Answer: Given your location—about 20 minutes from downtown by car and roughly an hour by public transit—a rental car is likely the more practical choice for your visit to St. Louis. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide:

Answer: When deciding between staying in Soulard or a hotel downtown during Mardi Gras weekend in St. Louis, there are a few factors to consider, such as convenience, safety, and the overall vibe you're looking for. Here's a breakdown of both options:

Answer: It’s great that you’re planning a trip to St. Louis! Here are some suggestions for your stay, along with tips for parking your trailer and enjoying the 4th of July festivities:

Answer: The Gateway Arch is the iconic symbol of St. Louis and visiting it is a popular activity for first-time visitors. Since you’re staying right at the Drury near the Arch, it is very convenient to incorporate it into your itinerary, but whether it’s “worth it” depends on what you hope to get from the experience.

Answer: Labor Day weekend in St. Louis is typically filled with a mix of cultural events, festivals, and outdoor activities. While the exact events can vary each year, here’s a general overview and some recommendations:

Answer: Visiting the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a wonderful experience, and with some planning, it can be very manageable even with a guest who has mild walking difficulties. Here’s a guide for your visit on Saturday, July 13, 2024, and for the next day.

Answer: St. Louis is a vibrant city with a rich mix of history, culture, and outdoor attractions, making it a great destination for a 3-day visit. Since this will be your first time, staying in a central location is ideal for minimizing travel time and maximizing sightseeing opportunities.

Answer: Attending Mardi Gras in St. Louis is an exciting experience, and finding a good spot for the parade can really enhance the fun. To get a prime viewing location, here's what you should know:

Answer: It sounds like your trip to St. Louis was a mix of highs and lows, giving a very realistic picture for anyone planning a similar visit.

Answer: If you’re looking to visit Meramec Caverns but don’t have access to a car, there are several bus tour options that can take you from St. Louis to the caverns. While specific tours may vary by season and availability, here are a few options you might consider:

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:

Answer: Your five-night trip to St. Louis sounds like a fun and well-rounded family adventure! You clearly got a mix of attractions, dining experiences, and some relaxing downtime, which is perfect for a family of four.

Answer: If your goal is to stay as close as possible to the Gateway Arch, both the Hyatt Regency at the Arch and the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch are excellent choices since they are essentially adjacent to the park grounds and within walking distance of most downtown attractions. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Answer: St. Louis has a vibrant dining scene with plenty of unique restaurants that cater to families while offering adventurous flavors and great atmosphere. Since you’ll be traveling with kids but also enjoy craft cocktails and creative cuisine, here are some recommendations that balance both.

Answer: St. Louis is a city with a mix of neighborhoods, and safety can vary significantly depending on the area you are in. Like many major cities, there are parts of St. Louis that experience higher crime rates, particularly in some north and west neighborhoods, while other areas are very safe and popular with visitors.

Answer: Based on your preferences—wanting to park the car and walk around, exploring neighborhoods like Central West End and Forest Park, and already having done major attractions like the Arch and City Museum—here’s some guidance on staying at Moonrise Hotel versus other options in St. Louis.

Answer: St. Louis is a city with a lot to offer in terms of food, culture, and shopping. Since you’re visiting from Florida, focusing on well-known, safe areas and attractions will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Answer: Traveling through St. Louis on I-70 from Indiana can be tricky during peak traffic times, especially around downtown and the Poplar Street Bridge area. Planning ahead and knowing alternate routes can save time and reduce stress.

Answer: It sounds like you have an exciting trip to St. Louis planned! For Wednesday evening, there are several fun and safe activities that both you and your 13-year-old daughter would enjoy:

Answer: Busch Stadium in St. Louis offers a variety of seating options that can appeal to baseball fans of all ages. Since your son is particularly interested in watching the bullpen and enjoys the nuances of the game, choosing a section that provides both a good view and value is key. For an afternoon game, considering shade is also important, as sections on the third base side typically get shade earlier in the day.

Answer: For your St. Louis trip focused on baseball games, sightseeing, and breweries, choosing a hotel that’s centrally located and walkable is key since you won’t have a car. Downtown St. Louis, especially near 8th Street and the Gateway Arch, is ideal because you can easily reach the Arch, Citygarden, restaurants, bars, and Union Station. The ballpark is also walkable from this area.

