St. Louis was not just built near the river; it was defined by it. Founded as a fur-trading post, the city grew into a powerhouse because of its position on these waters. When you step onto our replica riverboat, you are doing more than taking a tour. You are experiencing the city the way early settlers and explorers did centuries ago. Feeling the gentle pull of the current and watching the shoreline drift by provides a tangible connection to over 200 years of American history that you simply cannot get from a car or a sidewalk. 

Spring outings should be easy, and the riverboats offer a rare “one size fits all” destination. Whether you are wrangling energetic kids, planning a long-overdue catch-up with friends, or organizing a family reunion, the atmosphere adapts to you. There is plenty of space to roam, music to set the mood, and a variety of snacks to keep everyone happy. It is a communal experience where history buffs can dive into the narration while others simply enjoy the relaxation of being on the water. 

The Gateway Arch is an architectural marvel from any angle but seeing it from the center of the Mississippi River is a different experience entirely. As the spring sun hits the stainless steel, the reflections off the water create a photographer’s dream. From the deck, you get an unobstructed view of the historic Eads Bridge and the evolving St. Louis riverfront. It is the perfect time of year to capture those iconic shots before the summer haze sets in. 

For decades, locals have looked at the riverboats as a landmark for their own personal histories. From first dates and prom nights to golden anniversaries, these boats have served as the backdrop for generations of St. Louis stories. There is a sense of continuity in knowing that while the skyline evolves, the experience of a river cruise remains a timeless staple of life in our city. 

After a long, indoor-focused winter, we all need a mental reset. There is something inherently calming about “river vibes” the sound of the water, the open sky, and the slow pace of the boat. It is an invitation to put down your phone, soak in the sun, and share a laugh over a drink. It’s the transition we all need to move into a more active, outdoor-oriented mindset for the months ahead. 

There is no more iconic way to see St. Louis than from the top of the Gateway Arch. Standing 630 feet high, the observation deck provides a breathtaking perspective of downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River. In early January, the crisp winter air often provides the clearest views of the year. 

The Tram Ride to the Top is our most popular experience, and we recommend planning your visit Monday, January 5 through Thursday, January 8 to take advantage of our Value Day pricing. These are the most budget-friendly days for families and fans to visit. On Value Days, tickets are only $15 for adults (ages 16+) and $11 for youth (ages 3–15). The entire Tram Ride to the Top experience typically takes between 45 to 60 minutes. Please keep in mind that once you reach the observation deck, time at the top is limited to under 10 minutes to ensure all guests can enjoy the view with easy access to the windows. 

To make the most of your trip, consider our combo tickets. These packages include the Tram Ride plus access to our immersive storytelling attractions: 

Dive Into 200 Years of History 

Your visit isn’t complete without exploring the stories that built this city. The Museum under the Gateway Arch is free to enter and features interactive exhibits covering the founding of St. Louis, westward expansion of the United States, and the construction of the Gateway Arch. We suggest dedicating at least 60 minutes to wander through these galleries. 

Just a short walk from the visitor center, you will find the recently reopened Old Courthouse. Admission is free, making it an easy addition to your afternoon. This architectural gem is where Dred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom, sparking a pivotal moment in American history. Spend an hour here exploring new exhibits on the Scott family and the architecture of the building. 

The Half-Day Essentials Itinerary 

If you are looking for a way to fit the Arch into your competition schedule, here is a suggested itinerary to ensure you don’t miss a thing: 

Celebrate the Championships with Exclusive Giveaways 

We are celebrating the figure skating spirit with several special offerings for championship attendees: 

Getting Here from the Rink 

To help you get around with ease, Metro Transit, our local transit agency, has created a dedicated guide for using public transportation while you are in St. Louis. This guide features instructions on how to travel from the Enterprise Center directly to Gateway Arch National Park. By choosing transit, you can bypass the city traffic and head straight to the history, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sights of downtown St. Louis along the way. 

Between the high-stakes competition and the edge-of-your-seat performances, we hope you find time to soar to the top of St. Louis’s most famous monument. We look forward to welcoming the figure skating community to the Gateway Arch! 

Each winner will receive: 
• Two Skyline Dinner Cruise tickets from the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch 
• Four (4) 2026 General Admission tickets to the City Museum 
• $50 Ballpark Village Gift Card 
• $50 Gift Card to 360 & Train Shed 

It’s simple: 
Pick up a passport. Get it stamped at each pop-up. Return it completed. And you’re entered to win! 

