12 Fascinating Facts About the St. Louis Arch You Probably Didn’t Know
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is an iconic structure representing innovation, resilience, and ambition. While it’s widely recognized as a monumental feat of engineering, there’s so much more beneath its stainless steel exterior. Whether you’ve visited the Arch or it’s on your travel bucket list, here’s a list of remarkable facts you likely haven’t heard about this architectural marvel.
It’s the Tallest Arch in the World
The Gateway Arch stands at an impressive 630 feet, making it both the tallest man-made arch in the world and the tallest monument in the United States. Its height matches its width, creating a perfect catenary curve—a design praised for its structural efficiency.
Read more about the Arch’s monumental height on Architectural Digest.
It Was Almost Built Elsewhere
Originally, the Arch wasn’t set in stone as a St. Louis attraction. During its planning stages in the 1930s, other cities were considered as its location. However, St. Louis’ historical significance as the “Gateway to the West” solidified its spot along the Mississippi River.
The Design Was Chosen from a Contest
In 1947, architect Eero Saarinen won a nationwide contest to design the monument. His now-iconic design, modeled after the mathematical shape of a weighted catenary, was selected out of nearly 200 submissions.
Learn about the Arch’s creative competition on the Gateway Arch’s official site.
It Took Over Two Years to Build
Construction on the Arch began on February 12, 1963, and was completed on October 28, 1965. The process wasn’t just lengthy—it was also risky, with workers navigating extreme heights in unpredictable weather.
Its Stainless Steel Exterior Is Groundbreaking
The Arch’s outer structure uses about 900 tons of stainless steel, making it the tallest stainless steel monument in the world. Stainless steel was chosen for its durability and sleek, reflective surface.
Discover more construction details on History.com.
Its Foundations Go Deep Underground
The Arch’s foundations extend nearly 60 feet below ground to counteract the weight and ensure its stability. This deep foundation protects the structure from river flooding and soil erosion.
You Can Travel to the Top
Inside the Arch, a unique tram system transports visitors to its observation deck. The tram cars are small, requiring passengers to crouch slightly, but the breathtaking views of St. Louis are worth the ride.
Visit the Gateway Arch official website for ticket details and visitor info.
It Cost Less Than You’d Think to Build
Despite its massive scale, the total construction cost of the Arch was $13 million in the 1960s—equivalent to roughly $110 million today. This is a surprisingly low price tag compared to other major monuments.
The National Park Around It Has a Rich History
The Gateway Arch is part of Gateway Arch National Park, formerly known as Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. The park commemorates President Thomas Jefferson, westward expansion, and the critical role St. Louis played in American history.
It Withstands Extreme Weather
The Arch was designed to sway up to 18 inches in strong winds and can handle earthquakes, making it an engineering masterpiece of both beauty and resilience.
It’s a Popular Spot for Celebrations
The Arch and its surrounding park often serve as a site for city celebrations, festivals, and fireworks displays. Its iconic silhouette against the night sky creates a stunning backdrop for any event.
It’s a Symbol of Modern Innovation
Beyond its historical significance, the Gateway Arch remains a modern engineering marvel. Its construction involved cutting-edge techniques, including hydraulic jacks, and it continues to inspire architects and engineers worldwide.
Conclusion
The Gateway Arch isn’t just a beautiful addition to the St. Louis skyline—it’s a testament to what engineering and design can accomplish. Whether you admire its perfect shape, learn its fascinating history, or take in the views from the top, it’s clear that the Arch holds a special place in both American history and architectural innovation. Next time you visit, you’ll have even more to appreciate about this incredible monument.
