The Gateway Arch National Park, formerly named Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, is a downtown St. Louis oasis. Amid the beautifully forested surroundings found within one of the few urban national parks west of the Mississippi River, visitors can discover diverse plant life that includes a number of native species. New Riverview Pathways on the east slopes provide easy riverfront access for the first time in the park’s history.

The landscape around the Gateway Arch reflects the monument’s curvilinear nature. Landscape architect Dan Kiley applied geometrical precepts and classical landscape design elements to create a setting that is both spectacularly and subtly appropriate. The scale, impact, and design of the grounds constitute an essential mooring for the world-famous Arch and its surroundings.

For the CityArchRiver project, we incorporated new features into the mid-century modern landscape design along with a circulation loop that offers pedestrian and bike paths around the park. The North Gateway is a natural amphitheater featuring a number of native plantings, and, within the North Gateway, the Lewis and Clark Explorers’ Garden is designed for children’s play. Paths on the east slope and the Grand Staircase provide access to the riverfront and its sweeping views. Visitors to pond paths will discover brilliant views of the Arch as well as tranquil places for picnicking.

Learn more about the history of the landscape here. 

Park Biking and Walking Paths - Walkers, joggers, and cyclists will enjoy more than five miles of added pathways, ideal for exploring, picnics, and viewing the Arch, including stunning views of the reflecting pond. On the riverfront, the bicycle path connects to the 12.5-mile Mississippi Greenway.

Historical Panels - The people, places, and events that shaped our country’s westward expansion are commemorated on 16 historical panels. From a colonial French village to an 1800’s riverfront metropolis and the1960’s building of the Arch, explore the rich history of St. Louis.