Hey, i havent posted much in the midwest section, but im going to Washu for college and i think this is the best place to ask ppl were are the party spots or good restaurants or "it" places, besides on campus. Coming form Miami its a very important thing for me lol :cheers: .

The hotspots are obviously the Loop, which is easy walking district to campus. Lots of bars, ethnic restaurants, boutiques and outdoor cafes. Very funky vibe. Lots of freaks.

The Central West End is more upscale. Adjacent to Forest Park, the neighborhood is characterized by high-rise apartment buildings and turn-of-the-century mansions. Very vibrant and walkable. Most places are trendy and hip, but there are still some neighborhood joints to be found. Several great bars and a gazillion great restaurants and sidewalk cafes.

South Grand is gritty and diverse. Ethnic markets and restaurants interspersed with vintage clothing stores, gay and lesbian businesses, and edgy bars and a 24-hour diner.

Washington Avenue downtown is the heart of the former garment district and is filled with trendy lofts, a few high-energy nightclubs, chic bars and a smattering of restaurants. Friday and Saturday nights get pretty backed up with traffic.

Don't waste your time on the Landing. Architecturally it's very interesting, but it's filled with cheesy theme bars that cater to tourists and the frat scene. It's packed on the weekends, but it's all about quantity, not quality.

Soulard is an old neighborhood south of downtown characterized by red brick rowhouses and corner blues joints. This is old St. Louis at its best. Lazy, musical and historic. Lots of great neighborhood bars and down to earth residents.

Clayton is upscale but full of fine looking girls and pretty close to campus. My girlfriend just graduated from Wash. U. so I'm pretty plugged into the scene. I can tell you first hand that the majority of students rarely get out of the Wash. U. bubble, so I encourage you to get out and explore this really great city.

Thanx man!!!

Great run down STLgasm! That made me jealous of mike here for a minute for having the opportunity to spend time exploring your list. :)

There are also some great restaurants and lounges in Lafayette Square on the Near South Side. Benton Park is quickly emerging as a hip-yet-still-underground neighborhood as well. And don't forget some of the best Italian food in the USA on the Hill (Little Italy).