Passport Program Dates: December 4–28, 2025 
Winners Contacted: January 2026 

The Floating Sleigh 

Step aboard the reimagined Riverboat bar, fully transformed into a glowing holiday escape complete with festive cocktails, cozy vibes, and magical riverfront views. 
Location: Riverboats at the Gateway Arch 
Instagram: @TheFloatingSleigh 
Dates: Dec 4 – Dec 28 
Hours: Thu (5–10pm), Fri (5–12am), Sun (5–10pm) 
Tickets: $10 — purchase online at TheFloatingSleigh.com or at the door 

Tinsel Tavern 

An over-the-top holiday bar decked in lights, tinsel, and wall-to-wall festive cheer—Tinsel Tavern is a must-visit for seasonal cocktails and Instagram-worthy moments. 
Location: Ballpark Village 
Instagram: @crownroomstl 
Dates: Nov 28 – Dec 28 
Hours: Daily at 4pm (Wednesday–Sunday) 
Reservations: Weekdays FREE • Weekends $5 
Reserve at: https://www.opentable.com/r/tinsel-tavern-at-crown-room-st-louis 

Sleigh Shed 

A cozy winter escape inside Train Shed, this pop-up offers festive drinks, holiday décor, and the perfect atmosphere for gatherings big and small. 
Location: Train Shed at Union Station 
Instagram: @trainshedstl 
Dates: Nov 7 – Jan 2 
Details: No reservations—first come, first served. Groups of 8+ may reserve with food & beverage minimums. 

Up On The Rooftop 

Experience holiday magic high above the city with stunning skyline views, winter cocktails, and a rooftop atmosphere unlike anywhere else in St. Louis. 
Location: 360 Downtown 
Instagram: @360rooftopbar 
Dates: Nov 7 – Dec 28 
Details: No reservations—first come, first served. Groups of 8+ may reserve with food & beverage minimums. 

Cozy Chalet & Elfed Up Café 

Get cozy inside this whimsical, family-friendly holiday space featuring themed treats, immersive décor, and playful surprises around every corner. 
Location: City Museum 
Instagram: @citymuseum 
(General admission to City Museum required) 
Details: Visit citymuseum.org for hours and to purchase tickets.

Your holiday crawl through Downtown St. Louis begins with one simple step: pick up your Holiday Pop-Up Passport. Travel from one magical pop-up to the next, gathering stamps as you sip, savor, and celebrate the season. When your passport is fully stamped, turn it in and you’ll be entered to win one of three amazing holiday prize packages packed with experiences and gifts from your favorite downtown St. Louis destinations.

Let the festive fun begin!  

Imagine the sparkle in your child’s eye when they see Santa Claus trading his traditional sleigh for the historic Tom Sawyer riverboat! Our Caroling with Santa cruise is the perfect afternoon treat, blending classic holiday tunes with the iconic scenery of the St. Louis riverfront. 

What to Expect: 

This is the merriest way to enjoy the season and get your family into the holiday spirit! 

Pricing  
General Ticket (Age 3+) $29  
Infant Ticket (Age 0-2) FREE  (Ticket still required) 
 
Cruise Dates & Time
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Saturdays: Dec. 6, 13, 20 
Sundays: Dec. 7, 14, 21 
Pro Tip: Cruises board 30 minutes prior to departure. We recommend arriving early to find parking and enjoy the multiple decks before setting sail promptly at 1:30 PM! 

Secure your tickets for the Caroling with Santa Cruise today! Space is limited for these popular afternoon sails.

This cruise is a parent’s dream. Imagine rolling out of bed, keeping your pajamas on, and heading straight for a delicious, catered breakfast with Santa (no cooking or cleanup required)! Our PJs & Pancakes with Santa cruise offers a magical morning experience on the Mississippi River. 

What to Expect: 

This is the ultimate stress-free way to enjoy a family breakfast and make some priceless holiday memories. 

Pricing 
General Ticket (Age 3+) $45 
Infant Ticket (Age 0-2) FREE (Ticket still required) 
 
Cruise Dates & Times
9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Saturdays: Dec. 6, 13, 20 
Sundays: Dec. 7, 14, 21 
Don’t Miss the Boat! Boarding starts at 9:00 AM. Since we run a tight ship, we depart right on time at 9:30 AM. Arrive early to secure your spot and start the fun!

Book your PJs & Pancakes with Santa tickets now and guarantee your family a cozy start to the holiday season!

