“To the question, what is the purpose of architecture, I would answer:
To shelter and enhance man’s life on earth, and to fulfill his belief in the nobility of his existence.”
Eero Saarinen, architect, the Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
We have hopped the Atlantic for the summer, and are now exploring our home continent via a grand North American road trip – thus my sporadic postings.
Our American and Canadian adventures began in St. Louis, Missouri, in mid-June, where we stood under the imposing shadow of the Gateway Arch for a few moments.
It was fun to see the arch again, which was constructed in the 1960s. The last time I was there was during a family trip taken with our French exchange student, Pierre, and his dear mother, Claude, in 1993. Though we were able to ascend the shimmering structure then, during this summer’s visit, lengthy lines, the promise of jet lag, and the long drive awaiting us nudged us back onto the wide, American roadways.
Regardless, it was relaxing strolling the shady lanes leading to the arch, and then enjoying a taste of Americana at an eatery at nearby Laclede’s Landing prior to road-tripping diagonally across Illinois to Wisconsin.
Where in the World?
Photography & text © Tricia A. Mitchell. All Rights Reserved.
Travels With Tricia 
Lovely photos Tricia, especially the third last one. What a beautiful parkland.
Eternal Traveler, it’s funny – the main attraction is the arch, but I found myself really enjoying the surrounding landscape, not only because of the handsome trees, but because it was such a hot day.
Thank you for your comment!
It’s a tough subject to photograph. Perhaps the best vantage is not close up but on the other side of the capitol building at night. This doesn’t occur to most people. You wouldn’t know to look for this vantage unless you had seen someone else’s shot. I was there not too long ago and found that spot by chance. I like your take on the subject anyhow.
Hello, Victor – ah, now you share the best vantage point to shoot from. Just kidding. :) So, the next time we go, I’ll be sure to incorporate your advice. We were in a hurry during this stop-over. It was more of a stretch break before we embarked on our 6-hour drive. Given the driving we’re doing now, cross-continent, that seems short! Are your arch pictures on your site?
Oh, your North American odyssey has begun! And in style too it would seem. I look forward to enjoying the rest!
So much to share and so little time, Rachael! After seeing your stunning pictures from the American West, I wish we had even more time to explore there. The Grand Canyon is definitely a must though. More soon. :)
I have been following your blog for a while and really enjoy reading it. That’s why I’d like to nominate you for the Versatile Blogger Award. For the rules of accepting the award, check out my blog post: http://miladmaymay.wordpress.com/2012/06/30/nominated-for-versitile-blogger-award-and-freshly-pressed-what-a-week/ or http://versatilebloggeraward.wordpress.com/. Congrats!
What an honor – thank you, Miladmaymay!
Road trips are such a great way to explore and value the moment. Great photos and yes, I love the surrounding landscape. I hope to visit there someday.
Agreed, Lynne! What is a favorite road trip that you’ve done?
After having done so many European road trips, we’re happy to again be exploring fun spots of the United States! More driving commences tomorrow. :)
Great set of photos, that is one big arch.
It sure is – more than 600 feet high (190+ meters)! If the line hadn’t been so long, I would’ve loved to have snapped some shots of the city from the top.
I do so love the areas around the Arch. So many picture opportunities, so little time.
Good job. Love your Vietnam photos as well.
Greetings, Doug, indeed the arch and the surrounding gardens are very photogenic! I would’ve loved to have photographed from the arch – next time.
Thanks for your thoughtful comments and hope you’re having a wonderful week!
The arch is a great subject, and it has been well photographed.
Thanks, David. It was a whirlwind trip before we hopped back on the Interstate, but I was glad to capture a bit of it on film. :)
You captured it beautifully, thank you!
Many thanks, Yulia! I’m so accustomed to photographing Old World Europe, so it’s been a fun departure snapping some more modern architecture. Hope you’re having a fabulous summer!