When I moved to St. Louis about 5 years ago, I spent a lot of time exploring my new surroundings and learning everything I could about what was available to me in the area. one of those places being the St. Louis Arch. Which frankly didn’t impress me much.
Yes the St. Louis Arch is rich with history, and the grounds can be pleasant to walk, especially in the springtime when the flowers on the trees begin to bloom. But I personally would not be adding this location to my elopement timeline for multiple reasons.
The Issues
Parking is very limited and difficult. There are only two lots directly next to the Arch. One of them shares with a shopping complex and the MetroLink (which causes a lot of noise as the trains goes by). The other is directly next to the river, and so when the river rises, that entire parking lot floods.
Unlike most national parks, which are full of gorgeous hiking trails and amazing views. There really is nothing that exciting about the Gateway Arch other than the big metal arch. Nothing about the park screams national park. I find the entire park is essentially just a giant walking path with an arch in the middle. perfect for tourists but not for your elopement.
The only reason why I would even consider adding the Arch to your elopement day is if you got engaged at the Arch or had your first date here actually holding significance to your relationship. otherwise, I would skip it.
since the Gateway Arch sits right in front of the river, there are constantly barges and freighters parked on the river’s edge, which is frankly an eyesore.
The Arch is geared to tourists
If you’re wanting to have an intentional elopement and have any sense of privacy, I would absolutely skip going inside the Arch, as the museum can get quite crowded. And if you choose to purchase a ticket to ride to the top of the Arch, you will be going up with 80 other people and will have to fight your way to look out one of the very small 7-inch by 27-inch windows. Plus, you only get 7 minutes at the top, which in my opinion is a very small payoff when you’re having to wait in line, watch an informational video, and line up for the elevator for a total of up to 60 minutes.
St. Louis is chock-full of historic buildings and gorgeous parks that are way more suited for elopements. Whether you’re looking for more of a private location with no one around or are comfortable picnicking and exploring a better-known area with more to do than look at a piece of metal, St. Louis has lots of opportunities and beautiful locations. I just don’t think that the Gateway Arch should be the first one on eloping couples’ lists if they are wanting a day that feels like them and is intentional.
where I would go instead
I personally really love Forest Park in the early spring and fall. The park is absolutely stunning, and they offer so many activities, both free and rentable, including an art museum, a history museum, bike rentals, boat rentals, a golf course, and so much more. The grounds themselves are enormous, coming in at 1,300 acres as opposed to the Gateway Arch’s measly 91. So even though it is just as well known as the Gateway Arch, people are a lot more spread out, and so you still can find privacy at Forest Park. Plus, there’s just way more to do there, and it’s a better use of your limited time during your elopement.
If you’re still really wanting a classic view of the Arch, there are some really spectacular rooftops that showcase not only the Arch but also an incredible St. Louis skyline!
With so much to see and do in St. Louis, the possibilities for your elopement are pretty much endless. But trying to decide how to make your day flow easily and what activities fit the energy of your day can be exhausting. Let me help lighten the load, and let’s get your elopement planned!
XOXO, Ayssa
