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Jefferson National Expansion MemorialTheme(s): Native American | Westward Expansion | |
Description:
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial consists of the Gateway Arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion, and St. Louis' Old Courthouse. During a nationwide competition in 1947-48, architect Eero Saarinen's inspired design for a 630 foot stainless steel arch was chosen as a perfect monument to the spirit of the western pioneers. Construction of the Arch began in 1963 and was completed on October 28, 1965, for a total cost of less than $15 million. The Arch has foundations sunk 60 feet into the ground, and is built to withstand earthquakes and high winds. It sways up to one inch in a 20 mph wind, and is built to sway up to 18 inches. Fees are charged to ride the unique tram system to the top. Acreage: 90.96.
The Museum of Westward Expansion, located below the Arch, is as large as a football field and contains an extensive collection of artifacts, mounted animal specimens, an authentic American Indian tipi, and an overview of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Located just two blocks west of the Arch, the Old Courthouse is one of the oldest standing buildings in St. Louis, begun in 1839. It was here that the first two trials of the Dred Scott case were held in 1847 and 1850. Today, the building houses a museum charting the history of the city of St. Louis and restored courtrooms.
Save time by purchasing tickets online. A $3 processing fee is charged per transaction for this service. For more information go to www.stlouisarch.com.
Designations:
National Memorial (December 20, 1935)
Accessibility:
Accessibility: A touch-screen computer/video kiosk, located in the lobby of the Gateway Arch and at the Old Courthouse, provides instant information on accessibility.
Wheelchairs are available for free loan; inquire at the information desk. Accessible rest rooms are available. The observation deck at the top of the Arch is not wheelchair accessible.
Audio enhancement headsets are available at the Information Desk. Special accommodations for sight impaired visitors will be made for guided tours; inquire at the desk or call (314) 655-1700 for reservations.
The film "Monument to the Dream" is open-captioned; a script is available at the theater entrance. Audio enhancement devices for the hearing impaired are available at the information desk for both films. Visitors may also wish to inquire about the availability of audio description services. Removable theater seats provide a viewing area in the new 70mm theater for wheelchair users.
For access to the Old Courthouse, a wheelchair lift is located at the Broadway entrance on the west side of the building. A bell may be pressed for service. The museum galleries and rest rooms on the first floor of the Old Courthouse are fully accessible. Due to the nature of the historic building, stairs provide the only access to the restored courtrooms on the second floor. Visitors may borrow audio enhancement headsets for interpretive programs. In addition, special audio-taped tours of the Old Courthouse are available.
Activites:
Educational Programs | And more.
Facilities:
Picnic Areas | Comfort Stations | Museum Exhibits | Tours & Guided Activities | Medical Services | And more.
Directions to Jefferson National Expansion Memorial
Plane:
From Lambert International Airport take Interstate 70 East to the Memorial Drive exit. Take a left on Chestnut Street and a left onto northbound Memorial Drive. Take a right onto Washington Street and the parking garage is on the right.
Car:
The park is located in the heart of downtown St. Louis on the Mississippi River. Interstate routes 44,55,64, & 70 converge near the park. Parking is available in the Arch Parking Garage on the north end of the park grounds on Washington St. or at privately run surface lots and garages nearby. The Arch Parking Garage has a seven foot height restriction. A passenger drop-off area is available for visitors with mobility impairments near the Old Cathedral on Memorial Drive.
Public Transportation
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is located at the Laclede's Landing Metro Stop.
Attractions:
Ulysses S. Grant NHS
Phone:314-842-3298
Grant's Farm
Cahokia Mounds
Phone:618-346-5160
Missouri Historical Society
Phone:314-746-4599
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