The Loop: St. Louis' Vibrant Cultural Heartbeat

Discover The Loop in St. Louis: A vibrant cultural hub with eclectic shops, diverse dining, historic landmarks, and a lively arts scene.

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The Loop

Nestled in the heart of St. Louis, The Loop is a dynamic neighbourhood brimming with life, history, and culture. Known for its eclectic mix of attractions, this area offers an array of experiences that cater to every type of traveller. From its vibrant street art to its historic landmarks, The Loop is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the essence of St. Louis. The Loop is famously home to the iconic Delmar Loop, a bustling six-block entertainment district. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a lively atmosphere filled with music venues, unique boutiques, and a diverse range of dining options. Whether you're in the mood for a gourmet meal or a casual bite, the culinary scene in The Loop is sure to impress, featuring everything from international cuisine to local favourites. One of the standout features of The Loop is the Walk of Fame, which honours notable St. Louisans who have made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, and culture. As you stroll along the sidewalks, you'll encounter stars dedicated to legends such as Chuck Berry and Tina Turner. The Loop is also home to the historic Tivoli Theatre, a beautifully restored movie palace that showcases both classic and contemporary films. Art enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in The Loop, with its numerous galleries and public art installations. The neighbourhood's commitment to creativity and expression is evident in its vibrant murals and sculptures that adorn the streets. Additionally, The Loop's proximity to Forest Park and Washington University makes it an ideal base for exploring more of what St. Louis has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, The Loop in St. Louis promises an unforgettable experience. Its unique blend of old-world charm and modern flair makes it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Local tips in The Loop

Visit the Tivoli Theatre for a mix of classic and contemporary films in a historic setting.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Walk of Fame to learn about St. Louis' notable figures.
Explore the unique boutiques and shops along the Delmar Loop for one-of-a-kind finds.
Enjoy a meal at one of the many diverse restaurants, offering everything from local to international cuisine.
Check out the vibrant street art and public installations scattered throughout The Loop.
Plan a visit to coincide with one of the neighbourhood's many festivals or live music events.

File:Loop Trolley car 001 eastbound on Delmar Blvd near Limit Ave, December 2018.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Southeast corner of Seventh Street and Olive Street.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chuck Berry's ca.1958 Gibson ES-350T (serial no. A29125) - (Courtesy of Joe Edwards, MO) -

File:Bissell Street Water Tower, Bissell Street and Blair Avenue, College Hill, St. Louis, MO - 53134676258.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Phil Lesh & Friends - July 3, 2008 - The Pageant, St. Louis (2).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Tennessee Williams St.Louis Walk of Fame 1996.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Delmar Loop

Experience the eclectic charm of The Delmar Loop in St. Louis, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

Scott Joplin House State Historic Site

Uncover the musical history of St. Louis at the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, home of the King of Ragtime and a cultural treasure.

Samuel Cupples House

Explore the exquisite architecture and rich history of the Samuel Cupples House, a hidden gem and museum in St. Louis.

Apotheosis of St.Louis/Statue of St.Louis

Discover the Apotheosis of St. Louis, a stunning historical landmark in Forest Park, representing the city's heritage and artistic brilliance.

St. Louis Walk of Fame

Explore the St. Louis Walk of Fame, where history and culture converge through the legacies of the city's most iconic residents.

Cabanne House

Explore the historical Cabanne House in St. Louis, a picturesque site that showcases the city's rich architectural heritage and offers a serene escape in nature.

Wellston Loop Historic Pavillion

Discover the Wellston Loop Historic Pavilion: A charming historical landmark in St. Louis showcasing rich architecture and vibrant community spirit.

Emmanuel DeHodiamont House

Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Emmanuel DeHodiamont House, a historic landmark in St. Louis's West End neighborhood.

Historic Hill

Explore Historic Hill in St. Louis: A serene park blending nature and history, perfect for families and adventurers alike.

Unmissable attractions to see

Forest Park

Explore Forest Park: St. Louis' historical gem offering lush landscapes, cultural attractions, and endless recreational opportunities for all visitors.

The Delmar Loop

Explore The Delmar Loop: A vibrant St. Louis district filled with unique shops, diverse dining, and lively entertainment options for every traveler.

Art Hill

Experience the serenity and artistic beauty of Art Hill, a premier park attraction in St. Louis perfect for relaxation and inspiration.

