When you approach the city of St. Louis and get your very first glimpse of the downtown skyline, the first thing to catch your eye is the spectacular sweeping lines of the Gateway Arch. Poised like a giant steel-blue rainbow, it perfectly frames the tall downtown buildings that share the skyline. On most days when the sun is out, the edge of its peak catches the sun and it shines like a star. On other days, depending on the light, it can look like it’s made of cool granite stone or a prism of glass reflecting the clouds around it.

In 1803, the United States territory did not extend past the Mississippi River until Thomas Jefferson oversaw the acquisition of an enormous amount of land (almost one million square miles) known as the Louisiana Purchase. He then commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to set forth from St. Louis and head west into the wild unknown. They were instructed to explore and map out a route to the farthest western point, establish trade with tribes of Native Americans and study plant and animal life along the way.

Massive renovations to the Arch Grounds began in the summer of 2014 and will be entirely completed in July 2018. The $350 million makeover puts this destination as one of the most anticipated “must see” attractions in the Midwest and beyond. The riverfront area was reconstructed for easier access between the Arch and the riverboats for both pedestrians and cyclists. The park was extended over the highway so that you can walk easily from the Arch to the Old Courthouse. In July of 2018, the new Museum at the Gateway Arch opens and will feature interactive exhibits telling stories about the colonial 1600s through present day.

After the Independence Day celebrations are over, there are plenty of events, activities and festivals going on under the Arch throughout the summer. The new Arch Grounds is a perfect place to start for your own exploration of St. Louis and other attractions throughout the city.