Copyright: National Park Service
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial
|
Description - Jefferson National Expansion Memorial on St. Louis' Mississippi river front memorializes Nineteenth century leaders who envisioned a vast continental United States. The memorial consists of the Gateway Arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion and St. Louis' Old Courthouse.
Attractions
- Jefferson National Expansion Memorial on St. Louis' Mississippi river front memorializes Nineteenth century leaders who envisioned a vast continental United States. The memorial consists of the Gateway Arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion and St. Louis' Old Courthouse. Eero Saarinen's stainless steel gateway arch serves as the centerpiece of this park and a national symbol for westward expansion. Visitors can ascend the 630-foot-high arch. Located just two blocks west of the Arch, the Old Courthouse is one of the oldest standing buildings in St. Louis. It was here that Dred Scott sued for freedom in the historic slavery case of 1847 and 1850. Today, the building
houses a museum charting the history of the city of St. Louis and restored courtrooms. The Museum of Westward Expansion lies below the Arch. The museum collections include mounted animal specimens, an American Indian tipi and an overview of the Lewis and Clark expedition, among other artifacts illustrating American culture.
Recreation - Visitors to this site can enjoy viewing historic sites, touring interpretive exhibits, touring the St. Louis Arch, walking and photography. A typical visit includes a tram ride to the top of the Arch for a panoramic view of the St. Louis area; a screening of the film "Monument to the Dream" which details the construction of
the Arch; participation in the new 70 mm World Odyssey wide-screen theater, which shows films on a four-story tall screen; and a visit to the Museum of Westward Expansion. Just two blocks west of the Arch, the Old Courthouse contains restored courtrooms, information on the Dred Scott case and a museum charting the history of the city of St. Louis. Climate - Summers in eastern Missouri are hot and humid with average temperatures reaching 80 or 90 degrees F. Autumn and spring are mild and pleasant with low humidity. Average temperatures during winter reach 30 degrees F. Location -
The memorial is located in St. Louis, Missouri. The city lies on the eastern central border of the state and along the Mississippi River.
|
Add your own trip Report!