If you’re a food lover, few places can rival the vibrant experience of visiting a bustling farmer’s market. Visiting Soulard Market in St. Louis offers an exciting blend of fresh produce, culinary delights, and a rich history that showcases the region’s agricultural heritage. A trip to this historic market presents an opportunity to delight your senses and support local vendors.
Soulard Market, established in 1779, is one of the oldest markets in the United States. Over the centuries, it has become a focal point for the community, inviting both locals and tourists to explore its diverse offerings. As you wander through the market, the aroma of fresh produce and homemade specialties fills the air, creating an atmosphere that’s both inviting and lively.
I enjoyed discovering the unique features of Soulard Market. This guide will include what to expect during your visit, the local culinary treasures you can discover, and tips for making the most of your shopping experience. Get ready to immerse yourself in the flavors of St. Louis and uncover why Soulard Market is a must-see destination for anyone who loves food.
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Overview of Soulard Market
Soulard Market, a treasured historic landmark, stands proudly as St. Louis’s last public market. Established all the way back in 1839, it has been a community staple for centuries, offering a unique shopping experience with over 140 vendors. This dynamic market features a vast range of products from fresh produce, quality meats and seafood, to aromatic cheeses, spices, and delightful baked goods.
Housed in a beautiful Italian Renaissance H-style building since 1929, the market creates an inviting atmosphere with its classic architecture. On the second floor, there is a theater and gym. Open Wednesday through Saturday, the market welcomes guests from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., (and 7 am-5:30 pm on Saturdays) providing a vibrant open-air market experience throughout the year.
Just a short hop south from Busch Stadium, Soulard Market is conveniently placed for locals and tourists alike. With ample parking options, a nearby playground, and a scenic plaza, it’s perfect for a family outing or a leisurely day of exploration. Whether you’re a food connoisseur or just seeking fresh ingredients, Soulard Market promises an enriching visit steeped in history and flavor.
History of Soulard Market
The Soulard Market, a cornerstone of St. Louis history, began as the South or French Market in 1839. This public market traces its heritage back to the foundation laid by Perre LaClede in 1764. A year before opening, Julia Soulard, whose legacy is intertwined with the market’s existence, generously donated the land for the market in perpetuity.
Originally constructed shortly after its establishment, the Soulard Market operated out of its first structure until the completion of the current building in 1929. This historic market boasts a Grand Hall, reflecting Italian Renaissance architectural influences, with a central section for shops bordered by four wings of vendor stalls.
Today, Soulard Market continues to serve the community as one of the oldest farmers markets in existence, having roots that stretch all the way back to 1779. It stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of farmers markets and their role in urban life, offering a classic produce market experience in its storied halls.
Official Website of the Historic Soulard Market Merchants Association: www.soulardmarket.com
What to Expect at Soulard Market
When you visit Soulard Market in St. Louis, you step into a vibrant slice of history that’s been serving the city since 1779. As one of the oldest farmers markets still in operation, Soulard Market is a bustling hub of activity and tradition. The market opens its doors from Wednesday to Saturday. I was surprised the market isn’t open on Sundays since that’s when a lot of people do their shopping for the week.
You’ll find a treasure trove of fresh produce, meats, seafood, bakery delights, spices, and colorful flowers. There are over 140 vendors, offering goods in the open-air environment that beckons both locals and visitors alike.
Convenient amenities like free and metered parking are available. Look out for family-friendly features such as a playground and park nearby. We brought our electric scooters and parked at a nearby park.
Types of Local Produce Available
At Soulard Farmers Market, you’ll find an extensive range of items to fill your pantry and fridge. From April into the fall, local vendors showcase the best of the season’s produce. But it’s not just fruits and veggies on offer. There are spices, sauces, jams, meats, and cheeses from sources close to home.
We got some chocolate goodies to enjoy (and some to bring home!) as well as a freshly baked day-nut! Think glazed donut meets flakey pastry(yum!)
Beyond edible goods, the market is also a hotspot for a diverse selection of flowers, bringing more life and color to the market milieu. It’s a unique experience that highlights the variety St. Louis has to offer, with everything from essentials to the unexpected—like live poultry, pets, and crafts—waiting to be discovered.
Unique Delicacies and Specialties
As you meander through Soulard Market, get ready to tempt your taste buds with unique flavors. Producers take pride in their creative offerings like zesty pickles, delicate macarons, and delectable Bundt cakes. Fresh, aromatic herbs and spices waft through the air, speaking to the market’s focus on high-quality, local flavors.
