Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Soulard

St. Louis

MO

USA

Contributed by 
Keith Belk
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
May 23, 2003
May 1, 2024

The oldest neighborhood in St. Louis is a thriving bar, restaurant, shopping and tourist district.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Soulard is the oldest neighborhood in St. Louis, with most buildings dating from the Civil War to the World's Fair in 1904. For example, our two-family Federal Immigrant House was built in 1876. Soulard is home to about 20 bars and restaurants, many of which are part of the St. Louis music scene. Soulard is also the home of the Blues (music), Soulard Market, the Anheuser Busch Brewery and our Mardi Gras as well as many other activities. It's a great place to live and play. This was one of many areas of St. Louis where razing buildings had started in the late 60Ís and early 70Ís, and it was saved by a small hard working group of people.

Access & Linkages

The area is very accessible. Traffic has been calmed and bike lanes added to one major street, which will connect to the River Front Trail.

Comfort & Image

It makes a great impression once you get into the neighborhood and enjoy it.

Uses & Activities

Dining, shopping, Soulard Market, Mardi Gras, various home tours, tastes and other activities are held in the neighborhood.

Sociability

The neighborhood is full of good meeting places. It is very diverse and very comfortable.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Soulard
The Mardi Gras Grand Parade.
Soulard
Soulard
The Barkus Dog Parade is a part of Soulard's annual Mardi Gras celebration.
Soulard
Soulard
Soulard
An aerial view of Soulard. All images courtesy of Jeff Wiegand and Soulard.com
Soulard
Soulard

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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