The largest city in the Great Plains is all about having fun, with baseball, bowling, and iconic attractions to marvel at. Its biggest draw is undoubtedly the Gateway Arch standing tall since 1965, but that’s not the only draw for families who visit the city. Families are here to enjoy the vibe where the relaxed grandeur of the South blends in effortlessly with the energy of the eastern US coast. This vibe also seeps into the best family hotels in St Louis, MO, with hospitality at its best here.
From historic buildings to shiny new skyscrapers, the best hotels in St. Louis have all you would look for in a family holiday. If you’re here on a short visit, you may want to check out the best hotels near St. Louis Airport. Of course, if you’re here to cool off in the summer, then the best hotel pools in St. Louis are worth checking out.
Table of contents
- The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta
- St. Louis Union Station Hotel
- Magnolia Hotel
- The Last Hotel
- Marriott St. Louis Grand
- Hampton Inn at the Arch
- Live! by Loews
- The Cheshire
- Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark
- The Ritz Carlton
- Four Seasons
- Where to Stay in St. Louis
- Recommended Family Restaurants / Bars in St. Louis
- Recommended Family Activities in St. Louis
The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta
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Describing itself as a ‘City within a City,’ The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta scores big with all kinds of travelers, including families. The reason why the hotel features on our list of the best family hotels in St Louis, MO is the wide range of amenities on offer.
The historical hotel is housed in an Art Deco building with three onsite restaurants, a huge fitness center, and an outdoor Mediterranean-style swimming pool. It also has a historic five-screen movie theater. Add to this its location near Forest Park, and you know you have an excellent family destination.
When it comes to where you relax at the end of the day, there are 389 rooms to choose from. The newly-renovated rooms feature refined decor, custom hardwood finishes, and fine furnishings. They are also outfitted with a good range of amenities.
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St. Louis Union Station Hotel
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A member of Hilton’s Curio Collection, the St. Louis Union Station Hotel stands out as one of the best family hotels in St Louis, MO, for its excellent amenities and location. Sitting in the heart of the city, the hotel puts you close to many attractions. You’ll find popular family attractions such as the aquarium and other fun activities within the station itself.
You can look forward to some excellent amenities at the hotel, such as the outdoor pool and the Grand Hall. The recently renovated restaurant has lounge seating and a bar. It also features the first of its kind high-definition projection mapping. Projected on the Grand Hall’s 65-foot tall ceilings, the 3D entertainment is sure to wow the entire family.
Apart from the novel experience of dining in the Grand Hall, the kids will also love the Soda Fountain and the Train Shed Restaurant. There’s also a casual, family-friendly cafe on the second floor. If all this doesn’t entice you, the 3D light show with its dramatic flames and a 100-ft waterfall certainly will.
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Magnolia Hotel
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Another historical hotel in St. Louis that dates back to the early twentieth century is the Magnolia Hotel. Embodying sophistication and charm, this hotel stands out for its distinctive vibe. It boasts of being the first hotel to feature chocolates on its pillows. It’s also one of the few hotels that allow pets with no additional fee.
Guest rooms are elegantly designed with tufted faux leather headboards and plush bedding. The suites are especially outstanding with their separate sleeping and living areas. If you are in a mood to splurge, the Presidential and Gary Grant suites are top-notch.
There are no big amenities outside the rooms like a swimming pool, but the hotel does have a fitness center on the 18th floor and an excellent restaurant. Robie’s, the hotel’s in-house restaurant, serves contemporary American cuisine in a casual dining environment. If you have a fussy eater with you, you may want to dine in the comfort of your room by ordering from the restaurant. Also, don’t miss the complimentary cookies and milk served in the evenings in the lobby lounge.
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The Last Hotel
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Built inside the historical International Shoe Co. Building, The Last Hotel takes its name from the old English name for footprint, ‘laest.’ The hotel is one of the best family hotels in St Louis, MO and one of the best boutique hotels in the city. Steeped in history and architecture, this downtown hotel offers a comfortable space for all kinds of travelers to retreat to.
You can look forward to stylish, inviting, tastefully furnished rooms. They seamlessly blend in the old and new with original barrel ceilings, hand-stitched designs, and carpeted floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows make them bright and airy. If you need adjoining rooms, you can request the hotel to reserve or book a larger suite.
Besides the excellent accommodation, the hotel also scores big on amenities. Unwind at the rooftop pool and bar, or dig into a delicious meal at Ultima Cucina to create more memories. You can also pick up grab-and-go items from The Pantry.
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Marriott St. Louis Grand
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Experience the vibrant, authentic spirit when you stay at the Marriott St. Louis Grand downtown. Occupying the former building of the Statler Hotel, the historic hotel offers stylish rooms and suites. Families can choose from a wide range of room types to suit their needs. However, they may prefer a larger suite with a separate living area, wet bar, and mini-fridge.
