ST. LOUIS — The Gateway Arch National Park has a jam-packed summer schedule full of virtual, in-person and free events for all ages.
That includes cruises, famous tram rides up the Arch, an astronomical series and more.
Here’s a full list of events to mark down on your calendar:
Gateway to the Stars Series: Monthly, May Through October, 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
It’s your chance to learn about astronomy and space with the National Park Service and the St. Louis Astronomical Society. Each virtual program will air live on the St. Louis Astronomical Society’s Facebook page (facebook.com/stlastro) and includes a presentation by a guest speaker, a planetarium-style tour of the night sky, and a live or recorded video of the moon, stars and planets. (Fall Gateway to the Stars events will take place September 18 and October 16).
Saturday, May 8: The Globe at Night: National Optical Astronomy Observatory scientist Dr. Connie Walker shares how to get involved in an international campaign to raise awareness of the impact of light pollution. Citizen scientists are invited to measure and submit their night sky brightness observations.
Saturday, June 19: The Lives of Stars: What is life like for a bazillion-ton ball of collapsing stardust and how have stars shaped our galaxies and humanity? Local astronomer and former “Dark Ranger” Joel Allen explore star life.
Saturday, July 17: Astronomy in the National Parks: Space Art Travel Bureau Director and Night Sky Ambassador Dr. Tyler Nordgren takes participants on a virtual tour of night sky opportunities available in America’s national parks.
Saturday, August 14: Kids Explorer Night: Kids ages 5-12 can complete a Junior Ranger Night Explorer activity and earn a special patch with the help of Sky Ranger Rich Fefferman.
National Kids to Parks Day: Saturday, May 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Take your kids to the park for new exploration and discovery! There will be four virtual sessions on May 15 to go along with the national day. Kids can earn ranger badges and passes during their sessions. Pre-registration is required. You can register here.
Battle of St. Louis Commemoration: Saturday, May 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Did you know St. Louisans defended their village from British attack during the American Revolution? You can learn all about the historical event at the south reflection pond of the Arch grounds.
1821 Statehood Celebration: Saturday, July 3
In celebration of Missouri’s 200th birthday, you can expect a Fourth of July 1821 style party with live historical demonstrations. Further details about this event will be shared on the park’s Facebook page.
Ranger-led St. Louis Riverfront Cruises: Saturdays & Sundays through May 28, 1:30 p.m.; Daily May 29 through September 6, noon and 1:30 p.m.
You can enjoy a one-hour St. louis Riverfront Cruise, highlighting the history of St. Louis and the role the Mississippi River plays. The excursion is located below of the arch, on the St. Louis Riverfront.
As a reminder, face masks are required in all Gateway Arch National Park buildings and facilities for everyone ages 2 and older.
For more information about these and other events at the Arch, click here.