choose a One-Hour Sightseeing Cruise, Skyline Dinner Cruise or one of many specialty cruises. Hours Cruises run March-November, rain or shine. Departure times and costs vary for each cruise. Tickets Advance ticket purchases are recommended, and are required for certain cruises. Tickets available by phone or online. On-board concessions vary for cruises. Also your entire family may enjoy casual dining, dockside at the Paddle Wheel Café, with a spectacular view of the Gateway Arch. Parking is available on the levee in front of the riverboats. Parking on Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard is illegal and cars will be ticketed. Accessibility Ramps from the street to the levee provide wheelchair access to the riverboats. The first floor of both riverboats and the riverboat dock are wheelchair accessible. The second and top decks of both riverboats require using stairs. …

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They opened March 15.

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106 reviews

I really enjoyed the Riverboat ride. As you travel up river the captain points out structures or businesses and describes their history or current functions. For instance, you learn a little bit about all the bridges, the electric building built for the World's Fair, the history of the tide wall and depth of the river, and commerce along the river. In the way back the Ranger for the national park provides a history of the river and notable stories associated with it. You take shelter inside the boat or enjoy the sun and breeze on the decks. The total time on the river is about 1 hour. I recommend this at least once.

See all photos from John M. for Gateway Arch Riverboats

One of the main attractions that I could not wait to go on when visiting St. Louis for my first time. Descriptions for the parking situation are entirely too vague. We walked from our hotel at the Drury which was very close but I have disabilities and even though I researched all of my destinations ahead of time for this vacation they definately did not make it clear what a challenge this is for handicapped individuals. Just getting to the level above the riverfront, the long walk from the entrance to the park, past the arch and then across the park to get to the top of the steps (which resemble the scene in the movie Rocky) is a marathon in itself. Then, the handicap ramp is a nightmare. It literally goes downward to the right of the steps and the length is so long just to be sent back in the oposite direction for even a farther distance, down a steep incline to reach the ramp to the dock and then onto the boat. In order to be "outside" on the boat you then have to climb several stairs to get to the first level of the boat because the main level of the boat is only a dining room which is located completely inside. I was using my cane and not one single person working offered to assist me in any way nor find a location for me to sit while on the tour. The staff on the boat were all extremely rude except for the woman working in the gift shop printing the tickets. She was very helpful and kind. Every single other employee that I encountered was rude. They looked annoyed to be there, unhappy and unwilling to assist in any type of friendly way at all. The staff that greet you upon entering the boat (or the staff that are "supposed" to greet you) are rude and look at you as if you are bothering them for even daring to enter the boat. Even the gentleman walking around showing guests the pictures that were taken upon entering the boat was clearly aggitated with his job. He was not at all friendly in any way and looked as if this was the last place he would like to be. No matter where you try and sit on the boat it was still practically inpossible to hear the person that was describing everything along the way. We tried several different locations trying to hear the history that was being described but even when we were right next to a speaker we were still unable to clearly understand what was being said. My advice to anyone looking to take this ride is to skip it. It was uninformative (because you can't hear what they are saying anyways) and the staff are so rude you will wish you wouldnt have even entered the boat to begin with. Save your money for the food in the area. Now, that was awesome!!!

The experience itself was a blast! I can not take away from that. I enjoyed the adventure and what it was suppose to be. Maybe I had higher expectations because of how it is viewed on the page and how it's described. It gives a better image than I received in my experience. The service was well understood for the hot conditions they were working in. The whole staff did exceptional with how warm the cruise was throughout the entire experience. Unfortunately, this was a reschedule of a reschedule and we were not warned or notified the AC was out. A lot of the guest were hot, seemed sick, complained all about the quality of food. The inconsistency of the food given to guest and much more. We tried to muster through the best we could but once the meal came it was unbearable to sit and enjoy our meal. I might have taken a bite of each item to experience it but quickly joined more than half of the guest outside to have some type of fresh air. We wish we were given the opportunity to choose to attend or reschedule due to the AC being out. Thank goodness for the name cards and being able to use them as fans. Again, great job to the staff and band for working in such rough conditions.

Seafood dish & steak dish.

The Arch is always a nice touch to a STL visit! The entire experience was fun and informative. Going up the arch was fun. Before we got on the tram, we participated in a learning session. We saw videos of how things were constructed and about the builders. I believe that there are sessions held with the founders and builders as well. I love how organized everything was. We stayed with our group took fun photos and learned so much! Once we made it to the top, it was a really nice view. Now I don't know if it was my fear of heights or what, but I became super dizzy and nauseous. But I did get a few pics and videos. Once we came back down, we stopped in the restaurant to eat. They have a really good system to make sure you get your food quickly. We had the ribs and wings. All of the sides come with original lays potato chips. We also had the juices. They were good! Finally, we shopped in the souvenir shop. It had so many great items. I always get a magnet for my refrigerator collection. If you are in St. Louis, this is definitely a place to visit!

Take a cruise on the Mighty Mississippi River. Board on a replica 19th century paddle-wheel riverboat for a different view of the Gateway Arch and the banks of the Mississippi. Love the names, the Becky Thatcher and the Tom Sawyer, that were originally used to take sightseers to view the construction of the Gateway Arch in the 1960s. Today, the cruise goes under several bridges, the Eads, the MLK, the MacArthur. On a beautiful sunny fall day, it was nice to be on the river enjoying the sunshine, but the tour itself was not that interesting and it was hard to hear the narration. Buy tickets at the National Park Service office inside the Arch and then walk down the steps to the riverbanks to board. The sixty-minute cruise is $25 ($24 plus a $1 service fee). If I had to do it again, I'd opt for a themed cruise like the Blues Cruise or Halloween for $30.

