Historical Landmark Downtown Walking Tour of St. Louis

Landmarks Association of Downtown St. Louis

When you visit St. Louis, you can’t miss the chance to explore its rich history. Our walking tour was with the Landmarks Association of Downtown St. Louis. This non-profit organization works tirelessly to save and maintain the city’s historic places. Its focus is on preserving beautiful buildings and educating the public about the importance of Saint Louis’s architectural heritage.

Here’s how you can support them:

1. Participate in Walking Tours: Join their historical walking tours to learn about the area’s fascinating history.
2. Volunteer: Offer your time to assist with educational programs and preservation projects.
3. Donate: Financial contributions help continue their vital work in the community.

By helping non-profits like the Landmarks Association, you contribute to preserving the hidden history of St. Louis for future generations. This makes you a sustainable traveler, combining tourism with conservation efforts.

Not only are you enjoying iconic spots like the Gateway Arch National Park and Forest Park, but you’re also giving back to the community, ensuring these treasures remain for years to come.

The Landmarks Association offers two walking tours of downtown St. Louis: the East Tour and the West Tour. Both take place on Saturday mornings and cost $15 for adults (children under 12 are free). We decided to do the West Tour since I had never heard of most of the buildings there (and I knew we’d be seeing the Gateway Arch). Below, I’ll review some of the highlights of each tour so you can decide which one is right for your trip.

East Tour Highlights

Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch, completed in 1965, is a marvel of architecture and a profound emblem of America’s westward expansion. Situated in St. Louis, along the Missouri River, once the westernmost state before Texas joined the union in 1845, it marks the city’s vital role in American history. Eero Saarinen designed this stainless steel monument to stand as a beacon over the Old Courthouse, perfectly highlighting the connection between these two critical landmarks. Both the Arch and the Old Courthouse reside within the Gateway Arch National Park, encapsulating themes of national growth and civil rights, deeply interwoven with the narrative of African Americans in the 19th century. Honestly, no trip to Saint Louis is complete without seeing the Gateway Arch (and honestly, I’d be impressed if you did visit and miss it; it’s quite large!)

Old Courthouse

Originally constructed in 1828 as a federal and state courthouse, the Old Courthouse is a testament to pivotal moments in civil rights history. Designed by Lavielle and Morton, it features a cast-iron dome in the style of St. Peter’s Basilica, added during its extensive reconstruction from 1839 to 1862. It served as Missouri’s tallest building until the late 19th century. The courthouse witnessed landmark cases, including the Dred Scott decision, playing a crucial role as a monument within the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial before the Gateway Arch took its prominent place in 1965.

Old Cathedral

Positioned near the Old Courthouse, the Old Cathedral is an example of historical architectural collaboration by the firm Lavielle and Morton. It stands as a relic within the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial area, showcasing significant style influences from its time of construction. This religious structure sharply contrasts with the modern skyline, symbolizing St. Louis’s historical evolution and emphasizing the importance of religious institutions in American history.

Kiener Plaza Park

Kiener Plaza Park is a lively locale in Downtown St. Louis. This urban space features a playground, fountains, and an inviting concert area, all central to the city’s revitalization since the 1980s. The Plaza’s attractive layout, with easy-to-navigate sidewalks, makes it a welcoming spot for families and a key stop on any walking tour. Flanked by historic architectural marvels, it provides a perfect place to relax while soaking up the rich cultural backdrop of St. Louis.

Citygarden Sculpture Park

Citygarden Sculpture Park opened in 2009 and transformed two empty blocks into a thriving center for art and community in downtown St. Louis. Featuring 24 sculptures by artists like Igor Mitoraj and Erwin Wurm, the collection, valued at approximately $12 million, invites visitors to interact with and experience art intimately. Iconic installations, such as Mitoraj’s large bronze head and Wurm’s whimsical “Big Suit,” encourage tactile exploration, merging creativity with the allure of the natural environment, enriching both the spirit and the local economy.

These are just the highlights of the East Tour – as this area has plenty of history to explore. You’ll spend over two hours learning about one of the largest cities in Missouri and how it helped to make the United States into what it is today.

West Tour Highlights

Soldiers Memorial Military Museum

Located on the west side of Saint Louis, the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This remarkable landmark is part of the Landmarks Downtown Walking Tours. It presents a captivating narrative of military history. Visitors can delve into the contributions made by local servicemen and women during various conflicts. The museum’s presence in the city highlights historic preservation efforts, serving as a key component of the broader storytelling within the walking tours. Many troops arriving home had to pass through St. Louis to get to the West Coast, so there are a lot of stories to tell.

Stifel Theatre

Formerly known as Peabody Opera House, the Stifel Theatre has a storied past that continues to draw visitors. Since reopening on October 1, 2011, after undergoing renovations, it has been a beacon for entertainment in St. Louis. Hosting acts like Jay Leno and Aretha Franklin, this theatre is not just about the performances; it’s about stepping into a piece of history. Notable events, like the 1965 Rat Pack concert, add to its cultural significance. In 1978, The Rolling Stones’ show sparked enough excitement to cause a protest when tickets sold out, showcasing the theatre’s allure.