Interactions with Friendly Vendors
One of Soulard Market’s charms is its friendly vendors. Conversations with these passionate sellers are an enriching part of the market visit. They’re brimming with insights about their wares, which means you can learn about what you’re buying directly from the source.
Chatting with vendors might lead to discovering special offers, unique products, and artisan crafts not found elsewhere. It’s these interactions that not only create a memorable shopping experience but also deepen the sense of community and connection within the bustling market atmosphere. Supporting these local businesses helps ensure that the Soulard Market tradition continues for future generations to savor.
I got to chat with the vendor who sold me a daynut. He has volunteered for over ten years with Bridge Bread, a non-profit that works with people dealing with housing insecurity. They teach them a skill (baking) and help them find jobs and housing. The bread and day-nuts available were all baked by their clients. It made the daynut that much sweeter to know I was supporting such an awesome cause. Sorry, I already ate it before I thought to take a picture of it!
Dining Options Around Soulard Market
Visiting Soulard Market, you’ll find more than just a place for fresh fruits and veggies; it’s a feast for the taste buds, too! Established way back in 1779, Soulard Market is rich in history and brimming with local cuisine. Amidst the 140-plus vendors, you’re not just limited to scooping up ingredients for dinner; you can indulge in a range of mouthwatering delights right then and there.
Fancy a quick snack or a hearty meal? Soulard Market’s got you covered. From scrumptious snacks to baked treats and specialty foods, there’s something for every craving. It’s the go-to spot for foodies who celebrate the flavors of St. Louis. Make sure to take a leisurely stroll to uncover diverse dining offerings that spotlight local and seasonal dishes. With its authentic flavors and lively environment, Soulard Market is a magnet for anyone eager to experience true St. Louis eats.
Popular Restaurant: Tucker’s Place
A must-visit near Soulard Market is Tuckers Place. Part of Soulard’s diverse vendor scene, this place is a treasure trove for anyone loving fresh fare. It’s where you find the goods—juicy meats, the freshest seafood, scrumptious cheese, and more, surrounded by over 140 vendors in a historic open-air market.
Must-Visit Spot: Sidney Street Cafe
If you’re around Soulard Market, pop over to Sidney Street Cafe. Set in a historic storefront in St. Louis’s old Benton Park neighborhood, it’s a place where history meets modern taste. Chef/Owner Kevin Nashan, his wife Mina, and his brother Chris run this top-notch cafe, known for crafting a historic dining experience with a twist of contemporary culinary innovation.
The menu? A creative take on traditional faves. This cafe is a hallmark of dining in St. Louis, contributing to the area’s foodie culture with every dish served. So when you’re done admiring the fresh market produce, mosey on over to Sidney Street for a meal that’ll be sure to impress.
Flavorful BBQ at Bogart’s Smokehouse
When I visited Bogart’s Smokehouse in St. Louis, I was immediately drawn to the mouthwatering aroma of their famous ribs. As soon as I sat down, I couldn’t wait to dig in and savor the tender, smoky goodness that they’re known for. What really made the experience special were the four unique sauces that they had right on the table, each one offering a different flavor profile that complemented the ribs perfectly. I had a blast experimenting with each sauce, enhancing the already delicious meal. If you’re a barbecue lover, Bogart’s is definitely a place I would recommend for an unforgettable dining experience!
Tips for Shopping Effectively
To get the most out of your visit to Soulard Market, take time to chat with local vendors. These friendly folks often share valuable tips, and you might even score a discount on special items. For the best deals, compare prices across different stalls before you buy — a little legwork can lead to big savings. Don’t miss the chance to taste St. Louis flavors at the market eateries. Sampling local foods is part of the fun and adds to your market experience.
Be sure to peek at the Soulard Farmers Market website before you head out. It’s packed with handy info, such as vendor locations, event news, and coupons that could sweeten your deals. Remember, shopping early means fresher products and elbow room to explore.
What to Bring for a Successful Trip
Prep for your market trip with a good tote bag — all the better to carry home fresh finds from the 140-plus vendors. And since parking can get tight, especially on Saturdays, make it early for the best spot. You might want to check what’s in season on the market’s website or Facebook page before you head out. Some vendors may prefer cash, so having a little on you is a smart move. Since it’s an open-air market, dress for the weather so you can comfortably enjoy your time under the sun.
