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Where to Stay in St Louis

Where to Stay in St Louis

St Louis Great Plains, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Diverse Choices

  • Hostels

    Mainly located downtown, hostels offer dormitory-style beds and often private rooms, making them an excellent choice for budget travelers, solo adventurers, and those looking for a social atmosphere. An example includes City House Hostel. They typically include communal kitchens and common areas.

  • Budget Hotels/Motels

    Found throughout the city and its surrounding areas, these include basic amenities like a bed, private bathroom, and sometimes complimentary breakfast or Wi-Fi. They represent a cost-effective option for travelers who prioritize savings over luxury.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Numerous options from major hotel chains (e.g., Hilton, Marriott, Drury Inn, Hampton Inn) exist across St. Louis. These include comfortable rooms, usually with amenities like on-site restaurants, fitness centers, or swimming pools. They present a good balance of comfort and value.

  • Luxury Hotels

    For travelers seeking premium experiences, St. Louis has high-end properties with upscale amenities, fine dining restaurants, concierge services, and luxurious rooms. The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. These hotels feature a higher level of service and comfort.

Unique Stays

  • Boutique Hotels

    These smaller, uniquely designed hotels often reside in historic buildings, demonstrating distinct character and personalized service. The Last Hotel and Angad Arts Hotel, both known for their unique aesthetics and central locations. They appeal to travelers seeking a more individual lodging experience.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Especially charming B&Bs operate in historic neighborhoods like Soulard and Lafayette Square. These include personalized service, often including homemade breakfast, and a chance to experience local hospitality in beautifully restored homes. They create a more intimate stay than larger hotels.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb and VRBO list a wide selection of apartments, homes, and unique stays. These often feature more space, privacy, and kitchen facilities, making them ideal for families, groups, or longer stays. You can experience living like a local in a residential setting.

  • Homestay Opportunities

    While less formalized than in some international destinations, some vacation rentals might bring a "homestay" feel. Direct community-based tourism initiatives are not as prevalent but supporting local B&Bs or small, independently owned guesthouses achieves a similar goal of direct community engagement.

Neighborhood Guide

Choosing the right neighborhood for your accommodation influences your experience. Each area of St. Louis is a distinct character, pros, cons, and safety considerations.

Downtown

Pros
  • Proximity to numerous major attractions.
  • Excellent public transport access (MetroLink lines converge here).
  • Wide range of dining options.
  • Many hotels are concentrated here.
Cons
  • Can feel quieter at night, especially outside of event nights.
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Central West End CWE

Pros
  • Direct and easy access to Forest Park and its free attractions.
  • Diverse dining, lively atmosphere, and beautiful architecture.
  • Good MetroLink connections.
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Cons
  • Can be more expensive for accommodation and dining.
  • Parking can be challenging.
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Soulard

Pros
  • Historic charm, unique nightlife, and proximity to farmers market.
  • Authentic local feel and distinct St. Louis experience.
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Cons
  • Can be noisy, especially on weekends and during events.
  • Parking can be challenging during market hours or popular nightlife times.
  • Public transport access is mainly by bus, rather than direct MetroLink.
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Additional Considerations

Proximity to Attractions and Transportation Hubs

Downtown: Best for visitors prioritizing the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, City Museum, and direct MetroLink access for wider city exploration. Soulard: Good for nightlife and market visits, but often requires bus or ride-share services to reach other major attractions.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Noise levels vary significantly by neighborhood. Downtown can be quiet except on event nights (e.g., Cardinals games or concerts). The Central West End is lively and bustling. Residential areas, including The Hill and those around Forest Park, are generally quiet and peaceful.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies aid in securing the best accommodation for your trip.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • Peak Season (Late Spring & Early Fall): Book hotels 2-3 months in advance, especially if your visit coincides with popular weekends, major holidays (e.g., Memorial Day, Labor Day), or significant events (Cardinals baseball games, large conventions, major festivals). Demand is high.
  • Off-Season (Winter & Summer): 1-2 months in advance is usually sufficient. You might find better last-minute deals during these times, notably in winter.
  • Vacation Rentals: These tend to book up faster, especially for specific desirable properties or locations. Earlier booking (3-6 months in advance) is recommended, especially for larger groups or if you have specific property requirements.
  • Walk-in Rates: Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common in the U.S. Published rates are generally firm. Some independent motels might extend a slight discount if you ask, but do not expect significant price reductions, especially at chain hotels.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • Major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Websites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Hotels.com are widely used and feature a broad selection of hotels and filters.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and VRBO are the most popular platforms for renting apartments and homes.
  • Direct Booking: Sometimes, booking directly with the hotel or B&B website can yield better rates, access to loyalty program benefits, or special packages not available on OTAs. Check both options.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Policies vary widely by property and booking platform. Always review deposit requirements and cancellation policies carefully before confirming your reservation. Many hotels offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in, bringing flexibility. Understand any non-refundable clauses.

