The 8 best hotels in St Louis

One of St Louis’ most luxurious stays, The Four Seasons boasts a world-class spa, breathtaking views of the Arch, an on-site casino, a large outdoor pool and hot tub on an eight-floor sky terrace, and a restaurant helmed by a James Beard award-winning chef. As you’d expect, the 200 rooms and suites here are contemporary in styling and filled with light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, and it’s all conveniently located downtown near all the city’s best museums, Busch Stadium, and the business district on Washington Avenue.

Where is it? Downtown St. Louis.  

Time Out tip: After taking a few snaps at Gateway Arch, head to Idol Wolf at 21c St. Louis for an intimate dining experience and a playful take on traditional Spanish tapas. 

In town for live music or visiting nearby Washington University? The hip Moonrise Hotel, located on St Louis’ most famous street, Delmar Blvd, is your spot. Enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants, from BBQ to Thai food, plus multiple concert halls, movie theaters, and boutique shopping all nearby. As you might guess from its name, the Moonrise is playfully lunar-themed, with a retro-chic vibe and luxury amenities. The rooftop lounge and bar stays open late and is always packed with a lively crowd. 

Where is it? Delmar in The Loop, Saint Louis. 

Time Out tip: For those who want to nibble while they enjoy the views, Eclipse Restaurant now offers small plates at the bar. We'd recommend the lobster quesadillas.

The Arts and Garden District of Clayton is 15 minutes west of downtown St Louis, and the Ritz-Carlton is the premiere lodging destination in the area. Being steps away from some of the city’s best dining and minutes from Forest Park make it an excellent choice for families and couples alike, but if you don’t really need to leave you can enjoy two restaurants, a fitness center, and the swanky lobby bar, which plays host to weekend bands. Like at most Ritz properties, expect elegance, comfort, and nothing but the best in hospitality.

Where is it? Clayton, St. Louis. 

Time Out tip: Saint Louis Art Museum offers free admissions every Friday, so it's well worth swinging by for some intriguing pieces spanning five millennia. 

The Central West End is one of St Louis’ most walkable neighborhoods, and The Chase is one of its most recognizable landmarks. Look out over beautiful Forest Park from your comfortable room, then head down to explore the many shops and restaurants in the area. Traveling without a car? No problem. The nearby Metro Link can easily get you both downtown and to Clayton. Leisure-wise, this swanky hotel features a movie theater, and classic dining and drinking options, including the cocktail-forward restaurant, The Preston. Pretty neat. 

Where is it? North Kingshighway Boulevard, Saint Louis. 

Time Out tip: During warmer months, the pool is an oasis in the city and a mandatory amenity during humid STL summers.

Location, location, location – plus a side of Old English charm – make a stay at the Cheshire a memorable experience. The amenities of Forest Park are footsteps away, and you’re in between both Clayton and the Central West End. Though the on-site restaurants make it easy to not even leave; don’t miss the cozy Fox and the Hound pub, along with two of St Louis’ best restaurants; Boundary, and the hip subterranean eatery Basso. There’s even a roomy Starbucks for caffeine, a makeshift office, and a delightful outdoor pool. 

Where is it? Clayton Road, Saint Louis.

Time Out tip: During warmer months, the Cheshire pool is a favorite of locals and guests alike.

A multi-decade renovation has brought this historical building – once the transportation hub of St Louis – back to life. The Grand Hall is the hotel’s crown jewel, featuring 65-foot-high barrel-vaulted ceilings, intricate artwork, and a nightly light show. Whether you choose to stay here or not (and we advise you do, for the 539 spacious, beautifully styled rooms and the outdoor pool), it’s worth swinging by for a drink. Besides its stunning interiors, the hotel is right in the heart of downtown and, Hockey fans take note, the Blues play next door.

Where is it? Downtown St. Louis. 

Time Out tip: Union Station Hotel takes cocktails to a whole new level in the Grand Hall Lounge which features an unmissable 3D light show.

AC Hotels’ latest new hotel in St Louis is now hosting its first guests. So if you're looking for somewhere new, this is the place for you. Located in the heart of the city’s upscale Central West End district at the eastern edge of Forest Park, this hotel wiill give you quality, timeless European design, comfort and true authenticity. Spend time in the AC Kitchen for all your breakfast needs, and come evening, enjoy tapas and cocktails at the AC lounge. 

Where is it? Chesterfield, St. Louis. 

Time Out tip: If you're heading to St. Louis this summer, you can enjoy Sounds of Summer's free concerts at the Chesterfield Amphitheatre. 

After undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation in 2014, this luxury boutique hotel is a welcome addition to the downtown lodging options. The dining and shops of Washington Ave are steps away, and the City Museum and the Arch grounds are within walking distance. The lovely rooms are part modern, part soothing old Hollywood glam – a winning mix of pristine white linens, ecru woven textured bedding, and gentle touches of color here and there. Decently-priced too. 

Where is it? Downtown St Louis. 

Time Out tip: Dine on-site at Robie's Restaurant and Lounge or take a complimentary car within the downtown area to a hotspot of your choice.