From Hull to Holly: Tom Sawyer’s Festive Flip 

This isn’t just a boat with a few lights; it’s a complete bow-to-stern holiday takeover. As soon as you step aboard, you’ll be transported into a cozy, festive atmosphere. The boat will be shimmering with holiday lights, glistening garlands, and decor that captures the magic of the holiday season. We’re working hard to make this space the most Instagrammable spot in the city, and the perfect backdrop for your winter celebrations. It is a truly immersive environment designed for intimate conversations, holiday photos, and creating lasting memories with friends and family. 

And here’s a crucial detail for your planning: this is a dockside bar, not a cruising event. The Tom Sawyer Riverboat remains securely docked throughout the evening, allowing you to come and go as you please. 

Taste the Season: Festive Cocktails Named After Reindeer 

No holiday pop-up bar is complete without spectacular drinks, and our beverage program is themed around Santa’s flight crew. You can sip, sparkle, and be merry with specialty cocktails and mocktails that are anything but ordinary. 

Some of our featured festive drinks include: 

To complement our signature cocktails, we’ve crafted a fun, cheeky, and delicious menu of festive bites designed for easy mingling and holiday cheer. Here’s a peek at a couple of the unique offerings you’ll find on the full menu, continuing our commitment to a memorable experience: 

Our elevated comfort food menu coordinates directly with the drinks, providing perfect pairings to enhance your overall sensory experience. 

Ready to secure your spot aboard The Floating Sleigh? Get your tickets!

Plan Your Visit to The Floating Sleigh 

Ready to experience this unique St. Louis holiday event? Here’s everything you need to know: 

Don’t miss out on the ONLY holiday activity on the St. Louis riverfront. Gather your crew, grab your tickets, and come make some new holiday memories aboard The Floating Sleigh!  

In St. Louis, the Mississippi River is not just a boundary; it is the original highway, the birthplace of the city’s identity. The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer the only cruises right here in downtown St. Louis, and there is no better way to understand the city than from the deck of the replica 19th-century riverboat, the Tom Sawyer. In just one hour, you trade the hustle of the city for a fascinating, relaxing perspective on over 200 years of history, industry, and skyline views. All you have to do is step aboard. 

Your experience begins as you line up to board, pausing briefly to have your ticket scanned and a quick, fun souvenir photo taken, a memento of your trip that will be available for purchase later. Once aboard the beautiful Tom Sawyer, you will find a comfortable seat on the open-air deck or in the climate-controlled cabins. 

The cruise quickly becomes a captivating lesson, as our captain or a narrator guides you through the St. Louis riverfront’s rich past, detailing the pivotal role this spot played in the expansion of the United States. You will learn the stories behind the bridges that span the water, including the revolutionary Eads Bridge, a 19^th century engineering marvel that shifted the very course of American commerce. 

The Mississippi is anything but static. As the boat gently moves along, the narrative shifts to the river of today. This is where you see the sheer scale of the nation’s freight system in action. Keep your eyes peeled for the powerful towboats and their dedicated, hard-working crews, maneuvering enormous barges loaded with coal, grain, and other goods. It is a striking visual contrast: our historic vessel set against the raw, modern machinery of the American supply chain. 

One of the cruise’s most surprising delights is a feature you simply cannot experience from the shore: the unconventional art gallery lining the river. As the boat turns, you gain an exclusive vantage point of the massive concrete floodwalls that protect the city. These functional structures have been transformed into a canvas for local artists. You will see large-scale graffiti and murals, bold splashes of color, and imaginative works of art that are constantly evolving. It is a dynamic, gritty, and vibrant counterpoint to the city’s historic landmarks, showcasing the living, creative pulse of downtown St. Louis. 

This mid-cruise moment is the perfect time to visit the onboard concession stand. Grab a hot dog, a bucket of popcorn, or a refreshing cold drink for the adults or children. Find a comfortable seat on the deck, relax, and take in the view of the water and the city as you float by. 

As the boat makes its return, you approach the ultimate visual reward. This cruise offers a completely unparalleled perspective of the St. Louis skyline, culminating in the iconic sight of the Gateway Arch. 

You have seen the Arch from the ground, and perhaps you have experienced the view from the top. But seeing this 630-foot stainless steel marvel rise from the heart of the city, perfectly framed by the mighty Mississippi River, this is the complete, quintessential St. Louis picture. The view from the water offers depth, context, and a sense of scale that you cannot get anywhere else. It is the perfect photo opportunity to capture the city in its entirety. 

