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Situated at the intersection of Oakland, Clayton, and Forest Avenues



Ballpark Village

Ballpark Village is a popular entertainment district located in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, adjacent to Busch Stadium, the home of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. It is a vibrant destination that offers a variety of dining, entertainment, and nightlife options for visitors and residents alike.

The development of Ballpark Village began in 2013 as an expansion of the Cardinals' stadium experience. It was designed to create a dynamic atmosphere around the ballpark and enhance the overall fan experience. The project was a collaboration between the St. Louis Cardinals organization and The Cordish Companies, a real estate development firm known for creating similar entertainment districts.

Ballpark Village occupies a prime location spanning several city blocks, and it has become a popular destination for sports fans, tourists, and locals. The district features a mix of restaurants, bars, live entertainment venues, and retail shops, providing a range of options for visitors of all interests.

One of the highlights of Ballpark Village is its dining scene. The district offers a diverse selection of restaurants and eateries, ranging from casual sports bars to upscale dining establishments. Visitors can find a wide variety of cuisines, including American, barbecue, seafood, Mexican, and more. Some of the popular dining options in Ballpark Village include Cardinals Nation, Budweiser Brew House, Fox Sports Midwest Live!, and PBR St. Louis.

In addition to dining, Ballpark Village is known for its vibrant nightlife. The district is home to several bars and clubs that offer a lively atmosphere and a wide range of beverages. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a craft beer, dance the night away, or catch a live music performance, you can find something to suit your tastes in Ballpark Village.

Furthermore, Ballpark Village often hosts live events and entertainment throughout the year. This includes concerts, festivals, watch parties for sports games, and other special events. The district has a large outdoor plaza with a stage that serves as a gathering place for performances and celebrations.

Overall, Ballpark Village has become a popular destination in St. Louis, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere for sports fans, food enthusiasts, and those seeking entertainment. Its proximity to Busch Stadium makes it an ideal location for pre- and post-game festivities, but it has also established itself as a standalone entertainment district that attracts visitors year-round.

Historical Facts

  • Founding: St. Louis was founded on February 15, 1764, by Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau. It was named after King Louis IX of France and initially served as a trading post for the French fur trade.
  • Gateway to the West: St. Louis played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States. It served as a gateway for explorers, pioneers, and traders heading west, particularly during the 19th century.
  • Louisiana Purchase: In 1803, St. Louis became part of the United States following the Louisiana Purchase. This historic acquisition from France doubled the size of the United States and set the stage for further westward expansion.
  • Lewis and Clark: St. Louis was the starting point for the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806). Meriwether Lewis and William Clark departed from St. Louis to explore and map the newly acquired western territories.
  • The Dred Scott Case: St. Louis played a significant role in the landmark Dred Scott case, which influenced the course of American history. In 1857, the United States Supreme Court, sitting in St. Louis, issued a ruling that denied freedom to enslaved African Americans and further exacerbated tensions leading up to the American Civil War.
  • Industrial Hub: During the 19th and early 20th centuries, St. Louis became a major industrial and transportation hub. The city's central location and access to waterways and railroads contributed to its growth as a manufacturing and trading center, particularly in industries such as beer brewing, shoe manufacturing, and tobacco processing.
  • The 1904 World's Fair: St. Louis hosted the Louisiana Purchase Exposition, also known as the 1904 World's Fair. This event showcased advancements in technology, art, and culture and attracted millions of visitors from around the world. It is most notable for introducing the ice cream cone and the hamburger to a wide audience.
  • Civil Rights Movement: St. Louis played a role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 20th century. In 1949, the NAACP organized a successful campaign against racial segregation in the city's public accommodations, becoming one of the earliest victories in the movement.
  • Architectural Landmarks: St. Louis is known for its architectural landmarks. The Gateway Arch, completed in 1965, is an iconic symbol of the city and a monument to westward expansion. Other notable architectural gems include the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, the Old Courthouse, and the Eads Bridge.
  • Sports Legacy: St. Louis has a rich sports heritage. The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team has a storied history, winning multiple World Series championships. The city is also home to the St. Louis Blues hockey team, which won its first Stanley Cup in 2019.