Answer: St. Louis has a number of excellent Italian restaurants that serve fresh, homemade pasta. While Chesterfield itself has a few solid options, driving into the city or nearby neighborhoods can open up more authentic choices with a focus on freshly made pasta dishes.

Answer: Mardi Gras celebrations in Soulard, St. Louis, usually kick off well before the actual date of Fat Tuesday, but during the week of January 11-18, things will be just starting to heat up. While the main events typically take place closer to the end of February, there are a few things you can expect during that time:

Answer: Staying near the St. Louis Convention Center puts you in downtown, within walking distance or a short drive to many restaurants and evening activities. Downtown has a mix of casual, upscale, and local dining options, as well as nightlife and entertainment suitable for convention-goers looking to relax after a day of meetings.

Answer: It's great that you're returning to St. Louis after some time away! With your limited free time, here are some suggestions that should make the most of your trip, given the season and your preferences.

Answer: Finding a hotel near the Gateway Arch in St. Louis that balances comfort, cleanliness, and safety can be tricky, but there are several solid options to consider. Since you have a car, you also have flexibility with parking, which opens up more choices slightly farther from the Arch but still convenient for driving.

Answer: You're in for a great time in St. Louis! For Blues vs. Flames games, there are plenty of fun spots near Union Station where you can enjoy some pre-game excitement. Here are a few great places to check out before heading to the game:

Answer: Hiring a limo and driver for the roughly 300-mile trip from Chicago to St. Louis is a premium option for comfort and convenience, but it requires careful planning. Since this is a long-distance service, not all local limo companies in Chicago offer such trips, so it’s important to choose providers experienced in long-haul travel and properly licensed.

Answer: For attending the NCAA Frozen Four at Enterprise Center in St. Louis and enjoying some sightseeing, restaurants, and brewpubs, the most convenient area to stay is downtown, particularly near the arena and the Central West End. This area allows you to walk to the games and explore local food and drink without relying heavily on a car.

Answer: Your plan to stay at the Hampton Inn on Midamerica Lane while visiting St. Louis for Route 66 and the Arch is a reasonable approach, especially if you are prioritizing ease of departure the next morning for your road trip. This area is not downtown, so you will have a quieter stay and likely more affordable rates than city-center hotels.

Answer: Driving through St. Louis at night is generally manageable, but it’s important to be aware of neighborhoods and routes. The Drury Hotel by the Arch is located in downtown St. Louis near the Gateway Arch, a popular and well-patrolled tourist area. While downtown itself is usually safe, some surrounding areas can have higher crime rates, so it’s wise to stick to main roads and well-lit streets.

Answer: St. Louis is a fantastic city for a family trip, especially with a mix of attractions for both children and adults. You’ve already listed many of the city’s highlights, and your itinerary seems well-balanced. Here’s some detailed guidance for planning your days, additional suggestions, and restaurant ideas.

Answer: Traveling from St. Louis, Missouri to Nashville, Tennessee in an RV, you have two primary interstate options: I-64 East to I-57 South to I-24 East, or I-55 South to I-155/I-57 East to I-24 East. Both routes are similar in distance and overall drive time, but there are a few differences that could affect your ride quality, especially in an RV.

Answer: Staying at an airport hotel in St. Louis for a late-night arrival is a very common and practical choice, especially if you prefer to avoid driving into downtown at night. Most airport hotels, including Marriott properties near STL, offer complimentary 24-hour shuttle service to and from the airport, so it is entirely reasonable to expect them to shuttle you back to the airport in the morning for your rental car pickup.

Answer: Taking the MetroLink in St. Louis from the airport to the Stadium stop is a common choice for travelers, especially during daytime hours. Late morning travel is generally considered safe, as this is outside of peak commuter rush and the trains are usually moderately busy with airport travelers and locals. As with any urban transit system, general awareness and basic safety precautions are recommended.

Answer: It’s unfortunate to hear that The Last Hotel in St. Louis has closed, especially since their website and other booking platforms were still accepting reservations. The lack of proper communication to guests other than a note on the doors can be frustrating. For travelers who have bookings or plans to stay, here are some suggestions:

Answer: Congratulations to your son on his graduation and commissioning! Saint Louis offers a variety of excellent dining options near Saint Louis University (SLU) that can comfortably accommodate a larger group while providing a celebratory atmosphere.

