Laclede’s Landing | St Louis

Laclede's Landing is a historic district situated on the Mississippi Riverfront in St. Louis, Missouri. It comprises a collection of 19th-century buildings that once served as the city's primary commercial and shipping hub.

Visual Characteristics

The district features a concentration of brick buildings, primarily constructed from red and brown brick. Many structures exhibit Italianate and Romanesque Revival architectural styles, characterized by arched windows, ornate cornices, and cast-iron detailing. Building heights generally range from three to five stories. Cobblestone streets remain in some areas, contributing to the district's historical aesthetic.

Location & Access Logistics

Laclede's Landing is located directly east of downtown St. Louis, adjacent to the Gateway Arch National Park. Access is via Interstate 70, with exits for Washington Avenue or Broadway. The district is approximately 1.5km east of the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Paid parking is available in several multi-story garages within the district, including the Riverfront Garage and the Laclede's Landing Garage. Public transportation options include MetroLink light rail service to the Gateway Transportation Center, which is a 0.5km walk west, and several Metro bus routes that stop along Broadway and adjacent streets.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The area was established in 1764 by Pierre Laclede and Auguste Chouteau as the initial French settlement and trading post of St. Louis. The current buildings largely date from the mid-to-late 19th century, reflecting the city's growth as a major river port. The original purpose was commerce, warehousing, and steamboat operations. The land itself is alluvial deposit from the Mississippi River.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the architecture by walking the streets. Several restaurants and bars operate within the historic buildings. The Riverfront Trail provides pedestrian access along the Mississippi. Guided historical walking tours are available on weekends, departing from the visitor center near the Arch. Boat tours depart from the adjacent riverfront docks.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within most restaurants and bars. Limited shaded areas exist along the riverfront. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the district. Numerous food and beverage vendors are located within the district's establishments.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the brickwork and architectural details. The best months for visiting are April through October, offering milder weather. High tide on the Mississippi River does not significantly impact access to the district itself.

Facts & Legends

A specific historical oddity is that Laclede's Landing was once the site of the city's first courthouse and jail. A local legend suggests that during Prohibition, some of the older warehouses contained hidden tunnels used for smuggling alcohol from barges on the river.

Nearby Landmarks

• Gateway Arch National Park (0.5km West)
• Old Courthouse (1.2km West)
• Citygarden (1.0km Southwest)
• Eads Bridge (0.8km Southeast)
• Busch Stadium (1.8km Southwest)