See all photos from Helene S. for Gateway Arch Riverboats

Over priced. Food was not what it was advertised. Medium steaks were well done. Hot as an oven as there was no air conditioning. Not one wait staff member acknowledged us, said good evening or asked how our meal was. P/A system was unintelligible. Not sure what the announcement was As we cruised down the river, no one narrated what the different buildings were. Probably for the best as the P/A system was static filled and you couldn't understand a thing that was said. Save your money and go to a nice restaurant instead.

Now I can say I've been on a riverboat on the Mississippi. Otherwise not much to write home about. We did this before going up in the arch, so we knew some landmarks to look for from the top. I was glad they had food on board because we had totally run out of time to grab lunch after landing at the airport and needing to head straight to the riverboat!

View of the arch from the boat

Good food is not something I would have expected from a riverboat, but the food on our boat was really good. I'm still thinking about the gooey butter cake. The service was amazing and very friendly, too. You should know: When the boat is up and running, it gets very loud in the dining room area of the riverboat. I was trying to hold up a conversation with people at my table while I was eating, and I felt like I had to shout and ask them to repeat what they said. Upstairs on the deck, it's a little more quiet. But inside, you hear the roar of the engine from start to finish. But you should't spend too much time inside, anyway. The point of these riverboat cruises is to look out at the scenery, and your best view is from the deck. There is no bad seat on the deck, so just pick a spot and relax while the St. Louis skyline whooshes past you. From the riverboat, you can see the St. Louis Arch really well, as well as the behind-the-scenes graffiti and whatnot that you typically don't see from land. I love urban decay, so this is right up my alley. You also pass under bridges and see other watercraft go by. Our riverboat ride was about two hours. Just enough time to eat, snap some selfies on the deck, and bask in the sunshine on a really cool boat that's chugging down the Mississippi River.

I wanted to do a riverboat tour when in town as I had fond memories of doing it when I was a kid. Boarding process was quick, they take your photo ( you can skip it) and they bring it to you on the boat hoping you buy it. We initially sat on the upper deck but it started raining with thunder and lightening so we went down to a covered deck. Should have went indoors as it had the air conditioning! As you go down the river there is a staff from the Missouri history society talking about what you are seeing and changes in history. The sites themselves were actually pretty depressing. As someone who grew up here and came down to visit the floating McDonald's, eat or shop in Laclede's landing it was very bleak. Lots of unhoused person encampments, a rotting casino dock. You cruise up the river for 30 minutes and come back down for a total of an hour. They had food and drinks at the dock, as well as restrooms. It wasn't a terrible experience just sad if you remember this area in it's former glory.

Beautiful site and enjoyed the tour , will go back soon , we enjoyed the trip to the top and exploring the grounds .

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Rolling on the River: Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises

No visit to the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis is complete without a riverboat tour of the Mississippi! Step back in time as you board the Becky Thatcher or Tom Sawyer and take a tranquil tour of the riverfront.

Before interstate highways crisscrossed the nation, people did their luxury traveling by train and steamboat. St. Louis was a bustling river town in the 1800’s with hundreds of steam powered paddlewheelers docked on riverfront! There’s a cool display of what St. Louis looked like back then at the Arch’s new museum –be sure to check it out on your next visit.

Riverboat Cruise at the Arch

The riverboats can take your family on a hour long tour of the riverfront –there’s a sightseeing cruise running every day from March to November.

But if you want to make it really special–book a dinner or brunch cruise! The Becky Thatcher is set up with a double decker dining room and takes visitors on a two-hour tour of the riverfront while you dine on a delicious buffet.

Brunch on the Riverboat Becky Thatcher

Sunday Brunch Cruises are a great way to celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Of course you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a wonderful weekend at the Arch with your family! There’s one or two brunch cruises scheduled every month the boats operates. Check out their current schedule under “specialty cruises” here.   There’s also dinner cruises, dancing cruises, and a couple cruises up to see the lock and dam where the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers meet!

What’s included with my ticket?

Your brunch ticket includes a buffet full of scrambled eggs, blintzes, French toast, sausage, prime rib, stuffed chicken, veggies, pasta, dessert, and coffee, iced tea, orange juice, milk and chocolate milk. Soft drinks, beer and cocktails are available at the bar for an extra charge.

What to Expect on your Riverboat Brunch Cruise

First, you’ll want to reserve your spot early by getting tickets online . Tickets are $45 for adults, $18 for kids 3-12 and free for little ones under 2. 

The boats are docked at the foot of the Gateway Arch. Stop by the ticket office to pick up your tickets by 12:30 — the boat leaves promptly at 1pm!

Then you’ll come aboard and be directed to your seat. Unlike the sightseeing tours, the Brunch Cruise has reserved indoor seating with white linen table clothes. Tables are located by the windows, so you can enjoy the whole cruise from the comfort of the cabin, or pop upstairs to watch from the observation deck. 

The food might be served buffet style, but you’ll also get a friendly waiter to serve your drinks and clear the plates. Don’t worry about standing in line either, the serving staff dismisses diners by table so the buffet isn’t overwhelmed.

