Here is how to spend a day in Gateway Arch, built from the hikes and activities the National Park Service lists and the time it says each takes. Times are for the activity itself; add time for driving, parking and shuttles between stops, and swap anything that is closed or out of season.
Day 1
About 2 hours of listed activity time, plus stops with no listed time.
Start at Gateway Arch Visitor Center for maps, current trail conditions and ranger advice.
Morning
- Report for Duty (30 to 90 minutes). Designed for visitors 5-12 (but open to all!) the Junior Ranger program is designed to help young visitors learn more about the people, places and events related to St.
Afternoon
- Become a Trails & Rails Guide (time not listed). Have fun riding the train and sharing St. (permit or reservation needed; dogs OK; best in summer, fall)
- A View From the Top (45 to 60 minutes). Tram Ride to the Top: Getting there is part of the adventure. (permit or reservation needed)
- Rise to the West (5 to 20 minutes). Ascend the Grand Staircase or gently sloping ramps to the top for a fantastic view of the mighty Mississippi River. (dogs OK)
Make it work
- When to go: April and May. See the best time to visit.
- Where to stay: 0 campgrounds in the park; most visitors stay in nearby towns.
- Before you go: check today’s alerts and read know before you go. More ideas: all things to do.
Today at Gateway Arch
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Alerts: National Park Service, checked hourly. Forecast: National Weather Service, for Gateway Arch Visitor Center. Always confirm on the official park site before you set out.
Sources
- National Park Service: things to do in Gateway Arch National Park (Data API, public domain)
Last checked 1 November 2026.