Museum of Westward Expansion
11 N. 4th Street
St. Louis, MO
314-655-1700

Located beneath the Gateway Arch the Museum of Westward Expansion is as large as a football field. The museum follows a circular pattern with galleries that tell the story of the United States' nineteenth century expansion from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean and interprets 100 years of American history. The museum contains an extensive collection of artifacts, mounted animal specimens, an authentic American Indian tipi, and an overview of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Artifacts, quotes and photographs fill the Museum and provide an excellent atmosphere for learning about this period of American history. Exhibits include African Americans of the West, American Indians of the Great Plains, Animals of the West, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and Pioneers on the Trail.

The Lewis and Clark Connection The Three Flags Day Ceremony, a two-day ceremony marking the official transfer of the Upper Louisiana Territory from Spain to France and then to the United States, was held in St. Louis on March 9-10, 1804. After the ceremony, Lewis reportedly stayed at the home of Pierre Chouteau in St. Louis. While it is believed Clark attended the ceremony, no details of his presence have been recorded.

The Museum of Westward Expansion houses a permanent exhibit of 33 large format photo murals depicting the campsites and significant places visited by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark during their exploration of the interior of North America. The Museum displays these magnificent 15-foot high photomurals extending 500 feet along the back wall of the Museum of Westward Expansion. Along with the 33 large format photomurals are 198 small photos of various scenes, flora, and fauna pertaining to the mural scenes. The American Indian Peace Medal Exhibit features animated figures telling the story of Peace Medal Diplomacy in the U.S. during the nineteenth century. Listen as history unfolds through the voices of life-like animatronic historical figures of William Clark, an Indian Agent; Red Cloud, Chief of the Oglala Sioux; Sergeant Banks of the 10th U.S. Cavalry; and Charles Barber, Chief Engraver for the U.S. Mint during the latter years of the 1800s.

Visit our special Lewis and Clark Section to learn more about the Corps of Discovery’s experience during their stay in the Middle Mississippi River Valley. greatriverroad.com’s special coverage includes information on all of the region’s sites and events as well as supplemental articles relating to the expedition’s experience during the winter of 1803-04.

The Museum of Westward Expansion is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which also includes the Gateway Arch and the Old Courthouse National Historic Site.

Audio enhancement is available during tours given by National Park Rangers. Tours include a variety of educational topics and a question-and-answer period. To set up a ranger led tour please contact the National Park Service at 314-655-1700.

Visiting the Museum of Westward Expansion
     Visiting Hours
          Memorial Day - Labor Day: 8 am to 10 pm daily
          Winter Hours: 9 am - 6 pm
There is no charge to visit to visit the Museum of Westward Expansion.

Location: The Museum of Westward Expansion is located along the riverfront beneath the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis. The Museum of Westward Expansion is a short distance from the Laclede Landing MetroLink station.

Learn more about the St. Louis area.

Museum of Westward Expansion - Use the official site of the Museum of Westward Expansion - Use the official site of the Museum of Westward Expansion for answers to all the questions you may have.