Laclede’s Landing shifts from nightlife to neighborhood

ST. LOUIS – There’s a new look and vibe for one of St. Louis’ most well-known historic spots, which most people haven’t noticed.

Laclede’s Landing on the St. Louis riverfront is undergoing a transformation from night spot to neighborhood.

Most of those in St. Louis hear the words “Laclede’s Landing” and they think of the night spots of yesteryear: Kennedy’s, Harpo’s, Sundeckers, Mississippi Nights, and Muddy Waters, among others.

The Landing is coming back now, but it’s not the same.

There are more work zones than party zones. Developers have pumped $70 million and counting into rebranding The Landing in recent months, according to Laclede’s Landing Main Street Neighborhood Association Executive Director Brandyn Jones.

“It’s a neighborhood. It was an entertainment district. There will be entertainment here, but really, now, it’s going to have the nature of a neighborhood: walkable, animal-friendly, services,” Jones said.

The Landing now has its grocery store mixed in with office and residential developments that have taken the place of most bars and nightclubs.

People are finding their way back. The influx of new residents includes everyone from pro athletes to retirees.

Neighborhood Alderwoman Cara Spencer (Ward 8) says the buildings and the views sell themselves. It’s up to the City of St. Louis to keep the momentum going by keeping the area safe.

“The city has got to get serious about addressing some of these public safety issues… that is my biggest concern for Laclede’s Landing, downtown, and the city as a whole,” she said. “The Landing has these waves through my lifetime. Right now, we are on the upswing like you wouldn’t believe.”

“The views of the Arch, of the (Eads) bridge, and of the (Mississippi) river, are pretty priceless,” Jones said. “There are apartments here with views of all three—just something you can’t get anywhere else, really.”

The riverfront tent village is long gone, with those living there offered an array of services to move along. Building owners say crimes like attempted break-ins have plummeted.

The Big Muddy Blues Festival will be back again on Sunday, Sept. 1—very much at home at the spot St. Louis was founded as a fur trapping center in the 1760s.

“St. Louis had its struggles then. We have our challenges now, but we’re facing those challenges,” Executive Director of St. Louis’ National Blues Museum Robert Nelson said. “We know that music brings people together… (we’ll have) eight incredible artists (on two outdoor stages, Sunday) who represent not only regional artists but national artists who have been birthed right here in St. Louis…We’re bringing them home and we’re putting them onstage right here on Laclede’s Landing and letting the community share in the family reunion.”

Big Muddy runs from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday with food, drinks, music, and attractions for kids.

“If anyone hasn’t been to the landing in a while, come on down,” Jones said.

She says more than 800 people now live and work in this neighborhood, and expects that number to triple.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.