And while you wait, enjoy a little Dixieland music!

Where do I park?

Best Photos of the Arch are Here

If you’re looking to get a postcard photo of the Gateway Arch, a riverboat cruise is where to be! You can also get a pretty cool one from the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park over on the East Side, but you don’t need to worry about pesky power lines messing up your shot here. ( Here’s a few more ideas for great photos with the Arch! )

Visiting the Gateway Arch: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day through our website, call center, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed and sells out early and often.

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The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch Are Back!

High river levels have receded, and the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are back to cruising on the St. Louis Riverfront. Those of all ages are welcome to enjoy a river adventure on the Mississippi River. The riverboats mark 55 years of operating on the St. Louis Riverfront this year.

“Take a cruise without having to pack your bags! The riverboats offer something for everyone – from family fun on the St. Louis Riverfront Cruise, to date night on the Blues or Dinner cruise, to an evening of many laughs on the Comedy Theater Cruise,” said Robert Hopkins, Director of Operations, Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. “We’d like to thank everyone for their support during the recent riverfront flooding – help us celebrate the riverboats’ return by going on a cruise.”

Cruise reservations can be made by calling 1-877-982-1410 or by visiting gatewayarch.com/riverboats . The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are located below the south leg of the Gateway Arch at 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63102. Parking is available on the Mississippi River levee in front of the boats for a cash fee.

UPCOMING CRUISES

Sunday Brunch Cruise DATES: First and third Sunday of the month: August 4 & 18, September 1 & 15, October 6 & 20 TIME: 1-3 p.m. (Cruise boards at 12:30 p.m.) DETAILS: Enjoy upbeat, live music and feast upon a delicious brunch buffet including French toast, cheese blintzes, eggs, stuffed chicken breast, chef-carved ham, pasta and drink specials while cruising the Mississippi. (Soulful band performs the first Sunday of the month, Dixieland band performs the third the Sunday of the month.) TICKETS: $47/adults; $19/kids 3-12; children under age 3 are free.

106.5 The Arch Arch-A-Rita Brunch Cruise DATE: Saturday, August 3 TIME: 1-3 p.m. (Cruise boards at 12:30 p.m.) DETAILS: Hosted by 106.5-FM The Arch morning show co-hosts Stacey and Jonah, this cruise features a brunch buffet and entertainment by 106.5-FM The Arch. TICKETS: $47/adults; $19/kids 3-12; children under age 3 are free

Comedy Theater Cruise DATES: Wednesdays and Fridays: July 26, August 14 & 23, September 11 & 27 TIME: 8-10 p.m. (Cruise boards at 7:30 p.m.) DETAILS: What happens when a group of misplaced New Yorkers arrive at the Becky Thatcher riverboat for one of the most hilarious and chaotically planned weddings in Gateway Arch history? Join us as a “wedding guest” and become part of the action at the funniest comedy wedding of the year! Enjoy a 2-hour cruise on the Mississippi River while helping the bride and groom barely cope with the comedic hijinks that ensue – all while enjoying dinner, drinks and more. (Wedding gifts not required, but a rollicking good time is offered for all!) TICKETS: $42/adults and children

Blues Cruise DATES: Select Sundays and Thursdays noted below TIME: 8:30-11 p.m. (Cruise boards at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted*) DETAILS: Blues music and the Blues Cruise: two St. Louis traditions! Dance to some of the area’s most popular blues bands and enjoy illuminated views of downtown St. Louis. Named the “Best Place to Slow Dance” by the Riverfront Times ! Cash bar is available.

• July 25: Miss Jubilee
• *August 4: Skeet Rodgers and the Inner City Blues Band (5:30-8 p.m., cruise boards at 5 p.m.)
• August 8: Bike Mike and the Blues City Allstars
• August 22: Soul Reunion
• *August 25: Billy Peek (5:30-8 p.m., cruise boards at 5 p.m.)
• *September 8: Marquise Knox (5:30-8 p.m., cruise boards at 5 p.m.)
• September 12: Skeet Rodgers and the Inner City Blues Band
• September 26: Aaron Griffin Band
• *September 29: Funky Butt Brass Band (5:30-8 p.m., cruise boards at 5 p.m.)
• October 10: Jeremiah Johnson
• October 24: Billy Peek
• December 12: Soulard Blues Band

TICKETS: $22/adults. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Decked Out Divas Cruise DATES: Fridays: August 9, September 13, October 11, December 13 TIME: 9-11 p.m. (Cruise boards at 8:30 p.m.) DETAILS: It’s the only floating drag show in St. Louis! Hosted by Jade Sinclair, this cruise features entertainment by St. Louis’ highfalutin queens. Cash bar is available. TICKETS: $22/adults. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Arch View Lunch Cruise DATES: Wednesdays and Saturdays through August 31 TIME: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (Cruise boards at 11 a.m.) DETAILS: Take in spectacular views of St. Louis while enjoying a leisurely lunch cruise featuring a chef-prepared regional buffet, drink specials and local craft beer, lively music from the Dixieland band, and insightful cruise narration. TICKETS: $39/adults; $15/kids 3-12; children under age 3 are free.

