colorful rendition of the Arch and Old Courthouse by artist Cbabi Bayoc
Old Courthouse Grand Reopening May 3, 2025
“The Old Courthouse has been the site of some of the most pivotal moments in American history, and now it will offer visitors an even deeper connection to its past,” said Jeremy Sweat, Superintendent of Gateway Arch National Park. “With the new exhibits, enhanced accessibility, and structural updates, the Old Courthouse will continue to be a vital educational and cultural resource for generations to come.”
The grand reopening will feature a full day of activities honoring the Old Courthouse’s rich history and continued relevance. Celebrated artist Cbabi Bayoc has partnered with Gateway Arch National Park and Gateway Arch Park Foundation to craft the vibrant branding.
10 am: WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS Carol Daniel, emcee of the reopening, welcomes the community and recognizes dignitaries and key stakeholders | St. Louis Symphony’s IN UNISON Chorus performs the “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing”
10:10 am: HISTORICAL REFLECTION Jeremy Sweat, Superintendent of Gateway Arch National Park, reflects on the significance of the Old Courthouse and the role it has played in American history | Guests are invited to view a video presentation, shedding light on the Old Courthouse renovations.
10:20am: KEYNOTE ADDRESS Dr. Twinette Johnson, Dean and Professor of Law at St. Louis University School of Law, addresses the community as the keynote speaker for the Old Courthouse’s reopening ceremony.
10:27 am RIBBON CUTTING Government officials and community leaders join the National Park Service, Gateway Arch Park Foundation, and the Arch Alliance on the steps to cut the ribbon and welcome everyone back into the Old Courthouse at Gateway Arch National Park.
10:30 am: DOORS OPEN and IN UNISON Chorus performs as doors open and the crowd enters the building | The first 1,000 visitors in the Old Courthouse receive a commemorative coin.
“Monumental things happen when we invest in the conservation and preservation of our national parks and iconic landmarks like the Old Courthouse,” said Ryan McClure, Executive Director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. “Through our longstanding partnership with the National Park Service and the generous support of our philanthropic donors, together, we have ensured this building will remain vibrant and accessible for future generations. We look forward to standing alongside our partners as the St. Louis community and its visitors rediscover the Old Courthouse.”
As the final phase of the $380 million CityArchRiver Project—the largest public-private partnership in National Park Service history—the Old Courthouse renovation is focused on preserving its architectural beauty while enhancing visitor experiences. The updates include:
New Accessibility Features: Installation of the first elevator in the building’s history and accessible ramps to ensure visitors can experience the building together.
Structural and System Improvements: Renovated ceilings and flooring, a state-of-the-art fire suppression system, upgraded heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, and general restoration and improvements.
All-New Exhibits: Compelling galleries that delve into the stories of Dred and Harriet Scott, African American life in St. Louis, the continued struggle for civil rights, and the courthouse’s architectural and legal legacy.
Musket and cannon firings at the Battle of St. Louis
NPS Photo
Battle of St. Louis. Saturday, May 24. 10am to 4pm.
This event is held outdoors, near the south pond at Gateway Arch National Park. Come join us to learn about S. Louis’ only Revolutionary War battle. The event runs from 10 am to 4 pm, with blank firings of musket and cannon at the top of the hour at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm. Rangers and volunteers in period dress will be available to answer questions about this important but little-known battle.
Check signage at the visitor center for today's program topics.
Ranger-led indoor museum tours. Periodically throughout the day based on staffing. Check today's times and topics on the magnet board at the entrance to the museum.
Learn about the Arch's construction, St. Louis’ role in the westward expansion of the U.S., our city's fascinating French origins, or many other topics on a ranger-guided tour of the Museum at the Gateway Arch. Explore six exhibit galleries that focus on over 200 years of shared history.
Grounds walking tours. Periodically throughout the day. Look for the "Ranger Programs Meet Here" sign outside the visitor center for today's times and topics.
Explore Gateway Arch National Park’s trails with a ranger-led walking tour of the grounds. Exercise your body and your mind as you hear stories of St. Louis’ history.
Touch tables. As staffing allows. At various locations throughout the museum.
Touch Tables are displays that allow visitors to tangibly connect with the park’s living history collections in a safe and positive environment. Learn about the early fur trade, pioneer toys, sabots (a French wooden shoe), or many other topics.
Wellness challenge. Year round, self-guided throughout the park.
The NPS Wellness Challenge promotes the unique ways in which our national park sites promote healthy lifestyles, highlighting specific activities that further physical, learning and mental wellness. At Gateway Arch National Park, participants can earn Wellness Challenge badges by taking the Tram Ride to the Top, walking up the Arch Grand Staircase, or becoming a Junior Ranger, among many other activities. To get started, visit the Information Desk in the Arch Visitor Center or check out our NPS Wellness Challenge website.
Save the date! 2025 Gateway to the Stars Events:
An astronomy or National Park related educational program will precede free telescope viewing of the Moon and other celestial objects.
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Don't be feline left out! Adventurous kitties are also welcome outdoors at the park and at our summer B.A.R.K. Ranger events. Cats must be restrained on leashes or in strollers.
NPS Photo
2025 B.A.R.K. Ranger Events
All B.A.R.K. events will be held outdoors and all will meet at the entrance plaza. Events will be cancelled or rescheduled in case of inclement weather. All dogs must be leashed and friendly. See our Pets page for more information about B.A.R.K. Ranger.
Sunday, April 20 at 10am. Ranger Walk. Join NPS staff to learn the history of St. Louis's favorite landmark and how St. Louis became known as the Gateway to the West.
Sunday, May 18 at 10am. Meet and Greet with Jenny Dove. Jenny is a PetTech Certified Pet First Aid and CPR Instructor and currently works as the Education Coordinator at Kennelwood Pet Resorts. She will be giving expert information on how to introduce dogs to each other.
Sunday, July 20 at 10am. Puppuccino Crawl. Dogs get to enjoy a pup cup while we stroll the grounds.
Sunday, September 21 at 10am. Dog Art. Create a special piece of art with your pet. All materials will be provided.
Sunday, October 19 at 10am. Pet Costume Parade. Dress up your pets and show them off in a parade around the Arch. **Note: there will be no prizes for the parade. All dogs are good boys and girls.
Keep checking this page for more information about future events
