Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour

Exploring St. Louis’s rich history and architectural wonders couldn’t be easier than the Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour. From the Old Cathedral’s French-American heritage to the iconic Gateway Arch, this captivating journey showcases the city’s engineering prowess and vibrant downtown atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an intimate experience, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of St. Louis.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Old Cathedral, a Greek Revival-style church with a grand interior and significant French-American heritage.
• Marvel at the iconic Gateway Arch, the tallest national monument in the U.S., offering panoramic views of the city.
• Cross the Eads Bridge, the world’s first steel arch bridge, for stunning views of the Mississippi River and St. Louis skyline.
• Admire the Richardsonian Romanesque-style Old Post Office, with its intricate stonework and towering clock tower.
• Stroll through the Kiener Plaza Park, a popular urban green space in the heart of downtown with views of the Gateway Arch.

Old Cathedral

The Old Cathedral, formally known as the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, is a historic Roman Catholic cathedral located in downtown St. Louis.

Constructed in the 1830s, it’s one of the oldest churches west of the Mississippi River. The cathedral features a striking Greek Revival-style exterior and a grand interior with intricate details.

Visitors can admire the impressive stone façade, stained glass windows, and soaring columns.

The Old Cathedral holds significant importance in the city’s French-American heritage and serves as a testament to St. Louis’ rich architectural and religious history.

Gateway Arch

Iconic in its design and monumental in scale, Gateway Arch stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit of America. Rising 630 feet into the sky, this stainless steel structure is the tallest national monument in the United States.

Visitors can ride to the top in tram cars, offering panoramic views of the city and the mighty Mississippi River below. The arch symbolizes the westward expansion of the country, commemorating Thomas Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase.

Representing the gateway to the West, the iconic landmark draws millions of visitors each year to experience its engineering marvel and historical significance.

Eads Bridge

Spanning the Mississippi River, Eads Bridge is an engineering marvel that has played a crucial role in the history of St. Louis.

Completed in 1874, this iconic structure was the first operational bridge over the Mississippi and the world’s first steel arch bridge. Designed by renowned engineer James B. Eads, it features innovative technologies and revolutionary architectural design.

The bridge linked the East and West, facilitating transportation and commerce.

Today, Eads Bridge remains an important transportation hub and a beloved landmark, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the mighty river below.

Old Post Office

Towering over the lively streets of downtown St. Louis, the Old Post Office stands as a testament to architectural grandeur.

This majestic building, completed in 1884, is a stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque style, featuring intricate stonework, arched windows, and a towering clock tower.

The Old Post Office is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts:

• Admire the impressive façade, adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements.
• Step inside to marvel at the soaring atrium, with its ornate iron railings and marble floors.
• Explore the building’s history, which includes its transformation from a post office to a modern office space.
• Climb to the top of the clock tower for panoramic views of the city skyline.

Keiner Plaza Park

As the walking tour moves on from the majestic Old Post Office, the next stop is Kiener Plaza Park.

This vibrant, 1.5-acre urban green space offers a serene respite in the heart of downtown St. Louis. Visitors can stroll along the winding pathways, admire the iconic fountain, and enjoy views of the iconic Gateway Arch.

The park hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it a popular gathering place for locals and travelers alike.

With its convenient location and accessibility, Kiener Plaza Park is a must-see destination on the Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour.

Historic French-American Heritage

Why does the Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour highlight the historic French-American heritage of St. Louis?

As the fourth largest city in the 19th century, St. Louis had a rich French history. The tour showcases this through several key sites:

• The Old Cathedral, built in 1834, is an impressive limestone cathedral that was the city’s first permanent Catholic church.

• Laclede’s Landing, a historic riverfront district, features 19th century red-brick buildings and cobblestone streets reminiscent of the city’s early French roots.

• The Gateway Arch, a 630-foot monument, commemorates St. Louis’ role as the "Gateway to the West" for early French explorers.

• The Eads Bridge, an engineering marvel, connected the French-influenced east bank to the American west bank of the Mississippi River.

Engineering Marvels

The Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour also highlights several engineering marvels that showcase St. Louis’ rich history and ingenuity.

One must-see is the iconic Gateway Arch, the world’s tallest arch and the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen, the 630-foot stainless steel arch is an architectural and engineering marvel.

Nearby, the Eads Bridge, completed in 1874, is another impressive feat of engineering. This historic suspension bridge was one of the first to use steel for its construction, a groundbreaking innovation at the time.

Intimate Exploration Experience

With a limited group size of 15 travelers, the Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour provides an intimate exploration experience.

The small-group format allows for personalized attention and ample opportunities to interact with the knowledgeable guide and fellow participants.

Travelers can expect:

• Engaging discussions on the city’s rich history and architectural marvels
• Opportunities to meet others passionate about St. Louis’ culture and heritage
• Tailored insights and recommendations based on the group’s interests
• An unhurried pace to fully immerse in the sights and sounds of the downtown area.

This walking tour offers a unique chance to discover St. Louis’ hidden gems in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the architectural masterpieces, historical icons, and engineering marvels they encounter along the way to document their experience and share their memories.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour doesn’t provide refreshments, so feel free to pack what you need for the 2-mile walk around downtown St. Louis.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. This small-group size allows for more personalized attention from the guide and opportunities to interact with fellow participants.

Is the Tour Guide Able to Accommodate Special Needs?

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. The tour guides can accommodate special needs, and the surfaces along the route are wheelchair-friendly near public transportation.

Can I Extend the Tour or Explore on My Own Afterwards?

Guests can explore further on their own after the tour. The guide can provide recommendations for extending the experience, but the tour itself is limited to the 2-mile walking route and scheduled duration.

Sum Up

The Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour provides a captivating journey through St. Louis’s rich history and architectural wonders. From the French-American heritage of the Old Cathedral to the iconic Gateway Arch and engineering marvels like the Eads Bridge, this tour offers an intimate exploration of the city’s vibrant downtown. Kiener Plaza Park offers a serene respite, completing a well-rounded experience for visitors.