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Jefferson National Expansion MemorialFlags flying beneath the Gateway Arch.
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Gateway to the West

The Gateway Arch reflects St. Louis’ role in the Westward Expansion of the United States during the nineteenth century. The park is a memorial to Thomas Jefferson’s role in opening the West, to the pioneers who helped shape its history, and to Dred Scott who sued for his freedom in the Old Courthouse.

 

 
Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch

Thomas Jefferson’s vision of the spread of freedom and democracy from “sea to shining sea” inspired Eero Saarinen’s masterpiece of modern design. The 630 foot stainless steel Gateway Arch reflects St. Louis’ role as the gateway to the West.

Visitors to the Gateway Arch can tour the Museum of Westward Expansion, ride the tram to the top, and watch the movies Gateway to the West and Monument to the Dream.

SECURITY NOTE! Visitors to the Arch must pass through a security checkpoint before entering. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your tram time if you have pre-purchased tickets.
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Old Courthouse

Old Courthouse

Visitors to the Old Courthouse can tour restored courtrooms and history galleries, as well as learn about the Dred Scott trial and other significant cases that took place in the building.
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Moccasins

Museum of Westward Expansion

The Museum of Westward Expansion preserves some of the rarest artifacts from the days of Lewis and Clark. Through our exciting exhibits, you can explore the world of the American Indian and the 19th Century pioneers who helped shape the history of the American West.
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General Management Plan graphic

General Management Plan

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Superintendent Tom Bradley today announced the agency's preferred alternative for the park's General Management Plan. The goal of the plan is to establish a clear vision and serve as a guide for the long term management of the site that memorializes the westward expansion of the United States. Click here to learn more about the General Management Plan.
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Write to

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial
11 N. 4th Street
St. Louis, MO 63102

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(314) 655-1700

Tram Tickets
(877) 982-1410

Climate

Summers are often hot and humid, with average temperatures in the high 80 or 90 degrees Fahrenheit; autumn and spring are mild and pleasant; winters are rarely harsh, with average temperatures about 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Drawing of Dred Scott from Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper, 1857  

Did You Know?
In 1846, a slave named Dred Scott sued for his freedom at the St. Louis Courthouse. His case went all the way to the Supreme Court, where the verdict set the stage for the Civil War. Today, the Old Courthouse is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. Click to learn more about Dred Scott.
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Last Updated: October 21, 2008 at 14:08 EST