The Best Farmers Markets in the St. Louis Area

Soulard Farmers Market is the most well-known outdoor market in the St. Louis area, but there are some other great markets that are worth a visit. Whether you're looking for organic fruit and veggies, locally baked bread or freshly made goat cheese, you'll find what you need at these St. Louis area farmers markets.

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Soulard Farmers Market

When you mention farmers markets in St. Louis, Soulard Market is likely the first to come to mind. The Market, located just south of downtown St. Louis, was founded in 1838 and is the oldest farmers market west of the Mississippi. It has just about everything you could want. You'll find rows and rows of fresh fruits and vegetables, but you can also buy meats, cheeses, bread, flowers, t-shirts, purses, sunglasses and more. There's even a pet shop if you're interested in taking home a new member of the family. Unlike most local farmers markets, Soulard Market is open year-round from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday. If you want to really enjoy the Market at its busiest, go on Saturday morning.

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Tower Grove Farmers Market

Tower Grove Park in south St. Louis is a beautiful location for a farmers market. Each Saturday morning you'll find crowds of shoppers buying tomatoes, peaches, corn, blackberries and more. The list of food vendors can change from week to week, but there's always a wide variety of local and organic produce, breads and cheeses. The Tower Grove Market is located west of the Pool Pavilion in Tower Grove Park. It's open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

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Alton Farmers & Artisans Market

On your next trip to Alton, consider making a stop at the Alton Farmers & Artisans Market. You'll find a large selection of hand-picked produce, plants, crafts, jewelry and other local artwork. The Alton Market is located at the corner of Piasa and 9th Street in Alton, Illinois. It's open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon, and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

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Land of Goshen Community Market

The Goshen Market in Edwardsville is another good option for anyone looking for local produce and products. The Market has dozens of vendors selling organic fruits and veggies, farm fresh eggs, wild berries, fresh-cut herbs and other food stuffs. You'll also find hand-woven baskets, jewelry, pottery, lotions and soaps. When you're done shopping, take some time to enjoy the live music and craft demonstrations. The Goshen Market is located on St. Louis Street, next to the courthouse in downtown Edwardsville. It's open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

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Schlafly Farmers Market

Dozens of vendors set up shop every Wednesday at Schlalfy Bottleworks in Maplewood. They offer a variety of local and organic produce, as well as goat cheese, grass fed beef, honey and more. You can also enjoy a cold Schlafly beer and live music (beginning in May) while you shop. The Schlafly Farmers Market is located at Schlafly Bottleworks at 7260 Southwest Avenue. It is open Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

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Ferguson Farmers Market

The Ferguson Farmers Market was chosen as the 2005-'06 Missouri Farmers Market of the Year by AgriMissouri. One reason may be the fresh food. When farmers at the Ferguson Market say their produce is fresh, they mean fresh. That's because fruits and veggies are picked within 24 hours of being sold. The Market also sells homemade jellies, nuts, spices, and organic meats. The Ferguson Farmers Market is located at 20 South Florissant at the Victorian Plaza. It's open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.