• McPherson Avenue & North Euclid Avenue - Gather near Writer’s Corner at a beloved brewpub, a Central West End staple since 1980, to try a unique sandwich that impressed Guy Fieri so much he suggested, “Tear up the rest of the menu - you don’t need it!” As you savor your first bites, your guide will share the early history of St. Louis, leading to the Central West End’s rise as a hub of wealth during the Gilded Age, culminating in the 1904 World’s Fair in nearby Forest Park, celebrating global achievements.

• Holy Corners District - Just a stone’s throw from the Delmar Divide, discover remarkable architecture from the World’s Fair era, located outside Forest Park. Learn hidden histories and view artifacts from this “Valley of the Giants,” listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We’ll explore the contrasts of life in St. Louis, including the long-term effects on the 32 neighborhoods known as the “Northside,” north of Delmar Boulevard, which have experienced disinvestment and neglect.

• The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza St. Louis - Stroll past mansions where future presidents stayed, brewing heirs reveled, and where the “Spirit of St. Louis” was conceived. After sampling local snacks, delve into the star-studded history of the iconic Chase Park Plaza hotel and enjoy one of St. Louis’ delightful culinary accidents.

• Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis - St. Louis’ European chapter began with French Catholic settlers, later joined by thousands of Irish Catholics in the 19th century. The Catholic community’s influence is evident throughout St. Louis’ history, culminating in the creation of one of North America’s great churches.

• Maryland Plaza - Visit the premier venue for American chess, the birthplace of the “cocktail party,” and savor some of St. Louis’ renowned cuisine, including a unique cheese exclusive to the city. Conclude the tour with a final taste honoring our sister city, where St. Louis’ founders once lived, at a well-known bistro and music venue celebrated for its food and jazz.

• Mahler Ballroom - Return to St. Louis’ roots with a culinary tribute to our French sister city downstream. Before that, visit a historical landmark dating back to 1860, which became the launchpad for a world-famous dance troupe.

• Cooling towels for hot weather
• Carbonated beverages
• Bottled water
• Snacks

• Alcoholic beverages
• Parking fees

Join a local resident in the Central West End for “A Taste of Two Cities,” a curated experience featuring hidden culinary treasures and unique St. Louis dishes such as toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and the famously debated Provel cheese. Most participants find they don’t need dinner afterward.

During the tour, enjoy a leisurely 2-mile walk filled with stories and sights from two distinct periods in St. Louis’ (and America’s) history.

The first period highlights the lavish wealth of the Gilded Age, culminating in the globally celebrated 1904 World’s Fair, an event that remains a point of pride.

The second period explores a lesser-discussed chapter of self-inflicted challenges, leading to the creation of the Delmar Divide and culminating in the birth of the Black Lives Matter movement in nearby Ferguson in 2014.

“A balanced view of history. No punches pulled. Every part is human, beautiful and ugly.” — ahunkins, Minneapolis MN

“I always book a walking history/food tour in every city I visit, and this was hands down the best.” — Kelly E.

• This tour runs about 3 hours, covers roughly 2 miles of walking on city sidewalks, and happens mostly outdoors. On hot days we bring cooling towels and build in shaded breaks. History and food get roughly equal weight — if you’re looking for strictly food-focused stops with short narration between, this isn’t that tour.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.