While many vendors do accept cards, some are cash-only. Having cash on hand ensures you won’t miss out on anything you’d like to buy due to payment restrictions. There was an ATM near the restrooms if needed.
Lastly, be sure to dress comfortably and prepare for the weather. The market is an open-air shopping experience, meaning you will spend quite some time outside, perusing the various stalls and vendors.
Seasonal Highlights in Produce
No matter the season, Soulard Market dazzles with a fresh variety of veggies and fruits that shift with the calendar. From spring blossoms to fall harvests, there’s always something new to fill your basket with. Gorgeous seasonal flowers and plants are also a big draw. For a heads-up on what’s currently on offer, the market’s Facebook page is your go-to. You’ll find the most buzz and variety in product from April through to autumn. Weekdays are a bit quieter, so for a lovely, unhurried look at seasonal produce, that’s your best bet.
Best Times to Visit
When planning a visit to the vibrant Soulard Market in St. Louis, timing is crucial for an optimal experience. The market welcomes visitors on Wednesday to Saturday, with opening hours as follows:
- Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 8 am – 5 pm
- Saturday: 7 am – 5:30 pm
For a bustling atmosphere, Saturday mornings are prime time, with the market teeming with life as shoppers seek fresh produce and unique goods. However, if a calmer shopping environment is more your speed, weekdays offer a quieter affair. Arriving early, particularly right at opening times, also rewards you with better parking options and first picks of the day’s offerings.
Remember that the market is closed from Sunday through Tuesday, so plan your trip between Wednesday and Saturday.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
Soulard Market is not only a destination for fresh produce and goods but also a gateway to exploring some of St. Louis’s iconic landmarks and attractions. Just a hop, skip, and a jump south of Busch Stadium, Soulard Market sits in the heart of Cardinal Nation. For baseball fans, the stadium is a must-see.
But that’s not all. The towering Gateway Arch, a symbol of the city, is within easy reach, less than a mile away. Its magnificent stainless steel arc offers breathtaking views for those looking to gaze over the cityscape and the Mississippi River.
Music lovers will find a treat at the National Blues Museum, where they can delve into the deep roots of blues and its impact on the world’s music scene. The museum is a haven for those keen on cultural experiences.
For a mix of history and perhaps a few chills, the nearby Lemp Mansion stands as a testament to St. Louis’s past, complete with stories of its own. If you’re a beer enthusiast, you can’t pass up the chance to visit the famous Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Located within walking distance, it invites guests for tours and a taste of their classic brews.
The Budweiser Brewery Experience
Just around the corner from Soulard Market is the legendary Anheuser-Busch Brewery, an architectural marvel in its own right. The German Romanesque buildings invite visitors to gaze at the grand details from another age. Inside, learn about state-of-the-art brewing processes and savor the craftsmanship of beer making.
After exploring the brewery, visitors can relax in the Anheuser-Busch Biergarten with a complimentary beverage to round off the experience. The brewery anchors the historic Soulard neighborhood, reinforcing the local vibe with a rich array of eateries, pubs, and retail spots that surround the area’s cornerstone, Soulard Market. You can even take a tour to meet one of the Clydesdales (which we did!) It was a really cool experience.
Soulard Art Gallery
Step into the Soulard Art Gallery, and you’ll see why it’s been hailed as the top gallery for three years running. Just a stone’s throw from Soulard Market, the gallery and market combined create a haven for art lovers, blending local artisan crafts and art with the pursuit of fresh, wholesome food.
Parks in the Soulard Area
Beyond the market stalls, the Soulard area blooms with outdoor splendor and community life. Parks dot the landscape, offering green spaces for relaxation and recreation. While we didn’t see anyone in the park when we were there, it seemed like a nice place for a picnic or letting kids play while the parents read.
Final Thoughts
I’m really glad we were able to spend some time visiting the Soulard Farmer’s Market in St. Louis. It really was one of the coolest farmer’s markets I’ve been to. Knowing that it’s a piece of St. Louis history that also features some current non-profits was a neat experience. I’d recommend stopping in even for a small amount of time to get some snacks or souvenirs – you won’t be disappointed!
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thanks for the info. I have never visited here, which is kinda a shock since ive been close by. I am keeping your info mind for a future trip. thanks
I had no idea that St. Louis had such an old farmer’s market! I’ve only been to the city once, so I didn’t get to visit Soulard Market, but next time I would love to wander through it. I LOVE farmer’s markets, so this one sounds delightful.
That is such a great way to experience the local life at its best. The markets like these are indeed a must-visit for the travelers.