The building that houses the Soulard Farmer’s Market may look like an old train terminal, but in place of steam-powered behemoths you’ll find the freshest produce in the city, sold by the same people who grow them. Not only is this the oldest farmer’s market in the country, it’s also one of the largest – and it’s the closest you’ll get in the Midwest to the colorful fever dream of those overseas outdoor markets so romanticized in movies. The fast-paced environment of crying vendors and bustling crowds is grounded by the market’s long history and the family traditions of the merchants you’ll meet. The open-air shopping at Soulard Farmer’s Market is accompanied by special events like cooking demonstrations from expert chefs during September and October. Urban bargain hunters and rural entrepreneurs find common ground in this remarkable and integral St. Louis landmark. Even if you’re not here to purchase ingredients for tomorrow’s dinner, the Soulard Farmer’s Market will make you pine for the days when everyone did their shopping this way.