Safest arch parking option for car load of belongings

Question

Hello,

My family and I will be visiting the St Louis for the first time on a Tuesday and since were are not familiar with the area I am hoping someone here can help with answering questions about which location would be best for parking to visit the arch with a car load of belongings as we are passing through on our way to Wyoming. I am not opposed to paying for parking but my mom has mobility issues with distance so we would prefer to not park blocks away. The levee parking looks like a good option from Google street view to me but would the car be safe there for a an hour or so vs the stadium east garage which the park service recommends? There were some bad reviews on the stadium east garage so that spot makes me nervous. Would anyone recommend parking at the levee vs a garage? TIA

Answer

Visiting the Gateway Arch with a car full of belongings and a family member with mobility issues means you'll want a parking option that is both safe and conveniently located. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your options:

The two main options you mentioned are the Levee parking and the Stadium East Garage. Both have pros and cons depending on your priorities.

Levee Parking: This is an open-air lot along the riverfront that is fairly close to the Arch grounds. It offers easy access without long walks, which is ideal for someone with mobility challenges. The area generally has regular traffic, and parking for a short duration (like an hour) is typically fine. However, being an open lot, cars are exposed to the elements and there is limited surveillance compared to a garage. Keep valuables out of sight and lock doors.
Stadium East Garage: This is a multi-level parking garage recommended by the National Park Service. It offers covered parking, which protects your car and belongings from weather. Security can vary, and some reviews report congestion or tight spaces. The garage is a short walk to the Arch, but depending on your exact entrance, it might be slightly further than the Levee lot for a person with mobility issues.

Other considerations and tips:

If minimizing walking is the priority, the Levee lot is more convenient, especially for a short visit and loading/unloading belongings. An hour or so is generally safe as long as you lock your car and do not leave valuables visible.
If you prefer a covered, structured parking environment and don’t mind a slightly longer walk, the Stadium East Garage provides more protection from weather and some surveillance. Consider arriving earlier to secure a spot near the entrance.
Alternative option: Some nearby hotels offer daily parking for visitors to the Arch, which can combine convenience and security if you want to avoid open lots and crowded garages.

Overall, for a short visit with mobility concerns and a car full of belongings, the Levee parking lot is a reasonable choice. Just ensure you park in a well-trafficked area, lock your car, and avoid leaving items visible inside. If you want more peace of mind regarding security, the Stadium East Garage is a safe alternative, accepting that the walk might be slightly longer.

Safest arch parking option for car load of belongings

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