This experience was a disappointment. Granted, it was a weekday afternoon. Maybe more shops are open on the weekends. Very few were open and the few that were open were sloppy, unattractive with apathetic, unfriendly help. The one exception was a very well stocked clean and attractive book/jewelry store. The neighborhood architecture was interesting but that’s where the appeal ended.

Amazing area: Both the Antique row side and Cherokee Station side. Some of the Antique stores have uneven hours but it is still nice to window shop. West of Cherokee is always lively, interesting, and safe. Just because people don't look like you does not make an area dangerous. I've been there at all different times of day and never felt the least bit unsafe, there is one homeless woman that can be slightly annoying but she is not dangerous--I'm not saying that it would be safe to take her up on anything she is offering though. This area has grown up organically without any master-plan so it is a bit rough around the edges. Since all the businesses are owned by small- business people it will not seem like a typical shopping/dining district--it's much more interesting.

As I was leaving the Layfette Square area I decided to drive through soulard area and took another turn and there is was. Cherokee Auction District. Shops, outdoor eateries and vintage shops. Can’t wait to spend a day there with the girls.

Sadly whoever is monitoring this sight doesn’t know the difference between Cherokee Antique Row and Cherokee Station. Cherokee Antique Row is a quaint Antique, restaurant, museum and historic district. Cherokee Station is a more hip, art, restaurant, bar, and specialty shop district that has a nightlife. Cherokee Antique Row is located on Cherokee Street east of Jefferson and Cherokee Station is located on Cherokee west of Jefferson.

Cherokee Row is sadly, not excellent. It's actually pretty depressing since many shops have closed or have limited hours. The excellent rating goes to Retro, the best vintage store anywhere. When visiting St. Louis, I can't leave without going there. Some people visit the tree in Rock Center, i do an annual pilgrimage to Retro. I am hopeful that this funky part of St. Louis can be revitalized, and i think everyone who visits should make a stop and buy something. Now, back to Retro, while I don't typically wear vintage clothing, i do love to add unusual, interesting pieces to my wardrobe. Step inside and it's like being in Grandma's attic, if that attic were on steroids! They carry men and women's clothing; purses, jewelry, hats, hostess aprons, vintage serving ware, jeweled cardigans, boudoir lingerie, Hawaiian print gowns and faux leopard coats. You name it, they have it. It is a clothing museum. You can find clothing from every decade. I find that fascinating! I've gotten costume ideas, bought presents and found some one-of-a-kind items that i adore. The owner does a great job of merchandising, and I love seeing the Christmas window display. It's so festive that it beckons you inside. My husband is a really good sport about waiting. He knows i can, and do, easily lose an hour or more exploring every aisle. There are chairs near the entrance for those spouses for just that reason. Walk inside and prepare to step back in time! Such a great place!