Roberta Aguirre
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) allows passengers to stay overnight. The airport consists of two terminals with five concourses in total. While the terminals are open 24 hours a day, passengers must remain in the public area once the security checkpoints close for the night. There are various places to rest, including benches, couches, and free resting zones. However, it is important to note that the airport can get cold and noisy at night, and there are no sleeping pods available. Passengers should also be aware of the potential risks of sleeping in any airport, especially when alone, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the security of their valuables.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Staying Overnight | Allowed |
| 24-Hour Services | Vending machines, ATMs, children's playground, baby changing facilities, pet relief areas |
| Terminals | Two terminals (1 and 2) with five concourses (A-E) |
| Sleeping Amenities | Limited number of seats, couches in the check-in area, free resting zones, benches in Concourse A and Terminal 2, Concourse C (darker and quieter) |
| Security | Security checkpoints close at night, additional security after a 2020 stabbing incident |
| Wi-Fi | Free for 60 minutes per day, additional time costs $7.95 per day |
| Charging Stations | Available in Terminal 1 (gates A9, C9 to C12) under seats |
| Nearby Accommodations | Many hotels nearby with free shuttle services |
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Where to sleep
If you're planning to sleep at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), there are a few things to keep in mind and some options for where to rest your head.
Firstly, it's important to note that while the airport's terminals are open 24 hours a day, the security checkpoints close at night, so you'll need to stay in the public area. There are a limited number of seats, so you may need to rest on the floor. It's recommended to bring a sleeping bag or mat, a blanket or hoodie, an eye shade, and earplugs or headphones as the terminal can get cold, bright, and noisy at night.
For a more comfortable option, head to Concourse C, which is often preferred as it's darker and quieter. Here, you'll find seats without armrests that can make for a more comfortable sleep. Alternatively, near the check-in area, you can find couches that can be arranged to form a makeshift bed. If you'd like more amenities, you can access the airport's VIP lounges, but note that these close at night.
If you'd prefer a hotel, there are many options nearby, some of which provide free shuttle services to and from the airport. While this option will cost you a fee, it may be worth it for a good night's sleep.
Lastly, while the airport does provide free WiFi, it's only available for 60 minutes per day. You can purchase additional time for $7.95 per day. Multiple mobile charging stations are available in Terminal 1 (gates A9, C9 to C12) under the seats.
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Safety tips
If you're planning to stay overnight at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience. Here are some safety tips to guide you:
- Know the airport layout: St. Louis Lambert International Airport has two terminals (1 and 2) and five concourses (A to E). Terminal 1 has four concourses (A to D), while Terminal 2 hosts Concourse E for international flights. The terminals are connected by a continuous shuttle bus service. Knowing the layout can help you navigate to the most comfortable spots and locate essential amenities.
- Locate the security office: Familiarize yourself with the location of the security office. This can be your go-to place if you need assistance or encounter any issues during your stay. Additionally, look for areas with video surveillance as they tend to be safer spots to rest.
- Stay in busy areas: For added safety, it's advisable to stay in well-lit, busy areas with other travellers or close to security personnel. This can deter potential thieves and provide a sense of security, especially if you're travelling alone.
- Secure your valuables: Keep your valuables safe and out of sight. It's important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. If possible, keep your belongings with you at all times, even when sleeping.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings at all times, especially when using the MetroLink or exploring the airport at night. While the airport is generally safe, it's always good to be cautious and trust your instincts.
- Consider your comfort: The airport terminals can get cold at night, and bright lights and noises can be disruptive. Bring a sleeping bag or mat, a blanket or hoodie, an eye shade, and earplugs or headphones for a more comfortable rest.
- Use mobile charging stations: St. Louis Airport provides mobile charging outlets, which can be found in Terminal 1 (gates A9, C9 to C12) under the seats. Keep your devices charged so you can stay connected and access important information or emergency contacts if needed.
- Utilize nearby hotels: If you prefer more comfort and privacy, consider the nearby hotels, some of which provide free airport shuttle services. This option can offer a better night's rest and additional amenities.
- Plan for food options: Keep in mind that most eateries within the airport close during overnight hours. Plan ahead and bring your own food, or rely on the 24-hour vending machines located throughout the airport.
- Stay informed: Check the latest reviews and updates from other travellers who have stayed overnight at the airport. They may provide valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to enhance your safety and comfort.