St. Louis Riverfront Cruise DATES: Daily through December 1 TIME: Call 877-982-1410 for cruise times. DETAILS: Journey to a time when steamboats ruled the Mississippi River. Narrated by the boat captain or a National Park Service ranger, this one-hour cruise explores the history of downtown St. Louis, from its landmarks and architecture to the river’s role, both past and present. TICKETS: Starting at $19 for adults and $8 for children. Price varies based on date of visit. (Save up to $3 when you also purchase a Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch.)

Skyline Dinner Cruise DATES: Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through August. Fridays & Saturdays in September and October TIME: 7:30-9:30 p.m. (Cruise boards at 7 p.m.) DETAILS: Enjoy a memorable night on the Mississippi with live music and dinner alongside the best views of St. Louis. This cruise includes a delicious dinner buffet featuring a beef carving station, chicken breast, roasted potatoes, pasta Romano, fruit and vegetables, and dessert. Cash bar is available. TICKETS: $49/adults; $20/kids 3-12; children under age 3 are free

DOCKSIDE EVENTS

Docktails Happy Hour DATES: Thursdays through October 10 TIME: 4 to 7 p.m. DETAILS: Kick back and relax for happy hour! Enjoy drink specials, appetizers, live music and incredible views of the Arch and the river from the dock of the Riverboats. TICKETS: Tickets not required – walk-ups are welcome.

Dock of Love DATES: Wednesdays: July 31, August 14 & 28, September 11 & 25. TIME: 7-9 p.m. DETAILS: Can your love withstand the mighty Mississippi River? Join comedian and host Amber Klear on the Riverboat dock for this not so-Newlywed Game show, as she’ll select couples from the audience to compete for the title of king and queen of the River. Cash bar and concessions from The Paddlewheel Café are available. TICKETS: $10 in advance; $15 at the door. (Please note walk-up tickets will not be available if event is sold out.) Must be 21 or older to attend.

RIVERSIDE EATS

Savor incredible views of the Gateway Arch as well as made-to-order burgers, sandwiches, snacks and more at the Paddlewheel Café , located on the dock of the Riverboats. Hours of operation:

• Daily: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Monday through Friday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Saturday & Sunday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Friday through Sunday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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News Release

Riverboats at the gateway arch reopen to the public.

NPS/Sue Ford

Contact: Jenna Todoroff, 636-530-1235, ext. 225

• Requirement for visitors ages 9 and up to wear face coverings. Guests with pre-existing health conditions unable to wear a mask/face covering for medical reasons are exempt.
• Significantly reduced cruise capacity.
• Dining tables and other physical layouts arranged to ensure appropriate physical distancing of 6 feet between groups.
• Hand sanitizing stations located at key guest and employee entrances and contact areas.
• Signage throughout the dock and vessels with reminders of physical distancing guidelines.  
• Plexiglas barriers placed at point of sale areas.
• Hourly cleaning and sanitizing of public and employee spaces and communal areas, with an emphasis on ticket counters, door handles, public restrooms, handrails, seating areas and dining surfaces.
• On the Riverboats, increased frequency of air filter replacement and HVAC system cleaning; fresh air exchange will be maximized.
• Temperature checks before each shift.
• Requirement to wear gloves (in positions deemed appropriate by medical experts) and face covering, which will be provided by the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch.
• Use of hand sanitizing stations throughout employee areas.
• Complete health and safety training provided by Servsafe before returning to work.
• Staying home if they do not feel well and contacting a manager if they notice a coworker or guest with symptoms of respiratory illness. Employees who are exhibiting any of the symptoms of respiratory illness while on property are instructed to immediately notify management.

Last updated: June 10, 2020

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Contact info, mailing address:.

11 North 4th Street St. Louis, MO 63102

314 655-1600

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Riverboats at the Gateway Arch host happy hour on Thursdays

The events take place on st. louis’ only dock bar and café on the mississippi river.

By Lauren Healey // August 21, 2024

It’s finally not super hot, so naturally we need to drink outside. Earlier this month, Riverboats at the Gateway Arch announced the revival of its weekly happy hours, and we can't wait to get down there.

The happy hour takes place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. every Thursday when weather allows on St. Louis’ only dock bar and café on the Mississippi River at 50 South Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd.

Happy hour menu offerings include reasonably priced cocktails such as classics like a Mint Julep and a Dark and Stormy, along with a Mississippi Breeze Cocktail with 1220 Spirits gin, cranberry and grapefruit juices. Mocktails are a steal for only $5 and you can get an NA version of a Mojito, plus a few other juicy concoctions. On the food side, look for Cowboy Caviar, a black bean and corn salsa served with chips, shrimp cocktail, a jumbo pretzel, fries and a fruit and cheese plate.

After happy hour, you can enjoy views of the city on a two-hour Skyline Dinner Cruise, which also includes live music for entertainment. Tickets for the cruises are available online and must be purchased 24 hours in advance. You can simply show up for the happy hour, and both activities can be enjoyed separately. An end date for the happy hours has not been set, but the organizers expect it to run at least until the end of September.

Tags : Places , Restaurants , Bars , News

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5 Things to Do in St. Louis This Weekend | August 29 to September 1

No matter your age, interests or budget, you’ll find something fun to do in St. Louis this weekend.

• 25 Things To Do in St. Louis
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St. Louis Events for Labor Day Weekend

Tuesday August 20, 2024

• Attractions
• Entertainment
• Family-Friendly

By Rachel Huffman

Labor Day weekend gives you an extra day to enjoy an abundance of St. Louis events. Watch cyclists spin around iconic neighborhoods, experience an exquisite culture at the Missouri Botanical Garden and explore the St. Louis riverfront aboard a replica 19th-century steamboat.

