St. Louis, MO

Travel Guide

A bridge with a large arch, a river, and a city skyline with illuminated buildings.
A city park with a checkered pathway, green trees, and modern buildings in the background.
A cityscape with a mix of modern and historic buildings, including a prominent dome structure in the center.
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, with a well-maintained lawn and trees in the foreground.
A museum corridor with wooden floors, green walls, and various artworks including a central religious painting.

St. Louis Travel Guide Video

Stroll under the Gateway Arch, explore a plethora of museums and enjoy an outstanding music scene initiated by natives Chuck Berry and Miles Davis.

St. Louis lives up to its nickname, the Gateway to the West. Centrally located in Missouri along the Mississippi River, the city is a confluence of Southern cuisine, fascinating culture and Midwestern charm. Explore its historic cobblestone streets, pulsing Downtown and multitude of cultural institutions.

The Gateway Arch is impossible to miss. The city’s famous monument rises 630 feet (190 meters) high and is visible from across the city. Take an enclosed tram to the top to see miles in every direction. Try to spot the Busch Stadium to the west and the mighty Mississippi River to the east. Afterward, explore the surrounding Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park, which includes the Museum of Westward Expansion and the Old Courthouse, where in 1847 Dred Scott and his wife famously sued for their freedom from slavery but ultimately lost.

As the hometown of rock-and-roll legend Chuck Berry and jazz pioneer Miles Davis, it’s not surprising that St. Louis has a thriving music scene. Enjoy evenings in Laclede’s Landing or the Delmar Loop, which are home to popular bars and lively restaurants.

See the latest modern art in the unique Pulitzer Arts Foundation, which presents new exhibits every six months. Nearby, relax among the trees and dozens of eye-catching sculptures in Laumeier Sculpture Park. Spend more time outside in the scenic Missouri Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, which is among the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. Explore the award-winning Climatron dome conservatory, which houses a remarkable tropical rain forest.

St. Louis has a fascinating history as a hub of trade and host of the 1904 Summer Olympics and World’s Fair. Learn about its past at the Missouri History Museum. Discover fun for all ages at the quirky City Museum and kids-oriented Magic House. Check out old trains and vintage cars at the Museum of Transportation.

Visit St. Louis any time of year. From children to adults, art lovers to history buffs, music fans to sports aficionados, this city has something for everyone.

Where to stay in St. Louis

Find the best St. Louis areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about St. Louis
Learn more about St. Louis

Downtown St. Louis

Ample dining options, fascinating museums, and great live music are just a few top things to explore in Downtown St. Louis. A visit to Gateway Arch National Park or Kiener Plaza might round out your trip, and you can jump aboard the metro at 8th and Pine Station or Stadium Station to get around town.

Central West End

The ample dining options and lush forests are just a few popular features of the neighborhood. Make a stop by World Chess Hall of Fame or Blue Strawberry while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Central West End Station to get around town.

Soulard

You'll enjoy the bars and churches in Soulard. You might want to make time for a stop at Anheuser-Busch Brewery or Soulard Farmer's Market.

The Grove

The Grove might not have many top sights, but St. Louis Zoo and St. Louis Science Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Lafayette Square

The restaurants and shopping are a few reasons travelers visit Lafayette Square. Though there aren't many top sights in the neighborhood, you can visit St. Louis Union Station and Enterprise Center, a few notable attractions nearby.

Clayton Plaza Hotel & Extended Stay

Clayton Plaza Hotel & Extended Stay

3.5 out of 5
7750 Carondelet Avenue St. Louis MO
$94 nightly
The price is $110 total per night from Oct 11 to Oct 12
$110 total
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in St. Louis. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,416 reviews)
"There was no shampoo or conditioner and only 1 towel for 3 people. When I called to ask for some (from my room dripping wet because I was in the shower when I realized the shampoo and conditioner was empty, the lady working kept hanging up on me. The room was filthy and smelled. There was trash in ..."

Reviewed on Sep 23, 2026

Clayton Plaza Hotel & Extended Stay
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch

4 out of 5
315 Chestnut St St. Louis MO
$134 nightly
The price is $158 total per night from Oct 2 to Oct 3
$158 total
Oct 2 - Oct 3
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in St. Louis. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch
Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Airport

Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Airport

2.5 out of 5
10810 Pear Tree Ln St. Ann MO
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$90 nightly
The price is $106 total per night from Oct 4 to Oct 5
$106 total
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in St. Ann. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (3,252 reviews)
"This is one of the best hotels that I’ve ever stayed. Room was exceptionally clean, staff was extremely nice and helpful, and it’s close to the airport. They also offer a free airport shuttle. This is our third time staying here. If we’re in St. Louis again, we will stay here. I highly recommend ..."

