St. Louis Soulard Expert

Exploring St. Louis’ Soulard Neighborhood

St. Louis, Missouri is a city rich in history and culture, and the Soulard neighborhood is a shining example of that. This historic district is known for its distinctive red brick buildings, European charm, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or just looking for a fun night out, Soulard has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Soulard so special.

Introduction

Soulard is located just south of downtown St. Louis, and it’s one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. The area was originally settled by French immigrants in the late 1700s, and it has maintained its European charm to this day. The neighborhood is named after Antoine Soulard, a surveyor who mapped out the city in the early 19th century. Today, Soulard is a bustling neighborhood with a vibrant culture and plenty of things to see and do.

Restaurants

Soulard is a food lover’s paradise. The neighborhood is home to some of St. Louis’ best restaurants, serving up everything from classic barbecue to gourmet Italian cuisine. Some of the must-visit spots include Bogart’s Smokehouse, which serves up mouth-watering brisket and ribs, Blues City Deli, which serves up delicious sandwiches and live music, and 1860’s Hard Shell Café, which is known for its fresh seafood and outdoor patio.

Historical Landmarks

One of the things that makes Soulard so special is its rich history. The neighborhood is home to many historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. One of the most notable is the Soulard Market, which has been in operation since 1779. This bustling farmers’ market features vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. The market is open year-round, and it’s a great place to stock up on groceries or just take in the sights and sounds. Other notable landmarks include the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which dates back to the 1800s, and the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion, which was built in 1848 and now serves as a museum.

Annual Events

Soulard is known for its lively events, many of which take place throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Soulard Mardi Gras celebration, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festivities include parades, live music, and plenty of food and drinks. Other events to check out include the Taste of Soulard, which offers a chance to sample the neighborhood’s best cuisine, and the Soulard Farmers’ Market Oktoberfest. The neighborhood also hosts a variety of other events throughout the year, including art fairs, street parties, and holiday celebrations.

Nightlife

Soulard is a popular destination for nightlife, with many bars and clubs that cater to a diverse crowd. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back dive bar or an upscale cocktail lounge, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Some of the most popular spots include Molly’s in Soulard, which is known for its live music and outdoor patio, and The Gramophone, a music venue that serves up craft beer and delicious pizza. Other popular bars include the Soulard Ale House, which offers a wide selection of beer and pub fare, and John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub, which is known for its lively atmosphere and live music.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery

No trip to Soulard would be complete without a visit to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which is one of the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks. The brewery was founded in 1852 by German immigrant Adolphus Busch, and it quickly became one of the largest breweries in the world. Today, the brewery offers tours that take visitors behind the scenes to see how beer is made. You can also visit the Clydesdales, the iconic horses that are associated with the Anheuser-Busch brand.

Mardi Gras

Soulard’s Mardi Gras celebration is one of the largest in the country, and it’s a must-visit event if you’re in St. Louis in February. The festivities kick off with the Beggin’ Pet Parade, a parade that features dogs dressed up in costumes. The main Mardi Gras parade takes place the following weekend, and it features elaborate floats, colorful costumes, and plenty of beads. The party continues long into the night, with live music, street performers, and plenty of food and drinks.

Best Coffee Shops

Soulard is home to several excellent coffee shops, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a mid-day break. One of the most popular is Soulard Coffee Garden, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee and pastries. The shop also features a beautiful outdoor patio, perfect for warm weather days. Other notable coffee shops include Park Avenue Coffee, which serves up delicious beignets and espresso drinks, and Hartford Coffee Company, a local favorite that features a rotating selection of specialty drinks and baked goods.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nightlife, Soulard has something to offer. This vibrant neighborhood is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to St. Louis. From its historic landmarks to its lively events, Soulard is a place that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Looking for a place to stay? Our favorite is Zen 1 Bdrm – Historic Soulard – Near Everything due to its historical charm, central location, and glowing reviews. So why not plan a trip today and discover all that this charming neighborhood has to offer?