Missouri; The Mississippi, & The Gateway Arch

Missouri is where we would finally figure out that not every welcome state sign is conveniently located. We did make a drive through Illinois on our way into Missouri, and had troubles finding a welcome sign for that state as well. We didn't mind that so much seeing as though our next spot camping would be driving through again and maybe taking a couple different routes.
Standing under the Arch


We had plans to stay with friends in Missouri. This would be a nice change from camping and a hotel. We would have access to a bed, friends to socialize with, and real good home cooked food. We were both looking forward to this.


We made a pit stop in St. Louis to check out the Gateway Arch. We found our way into this city and found some parking nearby. Actually, right along the Mississippi River to be exact. I was quite thrilled about this. We hopped out of the car and headed towards the Gateway Arch.


There isn't many things we were going to pay for while on this trip, but the few things we would spend money on were some of the best and most worth while experiences. We took photos while walking around and finally made our way inside.
In the top of the Gateway Arch
There was a museum you could walk around in and a ticket booth where you can purchase your tickets to the top. We got tickets and jumped in line! Awaiting the arrival of the elevator to take us up I had no idea what to expect. We stood in front of these doors lined in a row waiting for them to open. Once the doors opened the guest inside step out and then we step in.


This was no elevator, it was a SPACE SHUTTLE! So cool! Ok, I know it wasn't but it sure felt like one!
Going up?
Up, up, and away we went. We stopped, the door opened and we get out. A very small space at the top with small viewing windows. We enjoyed it for about 5 minutes before we decided to get in line to go back down. It was impressive, but not all that impressive. I would not want to be in there on a windy day, that's all I am going to say about that. haha.
We explored the museum once back down on the ground and then took a walk to find our National Park sign. We finally found it, took our photos and decided to call it a day. On the walk back to the car we both were craving some ice cream and found a small food cart that sold some Italian ice. We each got one and took it down by the river to enjoy it before heading out of the city for the day.


A lot of people say such horrible things about the Mississippi River. Amongst some of the things is the most common, and that's how dirty it is. However, thanks to Forest Gump, I totally couldn't wait to stick my feet in that river. Not to mention I am from Boston, and "we love that dirty water."


Feet in the Mississippi


The following day we had our second event. Our friends came out to support us and to win some great prizes! My nerves were not nearly as bad as they were the first event, but they were still there. We had such a great group of ladies and I finally was starting to feel more comfortable with speaking in front of others just like myself.

On our way out of town our friends had suggested to fill some time with visiting the St. Louis Zoo. It was a free zoo! How in the world could anyone pass up a free zoo? Not us. We went. After spending some time there we drove just to the other side of the road and used our Mount Washington Observatory Memberships (part of the ASTC Passport Program) to get into the Science Center for free as well! It was a great day to be had learning!

Working in the lab at the Science Center
St. Louis Zoo

Missouri was a quick trip, but very much enjoyable and not anything like I expected.

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