Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour

The Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of St. Louis’ architectural splendor and cultural legacy. From the Greek Revival beauty of the Old Cathedral to the iconic Gateway Arch, this tour guides visitors through the city’s pivotal landmarks. Along the way, one can uncover the innovative engineering of the Eads Bridge and trace the French colonial influences that have shaped this vibrant American metropolis. Prepare to be immersed in St. Louis’ rich history and discover why this walking tour is a must for those seeking to truly understand the heart of the city.

Good To Know

• The Downtown-East Walking Tour highlights the architectural heritage of St. Louis, featuring landmarks like the Old Cathedral, Gateway Arch, and Eads Bridge.

• The tour provides insights into St. Louis’ French colonial history, showcasing the influence of key figures like Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau.

• The Old Post Office, a Romanesque Revival-style building, is a prominent stop on the tour, offering a glimpse into the city’s commercial and cultural past.

• Visitors can learn about the unique blend of French and American cultures that have shaped St. Louis’ identity over the centuries.

• The tour allows visitors to explore the architectural diversity and historical significance of these iconic landmarks, which are integral to the city’s identity.

The Old Cathedral

The Old Cathedral, also known as the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, stands as a testament to the city’s French heritage.

This Roman Catholic cathedral dates back to 1834 and is the oldest standing cathedral west of the Mississippi River.

Visitors can admire its impressive Greek Revival architecture, featuring a symmetrical facade and iconic twin bell towers.

Inside, the cathedral boasts intricate stained glass windows and ornate altars.

As a historic landmark, the Old Cathedral offers a glimpse into St. Louis’ past and the influence of French colonial culture on the city’s architecture and religious landscape.

The Gateway Arch

Rising majestically over the St. Louis riverfront, the Gateway Arch stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s history and ambition.

This stainless steel marvel, standing 630 feet tall, was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965.

Visitors can take a thrilling ride up to the observation deck, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline.

The arch also serves as the gateway to the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, a park that commemorates the role of St. Louis in the westward expansion of the United States.

A must-see attraction for any visitor to the city.

Eads Bridge

Spanning the mighty Mississippi River, Eads Bridge is an iconic feat of 19th-century engineering that has stood the test of time.

Completed in 1874, the bridge was designed by James B. Eads and was the first to use steel as the primary construction material. Impressive in both scale and design, the bridge’s arched trusses rise 630 feet across the river, making it an architectural marvel.

Today, the Eads Bridge remains an important link between Illinois and Missouri, carrying both road traffic and the MetroLink light rail system. Its unique appearance and historic significance make it a must-see for visitors to downtown St. Louis.

The Old Post Office

Towering over downtown St. Louis, the Old Post Office is an architectural marvel that dates back to the late 19th century. Constructed in 1884, this magnificent structure showcases intricate Romanesque Revival-style details, including grand arched windows and ornate limestone facades.

Visitors can admire the building’s impressive atrium, adorned with mosaic floors and a stunning central staircase.

Today, the Old Post Office has been repurposed as a mixed-use commercial and office space, allowing visitors to explore its historic elegance while enjoying modern amenities.

It’s a must-see destination on the Downtown-East Walking Tour, offering a glimpse into St. Louis’ rich architectural heritage.

Notable Architectural Gems

The walking tour showcases several architectural masterpieces that define downtown St. Louis.

One highlight is the Old Post Office, a Romanesque Revival building that dates back to 1884. Its ornate stone facade and grand interiors showcase the city’s past grandeur.

Another standout is the Eads Bridge, an iconic structure that spans the Mississippi River. This engineering marvel, completed in 1874, features a unique double-decker design that accommodates both road and rail traffic.

The tour also explores the iconic Gateway Arch, a modernist monument that has become a symbol of the city.

Insights Into French-American History

As the city’s French heritage is intertwined with its history, the walking tour provides valuable insights into this cultural legacy. Participants learn how the French settlers established St. Louis in the 18th century, making it a prominent trading post. The tour explores:

The guides offer fascinating anecdotes about the city’s evolution from a French colony to an American metropolis, shedding light on St. Louis’ unique blend of cultures and traditions.

A Glimpse of St. Louis’ Past Grandeur

Aside from its French-American heritage, the walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into St. Louis’ past grandeur.

Travelers will marvel at architectural masterpieces like the iconic Gateway Arch and the historic Eads Bridge, both engineering marvels that have stood the test of time.

The tour also explores the Old Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture, and the Old Post Office, a testament to the city’s former status as the fourth-largest in the U.S.

With knowledgeable guides bringing these landmarks to life, the tour provides a unique opportunity to take in St. Louis’ storied past.

Meeting Fellow Travelers

Exploring St. Louis’ historic sites on the Downtown-East Walking Tour provided the perfect opportunity to meet fellow travelers. As the group assembled at the meeting point, a diverse mix of people came together, united by their curiosity to uncover the city’s past.

The camaraderie fostered among the group enhanced the tour experience, as participants exchanged stories and insights, forging connections over their shared passion for discovery. Together, they embarked on an enriching journey, exploring the architectural marvels and historical narratives that define the essence of St. Louis.

The Sum Up

The Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of St. Louis’ architectural and cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at iconic landmarks, uncover the city’s French colonial roots, and gain insights into its vibrant past. Whether you’re a history buff or architecture enthusiast, this tour provides a glimpse into the grandeur and evolution of St. Louis – a truly enriching experience for all.