Columbia and St. Louis, Missouri

Friday, July 5, 2013 - Columbia, Missouri

Before leaving Independence, Missouri, Kent got his National Parks Passport Book stamped at the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site.  We stopped in Columbia and visited the cemetery where Kent's parents are buried.  Don't think I have taken a picture before.

Friday, July 5, 2013 - St. Louis, Missouri

Then on to St. Louis.  We parked near the St. Louis Arch which is officially named the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.  It is a 630-foot stainless steel arch and pays homage to those who migrated west.  Kent had made reservations many days ago and decided that this was the trick to cure my fear of heights.  Actually, I don't have a fear of heights; I just prefer my feet on the ground.  We were not prepared for the long lines just to get in, the magnetometer and bag check and more long lines to go up.  Once inside, Kent had his National Parks Passport Book stamped. Fortunately, there were concession stands so we didn't starve and an air show for entertainment.    

from the top of the Arch looking down on the Mississippi River

Mississippi River looking towards Illinois

the ball park, Busch Stadium, where the St. Louis Cardinals play

the historic old St. Louis Courthouse

Next, we walked a few blocks to the new Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, to buy tickets for the game that evening.  The Cardinals are in first place in the National League.  Again, we were not prepared for the long lines of people just waiting to get in -- and they had tickets!  It was more than two hours before the game was to begin.  We were able to purchase tickets and good seats, but they weren't cheap.  A bottle of water was $5.25.  Later in the evening there were fireworks along the Mississippi River.