Looking for other activities that won’t break the bank? St. Louis abounds with free summer fun !

St. Louis Cardinals vs. San Diego Padres

August 26 to 29

Kicking off Labor Day weekend, the St. Louis Cardinals will take on the San Diego Padres at Busch Stadium. Whether you go to a game or not, you can still enjoy the atmosphere around the stadium. Snap a photo with the bronze statue of Cardinals legend Stan “The Man” Musial, which stands outside the Gate 3 entrance, and then indulge in the food, drink and entertainment options at Ballpark Village.

St. Louis Riverfront Cruise

August 26 to September 2

Return to a time when steamboats ruled the river. The one-hour narrated riverfront cruise aboard the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch explores the history of downtown St. Louis, including the Mississippi River’s role in its past, present and future. Cruises run daily from March through November, and times vary depending on the season.

August 28 to September 8

A revolutionary story of passion, unstoppable ambition and the dawn of a new nation, Hamilton follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love and a legacy that would shape the course of the U.S. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, soul, R&B and Broadway,  Hamilton  has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. See it for yourself when it comes to the stage of The Fabulous Fox.

St. Louis Riverfront Adventure

What better way to experience St. Louis than from the Mississippi River? Join Big Muddy Adventures on this five-hour paddle along the mighty river, which will surely activate your adrenaline! No paddling experience is required. Children ages six and older are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

City Nights

Send summer out with a bang at City Museum. The next iteration of City Nights includes spun beats, seltzer samples, unparalleled views of the illuminated skyline and unrestricted access to the attraction’s wacky wonders. Attendees must be 21 or older.

Water Lantern Festival

August 30 to 31

Remember the past, celebrate the present and plan for the future at the Water Lantern Festival in Creve Coeur Park. Every adult ticket includes a floating lantern kit with an LED candle, playing cards and a commemorative drawstring bag, and the price covers the cost of retrieving the lanterns and cleaning the water. Filled with happiness, harmony and hope, this is one of the most magical events in St. Louis.

Queeny Art Fair

August 30 to September 1

One of the most reputable art fairs in the bistate region, the Queeny Art Fair brings more than 100 juried artists together to display their original works. As you peruse the arts and crafts, you can enjoy live music, local food and art demonstrations.

Gateway Cup

August 30 to September 2

Big Shark Bicycle Co. presents Missouri’s top cycling event over Labor Day weekend. The Bommarito Audi West County Gateway Cup features four days of racing by some of the best professional and amateur cyclists, who will put on a show as they zip around Lafayette Square, Francis Park, The Hill and Florissant. The full tilt races showcase “criterium format” racing on one-mile laps. This Americanized style of racing appeals to both athletes and spectators as the peloton speeds by the crowd every few minutes, holding lines only inches apart from one another. Watch the race develop lap after lap and hear commentators announce race strategy as the excitement builds.

Japanese Festival

August 31 to September 2

Spotlighting and celebrating the history, culture and people of Japan, the Japanese Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in the U.S. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the garden to absorb the traditional Japanese art, food and entertainment on display. If you have time, consider taking one of the special tours offered in conjunction with the event.

St. Louis CITY SC vs. LA Galaxy

September 1

Playing at CITYPARK stadium – which connects the city’s downtown core and its thriving Cortex Innovation Community – St. Louis CITY SC is the first female majority-owned club in Major League Soccer. See the team take on LA Galaxy on Labor Day weekend, and don’t miss the unique elements that accompany the action on the pitch. Match day at CITYPARK promises powerful art, energizing beats, robust chants and local flavor. Dig into the elevated food program here .

UniverSoul Circus

Until September 2

Celebrating 30 spectacular years, UniverSoul Circus showcases international acts that blend jaw-dropping stunts with culture, comedy, dance, music and more. Now, it returns to St. Louis for performances under the big top next to The Dome at America’s Center. UniverSoul’s fresh approach to kid-friendly live entertainment has garnered a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top 10 most requested family events, and more than 25 million people have seen a show to date. This year, the UniverSoul experience has been reimagined with more than a dozen culturally diverse performances. Expect never-before-seen acts from Ethiopia, the Dominican Republic and Mongolia – plus an 18-person flying trapeze act from China.

SUE: The T. Rex Experience

Until September 15

Meet SUE in the LOU. The most complete, best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered, SUE will roar at the Saint Louis Science Center over Labor Day weekend. The T. rex Experience explains how the fossils were unearthed and explores the sights, sounds and smells of SUE’s world. At the special exhibition, you can also meet SUE’s nemesis, Triceratops. Continue your discovery in the Science Center’s earth sciences gallery full of animatronic dinosaurs and real fossils.

Clash for the Crown

Until January 12, 2025

Showing at the World Chess Hall of Fame, Clash for the Crown explores the histories of the World Chess Championship and the Women’s World Chess Championship. The exhibition features artifacts from the collections of the World Chess Hall of Fame and the International Chess Federation, along with loans from chess champions across the globe. Videos and interactive stations will also shine a light on past champions.

