The gateway to the west, St. Louis is a major Midwestern metropolis packed with history, culture, art, food, fashion and fun.
But there’s just one problem with St. Louis – it can be difficult to navigate and it is not cheap. Which is exactly why we wrote this guide for where to stay in St. Louis.
This article was put together with one thing in mind – to help YOU find the best place to stay in St. Louis. With the help of this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to know exactly which neighbourhood in St. Louis is best for you based on your interests and needs.
So whether you want to party all night long, dine on local delicacies or simply want to find the cheapest bed in town, our guide has everything you’re looking for – and more!
Let’s jump into where to stay in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in St. Louis.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Best Airbnb in St. Louis: Awesome industrial loft conversion!
A huge, design orientated, industrial loft conversion full of natural light, sound pricey? Not really. Go full-on city chic in the heart of downtown with this awesome apartment. The location is ideal for exploring the city on foot.
Best VRBO in St. Louis: Stylish Apartment with City Views
If you’re staying in Downtown for the first time, you better do it in style! This modern loft in the central city area is the perfect home for you if you want to be close to attractions, restaurants and other points of interest. Designed with an eye for detail, the space is incredibly bright, clean and super modern, giving it a super welcoming and calming atmosphere. Compared to other accommodations in the area, it’s one of the more affordable homes as well.
Best Hotel in St. Louis: Hampton Inn & Suites St Louis at Forest Park
The Hampton Inn is one of our favourite hotels in St. Louis because of it’s great Forest Park location. It is close to the Saint Louis Zoo and offers easy access to downtown and the Grove. This hotel boasts spacious rooms, a fitness centre, and an excellent indoor swimming pool.
Airbnbs in Missouri have easy access to St. Louis and all the must-see spots!
Downtown
Downtown St. Louis is a lively and thriving neighbourhood. It is the central business district and is home to St. Louis’ main tourist attractions as well as the entertainment and nightlife districts.
Lafayette Square
Set south of downtown is Lafayette Square. Centred on the oldest publicly owned park west of the Mississippi, Lafayette Square is a charming neighbourhood with tree-lined streets and distinct architecture.
Downtown
In addition to being the cultural, business, and tourist hub of the city, Downtown is also our pick for where to stay in St. Louis if you’re looking for the best nightlife.
The Grove
The Grove is an up and coming neighbourhood set west of downtown St. Louis. It is centred along vibrant Manchester Avenue and boasts a vast array of popular bars and restaurants, including the Atomic Cowboy and Sauce on the Side.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a massive and lush green space located in western St. Louis. It covers an impressive 5.55 square kilometres and has played host to several significant historical events, including the 1904 Summer Olympics.
St. Louis is a massive and sprawling city. It is the largest metropolitan area in the state of Missouri and is one of the largest centres in America’s Midwest.
St. Louis is best known for its massive Gateway Arch and as the Gateway to the West. But, there’s more to St. Louis than meets the eye. The city is packed with lush green spaces and is home to world-class shopping, an incredible food scene, and boasts a wide variety of entertainment options.
The city covers an area of 170 square kilometres. It is divided into 79 government-designated neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and flavour.
To help you navigate the streets and alleys of St. Louis, this guide will look at the must-see activities and attractions in the best neighbourhoods.
Downtown is located on the eastern end of the city. It sits along the banks of the Mississippi River and is home to skyscrapers and businesses, as well as restaurants, museums, art galleries and bars. It’s the perfect place to make your base if you’re visiting for the first time or are keen to explore the nightlife scene.
Head southwest from here and you’ll arrive in Lafayette Square. This neighbourhood is centred on one of the oldest parks in the city and boasts incredible Victorian and heritage homes. It’s where you’ll find shops and cafes, and a selection of good-value accommodation options.
Continue travelling west and you’ll pass through The Grove. One of St. Louis’ up-and-coming neighbourhoods, The Grove is home to plenty of art as well as hip eateries and lively lounges.
And finally, Forest Park is a beautiful neighbourhood situated in western St. Louis. It boasts a great selection of museums and art galleries, as well as the St. Louis Zoo.
There are some great St Louis Airbnbs spread across the city. Still not sure where to stay in St. Louis? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
St. Louis’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look in more detail at the best neighbourhoods to stay in St. Louis based on your interests.
