St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL): The Complete Guide

STL Airport Overview

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) serves more than 15 million passengers per year, making it one of the busiest airports in the Midwest. Southwest Airlines dominates here, accounting for roughly 60 percent of all passenger traffic. The airport handles over 270 daily departures to more than 60 domestic destinations and a small but growing number of international routes, including a British Airways service to London Heathrow that launched in 2026.

Despite its size, STL is a manageable airport. The layout is straightforward, security lines move quickly outside of peak morning hours, and the MetroLink light rail makes getting downtown easy and cheap.

Terminal Layout

STL has two terminals — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 — that are not connected airside. If you need to move between terminals, you must take the free shuttle bus that runs every 8 to 15 minutes between exit 12 at Terminal 1 and exit 10 at Terminal 2.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is the main terminal and handles most of the airport's traffic. It serves American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and international carriers. The terminal has two levels: arrivals on the lower level and departures on the upper level. Concourses E and F are located off Terminal 1, with concourse E being the larger of the two. Security checkpoints are on the upper level.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is primarily used by Southwest Airlines. It is smaller and more straightforward than Terminal 1, with a single concourse. All international arrivals without border clearance are processed in Terminal 2. Southwest's scale here means the terminal can get very busy during peak departure banks, so plan accordingly.

Airlines at STL

Southwest Airlines is by far the largest carrier, operating from Terminal 2. Terminal 1 hosts American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and international carriers including British Airways. Budget carriers including Frontier and Spirit also operate limited service out of STL.

Getting To and From STL

MetroLink Light Rail (Best Value)

The MetroLink light rail connects the airport directly to downtown St. Louis and the surrounding metro area. The Airport station is in Terminal 1, between Concourses E and F, which means Terminal 2 passengers need to take the inter-terminal shuttle first. The ride to downtown takes about 20 minutes and costs around $2.50. It is by far the cheapest option and avoids highway traffic entirely.

Rideshare and Taxi

Uber and Lyft pick up on the lower level of both terminals at designated zones. The trip to downtown St. Louis typically costs $25 to $35 and takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are also available at the same level.

Rental Cars

The consolidated rental car facility is connected to Terminal 1 via a short walkway on the lower level. All major national brands operate there. Terminal 2 passengers should take the inter-terminal shuttle to access the rental car center.

Parking

STL offers garage parking adjacent to both terminals, plus economy lots with free shuttle service. Garage rates start at around $24 per day. Economy lots are cheaper at around $12 per day. The economy lots are busiest during summer and holiday travel periods, so book in advance if possible.

Lounges

• American Airlines Admirals Club (Concourse E) — Standard Admirals Club with Wi-Fi, snacks, full bar, and comfortable seating. Available to Admirals Club members and eligible AA passengers.
• Delta Sky Club (Concourse F) — Open to Sky Club members and eligible Delta passengers. Offers food, drinks, showers, and workspaces.
• United Club (Concourse E) — Available to United Club members. Standard amenities including Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks.
• The Club STL — A pay-per-use lounge accessible to any passenger regardless of airline or credit card. Day passes are available at the door or online in advance.

Dining and Shops

STL has improved its dining significantly in recent years. Terminal 1 has the strongest selection, with a mix of local St. Louis concepts and national chains.

• Roasted Coffee (Multiple Locations) — Local St. Louis coffee chain. A solid alternative to the ubiquitous Starbucks.
• Blondie's Sports Bar — Full bar with pub food, ideal for watching a game during a long layover.
• O'Charley's — Sit-down dining with a full menu. Good for longer layovers.
• Vito's Pizza — Quick-service pizza that hits the spot between flights.
• Starbucks, Dunkin', Subway — National chains available throughout both terminals for quick grabs.

Terminal 2 has a more limited dining selection focused on quick-service options. If you have a long wait at Terminal 2, consider the inter-terminal shuttle to grab food in Terminal 1.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

STL offers free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals. The network is called "STL Free Wi-Fi" and requires no password. Speeds are adequate for browsing and email. Power outlets are available at most gate areas and charging stations are scattered throughout the concourses.

Tips for Navigating STL

• Know your terminal before you arrive. Southwest is in Terminal 2; everyone else is in Terminal 1. Getting to the wrong terminal costs you a shuttle ride and extra time.
• Take the MetroLink. For solo travelers or couples going downtown, the light rail is faster and cheaper than a rideshare in rush hour traffic.
• Security at Terminal 2 moves fast. Southwest's Terminal 2 checkpoint is generally less crowded than Terminal 1, but it can back up during Southwest's peak departure banks in the morning.
• Connections are challenging. If you have a connecting flight between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 airlines, factor in the inter-terminal shuttle time. Allow at least 90 minutes for a terminal-to-terminal connection.
• British Airways to London. If you are flying transatlantic from STL on British Airways, check in at Terminal 1. This is a relatively new route and a great option for Midwest travelers who want to avoid connecting through Chicago or New York.

Nearby Hotels

Several hotels are within a short shuttle or walk of the terminals. The Marriott St. Louis Airport is connected to Terminal 1 via a covered walkway, making it the most convenient option for overnight stays. The Sheraton St. Louis Airport Hotel and the Doubletree by Hilton are within a 5 to 10 minute shuttle ride and offer free airport transfers.