Answer: Staying in St. Louis for sports events like a Battlehawks or Cardinals game requires balancing convenience with safety. Downtown St. Louis offers the closest access to both Busch Stadium (Cardinals) and The Dome at America’s Center (Battlehawks), as well as Metrolink stations, restaurants, and nightlife. However, it is true that some areas of downtown have higher crime rates, particularly after dark, so it’s important to be aware and take precautions.

Answer: For a family visiting St. Louis with young kids and looking for a quiet yet convenient area, there are several neighborhoods that balance safety, accessibility, and proximity to groceries and downtown attractions like the City Museum, Gateway Arch, and local parks.

Answer: If your goal is a one-night visit to St. Louis focused on seeing the Arch and enjoying nearby attractions like the trolley and a boat ride, staying as close as possible to the Gateway Arch National Park area will maximize your time and convenience. Here are some detailed recommendations and tips for planning your visit.

Answer: CityPark Stadium in St. Louis is located near the downtown area, which provides several convenient hotel options with access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Staying near downtown is generally recommended to minimize travel time to the stadium and to enjoy nearby amenities.

Answer: Northampton in St. Louis, just south of I-44 near Tower Grove Park, is a charming area with a mix of historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and easy access to parks and local eateries. For your friends, this location offers both a safe neighborhood and a number of options for good, non-chain restaurants, as well as accessible outdoor activities suitable for someone recovering from surgery.

Answer: Your 3-night itinerary for St. Louis sounds quite manageable, especially since your main goal is attending the baseball games at Busch Stadium. Staying downtown at the Magnolia Hotel is a great choice for walking access to the ballpark and downtown attractions without needing a car.

Answer: Congratulations on the upcoming law school graduation! For a nice stay near the university in St. Louis, you’ll find a range of great hotel and Airbnb options in neighborhoods that offer both comfort and convenience. If you're looking for a vibrant yet safe area with plenty of amenities, here are some good choices for both hotels and Airbnb accommodations:

Answer: For a 2-night trip to St. Louis with young kids, there are several family-friendly restaurants that are both fun and offer a variety of adventurous options. Since you already have Fitz’s on your list—which is a great choice with its casual vibe, kid-friendly menu, and fun root beer floats—here are additional suggestions that work well for families with young children:

Answer: Mardi Gras celebrations in Soulard, Saint Louis, typically ramp up later in January, with the full festivities really picking up in February. However, there are a few things you might be able to enjoy during your visit from January 11-18, even if it’s a little early for the big events.

Answer: River City Casino in St. Louis is a convenient base for exploring the region, but the Ozark Mountains are not right next door. They are absolutely doable as day trips, though some destinations will involve longer drives. The good news is that fall foliage in Missouri can be beautiful, and several areas offer stunning landscapes within a reasonable distance.

Answer: For a comfortable and convenient stay in St. Louis, especially for seniors on a road trip, it’s best to select a neighborhood that balances proximity to attractions, safety, parking availability, and a good selection of mid-priced hotels and restaurants.

Answer: Mid-October is a lovely time to visit St. Louis. The fall foliage is starting to appear, and the weather is generally mild, though variable. You can expect daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s °F (around 18–22°C) and cooler evenings in the 50s °F (10–14°C). A light jacket or layers are recommended, and it’s always good to have an umbrella or raincoat just in case, as occasional rain showers can occur.

Answer: Welcome to St. Louis! As a first-time solo traveler, staying in an area that offers easy access to restaurants, shopping, and attractions is a great way to experience the city. Whether you're considering a hotel or an Airbnb, there are several neighborhoods that will give you the walkability and convenience you're looking for. Here are some of the best areas to stay in St. Louis:

Answer: For your stay in St. Louis and proximity to the Enterprise Center, there are several hotels within walking distance or offering convenient transport options. Since you’ll be visiting in January, when it can get cold and icy, it's essential to choose a place with easy access to the arena, as well as safety and comfort in mind. Here are a few recommendations:

Answer: Yes, it is possible to enjoy the Gateway Arch and Lou’s at Laclede’s Landing in roughly 4 hours, but timing will be tight, so planning ahead is key. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Answer: For a trip starting in St. Louis and traveling along Route 66 down to Dallas-Fort Worth, you’ll want a reliable rental car company with good interstate coverage, flexible pick-up and drop-off options, and quality vehicles. Since you’re ending in a different state, check in advance about one-way fees and interstate travel policies.

