St. Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch, delicious food, and rich history, offers travelers a chance to explore an exciting city without breaking the bank. However, like any major city, expenses can quickly add up, especially for first-time visitors who may not be familiar with the best ways to save money. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this guide will provide practical and effective tips to help you enjoy your time in St. Louis without stretching your budget.
1. Take Advantage of Free Attractions
One of the best ways to save money while traveling to St. Louis is to enjoy its many free attractions. The city offers a range of experiences that won’t cost you a dime, making it the perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Gateway Arch National Park
The Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. While tickets to go up to the top of the Arch are not free, the Gateway Arch National Park surrounding the monument is free to explore. Stroll along the park’s beautifully landscaped grounds, visit the Museum at the Gateway Arch, or simply take in the spectacular views of the Arch from the riverfront. The museum offers fascinating insights into the history of St. Louis and the westward expansion of the United States.
Pro Tip: If you want to see the Arch from a unique angle, head over to the Old Courthouse, just across the street. It’s a lovely spot to take photos and it’s free to enter.
Forest Park
Another gem in St. Louis is Forest Park, which is not only one of the largest urban parks in the United States but also home to some of the city’s best free attractions. You can visit the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Science Center, and the Missouri History Museum—all of which are free to enter. If you’re traveling with kids, the park’s playgrounds and open spaces are perfect for a relaxed day outdoors.
2. Use Public Transportation
While renting a car might seem like a convenient option, it can be quite expensive once you factor in gas, parking fees, and insurance. Instead, use St. Louis’ excellent public transportation system, which is not only cost-effective but also quite efficient.
MetroLink
The MetroLink light rail system connects key parts of the city, including the airport, downtown, and areas near major attractions like the Gateway Arch and Forest Park. A single ride costs around $2.50, making it an affordable way to get around the city.
Pro Tip: Consider purchasing a day pass for $7, which allows unlimited rides on both the MetroLink and MetroBus throughout the day. This can be a great option if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
MetroBus
In addition to the MetroLink, the MetroBus system covers a broader range of routes, including more residential neighborhoods. A one-way fare is also $2.50, and a day pass is available for just $7.
3. Enjoy Affordable Dining Options
St. Louis is known for its fantastic food scene, but dining out at high-end restaurants can quickly eat into your budget. Fortunately, the city offers plenty of affordable and delicious dining options, ranging from local favorites to food trucks.
Try Local Favorites
St. Louis is home to unique dishes such as toasted ravioli and St. Louis-style pizza, which can be found at a variety of affordable restaurants. Head to places like Pappy’s Smokehouse, Imo’s Pizza, or The Hill neighborhood (the city’s Italian district) for reasonably priced, delicious meals that will give you a taste of St. Louis without the hefty price tag.
Food Trucks
If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, check out St. Louis’ vibrant food truck scene. From tacos to gourmet sandwiches, food trucks offer a wide variety of delicious options at prices that are much lower than sit-down restaurants. Check out the Food Truck Finder app to locate food trucks around the city.
Pro Tip: Visit the St. Louis Public Market for affordable local produce, snacks, and street food. It’s an inexpensive way to experience local flavor and culture.
4. Use Discount Passes for Attractions
For visitors who want to explore multiple paid attractions in St. Louis, purchasing a discount pass can be a great way to save money. These passes provide discounted admission to several popular sites, including museums, zoos, and cultural centers.
St. Louis CityPASS
The St. Louis CityPASS is a popular option for first-time visitors looking to explore the city’s top attractions. The pass offers entry to the Gateway Arch, the St. Louis Zoo, the Science Center, and other key sites. The savings can be substantial compared to purchasing tickets for each attraction individually.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting multiple attractions, check if the CityPASS offers skip-the-line privileges to save even more time and frustration.
5. Take Advantage of Free Events and Festivals
St. Louis is a city that loves to celebrate, and there’s always something going on, especially during the summer months. From street festivals to free concerts and events, visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural activities without spending a cent.
Free Festivals and Concerts
During the summer, St. Louis hosts a variety of free festivals, including the St. Louis Art Fair, the Big Muddy Blues Festival, and the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. Check the city’s event calendar to see if any festivals coincide with your visit.
Pro Tip: Many festivals have free concerts, so bring a blanket, grab a spot on the grass, and enjoy live music under the stars.
6. Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodations
St. Louis offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets. To keep your travel costs down, consider staying in budget-friendly hotels, motels, or Airbnb rentals.
Budget Hotels
Look for affordable hotels near the city’s key attractions, such as those in the downtown area. La Quinta Inn & Suites and Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch are known for offering good value, with comfortable rooms and free breakfast options.
Airbnb
For those looking for a more personalized stay, Airbnb is an excellent choice. From cozy apartments to private rooms, you can find a variety of affordable rentals in convenient locations around St. Louis.
Pro Tip: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons, to get the best rates.
7. Explore on Foot or Rent a Bike
St. Louis has a walkable downtown, and exploring the city on foot is a great way to save money while enjoying the sights. Alternatively, consider renting a bike to cover more ground. The St. Louis Bikeshare Program offers affordable daily and weekly rentals, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.
Walk Through Historic Neighborhoods
Take a leisurely stroll through neighborhoods like Lafayette Square and The Hill, which are not only charming but also offer a variety of free and low-cost attractions, including local parks, unique shops, and cafes.
Pro Tip: Download the Walk St. Louis app, which provides self-guided walking tours of the city’s historic districts.
8. Shop Smart and Find Local Deals
St. Louis offers a variety of shopping experiences, from upscale boutiques to quirky local shops. To save money while still picking up a souvenir, head to local markets or take advantage of seasonal sales.
Visit Local Flea Markets
St. Louis is home to several flea markets, such as the St. Louis Flea Market and The Antique Mall, where you can find unique vintage items, local crafts, and souvenirs at affordable prices.
Check for Seasonal Sales
If you’re visiting during a holiday or end-of-season sale period, take advantage of discounts at local retailers and malls like The Loop or Galleria Mall.
9. Look for Coupons and Discounts
Before you head out to your favorite attractions, check websites like Groupon or RetailMeNot for coupons or special deals. Many local attractions and restaurants offer discounts or package deals through these platforms, so doing a little research in advance can lead to substantial savings.
10. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the easiest ways to save money on your trip to St. Louis is to travel during off-peak seasons when hotels, flights, and attractions are typically less expensive.
Best Times to Visit
The shoulder seasons in spring (April to early June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for saving money. The weather is still pleasant, but prices for accommodations and attractions are lower compared to the peak summer months.
Final Thoughts
St. Louis is an incredible city that offers a wealth of experiences without requiring a fortune to enjoy. By planning ahead, taking advantage of free attractions, using public transportation, and shopping smart, you can have an unforgettable visit while sticking to your budget. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, sampling local cuisine, or simply enjoying the vibrant culture of the city, these money-saving tips will help ensure your trip to St. Louis is both enjoyable and affordable.