#1 Downtown – Where to stay in St. Louis the first time
Downtown St. Louis is a lively and thriving neighbourhood. It is the central business district and is home to St. Louis’ main tourist attractions as well as the entertainment and nightlife districts.
Boasting everything from professional sports teams and corporate headquarters to trendy restaurants, world-class shopping and the iconic Gateway Arch, downtown St. Louis is a neighbourhood packed with activities and attractions. Because there is so much to see and do, Downtown St. Louis is our pick for where to stay if you’re visiting for the first time.
Love to eat? Downtown St. Louis is for you. This exciting neighbourhood is bursting with restaurants, cafes and bakeries where you can sample unique local dishes, like toasted ravioli or frozen custard.
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- Browse the Inside the Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank.
- Catch a performance at the Peabody Opera House.
- Delve deep into the history of blues music at the National Blues Museum.
- Enjoy good food and music at BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups.
- Explore the tunnels, caves, slides and displays at the City Museum.
- Ride the Downtown Trolley.
- Root for the Cardinals baseball team at Busch Stadium.
- See the iconic Gateway Arch.
- Step back in time at the Campbell House Museum.
Best Airbnb in Downtown: Awesome industrial loft conversion!
A huge, design orientated, industrial loft conversion full of natural light, sound pricey? Not really. Go full-on city chic in the heart of downtown with this awesome apartment. The location is ideal for exploring the city on foot.
Best Loft in Downtown: Stylish Apartment with City Views
If you’re staying in Downtown for the first time, you better do it in style! This modern loft in the central city area is the perfect home for you if you want to be close to attractions, restaurants and other points of interest. Designed with an eye for detail, the space is incredibly bright, clean and super modern, giving it a super welcoming and calming atmosphere. Compared to other accommodations in the area, it’s one of the more affordable homes as well.
Best Hotel in Downtown: City Place St Louis – Hotel Hyatt Regency Saint Louis at The Arch
Yes, having a Hyatt on this list might seem a bit basic, but there was no way of leaving this hotel out of the top places to stay. With its incredible location next to the famous Arch, you know you’ll be in walking distance to the best attractions in St. Louis. It might not be the cheapest option, but the value and service you get for your money is worth it. The rooms are stylish, modern and incredibly clean. You can also choose from different accommodation sizes, starting from a single room to suites that fit up to 5 people – perfect for groups or families that was to stay together. There’s a restaurant, two bars and a starbucks on sight, ideal for a lazy day!
Best Hotel in Downtown: Missouri Athletic Club
The Missouri Athletic Club is an excellent 3.5-star hotel in downtown St. Louis. It has a wonderful location close to shops, bars and restaurants, and is within walking distance of popular tourist attractions. Rooms come complete with air conditioning, tea/coffee facilities, and wireless internet.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI#2 Lafayette Square – Where to stay in St. Louis on a budget
Set south of downtown is Lafayette Square. Centred on the oldest publicly owned park west of the Mississippi, Lafayette Square is a charming neighbourhood with tree-lined streets and distinct architecture. It’s a fantastic place to make your base if you enjoy walking and gawking, dining, drinking and shopping.
Lafayette Square is also a great choice if you’re travelling on a budget. Tucked within this posh neighbourhood are a handful of good-value hotels and affordable bed and breakfasts, so you can enjoy the best of St. Louis without breaking the bank.
Things to See and Do in Lafayette Square
- Check out the colourful St. Louis Graffiti Wall.
- Enjoy French and vegetarian fare at Vin de Set.
- Go for a stroll through Lafayette Square.
- Indulge in delicious American dishes at SqWires.
- Sample handcrafted beers and spirits at Square One Brewery.
- Sneak a peek at the amazing interiors of St John Nepomuk Church, the first Czech Catholic Church in America.
Best Airbnb in Lafayette Square: Literally the cheapest place in town
This is quite literally the cheapest Airbnb going in the area, and it’s not half bad! All the amenities, a great location, and shared sleeping situations for maximum mischief. A great way to see the city without busting the bank.
Best Homestay in Lafayette Square: The Gate House Saint Louis
The Gate House is the perfect home away from home in St. Louis. This homestay is ideally located in the city and is a short drive from the restaurants, shops and tourist attractions of downtown. The one-bedroom property offers city views, a dining area and a small kitchenette.