Alma’s Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood

Until January 20, 2025

The Magic House recently debuted Alma’s Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood , an immersive exhibit developed and fabricated by The Magic House in collaboration with PBS KIDS and Fred Rogers Productions, which will travel around the country after it leaves St. Louis. The exhibit is based on the new animated series,  Alma’s Way , created by actor and writer Sonia Manzano, who positively impacted generations of children as Maria on  Sesame Street . Visitors will be transported to Alma’s colorful Bronx neighborhood, where they can explore a multicultural bodega, a local community center with a Bomba Dance Studio, Alma’s father’s pet clinic, a subway and a park, as well as Alma’s family duplex where her extended Puerto Rican family lives and plays. Alma loves finding solutions and solving problems, and young visitors will, too!

Until June 30, 2025

Illuminating the contemporary intersection of celebrity, commerce, technology and media, Pop Stars! , the latest exhibition at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis, features more than 90 works of art by 55 artists from around the world. Curated by museum director and chief curator Alice Gray Stites , Pop Stars! is a multimedia exploration of popular culture, where the featured artists examine recent shifts in how culture is being created and consumed, demonstrating the dominance of the popular as today’s ubiquitous culture.

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Standard Ticketing Alert: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended.

• Hours & Pricing
• Directions & Parking
• Sample Itinerary
• Tram Ride to the Top
• Riverboat Cruises
• Virtual Reality Theater
• Old Courthouse
• Activities & Attractions
• Tour Operators
• Field Trips
• Private Events
• Group Pricing
• Submit Photos

Plan Your Visit

Beyond the amazing views, the Gateway Arch offers an abundance of things to see and do. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, you’ll find activities to please every member of your party. Click below for a sample itinerary and everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Gateway Arch.

Activity Pricing Schedule and pricing subject to change.

The Gateway Arch

Normal—Daily 9:00am–6:00pm*

Summer—Daily Saturday before Memorial Day – Labor Day 9:00am–8:00pm*

The park grounds are open from 5:00am–11:00pm year round.

* Last tram leaves one-hour prior to closing.

The Old Courthouse

Temporarily Unavailable

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

Cruising March through November (Cruise times and hours vary. Go to gatewayarch.com/riverboats for full schedule.)

Private events offered year round.

Gateway Arch Call Center

Summer 9:00am-7:00pm

Winter—Daily 9:00am–5:00pm

The Gateway Arch and Call Center are open year-round but are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day .

Summer Hours run the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Winter Hours run the Tuesday after Labor Day through the Friday before Memorial Day weekend.

Directions & Parking

Passenger drop-off/pick-up is available on 4th Street across from the Old Courthouse, between Market & Chestnut. Accessible parking available (first come, first served) on Market Street between Memorial Drive and 4 th Street  and on Memorial Drive between Walnut & Market Streets and Chestnut & Pine Streets.

Find directions from any of St. Louis’ convenient highways and bridges.

Find the most pedestrian-friendly routes.

Public Transit

Skip driving and parking—take MetroLink or MetroBus to the Gateway Arch.

Bus Directions

Find important details for groups arriving by bus.

Gateway Arch

Learn more about preferred parking when visiting Gateway Arch National Park

Learn more about parking when visiting the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

This video shows you how to save money on your visit to Gateway Arch National Park by pre-purchasing your parking. It also demonstrates the process of parking in the Stadium East Parking Garage, walking to the Gateway Arch entrance and how to validate your parking if you did not pre-pay for parking. 

As one of America’s cherished national parks, the Gateway Arch takes your safety and security very seriously. Here are a few simple guidelines to ensure a safe experience for all visitors.

Visitors entering the Gateway Arch facility are subject to search and screening by magnetometer and x-ray equipment, similar to airport security.

Allow plenty of time to go through security screening. During our busier times the wait can be up to 30–45 minutes.

Pack lightly for faster screening. These items are prohibited inside the security gates: pepper spray, mace, guns (including CCW), cat eyes, brass knuckles, and knives with non-folding blades or blades longer than 4”.

Accessibility

The Gateway Arch is an experience enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Recent improvements have expanded access to even more of our attractions. With the exception of the Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch, the second and third decks of the riverboats, and the upper floors of the Old Courthouse, most facilities at the Gateway Arch are wheelchair accessible. See below for specific directions to our various attractions.

Tram Ride to the Top:  The Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch is not fully accessible for guests with mobility impairments, as no wheelchairs, scooters or strollers are permitted on the Observation Deck. To reach the top and return, you must be able to manage at least 96 steps, divided into six flights, and you may need to stand for 30­–60 minutes. No seating or restrooms are located at the top of the Arch.

New Museum at the Gateway Arch:   The new Museum at the Gateway Arch was designed to prioritize universal design throughout the galleries to accommodate people of many different abilities and to make the experience better for everyone. Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size or ability. The museum features hands-on, touchable exhibits; large print text cards; front access for wheelchairs; interactive computer simulations; and much more.

Gateway Arch National Park Grounds: Motor vehicles are prohibited but electric-powered mobility assistance devices (e.g. electric scooters, wheelchairs, and Segways) for transporting persons with disabilities are permitted on park roadways and walkways.

Guests may borrow a wheelchair by leaving a valid form of identification with a National Park Service ranger at the Information Desk inside the Gateway Arch or Old Courthouse.

Parking for the Gateway Arch:  Preferred parking at a discounted rate ($10 for first five hours) is available at the Stadium East Garage.

