5 hour layover ideas?

Question

Just booked a trip with a five hour layover in St. Louis. Is it reasonable to expect? I could leave the airport and do something enjoyable while there? It will be a weekday at the end of September, and I have TSA pre-check. I expect with airport security and transportation to and from, I would only have 2 to 2 1/2 hours to actually do anything.

I have not been downtown since the museum of Westwood expansion has been redone. While I understand it is unlikely I get to see it in the detail I would like, is it worth going for even a short while?

Answer

A 5-hour layover in St. Louis can be an enjoyable opportunity to explore the city, but as you mentioned, with airport security and transportation, you'll probably have only around 2 to 2.5 hours to actually see something. Still, it is possible to make the most of your time with a few well-chosen activities. Here are some thoughts and recommendations:

Is it reasonable to leave the airport? Yes, it’s possible to leave the airport and do something enjoyable, but you'll want to plan accordingly. Since you're traveling on a weekday and have TSA pre-check, you'll move quickly through security, but be mindful of the time needed for transport to and from the airport (about 20–30 minutes each way). So, you'll likely have a limited amount of time in the city itself.

Is the Museum of Westward Expansion worth visiting? The Museum of Westward Expansion, located within the Gateway Arch National Park, is definitely worth visiting if you're interested in the history of the American West. However, depending on your interests and the time constraints, you may not have enough time to fully explore the exhibits in detail. If you're okay with a brief visit, you could take a quick stroll around the Gateway Arch and maybe visit the museum for a shorter amount of time. The museum is great for a quick historical immersion, but if you're pressed for time, consider a shorter, more relaxed visit.

Gateway Arch: If you're short on time but want to experience something iconic, the Gateway Arch is a must-see. You can walk around the park or take the tram to the top for stunning views of St. Louis. The tram ride takes about 15 minutes each way, so if you have time for that, it could be a memorable highlight.
Missouri Botanical Garden: If you're in the mood for something a bit more relaxing, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend an hour or so. It's one of the oldest botanical gardens in the U.S., and it's only about a 15-20 minute drive from the airport. If you're into nature and want a change of pace, this could be a great option.
City Museum: If you're looking for something more interactive and fun, the City Museum is an excellent choice. While it’s more of a hands-on, creative space, it’s a unique experience with something for everyone. It’s a bit more of a time commitment, but if you’re interested in quirky art and adventure, it could be worth a quick visit.
Historic Downtown St. Louis: If you’re looking for a short walk around the city, head to the historic downtown area. You can explore the old architecture, grab a coffee at one of the cafes, or simply take in the city’s vibe. It’s also home to the Old Courthouse, which is worth seeing briefly.

Transportation Tips: Since time is tight, you’ll likely want to grab a quick Uber or Lyft to get to your destination. The airport is relatively close to downtown, so you won’t spend too much time in transit. Keep an eye on the time, especially if you’re exploring more than one spot. Plan for at least 30 minutes of travel time back to the airport, just to be safe.

In conclusion, yes, it’s feasible to explore some of St. Louis during your layover. The Gateway Arch and its museum would be the easiest option if you want to get a sense of the city quickly, but if you're interested in something more relaxing or unique, the Missouri Botanical Garden or City Museum are good alternatives. Whatever you choose, just be mindful of your time to ensure you get back to the airport with plenty of time for your next flight!

5 hour layover ideas?

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