The History of Ole St. Louie

While all of the historical tours in St. Louis differ a bit, most of them will feature a few of the most popular and significant sites in St. Louis. Because St. Louis was settled late in the 1700s there are many wonderful historic sites throughout the city.

Laclede's Landing
Laclede's Landing is the location where French explorer and trapper Pierre Laclede first settled in 1763. He and his companion set up several cabins and named the site St. Louis. The original settlement has grown from three streets to the huge city that it is today. This nine block part of town is fast becoming St. Louis' main entertainment district, with the amazing brick buildings being converted into theatres and nightclubs. New mixes with old at the historic site, with hip hop music pounding as you cross cobblestone streets.

Soulard District
The Soulard District has long been the melting pot of St. Louis. Originally a privately owned land space, the Soulard District reverted to the city in the early 1800s. By the 1840s immigrants from all over the world had come to settle in the Soulard district. They brought with them a variety of culture, music, food, and tradition. The beautiful Victorian homes of the neighborhood mingle with some smaller homes and a few stately mansions. The entire neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Like Laclede Landing, the Soulard District is quickly becoming an entertainment capital in St. Louis. There are a number of bars as well as many blues clubs scattered through the district. Soulard is also known for having raucous Mardi Gras and Bastille Day celebrations.

Union Station
In the late 1800s and early 20th century when railroads were the main source of travel in America, Union Station was a major terminal for transcontinental railways. Because of its convenient location, St. Louis was a wonderful resting point for many travelers. Built in 1894, Union Station is still in wonderful working order. While the railroad traffic isn't nearly as popular in Union Station, the shopping, dining, and entertainment of the complex is unsurpassed. With a large Hyatt Regency Hotel located inside the complex, you can stay the night in this building marked on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside you can watch a play or sit and have your caricature made. You could also choose to grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants in the Station. There are also a number of great shopping opportunities inside the complex.

Chatillou-DeMenil Mansion
This amazing home houses some of St. Louis' most important artifacts. Originally built as a mid-size farmhouse in 1848, the home underwent several renovations in the late 1800s, turning it into a Victorian mansion. The home is full of historic artifacts, many dating back to the 17 and 1800s. One of the most prized antiques is a rosewood piano that dates back to 1860. Also, there is a wood parquet floor that dates circa 1890 and is in wonderful condition. There is also a large collection (over 1,200 items) from the 1904 World Fair, which was held in St. Louis. The home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and even boasts a restaurant, Cafe DeMenil, in the old carriage house.