The St. Louis Wheel

Experience breathtaking views of St. Louis from the iconic St. Louis Wheel, a must-visit destination for tourists in the heart of the city.

Campbell House Museum

Explore the exquisite Campbell House Museum, a historical gem in St. Louis showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local heritage for all travelers.

St. Louis Union Station Mirror Maze

Explore the St. Louis Union Station Mirror Maze, a mesmerizing adventure of reflections and optical illusions perfect for families and curious explorers.

Planet Walk

Discover the solar system up close at Planet Walk, an outdoor museum in University City, MO, where learning about space becomes an exciting adventure.

Essential places to dine

Fitz's Delmar

Experience the heart of American dining at Fitz's Delmar, where homemade root beer meets delicious comfort food in St. Louis.

Salt + Smoke

Discover mouthwatering barbecue delights at Salt + Smoke in University City - where flavor meets fun in every bite!

Blueberry Hill

Discover Blueberry Hill: A vibrant restaurant in Delmar Loop offering American cuisine and live music in an iconic setting.

Mission Taco Joint - Delmar Loop

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mission Taco Joint in Delmar Loop - where unique tacos meet fresh ingredients in an inviting atmosphere.

Peacock Diner

Discover delightful breakfasts at Peacock Diner in Delmar Loop—where delicious food meets a unique atmosphere.

Fork & Stix

Experience the rich flavors of Thailand at Fork & Stix - a must-visit Thai restaurant in the heart of St. Louis.

Prime 55 Restaurant & Lounge

Discover Prime 55 Restaurant & Lounge in St. Louis: where fresh ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

Gyro House

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Gyro House in St. Louis - where delicious gyros meet warm hospitality.

K-Bop STL

Experience authentic Korean flavors at K-Bop STL, an affordable Asian restaurant in St. Louis offering delicious dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Eclipse Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Eclipse Restaurant in St. Louis' iconic Delmar Loop - where taste meets atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Delmar Loop

Experience the vibrant culture of St. Louis in The Delmar Loop, featuring unique shops, diverse dining, and lively entertainment in one exciting location.

Vintage Vinyl

Explore the musical heart of St. Louis at Vintage Vinyl, where vinyl records and local talent come together in a vibrant shopping experience.

Avalon Exchange

Discover unique, sustainable fashion at Avalon Exchange, St. Louis's premier second-hand clothing store in the vibrant Delmar Loop.

Sunshine Daydream Loop

Explore the eclectic offerings of Sunshine Daydream Loop, your go-to gift shop in University City, Missouri, for unique souvenirs and local treasures.

Delmar Boulevard Shopping Center

Experience the vibrant Delmar Boulevard Shopping Center, where eclectic shops and delicious eateries await every visitor in St. Louis, Missouri.

The Silver Lady

Explore The Silver Lady in Delmar Loop for exquisite jewelry and unique rock specimens in a vibrant shopping district.

Pitaya

Explore Pitaya, a chic women's clothing store in St. Louis' Delmar Loop, where trendy styles meet unique finds for every fashionista.

This !

Explore This Store in the Delmar Loop, University City - A Fashion Haven for Unique Styles and Local Flair.

found. vintage - delmar loop

Explore the unique vintage shopping experience at Found. Vintage in the heart of Delmar Loop, where eclectic finds await every style enthusiast.

Funky Buddha

Discover a unique gift shop in Delmar Loop, Funky Buddha offers eclectic treasures and local crafts perfect for any souvenir or gift.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Fitz's Delmar

Experience the unique flavors of Fitz's Delmar, where handcrafted root beer meets classic American comfort food in the heart of St. Louis.

Blueberry Hill

Discover the lively ambiance and mouthwatering American cuisine at Blueberry Hill, a must-visit bar and restaurant in University City, Missouri.

Mission Taco Joint - Delmar Loop

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mission Taco Joint in Delmar Loop, St. Louis—where traditional Mexican cuisine meets modern creativity.

Three Kings Public House

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Three Kings Public House in University City, a must-visit gastropub in the Delmar Loop.

The W Karaoke Lounge

Experience the thrill of karaoke in University City's vibrant Delmar Loop at The W Karaoke Lounge, where every night is a song-filled celebration.