The Gate House Saint Louis is one of our favourites in St. Louis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Lafayette Square: Hotel Avyan
Hotel Avyan is centrally located in St. Louis. It provides easy access to Lafayette Square and is well connected to downtown. This hotel offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs, refrigerators and private bathrooms. Guests can also enjoy the indoor swimming pool and free wifi.
Hotel Avyan is one of our favourites in St. Louis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
#3 Downtown – Best area to stay in St. Louis for nightlife
In addition to being the cultural, business, and tourist hub of the city, Downtown is also our pick for where to stay in St. Louis if you’re looking for the best nightlife.
Cosy cafes, world-class restaurants, chill pubs, lively bars, and secret speakeasies are just a few of the things that make this neighbourhood the city’s premier nightlife destination. No matter what you want, you’ll find something to pique your interest in the downtown neighbourhood.
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- Dine on delicious local dishes at Schlafly Tap Room.
- Don’t miss the happy hour specials at Lucas Park Grille.
- Down a pint and watch the game at Cardinals National.
- Drink, eat and dance at the Wheelhouse.
- Enjoy after dinner drinks at Hair of the Dog.
- Escape from reality at The Boom Boom Room.
- Excite your senses at Sen Thai.
Best Loft in Downtown: Quiet Minimalistic Apartment
Downtown isn’t just known for its crazy nightlife, it’s also boosting with some of the most incredible and charming accommodations in the area. This cool loft is one of them. Designed in a minimalistic style and equipped with all of the necessary amenities to make your stay perfect, you’ll have a hard time leaving this stunning loft once your trip is over. The loud bars are 1-2 blocks away, so you can even enjoy a super peaceful sleep at night!
Best Motel in Downtown: Americas Best Value Inn St Louis Downtown
The name says it all – this motel offers one of the best values in downtown St. Louis! This charming two-star motel is ideally located in the city centre and is close to popular sightseeing attractions, bars and clubs. It offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and free wifi.
Best Hotel in Downtown: Red Lion Hotel St Louis City Center
The Red Lion is a modern three-star hotel set in central St. Louis. It offers large rooms with good-sized beds and has a myriad of great amenities. You’ll also find plenty of sightseeing, dining, shopping and nightlife options within walking distance of the hotel.
Best Airbnb in Downtown: Cool Loft with Rooftop
Staying in Downtown means that you’ll have the best nightlife options right in front of your doorstep. But a place to recover from a horrible hangover is just as important as an awesome location. This stunning studio loft combines comfort and style. The exposed brickwork adds to the cool vibe inside, and you can chill in your bed all day while enjoying the views of the city through the massive dome windows. There’s a comfy sofa with a TV – perfect to watch your favorite shows. On top of that, you’ll also have access to the buildings rooftop, which is a great spot for some predrinks!
Cool Loft with Rooftop is one of our favourites in St. Louis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!#4 The Grove – Coolest place to stay in St. Louis
The Grove is an up and coming neighbourhood set west of downtown St. Louis. It is centred along vibrant Manchester Avenue and boasts a vast array of popular bars and restaurants, including the Atomic Cowboy and Sauce on the Side.
This neighbourhood is known for its high concentration of independently owned restaurants, bars, boutiques and shops. So, if you’re looking to try something new and take a break from the high street, the Grove is the neighbourhood for you.
The Grove is also a haven for hipsters and artists. Simply take a walk throughout the area and you’ll feast your eyes on colourful murals and mindblowing street art.
Things to See and Do in The Grove
- Drink, dance and enjoy a great night out at Atomic Cowboy.
- Enjoy a unique and delicious dining experience at Confluence Kombucha.
- Excite your taste buds with a delicious Indian feast at Everest Café and Bar.
- Grab a pint and enjoy an afternoon on the patio at Just John.
- Indulge in delicious American fare at Layla.
- Sample beers from Germany, America and around the world at Urban Chestnut Brewing Company.
- Savour flavourful dishes at Sameem Afghan Restaurant.
- Sip cocktails at Rehab.
- Spot colourful and creative street art as you tour the neighbourhood.
- Try the calzone at Sauce on the Side.
Best Hotel in The Grove: Holiday Inn Express St Louis Central West End
This three-star hotel is your best bet for budget accommodations near the trendy Grove neighbourhood. It is located in St. Louis’ West End and is close to a variety of restaurants, shops and bars. This hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness centre and a BBQ/picnic area.
