Best Hotels in St. Louis, MO for City Views and Gateway Arch Access
Hotels in St. Louis, MO: Your Ultimate Accommodation Guide
Welcome to St. Louis, Missouri, a vibrant city steeped in history, culture, and Midwestern charm. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or a special occasion, finding the perfect hotel is crucial for a memorable experience. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the diverse range of hotels St. Louis has to offer, from opulent luxury establishments to comfortable budget-friendly options, ensuring you find the ideal accommodation to suit your needs and preferences.
Understanding St. Louis’s Hotel Landscape
St. Louis boasts a varied hotel landscape, with establishments catering to a wide spectrum of travelers. From historic grand hotels in the downtown core to modern boutique hotels in trendy neighborhoods, and convenient airport hotels, there’s something for everyone. Understanding the different districts and their unique characteristics is key to selecting the hotel that best aligns with your itinerary and interests.
Downtown St. Louis: The Heart of the City
Downtown St. Louis is the city’s central business and entertainment district, home to iconic landmarks such as the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium (home of the St. Louis Cardinals), and the America’s Center Convention Complex. Staying downtown puts you in the heart of the action, with easy access to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. Expect to find a mix of luxury hotels, business-oriented accommodations, and convenient chain hotels.
Clayton: Upscale Elegance and Business Hub
Located just west of downtown, Clayton is a sophisticated suburb known for its upscale hotels, fine dining restaurants, and prominent business district. It’s a popular choice for business travelers and those seeking a more refined and tranquil atmosphere. Hotels in Clayton often offer luxurious amenities and impeccable service.
Central West End: A Vibrant Urban Oasis
The Central West End is a lively and eclectic neighborhood renowned for its beautiful architecture, independent shops, art galleries, and diverse culinary scene. It’s also home to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis and Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Hotels in this area range from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, offering a more personalized and neighborhood-centric experience.
Airport Area: Convenience and Accessibility
For travelers arriving or departing from St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), staying near the airport offers unparalleled convenience. Numerous hotels cater specifically to travelers, providing amenities such as free airport shuttles, early check-in/late check-out options, and business centers. These hotels are generally more budget-friendly than those in the downtown or central areas.
Luxury Hotels in St. Louis: Indulge in Opulence
For those seeking an unforgettable experience of luxury and refinement, St. Louis offers a selection of exceptional hotels that cater to the most discerning guests. These hotels boast lavish accommodations, world-class amenities, and impeccable service, promising an indulgent and memorable stay.
The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
Located in downtown St. Louis with breathtaking views of the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River, The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis epitomizes luxury and sophistication. The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a full-service spa, a rooftop pool, and exceptional dining options. Guests can expect personalized service and an unparalleled level of comfort.
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis
Situated in the affluent Clayton suburb, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis, offers a refined and elegant experience. The hotel boasts spacious rooms and suites, a luxurious spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and exquisite dining options. Its convenient location provides easy access to both downtown St. Louis and the upscale shops and restaurants of Clayton.
Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection
Housed in the historic Union Trust building in downtown St. Louis, Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury. The hotel features stylishly designed rooms and suites, a rooftop bar with stunning city views, and multiple dining options. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions.
The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis
A landmark hotel in the Central West End, The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis, exudes old-world glamour and sophistication. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a renowned cinema, a Mediterranean-style pool, and multiple dining options. Its prime location offers easy access to Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the vibrant shops and restaurants of the Central West End.
Mid-Range Hotels: Comfort and Value
St. Louis also offers a wide selection of mid-range hotels that provide comfortable accommodations and excellent value for money. These hotels are ideal for travelers who are looking for a balance of comfort, convenience, and affordability.
Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch
Located within walking distance of the Gateway Arch, the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch offers comfortable rooms, free hot breakfast and evening snacks, an indoor pool, and a whirlpool. Its convenient location and complimentary amenities make it a popular choice for families and budget-conscious travelers.
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark
Overlooking Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options. Its prime location is perfect for baseball fans and those wanting to be in the heart of downtown St. Louis.
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch
Located directly across from the Gateway Arch, the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch offers modern rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. Its unbeatable location makes it a convenient choice for exploring the city’s iconic landmark.
Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis Downtown
Offering spacious suites with separate living areas and bedrooms, the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis Downtown is a great option for families or groups traveling together. The hotel includes a free made-to-order breakfast, an evening reception with complimentary drinks and snacks, and an indoor pool.
