Laclede’s Landing | St Louis

Laclede’s Landing is a historic district and vibrant riverfront neighborhood situated in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, along the west bank of the Mississippi River. It occupies nine blocks just north of the iconic Gateway Arch, serving as the city’s original settlement site where Pierre Laclède and his stepson Auguste Chouteau founded St. Louis in 1764. Today, Laclede’s Landing stands as the only remaining portion of St. Louis’s 19th-century commercial riverfront, successfully blending deep historical significance with lively modern entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions.

Historical Significance and Architecture

Laclede’s Landing preserves 17 historic buildings, many dating back to the 1800s, which once functioned as warehouses, shipping depots, and manufacturing facilities linked to the bustling river trade that was central to St. Louis’s growth. These structures showcase architectural styles such as late Victorian and Federal, characterized by brick facades, arched windows, wrought-iron balconies, and stone detailing.

The area’s preservation effort transformed these industrial buildings into restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment venues, maintaining their historic character while adapting them for contemporary uses. Two of the buildings are officially recognized as St. Louis historical landmarks, underscoring the district’s importance as a cultural and architectural treasure. Walking through the cobblestone streets and brick alleys transports visitors back to the era when St. Louis thrived as a river commerce hub.

Attractions and Activities

Laclede’s Landing offers a diverse range of activities and attractions appealing to visitors of all interests:

Gateway Arch Proximity: Located just steps from the Gateway Arch grounds, Laclede’s Landing provides easy access to the famous monument and its park, where visitors can take tram rides to the top for panoramic views of the city and river.

Mississippi Riverfront Trail: The district is part of the Mississippi River Greenway, a 15-mile scenic trail popular for walking, jogging, biking, and enjoying the river vistas and industrial skyline.

Laclede’s Landing Wax Museum: This seasonal museum showcases wax figures of famous personalities from history, film, and sports, adding a fun and educational dimension to the area.

Active Art Park: A recently developed outdoor space featuring interactive art installations that encourage visitor engagement and community events, reflecting ongoing efforts to revitalize the riverfront.

Historic Riverfront Atmosphere: The district’s waterfront location allows for picturesque views of the Mississippi River, with opportunities for boat tours, river cruises, and seasonal festivals.

Dining and Nightlife

Laclede’s Landing is renowned for its eclectic dining options and lively nightlife, housed within its historic buildings and along its scenic streets. The culinary scene offers a broad spectrum of flavors and atmospheres:

Restaurants: More than 20 establishments serve a variety of cuisines. Highlights include Korean specialties at Kimchi Guys, classic Italian dishes at The Old Spaghetti Factory, and elevated American fare at Ramsay’s Kitchen St. Louis, a concept by renowned chef Gordon Ramsay.

Bars and Clubs: The area features numerous bars and nightclubs, many with live music, dance floors, and themed events, creating a bustling nightlife hub popular with locals and visitors alike.

Events: Laclede’s Landing hosts several annual events, the most notable being the Big Muddy Blues Festival, the largest free blues festival in Missouri, attracting music lovers from across the region for live performances along the riverfront.

Accommodations

For visitors wishing to stay close to the action, Laclede’s Landing and its surroundings offer several upscale hotels:

HoteLumière at the Arch: A luxury hotel located just a short distance from the Landing and the Gateway Arch, featuring modern amenities, stylish décor, and views of the river and downtown skyline.

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis: A premier hotel with extensive facilities, including a large spa, fine dining, and event spaces, providing an upscale experience within walking distance.

Accessibility and Transportation

Laclede’s Landing is easily accessible via various transportation options:

MetroLink Light Rail: The district is served by the Laclede’s Landing MetroLink station on both the Red and Blue lines, located at 200 Washington Avenue. This elevated station provides convenient, efficient access from across the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Walking and Biking: The area’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets encourage exploration on foot or bike, with bike racks and riverfront trails available.

Parking: Nearby parking garages and street parking accommodate visitors arriving by car.

Visitor Experience

The district’s cobblestone streets, historic ambiance, river views, and variety of attractions make Laclede’s Landing a unique destination within St. Louis. Visitors can stroll along the Mississippi River, dine in atmospheric historic buildings, explore cultural landmarks, and enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene-all within a compact, walkable area that combines the city’s past and present.

Whether interested in history, outdoor activities, food and drink, or entertainment, Laclede’s Landing offers an immersive experience that celebrates St. Louis’s riverfront heritage and ongoing urban revitalization.

Summary

Laclede’s Landing stands as a testament to St. Louis’s origins and its evolution into a dynamic modern city. Through thoughtful preservation and adaptive reuse, this historic district maintains its 19th-century charm while serving as a thriving center for culture, dining, and recreation along the Mississippi River. It invites visitors to explore a rich tapestry of architecture, history, and entertainment set against the backdrop of one of America’s greatest waterways.