It runs like clockwork, so you don't have to be much earlier than 9:10 to get in line. BUT there are amazing exhibitions there about American history and the movement west across the US in the 1800's that you want to see. The trip up the arch is only about 5 minutes, and 4 minutes coming down if I recall, and you are only at the top for 10 minutes or so. 1.5 hours will allow you to hit the highlights. BUT you must watch the video of the construction of The Arch, so buy tickets for that as well.

I would get there 30 minutes early because you do have to go through security. I also highly recommend using the link in your ticket confirmation email to pre-pay parking. And hour and a half should be long enough u less you want to read each and every sign in the museum area.

Yes. There are metered spaces along the street and several parking decks. We parked in the deck at 4th and Olive, it is $2 per hour and only 2 blocks from the Arch entrance.

Yes. Just call them, there's a possibility of getting tickets. Don't just show up hoping to get them tho- unless you're there right when they open. They usually sell out fast.

Only on Sundays is street parking free and you don't have to feed the meter. On other days, you need to park in a garage or load an app and pay for parking on the street.

We were not required to provide proof of vaccination when we went in October.

Masks are mandatory. Many hand sanitizer areas. Limiting people in "capsule" to ride to top of arch too.

The wait to get on the pods is longer than anything else. I didn't time it but I would say that waiting, the trip up and down, and taking pictures at top about 45min to an hour. We went when it was really busy on a Friday. I would agree the pods are small but they are set for 4 people if just 2 went or 1 person by themselves I can't see size as that much of an issue. I would say if you can fly in a normal airplane seat you can take the trip. My husband and I are 72 and not little people and we fit fine.

I recommend Stadium Garage East. It's a bit of a trek to the Arch grounds but it is the most secure. Highly recommend not parking along the riverfront or at a meter.

No where. You don't canoe down the Mississippi! There are numerous crystal clear rivers in the Ozarks to canoe in and the water won't kill you!