In just 60 minutes, the cruise delivers history, an engineering lesson, a unique outdoor art exhibition, and the city’s most breathtaking panoramic view. It is an efficient, relaxing, and unforgettable adventure. 

The experience is waiting. Book your ticket today and step aboard the Tom Sawyer to see St. Louis from the angle that matters most: the heart of the Mississippi River. 

Book Your Tickets Today! 

Say Goodbye to Summer Madness (and Hello to Elbow Room!) 

Let’s be honest, the summer crowds at the Gateway Arch can sometimes feel cramped. But for fall and winter visitors, the lines are typically shorter, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and the museum exhibits feel more like your own personal gallery. Imagine leisurely exploring the museum, with extra space to delve into 200+ years of St. Louis and American history. 

Tram Rides: So Spacious, You Might Even Do a Yoga Pose (Kidding…Maybe?) 

Winter can be a wonderful time to ride the tram, often with fewer crowds than the summer. While busy periods can occur, you’ll often find an opportunity to stretch your legs, relax and enjoys the views. 

While at the top, you’ll have ample room to gaze out the windows at astonishing views – up to 30 miles on a clear day. Watch the Mississippi River shimmer below, admire the intricate details of historic bridges, and find St. Louis landmarks like Union Station, Busch Stadium, and more! 

Value Days: Your Wallet Will Thank You 

And the best part? The Gateway Arch is offering incredible deals on the Tram Ride to the Top during select days in the coming months. We are highlighting “value days” which provide significant savings for visitors. This pricing applies Monday through Thursday, with a few specific exceptions. In November, this includes all Monday-Thursday dates except for November 26th and 27th. For December, value pricing is available Monday-Thursday, excluding the period from December 22nd through the 31st. January’s value days are Monday-Thursday, excluding January 1st. Finally, February offers these savings every Monday through Thursday. Tram tickets during these value days are a deal at just $15 for adults and $11 for children – a significant discount compared to peak summer pricing. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the unique Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch without straining your budget.

So, ditch the summer rush, embrace the chill vibes, and treat yourself to a truly unforgettable (and likely spacious) Gateway Arch experience this winter. Check out the pricing calendar at gatewayarch.com/buy-tickets and plan your visit! So, what are you waiting for? Plan your ascent and experience the iconic Tram Ride to the Top today.

Book Your Tickets Today! 

Saturday, October 25: Builder’s Day 

My birthday party starts on Saturday, October 25, with “Builder’s Day.” It’s a day to honor the incredible people who poured their heart and soul into creating me. From 10 am to 12 pm, some of the original Builders will be here to share their stories and even autograph a commemorative poster for you. Imagine hearing firsthand what it was like to work hundreds of feet in the air, connecting the pieces that would become my iconic curve. It’s a chance to meet the people who made history, a living connection to the past. 

The day also features crafts and activities, along with Just Breathe STL Yoga led by The Collective at 10 am, offering a moment of peace and reflection beneath my magnificent span. And to top it all off, at 7 pm, we’ll light up the sky with a spectacular firework show over the Mississippi River, presented by Visit Missouri and the Gateway Arch Park Foundation. 

Sunday, October 26: Family Day 

Then comes Sunday, October 26: “Family Day.” I love seeing families gather here, kids running across the grass and pointing up at my peak. This day is all about celebrating that joy. . At 10:30 am and again at 12:30 pm, the high-flying St. Louis Arches from Circus Harmony will put on a performance that will make you gasp and cheer. I’ve seen them practice, and trust me, they’re incredible!

Tuesday, October 28: My 60th Birthday Celebration! 

The big day arrives on Tuesday, October 28. This is my actual birthday, the 60th anniversary of the day that last piece was installed. My grounds will be buzzing with energy and celebration from 9 am to 2 pm. The Columbia, IL high school band will perform at 9:30 am, followed by a performance from the Scott Air Force band from 10 am to 2 pm. 

You can also get a perfect keepsake, artist Jillian Kaye will be available to create sketches of visitors from 10 am to 2 pm. This day is a true party! 

To make the day even more special, take a Tram Ride to the Top on my birthday. It’s a tradition, and on this date, you’ll become an exclusive member of the Tram Ride to the Top Club, complete with a commemorative button and certificate. Please note that a ticket purchase is required for the Tram Ride, and since demand is high, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance as they are expected to sell out. 

I’m more than just a monument. I’m a part of the stories of everyone who has stood beneath my curve or ridden to my top. So, please, come celebrate six decades with me. Let’s make some new memories together! 

