St. Louis is a city of dozens of neighborhoods, each distinctive and interesting, and all boasting considerable history and character. But below are 10 of the top neighborhoods in St. Louis you’ve absolutely got to hit if you’re starting to explore the city. For example, you can walk down the incomparable Cherokee Street to enjoy some of the most fresh and avant garde happenings in town. Likewise, you can get to know the sights, food and drink in handsome Lafayette Square, or head to one of the city’s premiere concentrations of foreign cuisine on South Grand. With many more top-rated and best neighborhoods in St. Louis to explore, consider the following list simply a jumping off point – there’s plenty to see and do in this popular city, one of the region’s most welcome pit stops.
Soulard Farmer’s Market The Mud House The Arch, Downtown Lafayette Square
| Name | Description |
| Soulard | Soulard is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood known for its great farmer’s market and wide variety of food and nightlife options. Eat at delicious Bogart’s Smokehouse. Drink at the welcoming Big Daddy’s. Do both at New Orleans-themed Molly’s. Every January is truly Soulard’s time to shine, however, when it hosts the huge St. Louis Mardi Gras – a must-see event. |
| Central West End | The Central West End is both stately and active, classic and modern. Just a few great places to visit include the World Chess Hall of Fame and the Atrium Gallery. You’ll also find great shopping at the likes of 10denza and East + West. But the CWE’s strength might be its myriad restaurant and dining options, from the sushi at Drunken Fish to the mouthwatering duck and chorizo tacos at Mission Taco to the fresh and delicious cashew chicken at Thai 202. Be sure to make it to independent bookstore Left Bank Books as well, whether to find a book, browse the racks, or attend one of its many recurring events. |
| Cherokee Street | This isn’t so much a clearly-defined neighborhood as a hip and up-and-coming street located between Gravois Park and Benton Park. To experience it, dine at Taqueria El Bronco (offering some of the best tortillas in town), The Mud House (great for breakfast and coffee) and Kalbi Taco Shack (providing a unique Asian-Mexican fusion dining blend). You’ll also want to stop by shops like STL Style House, Mesa Home and – of course – the many stores on Cherokee Antique Row. |
| Downtown | There’s a ton happening in downtown St. Louis. Pilgrimages to the Arch and Busch Stadium are practically required, but be sure to check out the National Blues Museum (and hear some great tunes at BB’s and Beale on Broadway) as well. Lunchtime Live is a weekly summertime highlight in the area with live music and food trucks. Then there are signature events like the St. Louis Brewers Heritage Festival to check out as well. |
| The Hill | The Hill is a traditionally Italian neighborhood that produced Yogi Berra and toasted ravioli. Dining options here are expansive, from upscale options like Dominic’s to the delicious Adriana’s and Zia’s to the classic Charlie Gitto’s and Mama’s. Be sure to stop by Vitale’s Bakery for some fresh Italian bread and desserts while visiting. |
| Delmar Loop | The Loop, located in both the University City and Skinker DeBaliviere neighborhoods, is at the intersection of St. Louis city and county. Once aptly named one of the top 10 streets in America, it is home to funky shopping, quality dining, and underrated nightlife. Stop by the unique Third Degree Glass Factory or the hopping Pin-Up Bowl. Bring your family to Fitz’s, your date to The Melting Pot, or anyone to Salt + Smoke. At night, the Moonrise Hotel’s rooftop bar is also a great place to sit and sip a specialty cocktail. |
| Lafayette Square | Lafayette Square is one of the city’s most handsome neighborhoods, but there’s so much more to this historic spot. Centered around Lafayette Park, a great destination to walk or relax at, Lafayette Square is also home to some excellent eateries and watering holes. For an eventful night, stop by 33 Wine Shop & Bar, hit up Eleven Eleven Mississippi for dinner, then enjoy some ice cream (of the conventional or boozy variety) at Clementine’s. |
| Tower Grove | Ok, we cheated a little: Tower Grove South and Tower Grove East are independent neighborhoods south and east of Tower Grove Park. The park is a worthy destination in itself, with beautiful green spaces, a farmer’s market and more abutting the Missouri Botanical Garden. But the surrounding area also includes a dizzying variety of unique dining establishments and shops. The independent Grove Furnishings is the local source for furniture and other home items. Comic book and fantasy fans will love AM Trading Co. Visitors can even stay at the charming Forget-me-not Bed and Breakfast. |
| South Grand | South Grand is equal parts worldly and delicious. Picture six blocks jam-packed with restaurants and shops where you can find some of St. Louis’s best breakfast options at Rooster, lunch selections at Guerilla Street Food, and dinner choices at Pho Grand Restaurant. It would be almost criminal not to list at least a few more of the area’s signature highlights as well. For instance: Meskerem (Ethiopian cuisine), Baida (Moroccan), Cafe Natasha (Persian), Sheesh (Turkish) and Brasilia (Brazilian) are all great options. |
| Benton Park | Benton Park is filled with character and history. Its streets are lined with 19th century homes, including the legendary (and maybe haunted) Lemp Mansion. Some businesses here, like the 97-year-old Gus’ Pretzels, are almost as historic. Stop by signature eateries like Benton Park Cafe and Blues City Deli, and of course, spend some time in the neighborhood’s namesake park. |
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A Boston native, contributing editor Ben Szanton has embraced St. Louis but is still learning more about his new city by the day. A young entrepreneur and exercise enthusiast, he's always happy to share the new song he can't stop listening to or taco place he just discovered. He covers a wide range of St. Louis topics for SELECT.
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