Soaring 630 feet above the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch is more than the tallest monument in the United States. It’s also one of the region’s most unexpected outdoor experiences.

While millions know the stainless-steel Arch as an engineering marvel, fewer take time to explore the 91-acre national park surrounding it. Native prairie plantings, shaded walking paths, riverfront views, bicycle rentals, and expansive lawns offer an inviting escape in the heart of downtown St. Louis, where history and nature intersect.

Completed in 1965, the Arch was designed by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen to symbolize the nation’s westward expansion. Visitors can ride a tram system to the top, where observation windows reveal panoramic views stretching across Missouri and Illinois, with the Mississippi River winding between them.

Below, the cobblestone riverfront provides easy access to the water’s edge, where cyclists, runners, paddlers, and pedestrians gather throughout the year. Bald eagles occasionally patrol the river in winter, while migrating songbirds and waterfowl make use of this vital stretch of the Mississippi Flyway.

The Gateway Arch isn’t just a landmark to admire from afar. It’s a reminder that even in the center of a city, the outdoors can inspire wonder, reflection, and adventure from a uniquely different perspective.

“High Points,” a series showcasing the highest outdoor spots in our region, is sponsored by Swade Cannabis Dispensary. To learn more about Swade and how it can elevate your outdoor adventures, visit swadecannabis.com.