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119. ST. LOUIS ARCH

St. Louis, Missouri

7/20/2012

The Gateway Arch was built in the 1960s as part of a larger expansion of the Thomas Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. It symbolizes St. Louis’ role as the “gateway to the West” in the nineteenth century. The Gateway Arch is America’s tallest monument (more than twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty) and has become one of the most recognized landmarks of the United States.

Don’t be a fool and park in the “official” parking deck. They want $6, but if you drive down to the riverfront you can park there for only $4. Save $2, park right at the base of the Arch, plus get a great view of the Mississippi. The riverboat “Tom Sawyer” (of course) was docked close to our car when we parked. As we were getting the other kids out Daniel heard Dixieland music from the boat, and sat on the shore to listen.

We walked up to the Arch. It’s pretty darn big. What can I say?

Underneath the monument is the entrance to the elevator ride up to the top. There was a two-hour wait time for this, so we decided against going. We still went down below to see the Museum of Western Expansion. To do so, we still had to go through the airport-style security measures with x-ray machines and all that. The museum was worth a look. Philip really liked the teepee replica. He was surprised that people would live in them. “Most beautiful place in the world” lady was there, snapping pictures, but with less excitement than before.

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