All Aboard: Riverboats at the Gateway Arch Launch St. Louis’ Only Floating Holiday Pop-Up Bar

Holiday drinks from The Floating Sleigh pop-up bar displayed on with Christmas decor everywhere on the Tom Sawyer Riverboat

Tickets are now available for the newest exclusive holiday experience, debuting on the iconic St. Louis riverfront this December.

ST. LOUIS (Nov. 3, 2025) — The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are making a splash this holiday season with a new festive experience happening this December: The Floating Sleigh. Tickets are now on sale for St. Louis’ first and only holiday pop-up bar on the Mississippi riverfront.

“We are thrilled to introduce The Floating Sleigh, a truly unique and sensational way for St. Louisans to celebrate the holidays,” said Amber Barbeau, director of the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. “It’s not just a decorated bar — it’s an unforgettable, adults-only floating holiday experience that combines a festive atmosphere with a unique floating venue unlike any other in St. Louis.”

This must-do holiday experience will delight St. Louis residents and first-time visitors alike throughout December. The Tom Sawyer will be “decked out” from bow to stern in shimmering garlands and thousands of twinkling lights. Imagine sipping a festive cocktail against this backdrop, the chilled air filled with holiday tunes that echo across the boat dock, all while taking in unmatched views of the Gateway Arch reflected in the river.

The adults-only Floating Sleigh will feature an exclusive lineup of pun-filled holiday cocktails — like Prancer’s Passion and Rudolph’s Red Fizz — and festive concessions for the perfect December date night, a group gathering or a memorable outing with friends and family. Tickets for this one-of-a-kind holiday event are $10 and can be purchased online here.

About the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are a short walk from the Laclede’s Landing MetroLink Station and offer breathtaking views of St. Louis on the Mississippi River, including the popular daily St. Louis Riverfront Cruise as well as seasonal specialty cruises. A complete cruise schedule can be found at gatewayarch.com/riverboats

Park Grounds Gateway Arch Things to Do