Budget-Friendly Hotels: Affordable Stays
For travelers on a tight budget, St. Louis offers a range of affordable hotels that provide comfortable and clean accommodations without breaking the bank. These hotels may not offer all the amenities of luxury or mid-range hotels, but they provide a convenient and cost-effective base for exploring the city.
Red Roof Inn St. Louis – Westport
Located near the Westport Plaza entertainment district, the Red Roof Inn St. Louis – Westport offers basic but clean rooms at an affordable price. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and is pet-friendly.
Super 8 by Wyndham St. Louis Airport
Conveniently located near St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the Super 8 by Wyndham St. Louis Airport offers budget-friendly accommodations with free airport shuttle service. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.
Motel 6 St. Louis – Airport
Offering simple and affordable accommodations near St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the Motel 6 St. Louis – Airport provides free Wi-Fi and allows pets. It’s a basic but budget-friendly option for travelers on a tight budget.
Days Inn by Wyndham St. Louis/Lindbergh Blvd
Located on Lindbergh Boulevard, a major thoroughfare in St. Louis County, the Days Inn by Wyndham St. Louis/Lindbergh Blvd offers affordable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast. It’s a convenient option for travelers exploring the area.
Family-Friendly Hotels: Comfortable Stays for All Ages
Traveling with family requires specific considerations when choosing a hotel. St. Louis offers several hotels that cater to families with amenities such as spacious rooms, swimming pools, kids’ activities, and convenient locations near family-friendly attractions.
Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch (Family-Friendly Features)
In addition to its convenient location and complimentary amenities, the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch is also a great option for families due to its indoor pool, free hot breakfast, and evening snacks, which can help save on dining costs. The hotel also offers spacious rooms and suites that can comfortably accommodate families.
Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis Downtown (Family-Friendly Features)
With its spacious suites offering separate living areas and bedrooms, the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis Downtown provides ample space for families to spread out and relax. The hotel’s free made-to-order breakfast and evening reception are also great perks for families, helping to save on food costs.
Holiday Inn St. Louis – Downtown Conv Ctr
Located within walking distance of many downtown attractions, the Holiday Inn St. Louis – Downtown Conv Ctr offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a restaurant with kid-friendly menu options. Its convenient location and amenities make it a good choice for families exploring the city.
DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis Forest Park
Located near Forest Park, the DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis Forest Park offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a complimentary warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. Its proximity to the park, which includes the Saint Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Science Center, and the Missouri History Museum, makes it a perfect choice for families.
Hotels Near Popular Attractions
For travelers with specific interests or itineraries, choosing a hotel near their desired attractions can significantly enhance their experience. St. Louis offers hotels conveniently located near popular landmarks, museums, and entertainment venues.
Hotels Near the Gateway Arch
As the most iconic landmark in St. Louis, the Gateway Arch attracts millions of visitors each year. Several hotels are located within walking distance of the Arch, including the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch, the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch, and the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark.
Hotels Near Busch Stadium
For baseball fans, staying near Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, is a must. The Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark offers direct views of the stadium, while other nearby hotels include the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch and the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch.
Hotels Near Forest Park
Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offers a wide range of attractions, including the Saint Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum. The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis and the DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis Forest Park are both conveniently located near the park.
Hotels Near St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
For travelers needing convenient access to St. Louis Lambert International Airport, numerous hotels are located nearby, including the Super 8 by Wyndham St. Louis Airport, the Motel 6 St. Louis – Airport, and various chain hotels offering free airport shuttle service.
Tips for Booking the Perfect Hotel in St. Louis
To ensure a smooth and satisfying hotel booking experience in St. Louis, consider the following tips:
Book in Advance: Especially during peak seasons or major events, it’s crucial to book your hotel well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Compare Prices: Utilize online travel agencies and hotel websites to compare prices and find the best deals. Don’t forget to check for any discounts or promotions.
Read Reviews: Before making a reservation, read reviews from other travelers to get insights into the hotel’s quality, service, and overall experience.
Consider Location: Choose a hotel that is conveniently located near your desired attractions, transportation options, and other amenities.
Check Amenities: Ensure the hotel offers the amenities that are important to you, such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, or a swimming pool.