St. Louis Union Station

St. Louis Union Station is a true testament to the city’s rich history. Once the world’s largest and busiest train station, it symbolizes the grandeur of the 1940s, bustling with up to 100,000 daily passengers. While air travel eventually overshadowed railroads, the station remains a National Historic Landmark, repurposed in the 1980s into a hub of hospitality and entertainment. Visitors can marvel at the mural by Louis Grell, reliving the era when steam engines and steamboats dominated travel. Personally, I loved learning how they’re preserving the history of the station (keeping the original mural) and modernizing it (with a light show in the archway!). It was really cool!

Central Library

Nestled near other historical landmarks, Central Library is an architectural gem that plays a significant role in St. Louis’s cultural scene. As part of the Downtown Walking Tours, it offers visitors insights into the city’s architectural and historical legacy. This library is much more than a place of books; it’s a vital educational resource and a cornerstone of cultural preservation.

Designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1912, this Beaux-Arts masterpiece boasts a stunning façade of Indiana limestone and an interior filled with intricate detailing, including a spectacular stained-glass dome and lavishly decorated ceilings. The library underwent a major renovation in 2012, blending historic charm with modern functionality, making it a vibrant space for learning, research, and community events.

Campbell House Museum

The Campbell House Museum offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century life. Established in 1943, it beautifully captures the Victorian lifestyle of Robert Campbell, an influential frontiersman, and his socialite wife, Virginia. Known for its elaborate Victorian furnishings, the museum is considered one of America’s most intact collections of its kind. The Campbell House, recognized as a City of St. Louis Landmark and added to the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to 19th-century American history. Restoration efforts keep its rich past alive, welcoming visitors to explore its ornate interiors.

While we didn’t get to go inside the museum, it was fascinating to hear the story of the family and how this museum came to be.

Availability of Guided Tours

If you’re eager to discover the fascinating history of Saint Louis, the Landmarks Association guided walking tours offer a perfect opportunity. They provide two segments: the East Tour and the West Tour, each priced at just $15 per person. Kids under 12 get in free, which is a great way for families to learn together.

Each tour lasts two to two-and-a-half hours, allowing you to explore significant sites leisurely. They limit each tour to fifteen guests, ensuring a more intimate experience. Because of this, advanced booking is definitely recommended. I didn’t feel rushed at all, and we were able to ask questions whenever we wanted.

Tips for a Successful Walking Tour

When preparing for a Historical Walking Tour of St. Louis, Missouri, there are a few key tips to ensure you have a memorable experience. First, I recommend arriving early at the meeting point. This gives you time to get lost (not that I’ve ever gotten lost before), and still get there on time.

My biggest concern when choosing a walking tour is my tour guide. A guide can make or break the experience. By choosing Landmarks Association for your walking tour, you know that you’ll have a knowledgeable tour guide. A good guide will provide rich history and facts and rich history share diverse insights into the fascinating history and architecture of Saint Louis, from its 19th-century beginnings to its 21st-century developments. Our guide was clearly very passionate about St. Louis’s history and wanted to share that with us!

Essential Items to Bring

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Downtown St. Louis has wide sidewalks, making it quite pedestrian-friendly, but comfortable shoes are a must for the two-hour walking tour.
2. Charged Mobile Device: Enhance your experience with the GPSmyCity app, offering offline navigation and guidance.
3. Bottle of Water: Staying hydrated is key as you explore the city. It’s a 2.5 hour tour – so drink plenty of water (especially in the summer months!)
4. Camera or Smartphone: Capture stunning architectural highlights, such as the historic Campbell House and the bright red terracotta Wainwright Building.
5. Cash or Credit Cards: Be ready for potential stops at local eateries, drink spots, or attractions. Also be sure to tip your guide at the end of the tour.

With these items, you’ll be all set to fully enjoy all that St. Louis has to offer on your walking tour. Don’t forget to soak in this major American city’s history and vibrant atmosphere!

When to Take a Walking Tour

If you’re a tour enthusiast looking to learn about Saint Louis’s rich history, the best time to join a walking tour is from April to October. These tours take place on Saturdays, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant weather as you explore the fascinating history of this major city. Each tour lasts between two and two-and-a-half hours and covers roughly two miles at a leisurely pace.

Here’s why it’s a great fit for you:

• Affordability: At $15 per person, it’s an affordable way to delve into American history and architecture.
• Family-Friendly: Children under 12 can join free, making it perfect for families.

With this setup, everyone—from history buffs to casual explorers—can enjoy the hidden history and beautiful sites like Tower Grove Park and Busch Stadium. So, if you’re yearning to explore St. Louis’ past from the 19th century to the 21st century, now is the time to book your spot!

Final thoughts

I feel immensely grateful to have experienced this remarkable city’s rich, fascinating history with the Landmarks Association. One of the highlights of the tour was our passionate and knowledgeable guide. Their storytelling ability brought the city’s incredible past to life, from the days of French fur traders like Auguste Chouteau, through the bustling industrial cities of the 19th and 20th centuries, to the vibrant cultural hub St. Louis is today.

Being a sustainable traveler matters, and supporting local businesses and non-profits is key to preserving St. Louis’ unique character. Whenever you visit famous spots like the Central West End or take a moment to enjoy Tower Grove Park’s green spaces, remember that your involvement helps sustain these treasures for future generations.

St. Louis has a hidden history waiting to be discovered, and this tour is the perfect starting point for anyone eager to explore the past while contributing to the city’s future.

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