Edition: Concierges' Favorite Attractions, 2005
Quintessential St. Louis - Come Sail Away
Author: Beth M. Custer
Places to boat in St. Louis, plus the best farmers markets.
Come Sail Away
Think we're landlocked here in the middle of the country? A voyage down the mighty Mississippi will change your mind. Gateway Arch Riverboats (St. Louis Riverfront, 314-621-4040) offers sightseeing and dinner cruises aboard nostalgic replicas of 19th century steamboats. The recently renovated Boathouse (Forest Park, 314-367-2224) brings back the time-honored tradition of boating in Forest Park. Take in views of the park's most famous landmarks as you navigate the lake in a rented paddleboat or rowboat. Creve Coeur Lake is a terrific place to watch rowing crews as they train for competition. The St. Louis Rowing Club (314-434-8299) welcomes visitors who would like to row while they're in town.
Farm Fresh Fun
Few sights say "bountiful harvest" as clearly as the mouth-watering fresh produce at a farmer's market. A feast for the eyes as well as the palate, Soulard Farmers Market (7th & Lafayette, 314-622-4180) is brimming with seasonal produce, fresh flowers, and bakery treats, including the best garlic bagels ever. Its two-block shopping area is one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. and is open year-round, Wednesday through Saturday. Kirkwood Farmers' Market (150 E. Argonne, 314-822-0084) offers up a cornucopia of fruits and veggies, plus ready-to-eat food from several restaurants, in an open air market located next to the historic Amtrak station. It's open April through September on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. If you relish the idea of finding the very best our state has to offer, the Best of Missouri Market (Missouri Botanical Garden, 314-577-9400) features more than 100 outstanding food producers and artisans. Check out the produce, artwork, and live music, or try your hand at milking a cow.
