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So, when you think St. Louis, you think Gateway Arch. It’s obviously the token tourist stop, landmark and skyline feature right there along the Mississippi River. And only 25 minutes from our house in Illinois. Would you believe it if I told you that Abby and Jake had never journeyed to the top of it? And I haven’t in probably 20 years.
Since we moved back here two years ago the downtown riverfront area has been undergoing a huge 4 year renovation project which has made it feel a touch daunting to go down there with the kids. But last Monday, on a whim, the kids and I decided to go for it! And it was a fantastic little summer night!
Now, I have always wanted to do one of the riverboat sightseeing tours down there. The old paddle wheel boats intrigue me and cruising along the Mississippi was on my Bucket List. So, we opted to buy the combo pass that includes the 1 hour riverboat tour and the journey to the top of the Arch. It’s called the Captain’s combo and came out to just $68 total for all three of us. You purchase tickets and reserve time slots online making it SO easy to take the kids! We booked a few hours in advance choosing a 6pm cruise and then a 7:30 trip up the Arch. I would recommend evenings for sure. The sun was less intense and the sunset from the Arch was divine.
I was a touch worried about where to park and what roads were closed, etc but I called them and the fantastic customer service rep recommended that I park on the levee and even emailed me directions. This is what MADE our night. We drove right down and parked on the banks of the Mississippi, 10 feet from the Riverboat and just down the stairs from the Arch. It was only $5 to park there and so convenient. The kids sat right there next to the water on some driftwood and I soaked it all in. Even the music coming from the riverboat docks will make you smile!
And PS: the Riverboat serves snacks and cold beer (#winning) but you need to bring cash for it.
The trip up the Arch was all that they expected. They were being silly but I think they were a little nervous before getting into that little pod to head to the top. But they screamed and giggled the entire way back down!
I am sharing some photos from our little trip down there. So go! Explore our city. And if you don’t live here then make sure to plan a visit!
Tips:
Book online.
Park by the levee.
Bring cash.
Make memories.
(Abby’s fabulous dress is by The Measure and her sandals are Old Navy.
Jake’s KINDERGARTEN tee is by Hatch For Kids and his shorts Mini Rodini.)
