Release Date: January 21, 2014

Contact: Ann Honious, JNEM

Phone: 314-655-1614

Contact: Jenna Todoroff, Common Ground PR

Phone: 636-530-1235

4^th Annual Night at the Museum Set for March 22

Gateway Arch Museum of Westward Expansion hosts historical characters retelling stories of the American West 

St. Louis, January 21, 2014 – The Museum of Westward Expansion will host the fourth annual Night at the Museum, Saturday, March 22, from 6 to 9 pm, offering visitors a unique opportunity to interact with period-costumed characters, hear stories of the early American West and participate in hands-on activities.  Each year, Night at the Museum attracts families from across the region seeking a fun way to learn about our history. Additionally, this will be one of the last opportunities to experience the current exhibits of the museum before it closes for extensive renovations as part of the CityArchRiver 2015 project. 

“This is one of the last major events the museum will host before its construction and renovation, which will bring an entirely new experience,” said Ann Honious, Chief, Museum Services and Interpretation, Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. “We encourage guests to spend an evening with us to learn about America‘s past and experience the Gateway Arch.”

Night at the Museum features historical characters dressed in period clothing—from pioneers and mountain men to frontier soldiers—who will share their tales of the settling of the American West and recount what life was like during these early times in American history. Kids can take part in several Old West-themed activities such as buffalo chip races, building their own branding irons, exploring a tipi, singing songs and learning about keel boat cordelling.

Space is limited and reservations are required. Tickets are $15 per person (children 2 and under are free) and include a tram ride to the top of the Arch and hot dog dinner. Kids ages 3-15 will receive passes for a future Gateway Arch Riverboat sightseeing cruise.  For reservations and more information, call 877-982-1410 or visit www.gatewayarch.com. Those who purchase their tickets online at http://ticketsforthearch.com will receive free parking at the Gateway Arch Parking Garage.