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Nearby hotels
While there are no hotels inside St. Louis Lambert Airport, there are several hotels nearby. Some of these hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport, making them a convenient option for travellers.
One option is the Airport Marriott, which has been mentioned as being "very cheap" by a traveller. Another traveller has suggested looking for hotels that provide a free airport shuttle, as these can be more comfortable and convenient than sleeping at the airport.
When planning an overnight stay at the airport, it is important to consider the amenities and services available. While the airport terminals remain open 24 hours a day, the security checkpoints close at night, limiting travellers to the public areas. There are a limited number of seats available, and travellers may need to rest on the floor. Additionally, there are no luggage storage facilities, so travellers must keep their belongings with them.
For those looking for a more comfortable option, the airport VIP lounges offer additional amenities, but they also close at night. It is worth noting that the only 24-hour food options at the airport are vending machines. However, there are numerous restaurants and shops open during the day, and free Wi-Fi is available for up to 4 hours.
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Food and drink options
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) offers a wide range of food and drink options to satisfy any craving. With over 32 restaurants to choose from, many opening as early as 4:30 am, you'll have no trouble finding something to suit your taste buds. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, here are some options to consider:
Quick Bites
- The Great American Bagel: If you're in a hurry, this spot takes the grab-and-go concept seriously.
- Budweiser: Offering a wide range of cold pints and quick bites, including their popular chicken quesadilla and fries.
- Auntie Anne's: Known for their freshly baked, chewy pretzels, with popular flavours like triple cheese, pepperoni, and cinnamon sugar.
- Vending Machines: For an even quicker option, vending machines are scattered throughout the airport.
Sit-Down Meals
- Missouri Vineyards: Offering local wines and drinks paired with dishes like roasted chicken flatbread and grilled chicken Caesar salad.
- Schlafly: Serving beer, cocktails, and delicious meals like steak and fries. You can also find a co-joined Schlafly and Pasta House Co. in Terminal 2, offering both of their menus under one roof.
- The Blue Note: An American-style restaurant serving burgers and drinks, including a vegetarian black bean burger option.
- La Tapenade: A Mediterranean restaurant known for its exquisite breakfasts, serving homemade chutneys, hummus, fine cheeses, char-grilled legumes, and rotisserie meats.
- Pasta House Co.: A local Italian chain offering pasta, pizza, sandwiches, burgers, soups, and salads with generous portions.
- Vino Volo: Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, custom-paired with wine, as well as sumptuous cheese plates.
In addition to these options, STL Airport also provides 24-hour food concessions, ensuring that you can refuel no matter the time of day or night.
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Other services
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) offers a variety of services to travellers spending the night or those looking for a place to rest. While the airport terminals remain open 24 hours a day, passengers must stay in the public area once the security checkpoints close for the night. Here are some other services available:
- Free Wi-Fi: St. Louis Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access for passengers and visitors. The free service is available for 60 minutes per day through the Boingo network. Additional time can be purchased for $7.95 per day.
- Mobile Charging: Multiple mobile charging stations are available throughout the airport, specifically in Terminal 1 (gates A9, C9 to C12) under the seats.
- ATMs: ATMs are accessible 24 hours a day for your banking needs.
- Children's Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children to play and stay entertained during layovers or extended stays.
- Baby Changing Facilities: Baby changing facilities are available around the clock for parents and caregivers travelling with infants.
- Pet Relief Areas: If you're travelling with pets, designated pet relief areas are provided for their comfort and convenience.
- Vending Machines: While most eateries and shops close during overnight hours, vending machines located throughout the airport offer 24-hour access to snacks and beverages.
- Nearby Accommodations: For those seeking a more comfortable option, there are numerous hotels near the airport, some of which provide free shuttle services. These hotels offer a place to sleep for a fee.
- VIP Lounges: The airport also has VIP lounges that offer additional amenities, although they typically close at night.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, St. Louis Airport is open 24 hours a day, so you can stay overnight. However, you will have to remain in the public area, as the security checkpoints close at night.
Concourse C is often preferred as it is darker and quieter. There are also some comfortable benches in Concourse A and Terminal 2. If you want to be more comfortable, you can arrange the couches in the check-in area into a bed.
It can get cold at night, and there are bright lights and noises, so bring a sleeping bag or mat, a blanket or hoodie, an eye shade, and earplugs or headphones.
