St. Louis, a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and delicious food, welcomes millions of visitors each year. But before you even step foot in the Gateway Arch, you'll need to navigate the airport scene. St. Louis offers two main options: Lambert International Airport (STL) and Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS). Choosing the right one can significantly impact your travel experience, saving you time, money, and stress. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the best decision for your trip.
Which St. Louis Airport Should I Fly Into?
This is the most common question travelers ask. The answer depends entirely on your priorities and circumstances. Let's break it down:
Lambert International Airport (STL): The Main Hub
Lambert International Airport (STL) is the larger of the two airports, offering significantly more flight options, both domestically and internationally. Major airlines like Southwest, American, Delta, and United all operate out of STL, providing a wide range of destinations and competitive pricing. It's also well-equipped with amenities, including numerous restaurants, shops, lounges, and readily available transportation options to and from the city.
Pros:
- More Flight Options: A vastly larger selection of airlines and destinations.
- Competitive Pricing: More airlines mean more competitive fares.
- Amenities: Extensive amenities and services within the airport.
- Convenient Transportation: Easier access to public transportation and ride-sharing services.
Cons:
- Larger and More Crowded: Expect longer walking distances and potentially longer security lines.
- Further from City Center (depending on your destination): While well-connected, it's still a considerable drive to some parts of the city.
Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS): A Smaller, More Local Option
Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS), located further west, is a much smaller general aviation airport. It primarily serves smaller airlines and private jets. While it's less crowded than Lambert, it offers dramatically fewer flight options and may not be suitable for everyone.
Pros:
- Less Crowded: A much smaller and less hectic airport experience.
- Potentially Closer (depending on your destination): For travelers staying in western St. Louis County, it may be closer than Lambert.
Cons:
- Limited Flight Options: Significantly fewer airlines and destinations are available.
- Fewer Amenities: Limited food and shopping options.
- Less Convenient Transportation: Fewer public transport options and less readily available ride-sharing services.
What are the Transportation Options from Each Airport?
Getting to and from the airport is a key consideration. Let's examine the options for both airports:
Transportation from Lambert International Airport (STL)
- MetroLink: St. Louis' light rail system provides direct access to the city center and various points beyond.
- Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Readily available and convenient.
- Taxis: Also readily available but potentially more expensive than ride-sharing.
- Rental Cars: Numerous rental car agencies are located within the airport.
Transportation from Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS)
- Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Available but may take longer to arrive and be slightly more expensive due to distance.
- Taxis: Available but limited.
- Rental Cars: Rental car agencies are available, but the selection might be smaller.
Is Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS) ever a better option?
While Lambert is almost always the preferred choice for most travelers due to its superior flight options and amenities, Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS) might be a better option if:
- You're flying on a smaller airline not serving Lambert.
- You're staying in far western St. Louis County and the drive to Lambert would be significantly longer.
- You are prioritizing a less crowded experience and aren't concerned about limited flight options.
However, for most travelers, the convenience and extensive options at Lambert significantly outweigh the benefits of choosing the smaller airport.
Conclusion
Selecting the right airport for your St. Louis trip depends on your specific needs and preferences. For the vast majority of travelers, Lambert International Airport (STL) is the clear winner. However, consider the factors outlined above to determine the best option for your unique travel plans. Happy travels!
