News Release

Jefferson National Parks Association Offers New Virtual Reality Experience in Gateway Arch Lobby

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News Release Date: June 2, 2023
Contact: Madeline Reichmuth, 314-384-6777

ST. LOUIS (May 19, 2023)— Jefferson National Parks Association (JNPA), a non-profit partner of Gateway Arch National Park, recently launched a brand-new virtual reality (VR) experience titled Cobblestones & Courage. The 3D, immersive experience transports visitors to the St. Louis riverfront of the 1850s. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bustling levee, viewers hear real stories of courage, struggle and hope from people who crossed paths there.

“Gateway Arch National Park is constantly seeking new and engaging ways to share the story of America’s westward expansion with visitors,” said David Grove, President and CEO of JNPA. “As a park partner, we’re thrilled to bring this unique experience to visitors. Cobblestones & Courage brings history to life in a tangible way using 3D technology to diversify the park’s storytelling methods.”

The 10-minute virtual reality experience highlights the stories of three individuals; John Parker an enslaved dock worker; Anna Hormann an immigrant from Germany; and James Eads who designed a ‘submarine’ to salvage cargo from sunken steamboats at the bottom of the Mississippi River.  

The new 3D experience is located in the Gateway Arch lobby, right outside The Arch Store, which JNPA also operates. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 children (ages 5-15). Reservations are encouraged. For information about tickets for groups of 20 or more please contact, [e-mail].

Visitors to Gateway Arch National Park can purchase individual tickets for the VR experience online at gatewayarch.com/buy-tickets. Combo tickets pairing the VR experience with either a Tram Ride to the Top ticket, a Documentary Movie Ticket, or both are available for purchase on-site at a ticket center or by calling 877-982-1410. If a guest purchases a tram ticket online and then adds the VR experience after they arrive, they will be given the discounted VR price.

About Jefferson National Parks Association: As a non-profit organization, Jefferson National Parks Association ensures that visitors to America’s national parks, public lands, and historic places will enjoy, experience and engage with the places they treasure for years to come. JNPA invests an average of $3 million annually in our nine partner parks through product development, museum- and curriculum-based experiences, facility improvements, retail and more.

 

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