Soulard: The Heartbeat of St. Louis' Heritage and Festivity

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yah lay-ter]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yah doin']
• Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [good. how 'bout yah]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' ya
  [I ain't get-tin' yah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can I chek out the menu]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat no meat
  [I don't eat no meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-toms up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, thanks
  [I'll set-tle up, thanks]

• Help!I need a hand!
  [I need a hand]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Ring the cops!
  [ring the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [I'm all turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [I'm feelin' under the weather]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna pick up...
  [I wanna pick up]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brows-in']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [what's the dam-age]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock somethin' off?
  [can yah knock sum-thin' off]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYesterdee
  [yes-ter-dee]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tom-or-ra]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [where's the]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [can yah point it out (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

Soulard's history begins in the early 1800s when it was founded as a suburb of St. Louis. Named after the French settler Antoine Soulard, the neighborhood was part of a larger trend of urban expansion in the region. Its strategic location near the Mississippi River made it a hub for trade and commerce, attracting both settlers and merchants. The layout of Soulard was influenced by its French roots, with narrow streets and a community-oriented design.

Established in 1779, the Soulard Market is one of the oldest farmers' markets in the United States. Initially serving the local agricultural community, it has evolved into a vibrant marketplace that showcases the region's rich agricultural heritage. The market is a focal point for the neighborhood, where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, meats, and crafts, embodying the area's cultural traditions.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Soulard became a melting pot of cultures, particularly with the influx of German, Irish, and Italian immigrants. This diversity enriched the neighborhood's cultural fabric, leading to the establishment of various cultural institutions, churches, and social clubs. The annual Soulard Mardi Gras celebration, which began in the 1980s, reflects this cultural diversity and has grown into one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations outside of New Orleans.

In the 1970s, Soulard faced the threat of urban decay, prompting residents and preservationists to advocate for the neighborhood's historic character. In 1972, Soulard was designated as a historic district, recognizing its architectural significance and the need for preservation. The district features a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional buildings, showcasing a variety of architectural styles, including Federal, Italianate, and Victorian.

The late 20th century saw a resurgence in Soulard, as artists, young professionals, and families moved into the area, drawn by its historic charm and vibrant community. Today, Soulard is known for its lively atmosphere, with an array of restaurants, bars, and music venues. Its historic architecture, coupled with a strong sense of community, continues to attract visitors and residents alike, making it a unique neighborhood within St. Louis.

Soulard is located just south of downtown St. Louis, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you're coming from the airport, the best option is to take a taxi or rideshare service, which typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. From downtown, you can reach Soulard by taking MetroLink light rail to the 8th & Pine station and transferring to a bus or a short taxi ride. Several bus routes also connect Soulard to nearby neighborhoods.

Soulard is a compact neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. The local bike-share program, Lime, offers convenient options for short trips. Public transport options include the MetroBus, which has several routes running through the area. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available. Parking can be found in designated areas, but be mindful of local regulations.

Soulard is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially at night. Areas to avoid include parts of the neighborhood near the eastern edge, which can have higher crime rates. Always stay aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.

In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are local hospitals and urgent care centers available, including Saint Louis University Hospital. Familiarize yourself with the nearest facilities and have travel insurance to cover any medical needs. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking and casual clothing. Don't wear overly flashy or expensive items that might attract unwanted attention. Religion: Do respect local traditions, especially in historic sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'hello' or 'howdy.' Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine and craft beers, especially during the Soulard Farmers Market. Don't bring outside food or drinks to bars and restaurants.

To experience Soulard like a local, visit the Soulard Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local goods. Explore the historic architecture, especially the iconic brick buildings. Join in the lively atmosphere during Mardi Gras season, which is a major event in the neighborhood. Engage with local bartenders and restaurant staff for recommendations on hidden gems and must-try dishes.