After leaving the colorful, bustling farmer’s market, one of the oldest public markets in the country, we turn down a well-worn cobblestone street lined with 19th-century architecture. The brick is red and the cornices ornate. Wrought iron encases the porches and balconies, and stained glass allows the light to peek playfully through the high windows below the mansard roofs. Modern businesses breathe vitality into the old buildings, which have been restored to their original glory.  

This city is rich with stories, tales that made history. It was founded as a fur-trading post and remains a major transportation hub and important gateway to consumer markets all over North America. A massive monument can be viewed from the mighty river that crosses this city. Inspired by architect Eero Saarinen’s design and finished in 1965, this public piece of art reaches over 600 feet (183 m) in height. It is a symbol welcoming travelers to the West.  

Locals tell of the natural, intricate cavern systems that run beneath the city streets and buildings. Some believe that the town has more caves existing beneath its surface than any other city on earth. It was these caverns that attracted many German brewers to the area at the turn of the century. The brewers took advantage of the vast space for cold storage.  

While Prohibition ran many of the brewers out of business, a few remain today, peppered throughout surrounding neighborhoods. One particular brewery eventually gained worldwide acclaim and even shares its name with one of the city’s sports stadiums. This town does love a party. It hosts the 2nd largest Mardi Gras in the country.  

On a leisurely stroll through the city streets, we hear strands of music, mostly blues, for which this region is so well known. We wander into one corner café and soak in some live music while sharing a “brit-o” — the citrus-y house cocktail served in an icy bucket with multiple straws. It’s the perfect way to wind up a day of exploring.

Where am I?

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Kejetia Market in Kumasi, Ghana

Answer to the June 2005 “Where in the World” Contest

Last month’s mystery destination was the Kejetia Market in Kumasi, Ghana. Claiming to be the largest market in West Africa, the thousands of vendors in this labryinth of consumerism love to bargain and haggle with determined buyers. Even if you are not in the market for any of the endless variety of goods, the people watching makes this destination an unforgettable experience.