Luther Ely Smith Square

Overview

This is the green gateway into the Arch grounds—a landscaped plaza that links downtown to the monument. Expect tidy plantings, sweeping lawns, and framed views that practically compose your photos for you, with the Gateway Arch in one direction and the Old Courthouse in the other.

What You'll See

• Formal garden beds designed for color across seasons, with perennials doing the heavy lifting.
• Long runs of benches (over 300 feet) and shaded nooks that make it an easy place to pause.
• A commemorative marker honoring Luther Ely Smith—the civic visionary whose push for a riverfront memorial ultimately led to the Arch.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

If you’re the type who wants a great Arch shot without hiking across the entire lawn, this square delivers. It’s also a natural meetup spot, a relaxed picnic perch, and the most seamless visual introduction to the park’s two marquee sights.

Getting Around & Amenities

Paths lead you directly toward the Arch, functioning like a de facto starting point for walking the grounds. The square itself is benches-and-gardens—no onsite restrooms, food, or dedicated parking. Plan to use facilities at the nearby Visitor Center and downtown garages or street parking.

Wildlife

This is an urban greenspace; think city birds and the occasional squirrel. Come for the landscaping and skyline views, not wildlife viewing.

History Snapshot

Named for Luther Ely Smith, a St. Louis lawyer who championed the idea that became the Gateway Arch. The square, dedicated in his honor (with a plaque), serves as a ceremonial approach to the monument and a nod to the Old Courthouse’s central place in the park’s story.

Best Time to Visit

• Hours: Typically open 6 am–10 pm daily.
• Light: Early morning and late afternoon give you softer light and fewer harsh shadows on both the Arch and Old Courthouse.
• Crowds: Weekday mornings are the calmest; weekend afternoons and early evenings draw the most foot traffic.
• Bonus: It’s pleasantly atmospheric near dusk when the area is lit, but aim to wrap up before closing time.

Tips

• Bring picnic fixings—there’s plenty of seating, but no food services right here.
• Start your Arch visit from the square and follow the paved paths down to the grounds.
• For the cleanest Arch-and-courthouse compositions, shoot from the center sightlines across the lawn.
• Restrooms aren’t in the square; use the Visitor Center nearby.