Answer: Returning a rental car early in the morning at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is common, and most rental companies have procedures to accommodate this. Since you mentioned Budget on Natural Bridge Road, here’s what you can expect:

Answer: The weekend before Mardi Gras, with the Taste of Soulard and the Pet Parade, is definitely a fun time to visit St. Louis, especially if you love lively neighborhood events and the carnival spirit. Since you’re already familiar with Soulard, staying there will give you a fantastic chance to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Here’s what you can expect and some tips to make the most of your visit:

Answer: Your October trip to St. Louis sounds very doable and nicely packed. Staying near the Central West End (CWE) is convenient for your itinerary, as it provides easy access to the Metrolink and many downtown attractions.

Answer: St. Louis has a vibrant music scene, and while some venues have made changes, there are still plenty of great places where the mature crowd can enjoy live bands, dancing, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here are some top recommendations for live music and dancing for ages 45+:

Answer: If you plan to stay in St. Louis, Missouri for two days and don’t have a car, a good strategy is to pick a hotel in a neighborhood that is walkable and well-served by public transit (especially the MetroLink light-rail) — that way you can get to major sights, dining, and entertainment easily. Below are several of the best neighborhoods + moderate-hotel options to consider, along with pros/cons based on ease of getting around, hotel type, and walkability.

### ✅ Best area(s) to stay when you don’t have a car

Answer: It sounds like you have a fun, packed day planned in St. Louis before heading to Kansas City! Here’s a detailed breakdown and some suggestions for your logistics, sightseeing, and dining:

Answer: If you want to stay near St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) and park your car on-site for 8-9 nights rather than pay airport-lot fees, there *are* several hotels nearby that offer “park-and-fly” style packages: on-site parking + shuttle service. The key is to confirm in advance that long-term parking is allowed and whether there are any additional fees.

Answer: If you're looking for some great live music spots near Union Station and the Ballpark area in Saint Louis, there are several bars and venues that offer a lively atmosphere and live performances. Here are some recommendations:

Answer: For a one-night stay in St. Louis while passing through from the north and heading toward Arizona, choosing a safe and convenient area outside downtown is wise. Since your route involves coming in on I-55 and leaving on I-44, the southwestern suburbs or areas near major interchanges offer the best combination of safety, affordability, and ease of access to the highways.

Answer: With your arrival on Monday morning and departure Thursday or Friday evening, you have between 3.5 to 4.5 days to explore St. Louis. Staying at the Drury Inn in Fairview Heights gives you easy highway access while being close enough to downtown attractions. Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances your list of sights with realistic pacing.

Answer: If you are looking to stay within walking distance of The Hill neighborhood in St. Louis, your options are a bit limited because The Hill is primarily residential with local Italian restaurants and shops rather than a hotel hub. However, there are still some possibilities nearby.

Answer: The ticket bundles at St. Louis Union Station, such as the Aquarium +5 bundle, are generally available both online and at the ticket booths inside Union Station. However, there are a few important points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience:

Answer: Visiting the Gateway Arch with a car full of belongings and a family member with mobility issues means you'll want a parking option that is both safe and conveniently located. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your options:

Answer: Staying near CityPark Stadium in St. Louis puts you in a convenient spot to enjoy both local dining and nearby attractions. The area around the stadium has some options, but venturing a bit further will give you a richer experience of the city.

Answer: Your St. Louis itinerary looks well-balanced and doable for a family with kids aged 13 and 15. You’ve included a mix of cultural sites, entertainment, and sports, which is great. Here’s some feedback and additional suggestions:

Answer: When visiting the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and parking for just a few hours, considering the safety of your vehicle is important, especially if you’ll have items inside your SUV that can’t be removed or stored in the trunk.

Answer: St. Louis has a vibrant dining scene beyond its famous BBQ, offering lunch spots with unique atmospheres and quality food. Since you enjoy places like Twisted Tree, you’ll likely appreciate restaurants that focus on creative menus, stylish interiors, and a good bar selection.

Answer: For a stress-free airport transfer in St. Louis, especially when traveling with an elderly parent, hiring a dedicated professional driver is a good idea. This ensures door-to-door service, assistance with luggage, and avoids the uncertainty of ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft.

