Gateway Arch Riverboats
Experience St. Louis from the Mississippi River aboard historic paddlewheel boats, offering unique Arch views and scenic cityscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Happy hour & dinner cruises
Gateway Arch Riverboats
Best Time
Happy hour & dinner cruises
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience St. Louis from the Mississippi River aboard historic paddlewheel boats, offering unique Arch views and scenic cityscapes.
"This was hands-down the highlight of my trip to St. Louis! The riverboat cruise was so much fun."
🎯 Book Dinner Cruises Early
Dinner cruises are popular and require booking at least 24 hours in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be boarding and disembarking, so wear comfortable shoes for a smooth experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mississippi River Cruise
Mississippi River
Glide down the mighty Mississippi for unique city views and a different perspective of the Gateway Arch.
Skyline Dinner Cruise
Mississippi River
Enjoy a memorable evening with dining and stunning city lights from the water.
Paddlewheel Riverboat Experience
Mississippi River
Ride aboard the historic Tom Sawyer paddlewheel boat for a charming, old-fashioned journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Riverboat Cruise in Advance
Combine with Your Arch Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dinner Cruises Early
Dinner cruises are popular and require booking at least 24 hours in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be boarding and disembarking, so wear comfortable shoes for a smooth experience.
📱 Check Departure Times
Cruise schedules can vary; always check the official website for the most up-to-date times.
💰 Consider Package Deals
Bundling your riverboat ticket with an Arch tram ticket can save you money.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dinner Cruises Early
Dinner cruises are popular and require booking at least 24 hours in advance.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be boarding and disembarking, so wear comfortable shoes for a smooth experience.
📱 Check Departure Times
Cruise schedules can vary; always check the official website for the most up-to-date times.
💰 Consider Package Deals
Bundling your riverboat ticket with an Arch tram ticket can save you money.
🌧️ Indoor Seating Available
Don't let a little rain deter you; enjoy the views from the comfortable indoor seating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Gateway Arch Riverboats for offering a relaxing and scenic experience with unique views of the Arch and St. Louis skyline. The historical narration and the charm of the paddlewheel boats are often highlighted as positives, making it a worthwhile addition to a St. Louis trip, especially when combined with Arch tickets. However, some guests found the narration difficult to hear and felt the covered distance was limited.
"We took a relaxing one-hour river cruise as an add-on to our arch tram ticket. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed getting a different perspective of the city and learning more about the Mississippi River of today. The boat ride was very smooth. While you don't see too much besides the downtown area and adjacent industrial facilities it was still a great experience."
Joel Keralis
"This was hands-down the highlight of my trip to St. Louis! The riverboat cruise was so much fun, and having a tour guide narrate the history of the city as we floated down the Mississippi made it even more special. The tour lasts a little over an hour and is both informative and enjoyable from start to finish. The best part? It’s super affordable—I paid just $44 for both the Gateway Arch experience and the riverboat tour. I highly recommend adding this to your St. Louis itinerary!"
Alejandra Posada
"We are an elderly couple and we took the cruise on a Saturday morning. We got there early, so we were able to get great seats aboard the riverboat. The ride itself was smooth, easy, relaxing. The information was kind of interesting. We saw barges and bridges. There was food and drink, but we didn't have any."
Becky Gallion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gateway Arch Riverboats are located at the base of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. You can typically reach the riverfront area by car, with parking available nearby, or via public transportation. Many visitors combine their riverboat trip with a visit to the Arch itself.
Yes, there are parking garages and lots near the Gateway Arch National Park. It's advisable to check the official Gateway Arch Park Foundation website for the most current parking information and rates.
Absolutely! The Gateway Arch Riverboats are conveniently located along the St. Louis riverfront, making them easily accessible for a pleasant walk from many downtown hotels and attractions.
If you're coming from outside St. Louis, driving and parking is a common option. Alternatively, consider ride-sharing services or checking local transit routes that service the downtown area near the Arch.
The riverboats are generally accessible, but it's always best to contact Gateway Arch Riverboats directly to confirm specific accessibility features and any potential limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of cruise. A one-hour sightseeing cruise typically costs around $24 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Dinner cruises are more expensive.
You can purchase tickets online through the official Gateway Arch Riverboats website, or in person at the ticket booth located at the riverfront. Booking online in advance is recommended, especially for dinner cruises.
