Museum of Westward Expansion

The Museum of Westward Expansion, located beneath the Gateway Arch, is a fascinating journey through one of the most transformative periods in American history. If you're visiting St. Louis, this museum is a must-see, offering an immersive experience into the people, challenges, and innovations that shaped the westward expansion of the United States. The exhibits are engaging and well-designed, featuring original artifacts, life-sized displays, and interactive storytelling. You’ll learn about Lewis and Clark’s expedition, Native American cultures, early pioneers, and the impact of westward expansion on the nation. The museum does a great job of presenting multiple perspectives, including the hardships faced by settlers and the effects on indigenous communities. One of the highlights is the historical dioramas, which bring key moments of westward expansion to life, as well as the authentic covered wagons, weapons, and tools from the era. The museum is designed to be both educational and visually impressive, making it a great experience for history buffs, families, and casual visitors alike. Since it’s part of the Gateway Arch National Park, you can easily combine your visit with a trip to the Arch itself. Whether you’re passionate about history or just looking to learn something new, the Museum of Westward Expansion offers an insightful and well-presented look at America’s past. Highly recommended!

Free to visit! Way better than I expected. Just the right amount of information.

A nearly unknown museum, glad we poked around and found it. Add understanding to all the events that occurred right here in this area. Beautiful building and everything was presented so well. Highly recommend!

Hosted in the Old Courthouse of Saint Louis, it offers comprehensive information on the origin of the city and on its function as gateway to the Western regions of the USA through the 19th century. Slavery of African people and their fight for freedom is also very well discussed. Highly recommended and definitely worth the half day visit.

This museum is no longer located at the Old Courthouse and is now contained in the Gateway Arch museum. Still worth stopping into the courthouse but not for this content.

When I entered the building I asked if it was the Museum of Westward Expansion because I did not see a sign with that name. The park service staff told me it used to be under the Arch and it closed but some of the exhibits are now in the Old Court House, which is the building marked in Google maps (March 2017). I was confused but I toured the museum anyway. I learned so much about the St. Louis area, Dred Scott and westward trade and exploration. Some of the exhibits are a little old and I did not see newer, updated interactive exhibits for kids, but I still encourage families to take children. All the kids I saw were having fun! I enjoyed the exhibits and the architecture. I'm not sure if this location is mislabeled on Google or something. I'm still confused about where I spent my afternoon but I had fun!

I visited St Louis on 11.12.24 to 11.15.24 and this building says it's closed for renovating. Google says the museum is open, but it's not, at this time. Call before visiting! The old courthouse building is really beautiful, and only steps from the Arch, so it's worth a little walk to see the building at least.

Wonderful history. Nice place to visit. Make sure to check which days they run everything before toy go.