Seasonal Pricing

Price Variation
  • Expect higher accommodation prices during peak tourist seasons (late spring, early fall), major sporting events, and large conventions.
  • Prices typically decrease during the low season (winter, mid-summer).
  • Events can fill up hotels quickly, so check local event calendars before booking.
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Specific Event Impact
  • Prices may surge during Cardinals baseball games or major conventions.
  • Planning ahead is advised for busy periods.
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Accommodation Recommendations

For Families

Hotels near Forest Park, like Drury Inn & Suites Forest Park, often feature amenities like complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, and larger rooms. Vacation rentals (Airbnb, VRBO) are excellent, with more space and kitchen facilities.

For Solo Travelers

Hostels like City House Hostel in Downtown include dormitory rooms and common areas, presenting opportunities to meet other travelers. Well-located hotels in Central West End or Downtown grant easy access to attractions.

For Long Stays

Extended-stay hotels (e.g., Residence Inn, Homewood Suites, Embassy Suites) are designed for longer visits, including kitchenettes and separate living areas. Vacation rentals (Airbnb, VRBO) are also an excellent choice, with a home-like environment.

Properties with Historical Significance

Discover St. Louis accommodations steeped in history and unique character.

Elegant Historic Stays

The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis

This iconic hotel has a grand past, art deco architecture, and has hosted numerous celebrities and historical figures.

  • Has a glimpse into St. Louis's glamorous history.
  • Located in the upscale Central West End.
  • Offers premium services.
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Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection

Housed in a magnificently restored historic bank building designed by the famous architect Louis Sullivan.

  • Blends historical grandeur with modern luxury.
  • Located in Downtown, near major attractions.
  • A member of the Marriott portfolio.
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Boutique & Industrial Charm

The Last Hotel STL, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located in the former International Shoe Company headquarters, this stylish boutique hotel maintains much of its original industrial charm.

  • Features contemporary design and amenities.
  • Grants an unique stay in a historically relevant building.
  • Situated in the revitalized Downtown area.
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Other Unique Stays

St. Louis also has a selection of independent boutique hotels with distinct themes and designs.

  • Explore local guesthouses.
  • Consider design-forward properties.
  • Seek out art-inspired accommodations.
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General Accommodation Access

  • Urban Accessibility

    Many accommodations are within walking distance or a short public transport ride to major attractions.

  • Parking Considerations

    Check parking availability and fees when booking, especially in denser urban areas.

  • Public Transport Proximity

    Hotels near MetroLink stations ease travel across the city.

  • Modern Amenities

    Most hotels include complimentary Wi-Fi and in-room conveniences.

Beyond the City

  • Camping & Outdoor Lodging

    No designated camping facilities exist within the immediate city limits of St. Louis. However, state parks and private campgrounds are available in the surrounding Missouri and Illinois areas.

  • Nearby Parks for Camping

    Babler State Park and Pere Marquette State Park offer camping opportunities within a reasonable driving distance, presenting a natural escape.

  • Suburban Hotels

    Numerous chain hotels are situated in the suburbs, offering quieter stays and often free parking, ideal for car travelers.

  • Extended Stay Options

    Extended-stay hotels from brands like IHG Hotels cater to longer visits with kitchenettes and extra space.

Essential Advice

Verify Reviews

Always read recent reviews from other travelers before booking.

  • Confirm the accommodation meets your expectations.
  • Look for feedback on cleanliness and service.
  • Check location details.
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Check Policies

Carefully review deposit requirements and cancellation policies.

  • Understand any non-refundable clauses.
  • Note deadlines for free cancellation.
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Booking Tips Summary

Book Early

Especially during peak season or major events, popular properties fill quickly.

Compare Platforms

Check both OTAs and direct hotel websites for the best rates and perks.

Consider Your Needs

Choose a neighborhood and accommodation type aligning with your travel style and budget.