Missouri’s second-largest city St. Louis is the perfect midwestern destination. The bustling metropolis sits on the western banks of the Mississippi River. It’s perhaps most known for the iconic Gateway Arch, which was built way back in the 1960s. No matter what you’re doing in the city, a break is incomplete without an amazing stay. Discerning travelers will love the many options for boutique hotels in St Louis, which lie all over the city, including the bustling Downtown. Boutique hotels are a great way to stay somewhere more local and authentic, and St Louis’ boutique hotels range from lavish stays to cozier ones. What’s more, they boast everything from quaint pubs to movie theaters, even lie in historic locations – and there’s even a lunar-themed hotel. Far out, indeed. To that end, here are the 11 best boutique hotels in St Louis, including downtown ones.
Table of contents
- The Wildwood Hotel
- Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection
- Seven Gables Inn
- Hotel Indigo St. Louis – Downtown
- Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- The Cheshire
- Angad Arts Hotel
- Moonrise Hotel
- The Last Hotel
- Hotel Ignacio
- The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis
- Recommended Restaurants/Bar in St. Louis
- Recommended Things To Do in St. Louis
- Where To Stay in St. Louis
The Wildwood Hotel
11
The Wildwood Hotel is, without a doubt, one of the most charming boutique hotels in St Louis. The address might say West St. Louis, but the architecture practically screams “French countryside!” Located about half an hour west of downtown St. Louis, this hotel is very popular with outdoorsy travelers as well as wedding parties. It bodes well for the former party that this place is close to both biking and hiking trails and even a winter ski resort. The rooms and suites here feature decor befitting the château theme and are on the lines of ornate and decorative. Even then, they’re not in your face but rather understated. What’s more, they’re all spacious with separate sleeping and seating areas and have coffee/tea-making facilities and free Wi-Fi.
Begin your day with a lovely breakfast buffet, which you can even enjoy alfresco in warm weather. An indoor pool ensures that a refreshing swim and dip is never away, despite the season. Rounding up the amenities is the onsite fitness center.
Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection
10
Hotel Saint Louis is one of the loveliest boutique hotels in downtown St Louis. Travelers who prefer the suite set-up while traveling will love the many options that this historic hotel offers. Choose from 140 rooms, of which 52 are suites. What’s more, many of them boast gorgeous architectural elements and have fantastic views of the cityscape. Plus, they all feature coffeemakers, plush bathrobes, minibars, flatscreen TVs, and even patios in some. Since it’s a Marriott property, you know that the amenities here will be top-notch, and they don’t disappoint. Aside from a fabulous restaurant, the property also has a bar, a fitness center, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool too. After a long day of exploring the city, unwind in peace with a massage or a body treatment at the spa.
Seven Gables Inn
9
No list of boutique hotels in St Louis is complete without mentioning Seven Gables Inn. This longtime St. Louis favorite is nestled on the northern edge of upscale Clayton and even features on the National Register of Historic Places! The unique Tudor Revival architecture and the 1920s ambiance sure makes for a very romantic atmosphere. Choose from 32 rooms and suites, which come with fuzzy robes and chic bathrooms with heated toilet seats. Moreover, you’ll also find thoughtful touches such as complimentary chocolates on the pillow and plush mod-cons, including fridges, flatscreen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The rest of the inn is equally charming, especially the restaurant and bar where a hearty breakfast is served every morning. It’s also great for brunches and lunches, after which you can take long walks in the lush courtyard.
Hotel Indigo St. Louis – Downtown
8
Hotel Indigo has to be one of the most charming boutique hotels in downtown St Louis. The four-star hotel is famous for its exceptionally attentive and friendly staff, making this something of a home away from home. Choose from 88 rooms and suites, which vary in shapes and sizes, but with great views of downtown St. Louis. What’s more, they even feature sleek desks, coffeemakers, and chic bathrooms. Downstairs, you’ll find an in-house snack bar and a business area to get work done. Begin every day with a sumptuous and delicious à la carte breakfast, after which you can borrow bicycles from the front desk to explore St. Louis. After a day of working and exploring, head to the rooftop deck with a coffee or a brew in hand and enjoy views of the Gateway Arch.
Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
7
The Magnolia Hotel is one of the most beautiful historic boutique hotels in St Louis. Do you enjoy chocolates being left on your pillow at night? The legend goes that actor Cary Grant flagged off that practice here at the Magnolia! With origins going back to 1924, the hotel offers cookies at turndown today. The striking lobby and bar still retain original touches such as ornate white columns and grand chandeliers, with other retained features being the timeless stained-glass windows and original elevators. As is the case with many historic hotels, the rooms and suites vary in size, from cozy queen rooms to expansive suites.
Part old Hollywood glam and part modern, the rooms are all about pristine linens, soft hues, and fresh flowers everywhere. Wind up the day with dinner at the onsite restaurant or take one of the hotel’s complimentary Tesla’s to a hotspot of your choice in Downtown. It’s no wonder that this hotel is a pillar of St. Louis’ historic Downtown chic and sits on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Cheshire
6
Yet another of the most popular boutique hotels in downtown St Louis is The Cheshire. Location, location, location – plus a side of English charm is what makes this boutique hotel so popular. The Tudor-style hotel has a storied history. Today, it’s a British-themed hotel that retains the original elements, such as the stained-glass windows in the lobby. After a lazy breakfast at the atmospheric Fox and Hounds pub, relax by the poolside terrace with a cocktail in hand. During warmer months, a dip in the pool feels refreshing. In fact, it’s one of the Best Hotel Pools In St. Louis. During the day, enjoy coffee from the roomy Starbucks on the property, which is a great place to get some work done as well.
Choose from 108 rooms and suites, each of which is named after a famous British writer. So, Agatha Christie, Ian Fleming, and Shakespeare fans will find this inn perfect for them. Moreover, they all have hand-carved mantles, 18th-century antique furniture, Renaissance-era paintings, and cozy wood-burning fireplaces.
Angad Arts Hotel
5
Angad Arts Hotel is one of the most unique boutique hotels in St Louis. Here, you get to choose a room based on your mood and the emotion of ‘color!’ Are you feeling happy? Book the yellow suite. Are you feeling powerful and passionate? Go for the red one! Likewise, there are blue rooms for tranquility and green for rejuvenation. What’s more, every floor is a different color, but it’s not at all kitschy and rather creative and exciting. In fact, Angad is the first hotel in the world where you can book rooms based on your mood! If you want more space, go for the suites that come with kitchenettes. Befitting the hotel’s name, art of all kinds is central to the Angad experience. So, you’ll find art from St. Louis artists in a variety of media all over the place.
Furthermore, you can even take a tour of the rooftop patio, which showcases art exhibits from regional artists, along with views of the Gateway Arch. Finally, the hotel’s restaurant is perfect for digging into all meals.
Moonrise Hotel
4
The Moonrise Hotel is one of the hippest boutique hotels in downtown St Louis. Famed for its new-age styling and contemporary design, the rooms and suites here are named after famous folks from the St. Louis Hall of Fame. So, you can stay in the Betty Grable suite, or the Tennessee Williams suite, or even the Josephine Baker one! Decked out in funky decor and vibrant colors, the hotel also features a playful lunar theme, luxury amenities, and a retro-chic vibe. Three restaurants and bars onsite take care of all your food-related whims and fancies. The epicenter of all action is the rooftop lounge and bar, which stays open late and is always packed with a nuzzling crowd. And, of course, you can see the full moon from the roof! The cherry on top? The surrounding Delmar Loop neighborhood is one of the city’s liveliest.
The Last Hotel
3
Not only is the Last Hotel one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in St Louis, but it’s one of St Louis’ Most Romantic Hotels, and it’s easy to see why. Ensconced in the restored Art Deco and Neoclassical opulence of a Downtown oldie, the vibe here is distinctly historic. Think bespoke leather accents and terrazzo floors to ironwork and ornate stone. Choose from more than 142 stylish rooms and suites, which range from fashionably cutesy to high-end VIP experiences. Everything here, right from the digs to even the gym, is classy as well as an Instagrammer’s dream. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel has tons of culinary options. The Last Pantry, for instance, is where you can shop for pickles, sauces, etc., to take home. Finally, the Last Kitchen restaurant serves up hearty Midwestern fare.
