The Gateway Arch View Room: My Stay at the Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown
3-Star hotel in St. Louis, Missouri ✈
During my visit to St. Louis, Missouri, I stayed at the Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown in a King Arch View Room, which was an ideal base for exploring the city's key attractions. The hotel is within easy walking distance of The Gateway Arch, making it convenient to access the local sites, including the Arch itself and the Riverboat Cruise dock.
My room had a king-size bed, which was comfortable, and the view of The Gateway Arch was impressive. The room was clean and equipped with standard amenities you'd expect from a Hilton brand hotel. There was a mini fridge, iron, and hair dryer, among other essentials.
Book a Tour: St. Louis Arch Walking Tour and Entrance Ticket
“The hotel's location was a major plus, as I could easily walk to Gateway Arch National Park and the nearby riverfront for a cruise.”
The front desk staff was friendly and efficient during check-in, which made the process smooth. The hotel also offers free breakfast with a decent selection—waffles, eggs, cereals, pastries, and fresh fruit. It was a nice perk before heading out to explore the area.
In addition to the basic in-room amenities, the Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown offers several other features that enhance the stay. The hotel has a fitness center, which is equipped with a variety of cardio machines, including treadmills and ellipticals, as well as free weights for strength training. It's a small but functional space, and I was able get in a quick workout while traveling.
There is also an indoor pool, which I took advantage of after a day of sightseeing. The pool area is well-maintained and provides a relaxing spot to take a dip, whether you're looking for a swim or just a place to relax. The hotel provides fresh towels for guest use in the pool area.
The hotel also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, which was reliable and convenient. For those driving in, the hotel provides parking, though it's important to note that parking is not free, and there is a daily fee. Additionally, there’s a business center in the lobby area, which has computers and printers available for guest use.
These amenities, combined with the hotel’s convenient location, make it a practical option for visitors looking to balance comfort and accessibility while staying in St. Louis.
Aside from its prime location and amenities, the Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown has a few additional features that are worth noting.
The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk service, which is great for late check-ins or early departures. They also have an on-site convenience store where you can pick up snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, which is helpful if you need something quickly without leaving the property. There are vending machines on each floor as well.
If you're in St. Louis for business, the hotel has meeting rooms and event space available, which can be useful for small conferences or business meetings. They also provide guest laundry services, which is a nice option for longer stays.
The hotel’s lobby is spacious and welcoming, with comfortable seating areas where you can relax or catch up on emails. There's also complimentary coffee and tea available in the lobby throughout the day.
The hotel is pet-friendly, so if you're traveling with a pet, this could be a convenient option. Just keep in mind that there may be additional fees for bringing a pet.
One convenient feature I noticed in the room at the Hampton Inn was the QR code provided for tipping housekeeping. It allows you to easily tip the staff using a credit or debit card, which is especially helpful if you don’t have cash on hand. It’s a great option if you want to show appreciation for the housekeeping team while also earning airline miles, hotel points, or cash back through your card. It’s a simple and modern touch that makes the tipping process hassle-free.
The Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown provides a well-rounded experience with plenty of practical features, whether you're in town for business or leisure. Its combination of location, friendly service, and solid amenities make it a reliable choice for travelers.
The Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown is centrally located, making it a great spot for exploring many of St. Louis’ main attractions on foot or with a short drive. Here’s what’s nearby:
1. The Gateway Arch – The hotel is within a few minutes' walk of The Gateway Arch, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You can easily visit the museum at the base, take the tram to the top, or enjoy a stroll around Gateway Arch National Park.
2. Old Courthouse – Just a short walk from the hotel, the Old Courthouse is a historic site where the famous Dred Scott case was first heard. While it was undergoing renovations during my visit, it's still worth visiting for its historical significance.
3. St. Louis Riverfront – The hotel is close to the riverfront along the Mississippi River, where you can take a scenic riverboat cruise. The dock for the cruises, like the ones aboard the "Tom Sawyer" or "Becky Thatcher," is near the hotel.
4. Ballpark Village & Busch Stadium – If you're a baseball fan, Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, is about a 10-15 minute walk from the hotel. Ballpark Village, located right next to the stadium, offers dining, bars, and entertainment.
5. City Museum – Located about a mile from the hotel, the City Museum is a unique attraction combining playground elements, funhouse-like structures, and architectural oddities, making it a favorite for families and adventurers alike.
6. America's Center Convention Complex – If you’re in town for a conference or event, the America's Center is just a few blocks away. It hosts a variety of conventions, trade shows, and large events.
7. The Dome at America’s Center – This multi-purpose stadium is adjacent to the convention complex and is used for large-scale events like concerts, sports, and conventions.
8. Dining and Shopping – The area around the hotel has several dining options, from casual eateries to higher-end restaurants. You’ll also find local cafes and stores within walking distance.
9. Laclede’s Landing – A few blocks away, this historic district by the river offers cobblestone streets, nightlife, and a selection of bars and restaurants.
With these attractions nearby, the hotel’s location is perfect for both tourists and business travelers looking to explore downtown St. Louis without the need to drive everywhere.
St. Louis has a rich history as a key city in the development of the United States. It was founded in 1764 by French fur traders Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau as a trading post. Its location along the Mississippi River made it a crucial gateway for trade and exploration, earning it the nickname "Gateway to the West." After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, St. Louis became an important starting point for westward expansion, especially with the Lewis and Clark Expedition setting off from the area in 1804.
St. Louis was also a significant hub during the 19th century due to its role in the fur trade, steamboat traffic, and later, railroads. The city hosted the 1904 World’s Fair and the first modern Olympic Games held in the U.S.
I visited St. Louis to explore its historical significance, particularly The Gateway Arch, which symbolizes the city’s role in the westward expansion of the U.S. The blend of history, culture, and iconic landmarks, like the Arch and the Mississippi River, made it a must-visit destination. The hotel's location was a major plus, as I could easily walk to Gateway Arch National Park and the nearby riverfront for a cruise. If you're looking for a straightforward, convenient and comfortable place to stay while exploring downtown St. Louis, the Hampton Inn is a solid choice.
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