Answer: The St. Louis MetroLink is generally considered a convenient option for attending Cardinals games, particularly if you are traveling from the Moonrise area to Busch Stadium. Many visitors and locals use it to avoid downtown traffic and parking hassles. For a midweek game in September, it can be reliable, though there are some considerations to keep in mind.

Answer: If you are in St. Louis over Thanksgiving and want a mix of traditional holiday offerings as well as options for those who prefer regular menus, there are several restaurants that can accommodate your group:

Answer: St. Louis is a fantastic city with a lot to offer, and you're in for a great time! Since you'll have the weekend to explore, here are some must-do activities and suggestions for your visit:

Answer: The Gateway Arch and the surrounding Gateway Arch National Park are generally safe for daytime visits, including with groups of children. The park is a popular tourist destination, and security is present, especially near the Arch itself, the tram entrance, and visitor areas.

Answer: Good question. The status of Meramec Caverns in January can be confusing, especially if their website says “weekends only,” but online booking shows no availability. Here’s what I found — and what you should know or do to try to visit.

Answer: If your goal is to stay close to the Hilton at the Ballpark in St. Louis for a conference, looking at Airbnb options can be a good alternative to the hotel, especially if you want more space or a lower rate. The Hilton is located near Ballpark Village, downtown St. Louis, which is central to several neighborhoods.

Answer: Your planned spring break in St. Louis sounds well-paced and family-friendly. Here’s a detailed look at your itinerary and some suggestions to enhance your experience:

Answer: St. Louis has a lot to offer, especially for visitors interested in history, architecture, and unique attractions. If you're already planning to be in town for the NCAA Frozen Four, staying an extra day can definitely be worth it, as there are several attractions and things to do around downtown and beyond. Here's a breakdown of what you might want to consider during your extended stay:

Answer: It sounds like you have a fantastic trip planned already, and St. Louis has so much to offer! Given your itinerary, here are some additional suggestions to help you make the most of your solo trip:

Answer: If you're craving some of the best ribs in St. Louis, you're in luck! The city is known for its fantastic BBQ scene, especially for ribs. Here are some top spots to check out, especially if you're staying downtown:

Answer: Parking near the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is generally convenient, especially for a mid-week afternoon visit in early April. Since you won’t be staying overnight, you’ll mainly be looking at short-term visitor parking options.

Answer: Going to a Cardinals game is always a fun experience, and since it's your first MLB game in years, here's some helpful information to make the most of it:

Answer: For a group visiting St. Louis with teenage athletes and parents, you’ll want restaurants that offer healthy options, a casual and comfortable atmosphere, and convenient locations near both the Convention Center and DoubleTree Forest Park. Here’s a detailed guide to help plan breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

Answer: Forest Park in St. Louis is generally considered safe during the daytime, especially on weekdays, and it attracts many visitors who enjoy walking, jogging, and biking along the trails and in the park. The park is home to the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, and other cultural institutions, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Answer: Saint Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) does have Global Entry kiosks for expedited customs processing for eligible travelers. However, their availability depends on the terminal and airline arrival.

Answer: Flying during the Christmas holiday season can be noticeably busier than usual, even at airports that are not the largest hubs. Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) will have increased passenger traffic, particularly on the days leading up to Christmas, including the day before Christmas Eve. While two hours is the standard recommendation for domestic flights under normal circumstances, the holiday period changes things.

Answer: For a weekend centered around soccer games at the Creve Coeur Soccer Complex, it’s best to stay somewhere with easy access to Creve Coeur while still allowing a convenient drive into downtown St. Louis for sightseeing. Creve Coeur is located in the western suburbs, about 20-25 minutes from downtown, so staying in nearby neighborhoods or central West County can reduce travel time to the complex while keeping you within reach of the city.

Answer: Staying near 2nd Street and Busch Stadium in late May means you will be in the heart of downtown St. Louis during baseball season. Even if you are not attending games, it’s important to understand the impact on crowds, noise, and traffic during a weekend with Cardinals games.

Answer: Ballwin, MO, is a suburb of St. Louis, so driving downtown isn’t necessary for most activities. Since you’ll be traveling in December with a toddler, focusing on indoor and low-stress activities is a great idea. There are several local options that are safe, toddler-friendly, and festive for the Christmas season.