One of the Most Unusual National Parks in America is in Missouri
Some take unusual to be a negative thing. I don't. In my opinion, I'd rather be unusual and unique than boring and predictable. (Editor's Note: Mission Accomplished) That's why the fact that Missouri has one of the most unusual national parks in America should be worn like a badge of honor.
Travel Lemming recently compiled the top 100 best US National Parks. It's an interesting list with the usual suspects near the top that you'd expect like Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, Yosemite, etc.
Missouri has a national park you wouldn't expect
I grew up in Missouri (notice that I did not say "matured") and have to confess that I didn't realize that this location actually is a national park, but it's true.
Travel Lemming rated Gateway Arch National Park as the #1 most accessible national park in America due to its nearness to the airport. Winning. They added other reasons why they love Gateway Arch National Park:
A most unusual national park, Gateway Arch curbs the traditional nature aspect of U.S. parks and instead focuses on architecture in Missouri’s major city. This national park will have your knees shaking as you view St. Louis from 630 feet in the air.
Here are some other included Gateway Arch National Park rankings:
- 63rd least crowded
- 23rd best weather
- 50th most affordable
Can't argue with the cost. That's for sure.
Sure, you could visit one of America's most iconic national parks like Yellowstone (and I recommend you do some day), but if you want the most unusual, you can stay within the borders of Missouri.
