Travel Guide to Downtown St. Louis

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-duhn mee/my bad]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin']
• Fine. And you?A-OK. You?
  [ay-oh-kay. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yuh speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [i ent get-tin it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan eye chek out the men-yoo?]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i dont doh meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'm ready to settle up
  [im red-ee too set-tul up]

• Help!SOS!
  [ess-oh-ess!]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost!]
• Call the Police!Ring the cops!
  [ring the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get me a doc!
  [get mee uh dok!]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [im turned uh-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [im feel-in und-er thu weath-er]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...
  [im look-in too pur-chase...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [im just brow-zin']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thats uh bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [kan yuh nok the prahs down?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats thu time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [haf past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tom-or-rah]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
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  [three]
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  [four]
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  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the...?]
• What's the address?Where's it at?
  [wheres it at?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kan yuh point it out (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [uh pass (to ....)]

Downtown St. Louis is steeped in history, having been founded in 1764 by French fur traders Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau. The strategic location at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers fostered trade and transportation, making it a vital area for early settlers and indigenous communities.

In the early 19th century, St. Louis became known as the 'Gateway to the West' during the period of westward expansion. The iconic Gateway Arch, completed in 1965, symbolizes this era and serves as a monument to the pioneers who ventured into the American frontier. The arch is located in the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which is situated in Downtown St. Louis.

During the Civil War, St. Louis was a crucial Union stronghold. The city was the site of several military engagements, and its strategic importance led to the establishment of multiple forts in the area, including Fort No. 4, located in what is now Downtown. This period saw a mix of political tension and military activity that shaped the city's future.

The late 19th century marked a period of industrial growth for St. Louis, transforming Downtown into an economic hub. The 1904 World's Fair, held in Forest Park, showcased St. Louis's prominence and innovation, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. This event highlighted the city's cultural diversity and its contributions to industry and arts.

In recent decades, Downtown St. Louis has undergone significant revitalization efforts aimed at economic development and urban renewal. Projects such as the renovation of historic buildings, the development of new residential spaces, and the establishment of cultural institutions reflect a commitment to preserving the area's rich history while fostering modern growth. Notable sites include the Citygarden, a contemporary sculpture park that integrates art with public space.

Downtown St. Louis is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in the city. If you're arriving from St. Louis Lambert International Airport, take the MetroLink light rail directly to the downtown area. The airport is about 15 miles away, and the ride takes approximately 30 minutes. If you are coming from neighborhoods such as Forest Park or the Central West End, you can catch the MetroLink or use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. Buses operated by Metro Transit also connect various neighborhoods to Downtown St. Louis.

Downtown St. Louis is a pedestrian-friendly area. The MetroLink light rail provides convenient access to many destinations, with stops at key locations such as the Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium. Buses also service the area, and the local bike-share program, Lime, offers bicycles for rent, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Rideshare apps are widely used for quick transportation.

Downtown St. Louis is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant. Areas such as East St. Louis, just across the river, have higher crime rates and should be approached with caution, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night. Keep your personal belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals such as Barnes-Jewish Hospital and SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital are nearby. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For less urgent medical issues, there are several pharmacies in the downtown area.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and consider the weather; downtown can be hot in summer and chilly in winter. Don't wear overly casual attire if you plan to dine in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs at places of worship; silence your phone and be quiet. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Don't be overly familiar; keep greetings casual. Eating & Drinking: Do try local favorites like St. Louis-style pizza or toasted ravioli. Don't litter or leave a mess at dining establishments.

To experience Downtown St. Louis like a local, visit the Citygarden, an urban sculpture park that hosts events and art installations. Check out the local food scene by visiting food trucks or small cafes. Attend a Cardinals or Blues game if you're in town during the season, as the atmosphere is electric. Explore the historic streets and don’t miss out on the free tours available at the Gateway Arch. Engage with locals at bars and coffee shops to get insider tips on hidden gems in the area.