Park Comparison
Gateway Arch vs National Park of American Samoa
Two iconic parks, different strengths. Here's how they stack up.
Updated
The Quick Take
Gateway Arch
Gateway Arch National Park is 0.14 square miles of westward expansion history beneath a 630-foot steel monument with three million visitors.
National Park of American Samoa
The only national park south of the equator protects volcanic peaks, coral reefs, and villages across three South Pacific islands.
At a Glance
The Crowd Picture
National Park of American Samoa sees less than half the visitors Gateway Arch gets, which translates to a noticeably different crowd experience on trails and at viewpoints.
Gateway Arch
Gateway Arch welcomes 3.0M visitors annually across 0.14 square miles — about 21,721,429 visitors per square mile. Congestion is high, peaking in July.
National Park of American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa welcomes 22,567 visitors annually across 21.1 square miles — about 1,070 visitors per square mile. Congestion is low, peaking in April.
National Park of American Samoa is dramatically less congested than Gateway Arch — you'll feel the difference on every trail.
When to Go
Click any month to see how conditions compare side-by-side.
Trails & Activities
National Park of American Samoa has more trail mileage for exploration.
Gateway Arch Top Activities
- photography 10/10
- ranger programs 8/10
National Park of American Samoa Top Activities
- swimming 9/10
- photography 9/10
- kayaking canoeing 8/10
- wildlife viewing 8/10
- bird watching 8/10
Camping
National Park of American Samoa offers significantly more camping options.
The Bottom Line
Choose Gateway Arch if you...
- Want to experience Gateway Arch Monument
- Are looking for great ranger programs
- Are planning a couples getaway
Choose National Park of American Samoa if you...
- Want to experience Pola Island
- Are looking for world-class swimming
- Are an adventure seeker looking for thrills
- Want fewer crowds and more solitude
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Gateway Arch or National Park of American Samoa?
It depends on what you're looking for. Gateway Arch is known for Gateway Arch Monument, while National Park of American Samoa is known for Pola Island. National Park of American Samoa is less crowded, making it the better pick if solitude matters to you.
Is Gateway Arch or National Park of American Samoa more crowded?
Gateway Arch has a congestion index of 7/10 and receives 3.0M visitors per year. National Park of American Samoa scores 1.2/10 with 22,567 annual visitors. National Park of American Samoa is the quieter option.
When is the best time to visit Gateway Arch vs National Park of American Samoa?
The best month to visit Gateway Arch is October, while National Park of American Samoa is best visited in February. The different peak seasons mean you could visit one in spring and the other in fall.
Which has better hiking, Gateway Arch or National Park of American Samoa?
Gateway Arch has 2 trail miles and National Park of American Samoa has 28. National Park of American Samoa offers significantly more trail variety.