Best Hotel in The Grove: Parkway Hotel Saint Louis
The Parkway Hotel offers four-star accommodations in the hip Central West End area. It is ideally located for shopping, dining and nightlife. Each room comes complete with a refrigerator, coffee maker and a private bathroom. There’s also an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal.
Best Hotel in The Grove: Home2 Suites St Louis
This three-star hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay in the Grove. It provides comfortable and spacious rooms with modern amenities. There’s also a gym, laundry facilities and BBQ area on-site. This hotel is close to a great selection of eateries and bistros, as well as shops, bars and clubs.
Best Airbnb in The Grove: Condo in the heart of The Grove’s
Recently retooled with brand new appliances and amenities, this hidden gem nestled in a period apartment block is great for the price. A haven for hipsters and artists, you’ll find quirky bars, concept restaurants and weird little galleries right on your doorstep.
Condo in the heart of The Grove’s is one of our favourites in St. Louis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
#5 Forest Park – Best neighbourhood in St. Louis for families
Forest Park is a massive and lush green space located in western St. Louis. It covers an impressive 5.55 square kilometres and has played host to several significant historical events, including the 1904 Summer Olympics.
Known as the heart of St. Louis, Forest Park is home to a variety of attractions and museums, including the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri History Museum. Because there’s so much to see, do and enjoy in the area surrounding the park, this neighbourhood is our pick for where to stay in St. Louis for families.
Things to See and Do in Forest Park
- Browse an incredible collection of art and artefacts spanning five millennia at the Saint Louis Art Museum.
- Delve deep into the history of the city and the state at The Missouri History Museum.
- Learn all about science and technology at the St. Louis Science Center.
- Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon enjoying the lush landscapes and glistening waterways of Forest Park.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Piccione Pastry.
- See more than 18,000 animals from around the world, including lions, penguins and giraffes, at the Saint Louis Zoo.
- Sink your teeth into a tasty slice at Pi Pizzeria.
- Snack on flavourful tacos at Mission Taco Joint.
Best Hotel in Forest Park: Red Roof PLUS+ St Louis Forest Park Hampton Ave
Located in Forest Park, St. Louis, this hotel is ideally located for exploring the city. It is in close proximity to Forest Park and the Saint Louis Zoo and there are plenty of restaurants nearby. This hotel has 110 recently refurbished rooms, a vending machine and a lift.
Best Hotel in Forest Park: Drury Inn & Suites St Louis Forest Park
The Drury Inn & Suites is one of our favourite hotels in St. Louis because of its excellent location near the Saint Louis Zoo and Forest Park. Rooms are well-appointed with coffee/tea makers, refrigerators and ironing facilities. There’s also a fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and free wifi.
Best Airbnb in Forest Park: Parkside property with a cosy vibe
Lift your family up out of one home, and plonk them in another with relative ease! Clean, light, and spacious, this places has everything you’ll need. The kitchen and dining spaces come with everything you need to cook up a storm.
Parkside property with a cosy vibe is one of our favourites in St. Louis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Family House in Forest Park: Massive Bungalow close to St. Louis Zoo
Accommodating up to 8 people at a time, this massive bungalow close to St. Louis Zoo is the perfect home for families or a group of friends that travel together. Located in a super safe neighbourhood, you’ll be in walking distance to attractions, restaurants and other points of interest. With three big bedrooms, the whole family can stay together while each member still has enough space and privacy to take a quiet minute for themselves. The owner is known to be incredibly helpful and kind, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’ve got any questions!
Massive Bungalow close to St. Louis Zoo is one of our favourites in St. Louis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in St. Louis
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of St. Louis and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for St. Louis
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in St. Louis
St. Louis is a unique city with so much to offer travellers. It has a rich and diverse history, a vibrant arts scene, unique dining opportunities and plenty of professional sports teams to choose from. No matter where your interests lie, we guarantee you’ll find something to love in St. Louis, Missouri.
In this guide, we’ve covered the best neighbourhoods to stay in St. Louis based on interest and budget. While there aren’t any hostels in the city, we did our best to include affordable options alongside mainstream hotels.
If you’re still not sure which neighbourhood is right for you, here is a quick recap.
City Place St Louis – Downtown Hotel is our pick for the best value hotel because it has a great location, excellent features and amenities – and all of that comes at an affordable price.
Another excellent option is the Hampton Inn & Suites St Louis at Forest Park because it offers easy access to the St. Louis Zoo and all of the city’s top tourist attractions.
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