While specific coupons can be hard to find, look for package deals that combine riverboat tickets with Gateway Arch tram rides. Sometimes, special promotions are announced on their social media.
Sightseeing cruises usually last about one hour, covering approximately 5.85 miles on the Mississippi River. Dinner cruises are typically two hours long.
It's possible to buy tickets on the day of your visit, but it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular times like weekends and dinner cruises, to guarantee your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll get unique views of the Gateway Arch from the river, the St. Louis skyline, and learn about the Mississippi River's history and current role. You might also see barges and bridges.
Most visitors find the narration informative and engaging, providing historical context about St. Louis and the Mississippi River. However, some reviews mention it can be hard to hear at times.
The riverboats offer both indoor and outdoor seating. For the best views, especially on a nice day, outdoor seating is preferred, but indoor seating is available for comfort and protection from the elements.
Yes, the riverboats are equipped with restrooms. Food and drinks, including adult beverages, are also available for purchase onboard.
Generally, the riverboat rides are described as smooth and relaxing, even for those who might be sensitive to motion. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Skyline Dinner Cruises offer a dining experience with various food options. While specific menus can change, they typically include entrees, sides, and desserts.
Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on the riverboats. The Dock Bar also offers drinks and snacks before boarding.
Yes, the ticket price for the Skyline Dinner Cruise typically includes your meal. It's a comprehensive dining experience on the water.
It's best to inquire directly with Gateway Arch Riverboats when booking your dinner cruise about specific dietary accommodations.
The Dock Bar offers snacks and light bites, such as pretzels and chicken tenders, which are available for purchase before you board your cruise.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is capturing the Gateway Arch from its base on the river. The St. Louis skyline also provides a beautiful backdrop, especially during sunset or evening cruises.
Yes, with open decks and unobstructed views, it's easy to take photos. Be mindful of other passengers and the movement of the boat.
Absolutely! The evening ambiance and city lights make for stunning photographs during the dinner cruise.
Yes, there are often photographers available to take professional photos of you and your group, which you can purchase.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos of the Arch and skyline. Evening cruises provide a different, magical perspective with city lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are restrooms and food options available onboard, making it convenient for families. Consider a daytime cruise for the best visibility and to keep younger children on a regular schedule. The affordability of the sightseeing tours also makes it a budget-friendly option for families looking to add a unique experience to their trip.
💑 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Even a daytime sightseeing cruise can be a lovely, relaxed outing for couples. Enjoying the river breeze and the scenic views together offers a peaceful escape and a different perspective of the city. Consider booking a Thursday Happy Hour at the Dock Bar for a pre-cruise toast.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for potential package deals that combine the riverboat tour with your Gateway Arch tram ticket, as this can offer further savings. While dinner cruises are more expensive, the daytime tours provide a significant experience without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gateway Arch Riverboats Experience
These tours are more than just a boat ride; they often include narration detailing the history of the Gateway Arch, the Mississippi River, and the city of St. Louis. This blend of scenic beauty and historical context makes it an engaging activity for all ages. The boats are equipped with amenities like restrooms and concessions, ensuring a comfortable experience for passengers.
Many travelers find the riverboat cruise to be a perfect complement to visiting the Arch itself, offering a different perspective and a chance to unwind. The affordability of the sightseeing cruises also makes them an attractive addition to any St. Louis itinerary.
Navigating the Mississippi River
The riverboats navigate a portion of the Mississippi, showcasing the St. Louis riverfront, including bridges and the bustling activity of barges. While some reviews mention that the covered distance is limited within the hour, the focus is on providing a scenic and informative overview. The gentle movement of the paddlewheel boat adds to the charm of the experience.
For those interested in the river's role in American history and its present-day importance, the narration on these cruises is particularly valuable. It connects the visual experience with historical facts, making the journey more enriching.
Dining and Evening Cruises
These cruises typically last two hours and include a full dinner service. While specific menu details can vary, the experience is designed to be a complete evening out. It's essential to book these popular cruises in advance, as they often require reservations at least 24 hours prior to departure.
Beyond the dinner cruises, the Dock Bar at the riverboat departure point offers a great spot for happy hour on Thursday evenings. This provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy drinks and appetizers before an evening cruise or as a standalone activity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit