Gateway To The West – St. Louis Arch

This is one of the coolest structures we’ve ever visited!
Seeing the arch in person is truly inspiring.

The simple, yet elegant design commemorates Thomas Jefferson’s vision of a transcontinental United States.

Forward Arch!

Breathe in the majestic beauty from below.

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There’s just something about it’s smooth contour and narrowing top section that creates a grand vision.

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Coming here, we know literally nothing about this thing.

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We have no idea you can go inside!!

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Or even go to the top!!

Into The Arch!

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After a short video and introduction, we’re ready to climb into the elevator cars.

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And man are they’re tiny!!

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There’s only two of us… but 5 seats!!
It can get cramped in here fast!

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Have your breath taken away up top!

Escaping from our elevator cell, we make it to the top.

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The top room is lined with little window slots, offering view of each side.

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Looking out the other side we can see into the city

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There’s our van!!!

Can you spot it?

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There’s not a whole lot of room up here, but it sure is better than that little elevator pod!

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Speaking of which… it’s time to return!

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Back at the Bottom

Below we take a brief look at the site’s history and construction…

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before heading back outside.

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Looks like a storm’s brewing! We better get out of here quick!!

Staying With A Friend

Escaping the slew of rain and torrential downpour in St. Louis, we cross over into Illinois.

Casey and his wife are kind enough to take us in for the night.
It’s a good thing too, cause it’s cold outside!!

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They’re currently in the process of renovating their home, and everything is looking really nice, especially the luxury shower!

Thank you both for the burgers and giving us a place to stay!!

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