Heading to St. Louis and looking for a buzzing nightlife? Carve out some time to explore the vibrant district of Soulard. Located just south of downtown, this lively district is bursting with charm, history, and a whole lot of soul!
Founded in 1764, Soulard is one of the oldest neighborhoods in St. Louis. Streets are lined with charming Victorian brick row houses and historic flounder homes (half-roofed structures). The vibrant Soulard Farmers Market displays a colorful spread of produce, meats, and cheeses, while the vast, 19th-century Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers one-of-a-kind tours.
Known for its funky blues scene, Soulard is home to legendary bars and clubs. From live music joints to trendy dance clubs, there’s a spot for every mood and groove. You’ll also find plenty of fantastic places to eat, from casual pizzerias and Tex-Mex restaurants to seafood spots serving crawfish and oysters.
Soulard is also known for hosting a lively annual Mardi Gras festival, a Bastille Day celebration, and an ‘Oktoberfest’ each year.
Ready to soak up the lively vibes of this fun historic neighborhood? Don’t miss a beat with this in-depth guide for what to see & do, where to eat & drink, and where to stay in Soulard, St. Louis.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our Missouri Travel Guide for more tips & recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do on your vacation!
What to see & do in Soulard
Soulard Farmers Market
Your first stop in Soulard should be the lively Soulard Farmers Market. This iconic market has been dishing out farm-fresh goodness since 1779=—and is still going strong.
The Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest in the country and has a rich and storied history. The market began as a simple gathering of farmers and merchants who came to sell their goods. Today, it’s evolved into a diverse marketplace that reflects the city’s vibrant culture.
Stroll through the market’s aisles, brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. You’ll find a wide selection of locally sourced, organic options that reflect the agricultural richness of the region. Be sure to try some of the famous St. Louis barbecue while you’re there!
The Soulard Farmers Market also sells artisanal goods like handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and artwork, perfect for souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. On weekends, the Soulard Farmers Market comes alive with live music, street performers, and other entertainers. Enjoy the festive ambiance while you shop and interact with the talented local artists.
Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery
If you’re a beer enthusiast or simply love an icy lager, visiting the Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery is a must! Dive into the world of beer-making and learn the history behind some of America’s favorite beers at this iconic brewery.
Founded in 1852 by German immigrants, the Anheuser-Busch Brewery has a storied past that intertwines with the city’s history. It survived Prohibition, economic challenges, and changes in ownership, eventually becoming one of the world’s largest and most successful breweries.
The best way to experience the brewery is to join the Budweiser Brewery Experience guided tour. You’ll get an insider’s look at the beer-making process, from the brewing tanks to the bottling and packaging lines. Knowledgeable guides will share exciting stories and brewing techniques passed down through generations.
Meet the famous Budweiser Clydesdales, the majestic horses that have been a symbol of the brewery since the 1930s and continue to captivate visitors with their grace and beauty.
Relax over a cold beer in the brewery’s outdoor Biergarten, one of the coolest places to visit in St. Louis on a hot summer day. Sample a variety of Anheuser-Busch beers, some of which are not available elsewhere.
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church
Take in the architectural beauty and spiritual aura of the majestic Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Soulard to S 7th Street, where the church stands, and spend some time admiring this historic and culturally significant landmark.
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church was founded in 1843 to serve the growing German immigrant population in the area. Today, the magnificent church is an integral part of the community, offering Catholic mass and other spiritual services.
Take a guided tour of the church for a deeper insight into its history, architecture, and religious significance. Admire the spectacular design, ornate detailing, and beautiful stained-glass windows.
If you’re interested in attending a service, check the church’s schedule for worship times. Experiencing a service within this beautiful setting can be a profoundly moving and enriching experience.
The Darkness Haunted House
Want a thrilling, spine-chilling, and hair-raising experience? Venture into the Darkness Haunted House for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Hailed as one of the top haunted houses in the United States, this house of horrors promises an unforgettable experience for everyone who dares to enter.
As you wander through the dark corridors and eerie rooms, you’ll encounter a variety of terrifying scenes, special effects, and actors dressed as vile creatures. You can also enjoy exhilarating escape room experiences. Test your wits and problem-solving skills as you try to unlock the secrets and escape from several challenging rooms.
