Gateway Arch Tram Operations to Temporarily Suspend for System Improvements
ST. LOUISJourney to the Top tram rides at the Gateway Arch will be temporarily suspended beginning Monday, November 28 to replace the motor generator sets and upgrade the tram’s electrical system. The Visitor Center, The Arch Store, Monument to the Dream documentary film and riverfront via the Arch Grand Staircase will remain available to visitors. Tram rides will resume in spring 2017.
“During this time, visitors can experience the Arch in a variety of ways,” says Rhonda Schier, Chief of Museum Services and Interpretation at Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. “Inside the Visitor Center, they can learn about the history of the Arch from National Park Service rangers; shop for westward expansion and Arch-related merchandise at The Arch Store; and watch the newly digitized and restored award-winning documentary movie Monument to the Dream at no charge, which chronicles the construction of the Gateway Arch.”
The Old Courthouse will continue to operate normally and offers museum exhibits as well as interpretive programming. “We encourage everyone to visit the Old Courthouse to view free exhibit galleries focusing on early St. Louis, Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery expedition and the settlement of the Great Plains; restored original courtrooms; and an exhibit focused on Dred and Harriet Scott,” says Schier. “Visitors can also participate in living history events with mock trials in the Old Courthouse’s restored courtrooms.”
EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS AND TICKETS
The Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse will be closed Thanksgiving Day, November 24. The park will operate with extended holiday hours on Friday, November 25 and Saturday, November 26: The Gateway Arch will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and the Old Courthouse will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is a historically busy time at the Arch. It is strongly encouraged that visitors purchase their Journey to the Top and Arch Entry-Only tickets in advance by visiting www.gatewayarch.com/buytickets. Tickets can also be purchased in-person at the Old Courthouse or by calling 877-982-1410.
Please note: During the temporary suspension of tram operations, entrance to the Arch is free; tickets will not be required to enter the Gateway Arch Visitor Center or to see Monument to the Dream.
PARKING AND DIRECTIONS
A list of several downtown St. Louis parking locations within walking distance of the Old Courthouse and the Gateway Arch is available at http://getaroundstl.com. Metered street parking is also available nearby. Visitors are encouraged to check www.gatewayarch.com/directions for up-to-date information on road detours and construction news before their visit.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit www.nps.gov/jeff, www.gatewayarch.com or www.facebook.com/gatewayarchNPS; or call 877-982-1410. Reservations are not required, but large groups should call 314-655-1614 to alert the Old Courthouse of their attendance.