These are just a few highlights from St. Louis' extensive history, showcasing its significance in American exploration, industry, civil rights, and culture.

Economy

The economy of St. Louis is diverse and robust, with several key sectors driving its growth. Here are some important aspects of the St. Louis economy:

  • Health Care and Life Sciences: St. Louis is a major center for health care and life sciences. The city is home to several renowned medical institutions, including Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, and St. Louis University School of Medicine. These institutions contribute to cutting-edge medical research, patient care, and the development of new treatments and therapies.
  • Agriculture and Food Processing: St. Louis has a long history in agriculture and food processing. The region is known for its production of crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. Additionally, St. Louis is home to major food processing companies, including Bunge North America and Purina, which contribute to the local economy and provide employment opportunities.
  • Financial Services: St. Louis serves as a financial hub, hosting several major financial institutions. The city has a strong presence of banks, investment firms, and insurance companies. Notable institutions include Wells Fargo Advisors, Edward Jones, and Stifel Financial Corp. These firms provide a range of financial services and contribute to the city's economic growth.
  • Manufacturing: Manufacturing has been a significant contributor to the St. Louis economy. The region has a diverse manufacturing sector, with companies involved in industries such as aerospace, automotive, chemicals, and consumer products. Major manufacturing companies in the area include Boeing, Emerson Electric, Anheuser-Busch InBev, and NestlĂ© Purina PetCare.
  • Technology and Innovation: St. Louis has been fostering a thriving startup and innovation ecosystem. The city is home to several technology and innovation hubs, including the Cortex Innovation Community and T-REX. These spaces provide support and resources for startups and entrepreneurs in fields such as biotechnology, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Tourism and Entertainment: St. Louis attracts a significant number of tourists each year, contributing to the local economy. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis Zoo, City Museum, and Forest Park are popular attractions. Additionally, the city's vibrant sports scene, including the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues, draws sports enthusiasts from around the country.
  • Education: St. Louis has a strong presence of higher education institutions, including Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. These institutions contribute to the local economy through research, education, and employment opportunities.

Overall, St. Louis benefits from a diverse economy that encompasses sectors such as health care, agriculture, finance, manufacturing, technology, and tourism. This diversity helps the city withstand economic fluctuations and contributes to its overall growth and vitality.

Arts and culture

St. Louis has a rich arts and culture scene with a wide range of offerings, including museums, theaters, music, and festivals. Here are some notable aspects of arts and culture in St. Louis:

  • The St. Louis Art Museum: The St. Louis Art Museum is one of the city's premier cultural institutions. Located in Forest Park, the museum houses an extensive collection of artwork spanning various periods and styles, including works by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. It also hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
  • The Muny: The Muny is an outdoor amphitheater located in Forest Park, and it is one of the largest and oldest continually operating outdoor theaters in the United States. Since 1919, The Muny has been showcasing Broadway-style musicals during its summer season, attracting both local residents and visitors.
  • The Fabulous Fox Theatre: The Fabulous Fox Theatre is a stunning historic theater located in the Grand Center Arts District. Built in 1929, it is known for its ornate architecture and hosts a variety of Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances throughout the year.
  • The Sheldon Concert Hall: The Sheldon Concert Hall is a renowned venue for classical music, jazz, and other musical performances. It features excellent acoustics and a beautiful interior. The venue also houses an art gallery that showcases visual arts exhibitions.
  • The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis: The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis (CAM) is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art in various forms, including visual arts, installations, and performances. It offers a platform for local and international artists and hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
  • The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra: The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) is one of the oldest and most respected symphony orchestras in the United States. The SLSO performs a wide range of classical and contemporary music and hosts concerts at Powell Symphony Hall.
  • The Missouri History Museum: The Missouri History Museum provides insights into the history and heritage of St. Louis and the state of Missouri. It offers engaging exhibits, educational programs, and special events that highlight the region's cultural, social, and political history.
  • Festivals: St. Louis hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The St. Louis International Film Festival, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, Festival of Nations, and the Great Forest Park Balloon Race are just a few examples of the vibrant festival scene in the city.

These are just a few highlights of the arts and culture scene in St. Louis. The city embraces and celebrates its cultural heritage through a variety of artistic expressions, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy and explore.