Eclipse Restaurant

Discover Eclipse Restaurant in St. Louis' Delmar Loop, where American cuisine meets stunning rooftop views and a vibrant atmosphere.

Blue Dine And Lounge

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Blue Dine And Lounge in St. Louis, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.

International Tap House, Delmar

Discover a beer lover's paradise at International Tap House in Delmar Loop, featuring an extensive selection of craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere.

Palomino Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Palomino Lounge, a cocktail bar in St. Louis known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.

La Gasolina

Discover La Gasolina in St. Louis: A lounge where creativity meets comfort, offering unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to The Loop

Discover The Loop with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez / no problem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon/My bad
  [par-dun / mah bad]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' ya
  [I aint get-tin yuh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMind showin' me the menu?
  [mind show-in me the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I dont do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up now, please
  [I'll settle up now, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [im turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' sick
  [im feelin sick]
- I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to buy...
  [im look-in to buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij]
- That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya cut me a deal?
  [can ya cut me a deal]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrer
  [tomorrer]
- 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...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the addy]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can ya show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

History of The Loop

The Loop, located in the University City area of St. Louis, emerged as a vibrant commercial district in the early 20th century. Originally a streetcar hub, its name derives from the circular route that streetcars would take to pick up and drop off passengers. This transportation network was crucial in establishing the area as a bustling center for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
During the 1920s, The Loop saw significant cultural development, becoming home to various theaters and music venues. The renowned Tivoli Theatre, opened in 1924, became a cornerstone of the area, showcasing films and live performances. Its architectural style reflects the eclectic tastes of the time and contributed to The Loop's identity as a cultural hotspot in St. Louis.
The Loop experienced a decline in the latter half of the 20th century due to suburbanization and changing consumer habits. However, in the 1990s, a concerted effort by local business owners and community leaders sparked a revitalization movement. This included the restoration of historic buildings and the introduction of new businesses, transforming The Loop into a vibrant destination once again.
In the 21st century, The Loop has solidified its status as a cultural district, hosting events like the Loop Ice Carnival and the monthly First Fridays art walk. The area is also home to the St. Louis Walk of Fame, which honors notable individuals from the region. The blend of local businesses, art galleries, and entertainment venues creates a unique atmosphere that reflects the diverse culture of St. Louis.
The Loop is noted for its diverse architecture, which includes Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and Mid-Century Modern buildings. The historic storefronts and theaters contribute to the area’s character, showcasing the evolution of commercial architecture in St. Louis. Preservation efforts have helped maintain the historical integrity of these structures while allowing for modern business practices.

The Loop Essentials

The Loop is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in St. Louis. If you are coming from downtown St. Louis, you can take MetroLink light rail from the Civic Center Station to the Forest Park-DeBaliviere Station and transfer to the #97 MetroBus, which will take you directly to The Loop. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. If you're driving, The Loop is located along Delmar Boulevard, with ample street parking and nearby parking lots.
The Loop is a vibrant neighborhood that is very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. For public transportation, the MetroLink light rail has a station at Forest Park-DeBaliviere, while several MetroBus routes service the area. Biking is also popular, with bike lanes and bike-sharing programs available. If you prefer, you can rent a bicycle from local bike shops or use the city's bike-share program.
The Loop is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially at night. Areas closer to the Delmar Loop are well-lit and populated, while some side streets may be less safe after dark. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places and avoid displaying valuables. It's recommended to steer clear of neighborhoods to the north of The Loop late at night, as they have higher crime rates.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are several hospitals and urgent care centers nearby, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Familiarize yourself with the locations of local police stations and hospitals before exploring. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in The Loop where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, as The Loop has many shops and attractions to explore. Don't wear overly casual or revealing clothing when visiting upscale restaurants or theaters. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and customs if visiting nearby places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to those in need. Don’t engage in loud conversations or play music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and hello. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine at various eateries. Don’t waste food or leave a mess in public dining areas.
To experience The Loop like a local, take the time to enjoy the various street performances and local art displays often found along Delmar Boulevard. Visit the farmer's market on Sundays for fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with local shop owners and ask for recommendations—St. Louisans are typically friendly and proud of their community. Don’t miss out on the quirky shops and galleries; they often feature local artists and unique products that reflect the area's culture.

The Loop: St. Louis' Vibrant Cultural Heartbeat

Local tips in The Loop