Edition: Green Dining in STL
Quintessential St. Louis
Author: Sara Hennesssey
For a unique winter activity, view magnificent American Bald Eagles in their natural habitat, just 15 minutes from St. Louis. Once the holidays are over, celebrate Black History Month by touring some of the famous African American monuments and memorials in St. Louis.
Black History Month
St. Louis is home to a number of African American monuments and memorials. So this February, celebrate Black History Month by touring some of these famous sites, beginning with the Old Courthouse (11 N. 4th Street, 314-655-1700). It was here that the slave Dred Scott sued for his freedom in 1856. Next, visit the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site (2658A Delmar, 314-340-5790). Joplin’s former home is now a museum showcasing the life and works of America’s most famous ragtime musician. Elijah Lovejoy, an abolitionist who printed anti-slavery opinions in his newspaper, the Alton Observer, is remembered at the Elijah Lovejoy Memorial. In 1837, his printing presses were thrown into the Mississippi River and he was killed by a pro-slavery mob. If you’re flying into or out of Lambert-St. Louis International Airport don’t miss the amazing mural “Black Americans in Flight” on the airport’s lower level. The mural portrays the achievements of African American aviators from 1917 to the present.
Editor's Tip: Experience the city's biggest winter party at the annual Soualrd Mardi Gras, through Feb. 5, 2008. The historic neighborhood celebrates with events that include a wine tasting, a children's art fair, the always-popular Weiner Dog Derby, and, of course, the Grand Parade.
Meet Our National Bird
This winter, escape any cabin fever you may be feeling by viewing magnificent American Bald Eagles in their natural habitat. Head just 15 minutes northeast of downtown St. Louis and you'll be in Alton, Ill. From mid-December to mid-March, Alton is the nesting place for the second-largest bald eagle population in the continental U.S. Near the junction of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers, this area offers some of the best eagle-watching spots in the country. If you prefer to witness the majestic birds while keeping warm, the Alton Visitors Center (200 Piasa St., 618-465-6676) offers numerous "Eagle Meet and Greet" opportunities, where you can see a bald eagle up close. The nearby National Great Rivers Museum (#2 Lock and Dam Way, 618-462-6979) is a worthwile stop to make. It offers interactive displays and exhibits about the river's ecosystem, barge traffic, water consumption, and more to help visitors understand the many features of the Mississippi River and how it influences our lives.
The Old Courthouse
11 North Fourth St, St. Louis, MO 63102
A visit to the Old Courthouse is a must for history buffs. Located just steps away from the Arch grounds, the Old Courthouse was the site of the famous Dred Scott slavery case when it was not so very old. A restored 1860s courtroom, dramatic murals, and revolving exhibits demonstrate the richness of St. Louis history to all who visit. Admission is free.
Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau
200 Piasa Street, Alton, IL 62002
Alton is a historic old river town that is home to scads of antiques stores, miles of hiking and biking trails, and multiple historic sites.
National Great Rivers Museum
#2 Lock and Dam Way, Alton, IL 62002
A museum dedicated to the St. Louis area's major rivers.