Normally, I love to light up the St. Louis skyline, but you see, twice a year, millions of birds embark on incredible journeys, migrating across vast distances. And a lot of them fly right over our heads, under the cover of darkness!  

You see, my home, the mighty Mississippi River corridor, is a superhighway for birds. 40% of the nation’s migratory waterfowl use this route on their journeys! These birds rely on the moon and stars to guide their way, and my bright lights can be a major source of light pollution.  

Imagine you’re trying to navigate in the dark, and suddenly, there’s a huge, bright light drawing your attention. It can be super confusing, right? For these tiny travelers, my usual nighttime glow can be a bit of a distraction, luring them off course or even, sadly, causing them to collide with me or other buildings. 

Even with the new, upgraded lighting we installed in December 2023, which helps to reduce light flare in the night sky, turning the lights off completely is still the most effective way to ensure a safe passage for these weary travelers during their most intense migration months. It’s a practice the National Park Service started back in 2002, and it’s a legacy I’m proud to continue. 

So, during these crucial migration months, I go dark. It’s my way of giving them a clear, safe flight path. Think of it as me saying, “Go on, little ones, fly free! I’ll be here waiting for you when you return.” It’s a small change for me, but it makes a world of difference for them. 

And honestly, there’s a certain quiet beauty to it, don’t you think? On those nights, you can look up and see the real stars shining even brighter, knowing that countless birds are navigating by their ancient wisdom. It’s a reminder that we’re all part of something much bigger, a grand natural rhythm that we can help protect. 

So next time you see me silhouetted against the night sky in May or September, give a little nod to our migratory birds. Think of me as a temporary rest stop on their journey, a silent guardian of the sky. After all, being a symbol of St. Louis isn’t just about standing tall; it’s also about caring for the world around us. And sometimes, the most powerful statement you can make is to be still and let others shine, even though you know I love to be in the spotlight.  

Here’s to safe travel for all! 

During our special dockside happy hour on Thursday, July 24, 2025, our bar will be shaking up a limited-time lineup of tequila-forward favorites, including a Prickly Pear Margarita (a delicious twist on the classic with a sweet and slightly tangy flavor and an iconic bright pink color that practically begs for a photo op!). We’ll also be serving our classic Mississippi River Sunrise and a citrusy Cuervo Sparkling Paloma. 

But for those of you who want to get a head start on the festivities, we’re giving you the inside scoop on how to craft two of our refreshing tequila concoctions right in your own kitchen! 

This vibrant drink is like a summer sunset over the water – beautiful and refreshing. 

What you’ll need: 

How to make it: 

Light, citrusy, and bubbly – the Paloma is a true crowd-pleaser and a fantastic alternative to a traditional margarita. 

What you’ll need: 

How to make it: 

While these recipes will get your home celebration off to a great start, there’s nothing quite like toasting summer from the breezy dockside bar with unbeatable views of the Gateway Arch. So, after you’ve mastered these at home, come down and join us on National Tequila Day, Thursday, July 24, 2025 for our special dockside happy hour and experience the full “fiesta and float” vibe with our exclusive Prickly Pear Margarita!

Archie: Hi, Sky Ranger! We’ve known each other for a while, but how long have you been a National Park Service Ranger? 

Ranger Richard: I was hired as a seasonal ranger at the park in the summer of 1988, when it was known as Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. Then became a permanent interpretive ranger here in November 1989. This is my one-and-only park! 

Archie: How did you earn the title of “Sky Ranger” at the park?  

Ranger Richard: I attended the “Sky Ranger” workshop at Bryce Canyon in the fall of 2009, and somehow this unofficial title has stuck with me at our park. I’ve written the monthly Sky Ranger blog on the park’s website since 2018. 

Archie: What do you think makes the night sky over my national park so special?  

Ranger Richard: We do have a lot of light pollution in downtown St. Louis, but we do have YOU to serve as a great backdrop for the telescope viewing. I see our urban setting as an opportunity. We can still get great views of the Moon and bright planets like Jupiter and Saturn — which are the biggest highlights for most people. Since most of our visitors are from out of town rather than local, I also hope that exposure to what is available to the sky here will entice them into checking out the night skies in their home area. We hope that they will visit their local astronomy clubs and national parks that provide viewing opportunities. 

Archie: How did the Gateway to the Stars program get started?  

