Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour

Exploring the historic landmarks of downtown St. Louis’ east end is a captivating journey for those seeking to uncover the city’s architectural wonders and rich heritage. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the engineering marvel of the Eads Bridge, this walking tour immerses visitors in the vibrant stories that have shaped the identity of this Midwestern metropolis. Whether admiring the Romanesque revival beauty of the Old Cathedral or marveling at the preserved grandeur of the Old Post Office, each step along the way promises to enlighten and inspire.

Key Points

• Set out on a walking tour to explore the historic landmarks of downtown-east St. Louis, including the iconic Gateway Arch, Eads Bridge, and Old Cathedral.
• Marvel at the ornate Romanesque Revival architecture of the Old Post Office, now a vibrant cultural center housing museums and galleries.
• Ascend the Gateway Arch for panoramic views of the city and the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.
• Cross the renowned Eads Bridge, an engineering masterpiece and vital transportation link across the Mississippi River.
• Admire the towering spires and stained glass windows of the Basilica of St. Louis, the city’s first cathedral.

Old Cathedral

The majestic Old Cathedral, also known as the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, stands tall and proud in the heart of downtown St. Louis.

Constructed in the early 19th century, this iconic religious structure features a stunning Romanesque revival architectural style, complete with towering spires and intricate stone carvings.

Visitors can marvel at the cathedral’s ornate interior, adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and ornate altars.

The Old Cathedral holds significant historical importance, serving as the city’s first cathedral and a testament to St. Louis’ rich French-American heritage.

Its grand presence continues to inspire awe and reverence among all who witness its timeless beauty.

Gateway Arch

Rising majestically into the St. Louis skyline, the Gateway Arch stands as a colossal tribute to American westward expansion. Soaring 630 feet tall, this iconic stainless steel structure was designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen. Visitors can ascend to the top of the arch via a tram system, offering panoramic views of the city and the mighty Mississippi River below. The arch’s symbolic significance as the "Gateway to the West" is further underscored by its strategic location, situated at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. A true architectural marvel, the Gateway Arch continues to captivate all who behold its stunning presence.

Architectural Style	Height	Completed	Observation Decks
Modernist	630 ft	1965	2
Material	Location	Visitors per Year	Purpose
Stainless Steel	St. Louis, MO	Over 4 million	Monument to Western Expansion

Eads Bridge

Spanning the mighty Mississippi River, the Eads Bridge stands as an iconic engineering marvel in the heart of downtown St. Louis.

Completed in 1874, this steel-arched suspension bridge was an unprecedented feat of its time. Designed by civil engineer James Eads, the bridge boasts a striking silhouette that has become a defining feature of the city’s skyline.

Standing 630 feet wide and 160 feet tall, the Eads Bridge was the longest arched steel bridge in the world when it opened.

Today, the historic structure continues to serve as a vital transportation link, carrying both vehicle and pedestrian traffic across the river.

Old Post Office

Nestled within the heart of downtown St. Louis stands the majestic Old Post Office. Constructed in the late 19th century, this architectural gem is a testament to the city’s rich history.

The building’s intricate facade, adorned with ornate carvings and stunning arched windows, immediately captivates visitors. Once a bustling hub of postal activity, the Old Post Office now serves as a cultural center, housing museums, galleries, and government offices.

As the tour group explores its grand interior, they’ll marvel at the exquisite details that have been meticulously preserved, offering a glimpse into St. Louis’ past.

Architectural Masterpieces

As the walking tour progresses, the group marvels at the architectural masterpieces that dot the downtown-east landscape.

The stunning Old Cathedral, with its twin spires and Greco-Roman facade, stands as a testament to the city’s French heritage. Nearby, the iconic Gateway Arch, an engineering marvel, soars 630 feet into the sky, offering panoramic views of the city.

The group pauses to admire the intricate details of the Eads Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge that was revolutionary in its time.

These architectural wonders showcase St. Louis’ rich history and innovative spirit.

Historical Icons

The walking tour then takes visitors to some of downtown-east’s most significant historical icons. These landmarks offer glimpses into St. Louis’ past as the "Gateway to the West". Highlights include:

Site	Description
Old Cathedral	Oldest Catholic cathedral west of the Mississippi, established in 1834
Eads Bridge	Iconic 19th-century steel arch bridge spanning the Mississippi River
Old Post Office	Impressive example of Romanesque Revival architecture, now a cultural center
Gateway Arch	Iconic 630-foot stainless steel monument commemorating westward expansion

These historic sites provide visitors with a deeper appreciation for St. Louis’ role in shaping America’s frontier history.

Engineering Marvels

While walking through downtown-east, visitors are captivated by the impressive engineering marvels that have defined St. Louis’ skyline.

The iconic Gateway Arch, towering 630 feet tall, is an architectural and engineering triumph, designed by Eero Saarinen.

Nearby, the Eads Bridge, constructed in the late 19th century, is a stunning example of innovative Civil War-era engineering.

Spanning the mighty Mississippi River, this historic structure features majestic steel arches and was an engineering marvel of its time.

These iconic landmarks showcase St. Louis’ pioneering spirit and mastery of structural design.

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors on the walking tour are drawn to the architectural masterpieces and historical icons that dot the downtown-east landscape.

The tour highlights the iconic Gateway Arch, a towering monument to America’s westward expansion. Nearby, the Eads Bridge, an engineering marvel of the 19th century, spans the Mississippi River.

The Old Cathedral, with its grand Neo-Gothic facade, reflects the city’s French-American heritage. The Old Post Office, a grand Richardsonian Romanesque structure, stands as a testament to St. Louis’ transformation into a modern metropolis.

These highlights offer participants a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The tour is accessible for people with disabilities. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. The tour also requires only a moderate level of physical fitness, making it suitable for travelers with varying mobility levels.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can easily reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility for their plans.

Can I Reserve the Tour and Pay Later?

Yes, travelers can reserve the tour and pay later. The overview states that a "Reserve now and pay later option" is available, providing flexibility for booking the small-group walking tour in St. Louis without immediate payment.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is 15 travelers. The tour is designed to be a small-group experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides and a more intimate exploration of the sights.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The recommended attire for the tour is walking shoes and bringing water. The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so comfortable, appropriate clothing is advised to fully enjoy the two-mile walking experience.

Recap

The Downtown-East Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of St. Louis’ iconic landmarks, immersing visitors in the city’s rich architectural heritage and historical significance. From the Romanesque Old Cathedral to the monumental Gateway Arch, the tour showcases engineering marvels and architectural masterpieces that tell the vibrant story of St. Louis. Participants are left with a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring legacy and the remarkable landmarks that define its identity.