Late-summer visitors to St. Louis will have several new reasons to stop at the Gateway Arch. The park is planning art activities, wildlife programs and a special Junior Ranger badge as part of National Park Week.
According to Gateway Arch National Park, the celebration runs from Aug. 22 through Aug. 30 at the Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse. This year’s nationwide theme is “Celebrate America’s Story.”
The week also includes the National Park Service’s 110th birthday and a fee-free day on Aug. 25. At Gateway Arch, that means adult visitors can save $3 on eligible tram and documentary movie tickets.
The National Park Service announced the complete local schedule on Aug. 12. Its official release lists activities for families, dog owners and visitors interested in American history.
The Celebration Begins With Art and an Evening Program
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On Aug. 22, visitors can create art inspired by National Park Week and America’s 250th anniversary. Activity stations will be available inside the Museum under the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse. A Sky Ranger will also host a Kids Explorer Night at the Gateway Arch beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The Fee-Free Day Does Not Make Every Ticket Free
On Aug. 25, the park will waive the $3 National Park Service entrance-fee portion included in the adult Tram Ride to the Top and documentary movie tickets. The remaining ticket cost still applies, so the tram ride itself is not completely free.
The Museum under the Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse already offer free admission. Visitors hoping to ride to the top should still reserve tickets because tram times can sell out.
The Week Ends With Wildlife and Junior Ranger Activities
On Aug. 26, visitors can bring their dogs to an outdoor B.A.R.K. Ranger program and look for wildlife around the Gateway Arch grounds. Pets are allowed on the grounds but are not permitted in the visitor center or the Old Courthouse unless they are service animals.
Additional programs include writing thank-you cards to park partners on Aug. 27, exploring American heritage and civil rights history on Aug. 28, and learning about National Park Service careers on Aug. 29.
National Park Week concludes Aug. 30 with activities at both sites. Participants can complete the program to receive a special National Park Week Junior Ranger badge.