Ranger Richard: I owe a lot to my wife — she was also a park ranger here for many years and is in the private sector now. Bryce Canyon National Park is probably the leader in public astronomy in NPS, and the Astronomical Society of the Pacific is a leader in space education. The two organizations partnered up to sponsor “Sky Ranger” workshops at Bryce. I wanted to go but was reluctant because our children were very young at the time, but my wife was very supportive. Park Management was aware of my long interest in astronomy (which goes back to the moon landings in the late 1960s) and was very kind to allow me to go. I learned a great deal at this workshop on how parks could put on public astronomy programs, and we began an annual program in the summer of 2010. Later, the park purchased a portable telescope to support the viewing. We are now in our sixteenth season of Gateway to the Stars. The St. Louis Astronomical Society has always partnered with us, with their members providing most of the telescopes for viewing and some of the event speakers. 

Archie: What can visitors expect from a typical program?  

Ranger Richard: There are always two parts to a Gateway to the Stars night. First, is an educational activity with an NPS Ranger talking about the sky or a night walk, an expert from the St. Louis Astronomical Society, local college professor, or graduate student. They have spoken about things like light pollution, bird migration, navigation, and space exploration. Every year, we offer the Junior Ranger Night Explorer workshop for kids to earn a special patch customized for our park. If the skies are clear, we put on telescope viewing on our entrance plaza after the educational program. With all of the city lights that we face, I always make sure that there is a bright moon available in the sky to see. Since it is so close, we get great views of craters, mountains, and lava plains on the Moon. Depending upon their visibility and how clear the sky is, we show Saturn and its rings, Jupiter and its Moons, and bright stars and star systems. 

Archie: What’s been the coolest or most surprising reaction you’ve gotten from a visitor during a Gateway to the Stars program?  

Ranger Richard: I think the most striking reactions are when we see Saturn or the Moon in our telescopes. Sometimes our guests are so amazed to see the rings or the craters that they think we are showing a slide or video rather than the real thing. 

Archie: Each month has a different topic, like “Ghosts of the Arch Grounds,” “Kids Explorer Night,” or “Summer Star Trek.” How do you choose topics? 

Ranger Richard: To keep things from getting stale and to encourage locals to come back on a regular basis, I do try to vary the programs. There are a couple staples, as Kids Explorer Night has sort of become our flagship program. Some years, we even give participants an opportunity to build and bring home their own working telescope.  On August 2, we have world renowned storyteller Bobby Norfolk — who once worked at this park — talking about the star stories of cultures all around the world. The other staple is our October program, “Ghosts of the Arch Grounds.” It’s really about history and not the supernatural, but it does focus on some the adventures and tragedies associated with the area, including the St. Louis fire of 1849, construction of Eads Bridge, and other historical events.  I mix in a couple of sky tours and at least one program about a significant issue like light pollution and its effect upon the sky, people, animals. 

Archie: What’s your favorite constellation or specific star/planet to point out? 

Ranger Richard: My favorite star in the sky is Vega, which shines overhead in the summer and has a bit of a blue tint to it. Unless it is Zubenelgenubi — the name just rolls off the tongue. I feel like I should be able to make something appear just by saying that name. It’s always awesome to show off Saturn and its rings, or craters on the Moon. 

Archie: Have you ever spotted something unexpected through the telescope? (Tell me it was aliens.) 

Ranger Richard: Many years ago, I was using the telescope at my college, sitting on top of a ladder and really trying to make out a very dim object. Sometimes if you turn your head just slightly, the outer part of your eye is a bit more sensitive and can help you glimpse something at the limit of vision. All of a sudden, this brilliant light zoomed through the view in an instant. I just about fell off the ladder, and it is probably a good thing that I had used the restroom not long before. It was actually an airplane that roared smack through the narrow field of view at high power, probably a 1,000 to one shot. I had been so focused on what I was doing that I didn’t see or hear it coming. 

Archie: Why do you think astronomy is important for people to know or at least have a basic understanding of?  

Ranger Richard: I think it is important for people to have an understanding of our place in the universe, and to know that in the scheme of things, we are tiny. 

Archie (BONUS QUESTION): Last one, and it’s a fun one! If you could travel to space tomorrow, would you go? And who would you take with you as your co-pilot? Please pick me!!! 

Ranger Richard: I am waiting for warp speed spaceships to take me to distant stars and galaxies. Until then, I think I want to stay down here to be with my family and friends. 

Thanks so much to “Sky Ranger” Richard for taking the time to answer my questions! And congrats to him and this program on 16 years of teaching and entertaining Gateway Arch National Park visitors. You can learn more and meet him at an upcoming Gateway to the Stars event at the park. Click here for event details and his latest blog post.