• Location : 200 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Pre-purchase parking with no validation required : iparkit.com/TheArch If parking is not pre-purchased, validation is required by scanning/stamping your parking ticket at one of two validators located inside the Visitor Center at Gateway Arch National Park. Validators are located in the West Entrance lobby just outside the restrooms and on Level 3 next to the Explore St. Louis Information Desk.
• Important note:  On dates with St. Louis Cardinals’ home games, downtown St. Louis event days, and other Busch Stadium event days discounted Arch parking MUST be purchased by 11:59pm on the date prior to the game. If parking is not pre-paid, event parking rates will apply and parking tickets cannot be validated. Please check the  Cardinals schedule  and plan ahead for Arch parking.
• Blackout dates, including Cardinals Opening Day, might apply for discounted rate pre-paid parking.

Additional parking locations in downtown St. Louis, visit  explorestlouis.com/travel-tools/get-around-st-louis/downtown-parking/

Accessible Parking for the Gateway Arch: Passenger drop-off/pick-up is available on 4th Street across from the Old Courthouse, between Market & Chestnut. Accessible parking available (first come, first served) on Market Street between Memorial Drive and 4 th Street  and on Memorial Drive between Walnut & Market Streets and Chestnut & Pine Streets.

Parking for the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are located on the Mississippi River accessible from the cobblestone levee at 50 S. Leonor K Sullivan Blvd. (St. Louis, MO 63102). Riverfront parking is available for a cash fee and is not operated by the Gateway Arch or Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. To access the riverfront parking, take Chouteau Ave. east to Leonor K Sullivan Blvd. north. For maps and directions, go to gatewayarch.com/riverboatdirections . DO NOT USE GPS NAVIGATION due to recent street closures along and near the riverfront. Note: Parking availability is subject to weather and river conditions. For current parking updates, please visit gatewayarch.com/riverboatdirections prior to your visit.

Hearing-impaired visitors   may request assisted listening and captioning devices for the documentary movie and the museum from the Information Desk inside the Gateway Arch.

Sight-impaired visitors  may request audio description devices for the documentary movie from the Information Desk inside the Gateway Arch.

Service animals  ( as defined by the US Department of Justice ) are permitted at the Gateway Arch and the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch.

Strollers are permitted everywhere except in the Arch trams and the Observation Deck at the top of the Gateway Arch. You may park strollers at the tram ride loading zones located below the Gateway Arch before taking your Tram Ride to the Top. Many families park strollers there, so you may want to label yours with your name and address.

Visiting the Riverboats from the Arch grounds:   New, sloping pathways now lead from the Arch grounds down to the riverfront. If driving by car, parking is available for a cash fee on the levee at 50 South Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63102.*

Visiting the Arch from the Riverboats:  Enter the Arch grounds from the riverfront via the Grand Staircase. For wheelchair access, use the ramps from the riverfront to the Arch grounds. Another park entrance is available at the north via Laclede’s Landing, the 1st and 2nd Street entrances to the park are also wheelchair accessible.*

Visiting the Arch from downtown St. Louis: All walking paths onto the Arch grounds from the City are open. See our Pedestrian Map for details.*

*The entrance to the Gateway Arch faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs have become exits only.

**NOTE ABOUT RIVERFRONT ACCESS: Due the slope of the levee, the paved pathways on the cobblestones leading to the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are not ADA compliant.

For additional information or assistance, please email  [email protected]  or contact our  Call Center  at  877-982-1410.

To learn more about accessibility at the Arch grounds, visit the Gateway Arch National Park website .

Frequently Asked Questions

Still curious about the fascinating gateway arch.

8 Fun Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids

L ong known as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis is usually associated with its famous Arch or maybe Budweiser beer (both accurate). But for families, there’s so much more to St. Louis than a tour of the King of Beer (though children are welcome are some tours ). That’s because many of the best things to do in St. Louis with kids also happen to be fun for adults. It’s win-win.

Fun Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids

St. Louis is a river city, hugging the shoreline of the Mississippi. And in recent years, the city has undergone a makeover of sorts, with updates that include a major renovation of the Gateway Arch National Park plus a new aquarium and other attractions at Union Station. These days, the city is a perfect long weekend destination for families with children of all ages. Here are eight fun things to do with kids in St. Louis.

IDEAL ITINERARIES: 12 Midwest Family Vacations Packed with Fun

1. Gateway Arch National Park

While the Arch is the major attraction at Gateway Arch National Park , you’ll want to start a visit with a stop at The Museum at the Gateway Arch. Offering a look at St. Louis’ history from its First People to development as a river town, the museum includes interactive exhibits that shine a light on the city, which was originally founded at nearby historic Laclede’s Landing.

HIT THE ROAD: 6 Scenic Midwest Road Trips for Outdoorsy Families  

An Arch experience starts with a short ride to the to the top in four-person egg-shaped pods. From the top, 630 feet above the ground, visitors peer through the slots of the Arch for views of St. Louis and the Illinois side of the Mississippi River stretching for about 30 miles. Visitors generaly have 15 to 20 minutes to enjoy the views. The Arch isn’t accessible for people in wheelchairs, as visitors need to walk at least 96 steps at the pods and the observation floor.

The Old Courthouse , site of the famous Dred Scott decision, which legalized slavery before the Civil War, is also considered part of the Gateway Arch National Park. A paved path takes visitors from the Arch to the Old Courthouse.

