St. Louis Airport Transportation
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) offers a wide range of transport options adapted to different budgets and travel styles. From very affordable public transport to fast door-to-door services, getting to and from the airport is relatively easy compared to larger U.S. hubs. The airport is located about 14–24 km from downtown, with travel times typically between 20 and 35 minutes depending on the option chosen.
MetroLink
The MetroLink light rail system is the most efficient and economical way to travel between the airport and downtown St. Louis. It operates two stations directly connected to the terminals: one at Terminal 1 and one at Terminal 2, both accessible on foot.
Location:
Terminal 1 station: connected via lower level (Arrivals)
Terminal 2 station: short walking distance from terminal exit
Prices:
Single ride: 2.50 USD
From airport special fare: up to 4.00 USD
Day pass: around 5–7.50 USD
Duration:
Downtown: 30–35 minutes
Main destinations:
Downtown (8th & Pine station)
Central West End (hospitals and hotels)
Clayton (business district)
Frequency: every 15–20 minutes
-The MetroLink is the best option if you travel light and want to avoid traffic. It is also the only direct rail connection from the airport.
-Buy tickets at vending machines before boarding; inspections are frequent.
Taxis and ride-hailing (Uber, Lyft)
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide the fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination directly from the airport.
Pickup locations:
Terminal 1: near Door 14 (Arrivals level)
Terminal 2: near Door 12
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Terminal 1 Door 6 (Departures level), Terminal 2 Door 12
Prices:
Taxi to downtown: 35–50 USD
Uber average: around 40–45 USD
Duration:
Downtown: 20–25 minutes
Main destinations:
Downtown hotels
Clayton
Suburban areas
-Uber and Lyft are usually slightly cheaper than taxis and have shorter waiting times.
-Prices increase significantly during peak hours or bad weather.
Buses and shuttle services
Public buses and private shuttle services connect STL with the city and nearby areas. While buses are the cheapest option, airport shuttles are more comfortable and often used for hotel transfers.
Location:
Bus stops: outside terminals (Arrivals area)
Shuttle pickup: designated zones near terminal exits
Prices:
Public bus: 2–5 USD
Airport shuttle: 15–25 USD one way
Duration:
Downtown: 30–60 minutes depending on route
Main destinations:
Downtown hotels
Gateway Station
Nearby suburbs
See more information
-Shuttle services are a good compromise between price and comfort, especially for families.
-Public buses are less intuitive for first-time visitors and may require transfers.
Car rental
Car rental is a popular option for travelers planning to explore the wider Missouri region or needing flexibility.
Location:
Rental car center is off-airport
Free shuttle available from:
Terminal 1: Exit 17 or Garage Door 15
Terminal 2: Exit 12 Prices:
Standard car: 40–70 USD per day
Premium / SUV: 70–120 USD per day
Duration to downtown: 20–25 minutes
Book your car here!
Rental cars are highly recommended if you plan to visit places outside downtown, as public transport coverage is limited.
Book in advance to secure better rates, especially in summer.
Private car and driving
Driving to and from STL is easy thanks to direct access via Interstate 70, the main highway connecting the airport to the city.
Main access: I-70 (Exits 234–236)
Distance to downtown: approx. 14 miles (22 km)
Travel time: 20–25 minutes
Fuel cost: approx. 3–5 USD
-Traffic is usually light compared to major U.S. cities, making driving a reliable option.
-Follow signs carefully, as Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have separate access roads.
Transport comparison to downtown St. Louis
Typical travel times to key destinations