Reviewed on Sep 23, 2026

Pear Tree Inn St. Louis Airport
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
 White House at Grand Central

White House at Grand Central

3.5 out of 5
3805 Lindell Blvd St. Louis MO
Stay at this apartment in St. Louis. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and a garden. Popular attractions St. Louis Union Station and Busch Stadium are located ...
White House at Grand Central
2 Queen Beds | Non-Smoking, Kitchen

2 Queen Beds | Non-Smoking, Kitchen

St. Louis MO MO
Stay at this apartment in Maryland Heights. Enjoy free WiFi, cable/satellite TV service, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Westport Plaza and Hollywood ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (40 reviews)
Deadbolt didn't work (did not line up). Door to the outside on lower floor was b ...
"Deadbolt didn't work (did not line up). Door to the outside on lower floor was broke and remained open (unsecured). Desk chair in room had a wheel missing and was unsafe. Floor in room needed a deep cleaning (wet bath floor towel was covered with dirt/soot). Grounds outside needs attention. It was ..."

Reviewed on Sep 8, 2026

2 Queen Beds | Non-Smoking, Kitchen
Landing Furnished Apartments - Central West End

Landing Furnished Apartments - Central West End

3.5 out of 5
4050 W Pine Blvd St. Louis MO
Book a stay at this business-friendly apartment in St. Louis. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. Popular attractions St. Louis Union ...
Landing Furnished Apartments - Central West End
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around St. Louis

The downtown area and historic neighborhoods of St. Louis are best explored on foot. Get around more quickly by rental car, which you can pick up at the airport or in the city. Or, take advantage of the taxis available throughout the city. Alternatively, use the public transportation system, consisting of the MetroLink light railway and the MetroBus bus network, as well as trolley services. Visit the Metro TransitOpens in a new window website.Browse St. Louis rental cars.

Stay near popular St. Louis attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Louis worth visiting?
St. Louis is worth visiting for its standout attractions like Busch Stadium and St. Louis Union Station. Travelers can explore distinct areas such as Downtown St. Louis and Downtown West, with practical transit access via metro and train. Local grocers are also available for self-catering.
When is the best time to visit St. Louis?
The best time to visit St. Louis is from April through June, when the weather is typically mild and pleasant for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and potentially better value, the quieter months of November through February offer a cooler experience.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in St. Louis?
The best neighborhoods to explore in St. Louis depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown St. Louis offers iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and Gateway Arch National Park.
  • Downtown West features attractions such as St. Louis Union Station, Enterprise Center, and the City Museum.
  • Grand Center is home to cultural venues like the Fox Theater, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, and the Grandel Theater.
  • Midtown includes St. Louis University, the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, and Chaifetz Arena.
  • St. Charles Historic District provides historical sites like the Lewis & Clark Boathouse and Nature Center, Historic Main Street, and the First Missouri State Capitol Historic Site.

What is St. Louis known for?
St. Louis is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, a prominent landmark. Travelers can also explore the historic St. Louis Union Station and catch a game at Busch Stadium. This area features distinct neighborhoods, including Downtown St. Louis and Downtown West, offering various experiences.
What is a good itinerary length for St. Louis?
A good itinerary length for St. Louis is two to three days to see key attractions like Busch Stadium, St. Louis Union Station, and the Gateway Arch. An extended stay of four to five days lets travelers explore more of Downtown St. Louis, Downtown West, or Grand Center, and enjoy activities like a food and history walking tour or a beignet cooking class. See St. Louis Activities.
How do you get around St. Louis?
In St. Louis, travelers can use metro and train services to get around, with convenient stops like St. Louis Gateway Station, Convention Center Station, and Stadium Station. Rental cars are also available in neighborhoods such as Downtown St. Louis, Downtown West, and Creve Coeur. Rideshare services offer another flexible option for exploring the city.
What are the top things to do in and around St. Louis?
St. Louis offers a mix of iconic landmarks, expansive green spaces, and unique local experiences:


How do I plan a trip to St. Louis?
Plan your St. Louis trip by searching Expedia for hotels in areas like Downtown St. Louis or Grand Center. Book flights and activities, such as a food and history walking tour or a cooking class, in advance. Use metro or train to explore, and consider a rental car. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
Can I book a refundable hotel in St. Louis?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in St. Louis by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to St. Louis with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your St. Louis trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in St. Louis?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in St. Louis can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my St. Louis trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your St. Louis trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my St. Louis trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your St. Louis trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to St. Louis?
If it's your first trip to St. Louis, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my St. Louis hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your St. Louis hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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