2. St. Louis Union Station

More than 100,000 people made their way through St. Louis’ Union Station during the heyday of rail travel. And though the last train passed through this station in the 1970s, the station’s limestone exterior and Romanesque design has remained a part of the cityscape. Since its rail hub days, Union Station has tried on identities ranging from shopping center to entertainment complex, but nothing thrived here until someone reimagined the space as a giant aquarium plus a ropes course, mini golf course, and home to a Ferris wheel. Today, Union Station is once again a major attraction in the city.

With more than 13,000 animals, the St. Louis Aquarium anchors the revitalized Union Station. The aquarium’s exhibits include marine life from around the world, including zebra sharks and river otters. For some rail-themed fun, grab a seat aboard a train exhibit and take a virtual tour of the area, traveling below the Mississippi River as you view scenes from the train’s windows.

FALL FUN: 6 Family-Friendly Fall Foliage Destinations in the Midwest  

When you’re ready for thrills, navigate 30 obstacles over three stories as you traverse the Rope Course . With wooden bridges, tightropes and other challenges, the course takes climbers above Union Station’s lobby. After conquering the ropes course, enjoy a victory lap on the SkyRail zipline as you soar 50 feet above the lobby.

Enjoy a special view of St. Louis with a ride on the St. Louis Wheel , a Ferris wheel with 42 four-passenger-enclosed gondolas. The 15-minute experience takes riders 200 feet high, and features unique views of St. Louis.

Visitors to Union Station can also enjoy 18 holes of Mini Golf , as well as maneuver through Mirror Maze’s hallway of mirrors, with interactive exhibits reflecting on the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.

3. St. Louis Zoo

Considered one of the best zoos in the world, the St. Louis Zoo is home to about 16,000 animals—plan to spend an entire day here—including African painted dogs, Amur tigers, red pandas, and a variety of primates and bears, including polar bears.

UNDERWATER WONDERS: 11 Best U.S. Aquariums to Visit with Kids

Check out the sea lion exhibit, where you may find these marine mammals resting atop the underwater tunnel; and the penguins, which waddle and play just a few feet from you in an open-air environment. The zoo also features unique attractions like the Conservation Carousel (ADA compliant), Zooline Railroad, 4D Theater, and Stingrays at Caribbean Cove.

While the St. Louis Zoo offers free admission, there is paid parking and some of the exhibits do require a fee.

4. Magic House

Located inside a Victorian-era mansion, Magic House is a children’s museum that offers learning experiences while children play with interactive exhibits. From fun with science at the STEAM exhibit to exploring the world of nature, the beloved Magic House in Kirkwood features more than 20 permanent and special exhibits for families to explore.

5. Missouri Botanical Garden

The oldest botanical gardens still active in the United States, the Missouri Botanical Gardens have called St. Louis home since 1859. A respite in the busy city, the botanical gardens features several outdoor gardens—picture Japanese and Chinese gardens as well as a Victorian garden—surrounded by lovely Victorian era buildings. While you’re there, don’t miss a stroll through the Rose Garden with its variety of colorful roses.

PACK WELL: 11 Stylish and Durable Luggage Brands for Everyone in the Family

Indoor attractions at the Missouri Botanical Garden include the Climatron, which is a geologic dome used to house more than 2,800 plants and trees in a tropical forest. The Botanical Gardens also hosts special exhibits, such as Chihuly blown-glass art and Chinese lanterns.

6. Grant’s Farm

A gift to future President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia, Grant’s Farm mixes history and nature. While the Grants’ log cabin is located at the farm, the family only lived there for a short period. Now owned by the Busch family, public trolley tours are offered of the family’s mansion.

AGRITOURISM: 5 Family Farm Stays Where You Can Reconnect with Nature (and Each Other)  

But, the main attractions at the popular Grant’s Farm may be the wildlife. While the famous Clydesdale horses are kept on site in historic stables, visitors are urged to reserve a spot on an open-air vehicle that includes a drive through Deer Park wildlife reserve, where they can see animals such as bison, black buck antelope, zebras, and longhorn cattle up-close. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone full of pellets to feed animals by hand.

7. City Museum

Exploring City Museum is like finding a giant playground for kids of all ages. The well-reviewed City Museum has fun for both adults and children, with structures that range from a treehouse and caves on the first floor to a slide that covers several floors. An aquarium features giant replicas of sharks and other marine life along with fish from around the world.

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Explore three stories of curiosities that feature everything from a giant pencil to classic architecture. Outdoor attractions include a rooftop slide, Ferris wheel, and a school bus that extends over the edge of the building.

8. Riverboat Cruise

Enjoy a one-hour Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi River, passing some of the city’s historical landmarks such as Laclede’s Landing and the Gateway Arch, as well as taking on views of downtown St. Louis. Riverboat cruises include a daily tour, dinner cruise, brunch cruise, and specialty tours, such as a jazz cruise. Note that it’s a good idea to book this popular attraction in advance, since tickets sell out quickly.

ON THE WATER: Everything You Need to Know about River Cruises in the U.S.  

Where to Stay

Missouri-based Drury Hotels offer a family-friendly experience at a comfortable price. Opening its first hotel in 1973, the chain now has more than 150 hotels in 26 states. Of course, the area has a variety of hotel options in all areas and price ranges.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 11 Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• 50 Epic Family Vacation Ideas
• 10 Tips for Keeping Your Family Healthy on Vacation

The post 8 Fun Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids appeared first on FamilyVacationist .