Hotel Ignacio
2
From a vacant structure to a 10 million USD boutique hotel, Hotel Ignacio is a cultural urban oasis in St Louis’ Grand Center Arts District. One of the chicest and most luxurious boutique hotels in downtown St Louis, this hotel boasts 49 eclectic but artfully designed rooms, including two suites. With plush beds, snazzy bathrooms, and a host of mod-cons (and great views, of course), the hotel combines cutting-edge design with cozy amenities. When you do get out of the room, grab a couple of the hotel’s in-house bicycles and explore the neighborhood on your own. After a long day of exploring, grab a bite at the triumph Grill or Baiku Sushi Lounge, both of which serve excellent fare.
The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis
1
Topping the list of best boutique hotels in St Louis is The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis. With its origins tracing back to the 1920s, the hotel is one of the most recognizable landmarks in one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods, Central West End. Looking at its amenities, it’s no wonder that the hotel hosted everyone from former President Jimmy Carter to Frank Sinatra. For one, it features a movie theater and a host of classic drinking and dining options, including a cocktail-forward restaurant! During balmy weather, the pool feels like an oasis. Aside from that, the hotel also has a full-service spa and salon and one of the most impressive Santé Fitness Centers you’ll ever see. You’ll love the rooms and suites here too, which feature in-room movie services, minibars, flatscreen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
Recommended Restaurants/Bar in St. Louis
- Union Loafers: Don’t let seemingly utilitarian menu unfaze you; this is legit one of the best spots in the city for sandwiches, salads, soups, and bread. We’ll even suggest your order – begin with the pizza rossa, followed by a gem salad (plus bacon!). Then, dig into your mains – the rare roast beef sandwich. On your way out, grab a loaf and return at night – this spot turns one of St. Louis’ best pizzerias.
- Salt+Smoke: Since St. Louis is a barbeque town, heading to Salt + Smoke is a rite of massage. Devour the city’s world-famous pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, besides which you’ll also find healthy and inventive options on the menu. The best bit? The place also has a rather thorough drink menu with over 100 cocktails, bourbons, and an impressive beer list.
Recommended Things To Do in St. Louis
- Romantic tour in Saint Louis: Are you on a romantic vacation in St Louis? This private tour for just the two of you takes you on a guided tour of the most romantic spots in St Louis, complete with a personal photographer to capture the most magical moments. Exclusive to the boot, indeed.
- St. Louis Scavenger Hunt St. Louis Delights: Do you want to avoid the run-of-the-mill tourist-filled museums? Make your own memories of St. Louis with a photo scavenger hunt tour! On this tour, you and your team works together and solves clues and puzzles to visit the best spots in the city, racking up laughs and points along the way. It’s one of the best ways to discover the delights of the city.
Where To Stay in St. Louis
St. Louis is one of the largest midwestern cities and has many amazing neighborhoods. In fact, it’s one of the Lesser-Known Cities to Consider Relocating to! So, which St. Louis neighborhood must you stay in, that is, if you don’t want to spend your holiday just traveling around? To begin with, there’s the heart and soul of the city, which is Downtown. There are many lovely boutique hotels in downtown St Louis, and it’s perfect for first-timers, families, and even couples. What’s more, it’s where most of the city’s attractions and its best nightlife lie. Secondly, there’s the buzzing neighborhood of Grove, which lies just west of Downtown. During evenings, this unique neighborhood comes alive as it houses some of the city’s best pubs and restaurants in the city.
Do you love bed and breakfasts and tree-lined avenues? Then head out to the leafy neighborhoods of U-City, Holly Hills, and Benton Park. Last but not least, the lush and sprawling Forest Park is one of the best landmarks in town. Do you want to stay away from all the bustle? This is where you should be.
Do you have a short layover in town? Then, you might want to check out the Best Hotels Near St. Louis Airport.
