The Loop is an entertainment district in University City, MO, near St. Louis. It consists of a six-block stretch of shops, services, eateries, bars, museums, theaters, and live music venues along Delmar Blvd. It has been honored as "One of the Great 10 Streets in America" and is a popular destination for both St. Louisans and tourists.
Parking and Public Transportation at the Loop
Metered street parking is available on Delmar Blvd. and along its side streets. Large, free parking lots are located near the east and west ends of the Loop (behind Cicero's and beside The Pageant). The Metrolink light rail stops at the east end of the Loop as well.
Best and Worst Time to Go to the Loop
If you want to get lost among the bar-hopping masses, check out the Loop on a Friday or Saturday evening, especially during the warm-weather months.
Many of the Loop's venues don't come to full life until nightfall, so if you want to soak up the sights in peace, plan your trip on a weekday morning/afternoon. The streets will still be somewhat busy, but not nearly as hectic as they are at night.
Admission to the Loop
Strolling the Loop, checking out the stars on the St. Louis Walk of Fame, won't cost you a dime. The vintage clothing shops in the Loop are among the cheapest clothing stores in St. Louis. Many bars and restaurants in the Loop feature food and drink specials throughout the day. Conceivably, you could get the full Loop experience (eat, drink, people-watch) for under 20 bucks.
Must See/Do at the Loop
Catch a show at the Duck Room, the main music venue at Blueberry Hill, a beloved local landmark. See an indie film at the Tivoli Theatre, a circa-1920's avant-garde cinema. Other popular restaurants in the Loop include Pi Pizzeria (a must-visit for President Obama whenever he comes to town), Ranoush (who can say no to belly dancers?), and Seoul Taco.
Other Places to Visit Near the Loop
The galleries, museums, and eateries in the more upscale Central West End neighborhood are just a few miles to the east. Downtown St. Louis is just an 8-mile trek as well. Via the Metrolink, you can go from bar-hopping in the Loop to bar-hopping along Laclede's Landing (by the Gateway Arch) in under 10 minutes.
Insider's Tip for Visitors to the Loop
The neighborhood immediately east of the Loop is somewhat high-crime. Be mindful of walking east of the Metrolink station along Delmar if you are alone.
Author's Bio: Marcus Whelchel lives, works, and writes in St. Louis, MO, with his wife and daughter. When he is not enjoying libations in the Loop, he is recovering from enjoying libations in the Loop.