St. Louis, Missouri, is a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and a plethora of attractions for visitors of all ages. Finding the perfect place to stay while exploring this lively city can be a daunting task, but fear not! This article will guide you through the best areas to stay in St. Louis, ensuring that you can make the most of your visit and experience everything this captivating city has to offer.
From the iconic Gateway Arch to the picturesque Forest Park, there are countless things to see and do in St. Louis. Whether you’re a history buff, a sports enthusiast, or traveling with family, each neighborhood boasts unique characteristics that cater to a wide range of preferences. From downtown’s buzzing energy to the charming streets of Lafayette Square, you’ll easily find the ideal spot to rest your head after a fun-filled day.
An interesting story that you might encounter during your stay in St. Louis is the legend of the 1904 World’s Fair. Hosted in Forest Park, this monumental event spanned seven months and introduced the world to inventions such as the ice cream cone and hot dogs. As you explore the various attractions and neighborhoods in the city, you’ll undoubtedly hear more fascinating tales, creating lasting memories of your St. Louis adventure.
Where To Stay
Popular Neighborhoods
Downtown
Downtown St. Louis is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities. Key sites include the iconic Gateway Arch, Citygarden, and the buzzing Ballpark Village. There are numerous hotels and restaurants in this area, making it a convenient and lively place to stay in St. Louis source.
Fun Fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States.
Things to do: Explore the Gateway Arch, visit Citygarden, and enjoy the nightlife at Ballpark Village.
Central West End
This historic neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, boutique shops, and vibrant dining scene. Central West End is near attractions such as the St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Zoo, and Forest Park source.
Interesting Story: Tennessee Williams, the famous playwright, once lived in Central West End.
Things to do: Dine at the trendy restaurants, explore the local shops, and visit nearby attractions like Forest Park.
The Loop
Located just north of Forest Park, The Loop is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The Loop is home to the popular Delmar Loop shopping and entertainment district source.
Fun Fact: The Loop was named one of the “10 Great Streets in America” by the American Planning Association.
Things to do: Shop and dine on Delmar Loop, catch a concert at The Pageant, and admire the public art installations.
Soulard
Soulard is a lively historic district with a strong French influence. This neighborhood is famous for its annual Mardi Gras celebrations and boasts a collection of bars, restaurants, and charming red brick townhouses. Soulard is also home to the oldest farmers’ market west of the Mississippi River source.
Interesting Story: Soulard was named after Antoine Soulard, who was the first surveyor for the Spanish government in the late 1700s.
Things to do: Visit the Soulard Farmers’ Market, enjoy live music at the local bars, and celebrate Mardi Gras in February.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a sprawling urban park that covers over 1,300 acres, making it one of the largest city parks in the United States. It offers an array of top attractions, such as the St. Louis Zoo, Missouri History Museum, and the St. Louis Art Museum source.
Fun Fact: Forest Park was the site of the 1904 World’s Fair and the 1904 Summer Olympics.
Things to do: Visit the St. Louis Zoo, explore the Missouri History Museum, and admire the art at the St. Louis Art Museum.
Hotels and Accommodations
St. Louis offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. In this section, we will explore some options for luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, budget hotels, and bed and breakfasts.
Luxury Hotels
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in St. Louis, consider checking into the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. This opulent, modern property offers a spa with a menu of services that includes hot stone massages and detoxifying facials.
Another option for a high-end experience is the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, located downtown near Busch Stadium. It boasts stunning views of the Gateway Arch, modern amenities, and a rooftop bar.
Mid-Range Hotels
Mid-range hotels in St. Louis provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Some options to consider include:
- Hilton Garden Inn St. Louis Airport: Conveniently located near St. Louis Lambert International Airport, this hotel provides free Wi-Fi, a pool, and an airport shuttle service.
- Hampton Inn & Suites St. Louis at Forest Park: Situated near Forest Park, this hotel offers modern amenities and is perfect for travelers visiting the park and its attractions.
Budget Hotels
For travelers on a budget, St. Louis has several affordable options:
- OYO Hotel St Louis Downtown City Center Mo: Located in downtown St. Louis, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a pool, and is pet-friendly.
- Comfort Inn St Louis – Westport Event Center: This hotel offers free Wi-Fi, parking, a pool, and is also pet-friendly.
