Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest and best known farmers market in the St. Louis area. It has been a landmark in the Soulard neighborhood for almost 200 years. The market attracts a wide variety of farmers and merchants selling everything from local produce to spices and cheeses, handbags and sunglasses.
Location
Soulard Farmers Market is located at 730 Carroll Street. That’s near the intersection of South 7th Street and Lafayette Avenue, just south of downtown St. Louis.
Check their website for current hours.
What you will see
Soulard Market certainly has variety. You’ll find all kinds of fruits and vegetables, both locally grown and shipped from around the world. There are also meats, cheeses, spices, breads and donuts. The market also has non-food items such as flowers, plants, jewelry, sunglasses, rugs, and more. There is even a pet store if you are looking for a loving animal to take home.
Saturday is the busiest day in the market with all the vendors open for business. If you don’t mind a bit of hustle and bustle, Saturdays are the time to see the market at its best. According to market staff, the best times to shop on Saturdays are between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you’re looking for a slightly less crowded schedule, Fridays are a good bet too. Most vendors are open for business, with best shopping between 8 am and 4 pm Wednesdays and Thursdays are slower with select vendors open.
What you won’t find
For a farmers market, there is a surprising lack of organic produce at Soulard Market. There are some locally grown foods, but there is very little emphasis on organic or sustainable farming methods. Instead, what you will find is the same type of conventional fruits and vegetables that you can buy in the supermarket, but at cheaper prices. If buying organic is important to you, consider a trip to Tower Grove Farmers Market.
Restaurants and restaurants
There are several restaurants and casual eateries at Soulard Market where you can buy hot dogs, hamburgers, and ice cream. In most of them, you order at the window, then find a place to sit or stand and eat. But if you want a more seated experience, there are some seats at a Julia’s Market Cafe in the southwest wing of the market. Julia serves New Orleans dishes like red beans and rice, beignets, and Bloody Marys. Another great dessert option is the mini donut stand also in the southwest wing.
Soulard Market Park and more
After shopping, you can head next to Soulard Market Park to relax and enjoy the weather. The park also has a complete playground with swings, slides, and a jungle gym for kids who need to burn off a little energy. It’s also a good place to sit and people-watch, or to open up some of your recently purchased items for a nice picnic lunch.
If you want to explore the neighborhood a bit more, there are also several popular restaurants and pubs within walking distance of the market. For a cold beer, try the International Tap House on 9th Street. Other good options include Mission Taco Joint for a fresh take on Mexican food, and Llywelyn’s Pub for traditional Irish and Scottish dishes.
Parking options
There is metered street parking around Soulard Farmers Market and throughout the Soulard neighborhood. Most meters have a two hour time limit. There is also free parking in the lot across 7th Street on the east side of the market. You may have to drive for a few minutes, but it’s usually not too difficult to find a parking spot nearby.
Other Soulard attractions
Soulard Farmers Market is one of the oldest attractions, but it’s certainly not the only thing to see in the Soulard neighborhood. You may also consider taking a free tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. The neighborhood also hosts a big Oktoberfest party in October and the largest Mardi Gras celebration in the St. Louis area in February.