Understand Cancellation Policies: Familiarize yourself with the hotel’s cancellation policy before booking, in case your travel plans change.
Contact the Hotel Directly: If you have any specific questions or requests, don’t hesitate to contact the hotel directly to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Exploring St. Louis: Beyond Your Hotel
While your hotel provides a comfortable base, St. Louis offers a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. Here are some must-see destinations:
Gateway Arch National Park: Ascend to the top of the Gateway Arch for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. Explore the museum at the base of the Arch to learn about the history of westward expansion.
City Museum: A unique and quirky museum housed in a former shoe factory, featuring tunnels, slides, and climbing structures made from recycled materials.
Saint Louis Zoo: One of the nation’s top-rated zoos, offering free admission and housing a diverse collection of animals from around the world.
Saint Louis Art Museum: Located in Forest Park, this museum boasts an impressive collection of art from various periods and cultures, with free admission.
Missouri Botanical Garden: Explore beautiful gardens, including the Climatron conservatory, which houses a tropical rainforest environment.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery: Take a tour of the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, home of Budweiser beer, and learn about the brewing process.
The Hill: St. Louis’s historic Italian neighborhood, known for its authentic Italian restaurants and bakeries.
Conclusion: Your Perfect St. Louis Hotel Awaits
St. Louis offers a diverse range of hotels to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking luxury, affordability, convenience, or family-friendliness, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your stay. By considering your priorities, utilizing the tips provided, and exploring the various neighborhoods and attractions, you can create an unforgettable experience in this vibrant and welcoming city. So, start planning your trip to St. Louis today, and let the adventure begin!
Further Considerations for Extended Stays
For those planning an extended stay in St. Louis, perhaps for business assignments, medical treatments, or simply a longer vacation, several additional factors become important when selecting a hotel. Serviced apartments, extended-stay hotels, and hotels with enhanced amenities for longer stays can significantly improve your comfort and convenience.
Serviced Apartments: A Home Away From Home
Serviced apartments offer the benefits of a hotel with the added space and amenities of a private residence. They typically include fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and laundry facilities, making them ideal for extended stays. Several companies in St. Louis specialize in providing serviced apartments, offering a range of options from basic studios to luxurious multi-bedroom units.
Advantages of Serviced Apartments:
- More Space: Separate living and sleeping areas provide more room to relax and work.
- Fully Equipped Kitchens: Save money on dining out by preparing your own meals.
- Laundry Facilities: Conveniently wash your clothes in your own apartment.
- Privacy: Enjoy a more private and independent living experience.
- Cost-Effective: For extended stays, serviced apartments can often be more cost-effective than traditional hotels.
Examples of Serviced Apartment Providers in St. Louis: (Note: Specific provider recommendations are outside the scope of this generic guide, but a web search for “serviced apartments St. Louis” will yield relevant results.)
Extended-Stay Hotels: Designed for Longer Visits
Extended-stay hotels are specifically designed to cater to guests staying for a week or more. They typically offer larger rooms or suites with kitchenettes, free breakfast, laundry facilities, and other amenities that make longer stays more comfortable. Many major hotel chains have extended-stay brands that operate in St. Louis.
Popular Extended-Stay Hotel Brands in St. Louis:
- Homewood Suites by Hilton: Offers spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens and complimentary evening socials.
- Residence Inn by Marriott: Features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites with kitchens and free breakfast.
- Staybridge Suites: Provides suites with full kitchens, free breakfast, and complimentary evening receptions.
- Extended Stay America: Offers budget-friendly suites with kitchenettes and on-site laundry facilities.
Considerations When Choosing an Extended-Stay Hotel:
- Kitchenette Amenities: Check what appliances and utensils are included in the kitchenette.
- Laundry Facilities: Determine if laundry facilities are on-site and if they are coin-operated or free.
- Breakfast Options: Inquire about the type and quality of breakfast offered.
- Social Events: Some extended-stay hotels offer complimentary evening socials with food and drinks.
- Location: Choose a location that is convenient to your workplace, medical facilities, or other destinations you plan to visit regularly.
Hotels with Enhanced Amenities for Longer Stays
Even traditional hotels can be suitable for extended stays if they offer enhanced amenities that cater to longer-term guests. Look for hotels with spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, fitness centers, and business centers. Consider hotels that offer special rates or packages for extended stays.
