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How to Get to St Louis

How to Get to St Louis

St Louis Great Plains, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

STL functions as a hub for Southwest Airlines, offering extensive domestic connections. Major U.S. Carriers also serve the airport, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. International flights from STL are limited.

Flight Information

  • Overseas visitors usually connect through larger U.S. Gateway airports like Chicago O'Hare (ORD) or Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).
  • Flight prices fluctuate by season and local events. Higher demand during peak tourist seasons, major holidays, and large sporting events.
  • Booking flights well in advance, especially during peak periods, secures better rates. Mid-week flights are often less expensive.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

St. Louis Lambert International Airport provides standard airport amenities for a comfortable travel experience, including dining, retail, car rental services, lounges, and free Wi-Fi.

Transfer Options

  • MetroLink light rail: Direct service from airport terminals to downtown, Forest Park, Central West End. Approx. 30 min to downtown.
  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Taxis readily available. Uber and Lyft operate from designated pick-up zones.
  • Shuttles: Shared-ride and private shuttle services available for pre-booked transfers.

Flight Deals

Explore flight deals via Dollar Flight Club for low-cost fares.

Flight Search

Find and compare flights on Skyscanner for various options.

Car Rentals

Compare and book car rentals through DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Connections

  • Amtrak provides passenger rail service to St. Louis at the Gateway Transportation Center.
  • Routes include "Missouri River Runner" (to Kansas City, MO) and "Texas Eagle" (to Chicago, Dallas, San Antonio, Los Angeles).
  • Long-Distance Bus: Greyhound operates from Gateway Transportation Center, offering connections across the U.S.
  • Bus travel is typically the most budget-friendly option.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

  • U.S. Citizens: Valid U.S. State driver's license. International Visitors: Valid foreign driver's license generally accepted; International Driving Permit (IDP) strongly recommended.
  • Major highways around St. Louis are well-maintained. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts required. Strict DUI laws. Right turns on red lights generally permitted after a complete stop.
  • Parking: Metered street parking available. Plentiful parking garages downtown. Free parking in some residential areas.

Sea/River Arrivals

No Ferry Services

St. Louis, a major port on the Mississippi River, has no regular ferry services for passenger transport to and from other cities.

River Transportation

Riverboat cruise lines (American Cruise Lines, American Queen Voyages) include St. Louis as a stop on multi-day itineraries along the Mississippi River. Cruise ships dock near the Gateway Arch riverfront.

Immigration Procedures

For international cruises arriving in the U.S., standard immigration and customs procedures apply. Most river cruises are domestic.

Departure Information

Exit & Departure Procedures

The United States does not levy specific exit fees or taxes upon departure from its airports or borders for tourists. The cost of international travel includes various taxes and fees, paid upon ticket purchase.

Airport Departure STL

  • Domestic flights: Arrive at least 90 minutes before scheduled departure.
  • International flights (or connections): Allow 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Allow extra time during peak travel periods, holidays, or if returning a rental car.

Station & Airport Facilities

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) and the Gateway Transportation Center offer facilities for departing travelers.

Traveler Amenities

  • STL Airport: Various dining and shopping options post-security. Free Wi-Fi throughout terminals.
  • Gateway Transportation Center (Train/Bus): Basic waiting areas, restrooms, limited food/beverage. Arrive with snacks/drinks.
  • Confirm flight or train status the day before and on departure day for any delays or gate changes.

Departure Timing for Land Transport

For train or bus departures from Gateway Transportation Center, arriving 30-45 minutes before departure is generally sufficient. Confirm boarding procedures with your specific carrier.

Pre-Departure Steps

  • Verify train/bus schedules.
  • Ensure luggage meets carrier requirements.
  • Plan your route to the station.

Connecting Flights Considerations

If your flight from STL connects to an international flight from a larger U.S. Gateway city, ample connection time is a consideration.

Connecting Travel Pointers

  • Allow sufficient time for potential delays at the first U.S. Airport.
  • Be aware of customs and immigration procedures at your first U.S. Port of entry.
  • Re-checking baggage for onward international flights is often necessary.

Security Line Considerations

  • Security lines can be unpredictable, especially during peak travel times.
  • Check TSA wait times online if available before heading to the airport.
  • Consider TSA PreCheck or Global Entry for expedited screening if eligible and traveling frequently.
  • Avoid prohibited items in carry-on baggage to prevent delays.
  • Follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-ons.
  • Wear easily removable shoes if not enrolled in expedited screening programs.

Navigating St. Louis

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling present intimate ways to experience St. Louis, allowing appreciation for its architecture, parks, and neighborhood ambiance.

Routes & Safety

  • Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Downtown, Forest Park, Central West End, Soulard.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Increasing bike lanes, dedicated paths in Forest Park. Always wear a Helmet.
  • No-Go Areas: Exercise caution. Avoid walking or cycling in areas with higher crime rates, especially at night. Stick to well-trafficked tourist areas.

Specialized Transportation

St. Louis has specialized transport options that enhance the visitor experience, offering unique ways to see the city beyond standard transit.

Unique Options

  • Tour Buses: Operators offer narrated city tours, often with stops at major landmarks. Some provide hop-on-hop-off services.
  • Boat Taxis/Water: No regular boat taxi services. Riverboat cruises offer scenic tours of the Mississippi, departing near the Gateway Arch.
  • Accessibility Services: Metro Transit provides paratransit (Metro Call-A-Ride). Many attractions have accessible entrances and facilities.

Walking Tours

Guided walking tours focus on historical districts, architecture, or culinary themes. Self-guided tours are also possible.

Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are limited compared to cars; specialty rental shops may offer them.

Local Transport

St. Louis does not have cable cars, funiculars, or highly unique local transport systems like some older European cities.

Rental Options

Car Rental Procedures

Renting a vehicle offers freedom and flexibility, especially for day trips outside the city or for travelers preferring self-guided exploration.

Requirements & Companies

  • Age: At least 21 years old (under 25 may incur surcharge). Valid driver's license (and IDP for many international visitors).
  • Payment: Major credit card in renter's name for rental and security deposit.
  • Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, Dollar at airport and city locations. Booking in advance is recommended.

Bicycle Sharing & Rentals

St. Louis has expanded its bike lane infrastructure, notably around Forest Park and through its greenway system. This fosters increased cycling accessibility.

Bike Options

  • Several local bike shops offer daily or multi-day bicycle rentals.
  • Always wear a Helmet and follow traffic laws when cycling.

Car Rental Comparison

Enterprise

Known for excellent customer service and convenient neighborhood locations.

Hertz

Offers a wide vehicle selection and a loyalty program.

Avis

Often caters to business travelers with a good loyalty program.

Transportation Insight

Plan your daily transportation by grouping attractions located near each other to minimize travel time.