Bed and Breakfasts
For a more personal and cozy experience, consider staying at one of St. Louis’s charming bed and breakfasts:
- Fleur-de-Lys Mansion: Located in the heart of the city, this B&B offers a homey atmosphere and a delicious breakfast.
- Napoleon’s Retreat Bed and Breakfast: A beautiful bed and breakfast located in the historic Lafayette Square neighborhood. It provides a comfortable atmosphere and a delicious breakfast.
Fun Fact: St. Louis is home to the world’s largest chess piece, which stands 14.5 feet tall and is located at the World Chess Hall of Fame.
Things to do: While in St. Louis, don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Gateway Arch, explore the City Museum, and enjoy a day at the St. Louis Zoo.
Alternative Accommodations
Vacation Rentals
St. Louis offers a variety of vacation rentals for travelers who seek a homey experience during their stay. Many of these rentals provide guests with amenities such as private bedrooms, full kitchens, and dedicated workspaces. Some popular neighborhoods to consider for vacation rentals include Central West End and Downtown.
Examples of vacation rentals in St. Louis include:
- A Private Room in Central West End with a Master Suite and Private Bath, starting at $46 per night.
- The Green Room at Casa Amparo, another private room in Central West End, starting at $56 per night.
- A Cozy Bedroom, private bath in a quiet St. Louis neighborhood, starting at $53 per night.
Hostels
St. Louis has limited options for hostels, so budget travelers may need to consider other types of accommodations, such as vacation rentals or budget hotels. However, exploring neighborhoods like Downtown or The Grove may present some affordable choices for travelers on a budget.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story: St. Louis is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, which is the tallest man-made monument in the United States and the tallest stainless steel monument in the world. It was designed in 1947 by Finnish-American architect and designer, Eero Saarinen.
Things to do: Some popular tourist attractions in St. Louis include visiting the City Museum, taking a stroll through Forest Park, exploring the Missouri Botanical Garden, and attending events at Busch Stadium.
Transportation and Accessibility
Public Transportation
St. Louis offers various public transportation options that make it easy to explore the city. The MetroLink operates two light rail lines connecting different neighborhoods and attractions. Metro buses also provide an alternative way to get around the city.
Fun Fact: St. Louis’s MetroLink light rail system is among the few in the United States that crosses state lines, connecting Missouri to Illinois.
Parking
While many hotels, attractions, and popular locations offer on-site parking, it’s always a good idea to inquire ahead of time about parking options and fees. Keep in mind that larger events might affect parking availability in specific areas.
| Parking Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Street Parking | Often metered, check signage for payment and hours. |
| Paid Parking Lots | Vary in price, location, and availability. |
| Hotel Parking | Can be included in the stay or an additional fee. |
Walkability
Several areas within St. Louis are highly walkable, including downtown and Forest Park. However, sidewalk accessibility might vary in different neighborhoods, so be sure to plan accordingly.
- Things to consider for walkability:
- Proximity to attractions
- Availability of sidewalks
- Street crossing accessibility
Interesting Story: Laclede’s Landing, a historic district near the St. Louis Arch, features cobblestone streets that date back to the 1800s, making for a picturesque but challenging walk.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
St. Louis offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to explore. From historical monuments to green spaces and shopping districts, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Museums and Monuments
- The iconic Gateway Arch is a must-visit landmark, symbolizing the city’s role as a gateway to the West during the 1800s.
- Art lovers can appreciate the collections at both the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum and the Saint Louis Art Museum.
- Explore the rich history of St. Louis at the Missouri History Museum, located within Forest Park.
- The National Blues Museum showcases the city’s musical heritage and its influence on the Blues genre.
Parks and Recreation
- Forest Park offers a multitude of cultural institutions, including the St. Louis Zoo, Science Center, and Missouri Botanical Garden, all within its 1,300-acre space.
- Tower Grove Park is another green space that hosts community events and farmer’s markets throughout the year.
- Walkable neighborhoods like The Loop and the Central West End offer tree-lined streets and outdoor cafes perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Shopping and Dining
- Find unique shopping experiences in areas like Ballpark Village, with a mix of local boutiques and national retailers.
- Satisfy your taste buds with the city’s diverse culinary scene, offering everything from classic barbecue joints to upscale, farm-to-table restaurants.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story
- St. Louis is home to the World Chess Hall of Fame, showcasing the cultural and historical significance of the game through various exhibitions and events.
