Know Before You Go: Fourth of July at the Gateway Arch

Date:
July 1, 2026
Contact: Gateway Arch National Park Public Affairs Office , 281-782-7202
Contact: Jennifer Jannsen, OBP Agency, 281-782-7202

- Gateway Arch National Park is gearing up for a busy Fourth of July holiday weekend capped by Celebrate Saint Louis's "Celebrate 250" event on the Arch grounds on July 3and 4. With large crowds expected, the National Park Service encourages you to plan ahead and give yourself extra time to visit the Arch with extra security measures in place to ensure a safe celebration of America's 250^th birthday.On July 3 and 4, the Gateway Arch Visitor Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Old Courthouse will also be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tram rides to the top of the Arch will continue as normal but be sure to book tickets in advance as tickets frequently sell out on holiday weekends.During Celebrate 250 on July 3 and 4, a secure perimeter will be in place around the event area, which includes the Gateway Arch grounds. Please be aware that the following items are not permitted inside the perimeter:

• Aerosol cans
• Alcoholic beverages
• Bags, backpacks, large coolers and/or containers larger than 18" x 13" x 7" (25L)
  • Medical bags and diaper bags with a child are permitted
• Balloons
• Bicycles, skateboards, and scooters
• Drones
• Explosives including fireworks
• Illegal substances
• Mace/pepper spray
• Pets (excluding service animals)
• Recreational motorized mobility devices (including electric bicycles, scooters, motor driven skateboards, one-wheel skateboards, and hoverboards, etc.)
• Selfie sticks, tripods, and monopods
• Signs or banners larger than 20 x 36 x ¼ inch or signs made of rigid material
• Structures: including pop-up tents, beach umbrellas, and other temporary structures
• Supports for signs and placards (any straight stick larger than 12 inches that does not meet the need of a mobility assistance device is prohibited)
• Unsealed containers exceeding 1 liter and any glass container
• Weapons and knives

A full list of prohibited items and closure notices can be found at www.nps.gov/jeff . Due to large crowds and event infrastructure, road closures and delays are expected throughout downtown St. Louis leading up to and during the event. If driving, be sure to arrive early, or consider using MetroLink.Celebrate 250 is a permitted event organized by Celebrate Saint. Louis and not by the National Park Service. For full event details, entertainment schedules, and additional information, please visit www.CelebrateSaintLouis.org .