Amenities to Look For:
- Spacious Rooms: Larger rooms or suites provide more comfort and space to spread out.
- On-Site Restaurants: Convenient dining options are helpful for those who don’t want to cook every meal.
- Fitness Center: Regular exercise is important for maintaining health and well-being during an extended stay.
- Business Center: Access to computers, printers, and other business equipment can be essential for those working remotely.
- Laundry Service: Even if the hotel doesn’t have self-service laundry facilities, laundry service can be a convenient option.
- Grocery Shopping Service: Some hotels offer grocery shopping services, allowing you to stock your room with essentials.
Accessibility Considerations for All Travelers
Ensuring that hotels are accessible to all travelers, regardless of their physical abilities, is paramount. When booking a hotel in St. Louis, it’s crucial to inquire about accessibility features and ensure that the hotel meets your specific needs.
Key Accessibility Features to Inquire About:
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Confirm that the hotel has wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible entrances.
- Accessible Rooms: Request an accessible room with features such as grab bars in the bathroom, roll-in showers, and lowered countertops.
- Visual and Hearing Assistance: Ask about visual and hearing assistance devices, such as visual alarms, TTY/TDD phones, and closed captioning on televisions.
- Accessible Parking: Ensure that the hotel has accessible parking spaces near the entrance.
- Service Animals: Confirm that the hotel welcomes service animals and complies with relevant regulations.
- Website Accessibility: Check if the hotel’s website is accessible to people with disabilities, including screen reader compatibility.
Resources for Finding Accessible Hotels:
- Hotel Websites: Many hotel websites provide information about their accessibility features.
- Online Travel Agencies: Some online travel agencies allow you to filter search results by accessibility features.
- Disability Organizations: Contact disability organizations for recommendations and resources on accessible travel.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices
As travelers become more environmentally conscious, many hotels in St. Louis are adopting sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Supporting these hotels can help reduce your environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable tourism industry.
Common Sustainable Practices in Hotels:
- Energy Efficiency: Using energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems.
- Water Conservation: Implementing water-saving measures such as low-flow showerheads and toilets.
- Waste Reduction: Recycling programs, composting, and reducing single-use plastics.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Using locally sourced food and products.
- Green Cleaning Products: Using non-toxic and environmentally friendly cleaning products.
- Guest Education: Encouraging guests to participate in sustainability efforts by reusing towels and linens.
How to Identify Sustainable Hotels:
- Look for Certifications: Some hotels have certifications from organizations that assess their sustainability practices.
- Check Hotel Websites: Many hotels highlight their sustainability initiatives on their websites.
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other travelers that mention the hotel’s sustainability efforts.
Pet-Friendly Hotels: Traveling with Your Furry Friends
For many travelers, leaving their pets behind is not an option. Fortunately, St. Louis offers a variety of pet-friendly hotels that welcome furry companions. When booking a pet-friendly hotel, it’s essential to understand the hotel’s pet policies and fees.
Key Considerations for Pet-Friendly Hotels:
- Pet Fees: Inquire about any pet fees or deposits.
- Size and Breed Restrictions: Check if the hotel has any size or breed restrictions for pets.
- Designated Pet Areas: Ask if the hotel has designated areas for pets to relieve themselves.
- Pet Amenities: Some hotels offer pet amenities such as food bowls, water bowls, and treats.
- Pet Policies: Familiarize yourself with the hotel’s policies regarding pets being left unattended in rooms.
Tips for Traveling with Pets:
- Bring Pet Supplies: Pack food, water, bowls, leash, and any necessary medications.
- Update Pet Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification tags and microchips.
- Protect Hotel Furnishings: Bring a blanket or sheet to protect hotel furniture from pet hair and scratches.
- Be Respectful of Other Guests: Keep your pet under control and clean up after them.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Choosing the right hotel in St. Louis involves carefully considering your individual needs and preferences. By understanding the different neighborhoods, hotel types, and amenities available, you can make an informed decision and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you’re seeking luxury, affordability, convenience, or specific amenities such as accessibility or pet-friendliness, St. Louis has a hotel that’s perfect for you. Remember to book in advance, compare prices, read reviews, and contact the hotel directly with any questions. With a little planning, you can find the ideal base for exploring all that St. Louis has to offer. Enjoy your trip!