Before or after your haunted house adventure, explore the Monster Museum, filled with horror movie memorabilia, creepy artifacts, and fascinating displays that horror enthusiasts will love. Don’t miss visiting St. Louis’s first-ever Horror Retail Store to find all types of horror collectibles and souvenirs.
Old Rock House
Rock the night away at the Old Rock House on South 7th Street. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this historic and lively music offers a musical journey through the contemporary sounds of St. Louis’s music scene.
Enjoy a diverse lineup of live music performances featuring local bands, emerging artists, and well-known acts across various genres, from rock and blues to folk and indie. Get up close and personal with the artists in the intimate 400-seat venue.
A spacious outdoor patio at the Old Rock House is an excellent spot for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying drinks before or after the show.
St. Louis Escape
Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure and test your wits, teamwork, and nerves with the ultimate escape room experience at St. Louis Escape.
St. Louis Escape offers a variety of exhilarating escape room scenarios, each with its own unique theme, immersive storylines, and mind-bending puzzles. Work as a team to solve clues, crack codes, and escape before the clock runs out.
Assemble a crew of your brightest and most creative pals to tackle the escape room challenges together. Teamwork makes the dream work, and you’ll have a blast working together to beat the clock. If you manage to escape, celebrate your victory over drinks in the relaxed lounge area.
Where to eat & drink
Soulard, St. Louis, knows how to serve some seriously good eats and drinks! From finger-licking BBQ to mouthwatering tacos—and everything in between—this culinary hotspot has you covered.
Calling all BBQ enthusiasts – this is your mecca! Bogart’s Smokehouse is a carnivore’s dream, serving mouthwatering succulent smoked meats. From tender pulled pork to juicy ribs and flavorful brisket, each bite is a taste of BBQ perfection. Don’t miss their delectable sides and sauces for the ultimate BBQ feast.
Dive into a flavor fiesta at Mission Taco Joint. This lively spot offers imaginative and tasty tacos that’ll transport you to taco heaven. From classic carne asada to creative veggie options, there’s a taco for every craving. Don’t forget their epic margaritas and tequila selection—perfect for sipping and savoring.
If you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, Tucker’s Place is the place to be. This family-owned steakhouse has been serving top-notch steaks since 1982, and they know how to do it right. Prepare to sink your teeth into perfectly cooked cuts of beef that’ll have you coming back for more.
For a taste of the Emerald Isle, head straight to John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub. Tuck into hearty dishes like fish-and-chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash at this authentic Irish pub. Wash it all down with a pint of Guinness or a smooth Irish whiskey. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and live music in their charming outdoor garden.
Looking for a cozy spot to unwind? Molly’s in Soulard is a neighborhood gem known for its warm ambiance and classic pub fare. Their menu has all your pub favorites, from juicy burgers to comforting mac ‘n’ cheese. Pair it with a cold brew or a craft cocktail, and you’re in for a good time.
When it’s time to let loose and have a blast, Big Daddy’s Bar is the party central. This vibrant spot is all about fun and good times. Grab a seat on their rooftop patio and enjoy their wide selection of drinks. And when hunger strikes, their loaded nachos and hearty sandwiches won’t disappoint.
Where to stay
Although the accommodations selection is limited, Soulard is one of the coolest neighborhoods to stay in St. Louis. If you run out of options here, expand your lodgings search to nearby Downtown St. Louis and Downtown West or further afield to areas like the Central West End and Midtown St. Louis.
Trendy Soulard 1BR by Zencity
Overlooking the Mississippi River in Maryland Heights, Trendy Soulard 1BR by Zencity is a spacious, air-conditioned apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and a comfy living room. Complimentary toiletries, linen, and towels are provided for convenience. The St. Louis Gateway Arch is a few miles away.
Hideaway in The Heart of Soulard
Ideal for families or friends traveling together, this four-bedroom holiday home offers a comfortable home-away-from-home in Soulard. Located a few miles from the Old Courthouse, the accommodation has air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and washing machine, and two bathrooms. Enjoy peace of mind with a private entrance and 24-hour security.
La Casa en Soulard
A newly renovated apartment in the heart of Soulard, La Casa en Soulard is a modern air-conditioned apartment with two bedrooms, a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and washing machine. Relax in the garden next to the outdoor fireplace and stay connected with free Wi-Fi.