Another good reason to stay at this hotel is the location, close to many of the city’s attractions. Entertainment options for the kids are not too far off. Dining at the hotel’s restaurant Zenia Bar & Grille is an experience too with chef-crafted cuisine, microbrews, and cocktails.
Families on the go can stock up snacks and other options from the 8th Street Pantry. You can also place an advance order for a meal to be delivered to your room. Additionally, there is also a Starbucks onsite for fresh pastries and tempting sandwiches.
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Hampton Inn at the Arch
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Walking distance from the Mississippi River and the Gateway Arch is the Hampton Inn St. Louis-Downtown. Given the location and the amenities, the hotel is an excellent choice for families looking for more affordable. You’ll find some of the most popular entertainment districts in St. Louis close by.
The rooms here are clean and functional, with quite a few conveniences. Mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and flat-screen TVs are a part of all rooms. Some rooms offer excellent views of the Gateway Arch. Families can opt for connecting rooms or larger suites.
One reason families love this hotel is the complimentary breakfast buffet served daily. The heated indoor pool is another big draw, as is the Game room.
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Live! by Loews
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While Live! by Loews may not be like the other family hotels in St Louis MO, it is worth considering if you want to be close to the iconic Busch Stadium. The hotel is quite popular with families across the street from the stadium and near Ballpark Village due to its location. It is also a pet-friendly hotel, making it even more appealing to families traveling with a special family member.
With its tagline of ‘Loews Loves Families,’ you know you and your family will be treated special from the time you arrive. Cribs are complimentary, as are the baby bath amenity kits. If you forget something vital, you can call and request whatever you need for your little one. In addition to this, children under 18 stay free if they stay in the adult’s room. Rollaway beds are provided for an additional fee. You will also find kids’ menus at the restaurant.
Clark & Bourbon is an open-plan dining area where you can enjoy American cuisine and adults can indulge in a wide variety of whiskeys. On the second floor is The Bullock, which has a stunning outdoor terrace overlooking the Ballpark Village. You can also pick up some grab-and-go items at the River Market. If you prefer to dine-in, room service with special items for children is also available.
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The Cheshire
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The Cheshire features a British-inspired aesthetic and a unique personalized experience and stands out among the best family hotels in St. Louis, MO. This centrally located hotel puts you in proximity to Washington University and Forest Park, one of the major tourist attractions in St. Louis.
With its Tudor architecture and lattice stained glass windows, this charming boutique hotel stirs the imagination like no other. What makes this hotel especially popular with families are the special touches. Rooms and suites named after the work of a famous British author, poet, or playwright are chic and inviting. They come outfitted with a wide range of amenities to enhance your comfort.
Another feature that makes this one of the best family hotels in St. Louis is that it welcomes your four-legged family members too. One of the best hotel pools in St. Louis, the seasonal outdoor pool is also another big draw for families. Given its popularity, the pool can get quite crowded during the summer. Apart from the pool, the hotel also has a sleek wellness center and a private bar and lounge. Dining at the cozy pub, Fox and Hounds, or the basement pub, Basso is an experience in itself. There’s also a Starbucks onsite.
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Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark
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If you want all the action of the Busch Stadium from the comfort of your hotel, Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark offers you just that. Sitting in the heart of downtown, the hotel is one of the best family hotels in St Louis, MO to base yourself if you want to be close to the attractions. You’ll find the Gateway Arch and other downtown attractions within walking distance from here.
Families especially love the indoor pool and spacious Jacuzzi. Floor to ceiling windows poolside look out onto the Busch Stadium. There is also a fitness center with a good selection of equipment. While the rooftop bar may not be ideal for kids on the weekend, it’s a popular spot during baseball nights for its bird-eye view of the stadium. The hotel’s main restaurant, Market Street Bistro, is open for all meals, but guests can also order from the restaurant adjacent to the hotel.
Guest rooms are spread over two towers. Rooms feature modern decor with a few mod cons. Families can also request connecting rooms, subject to availability.
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The Ritz Carlton
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After an extensive renovation, The Ritz Carlton St. Louis has emerged as one of the best family hotels in St Louis. Located in the trendy Clayton neighborhood, the hotel features a fusion of contemporary and classic styles. The hotel is so popular with families is the Ritz Kids program.
The Ritz is an excellent place for families, from special treats on arrival to a kids’ menu and other family-friendly amenities. Yes, your pets are also allowed here, so you don’t have to worry about leaving your furry family member behind. While it may not have a swimming pool like the other family hotels in St. Louis MO, there are many other perks to keep you happy.
The hotel’s swimming pool has been replaced by an all-new fitness facility that features extensive strength and cardio equipment. There’s also a stretch and free weight zone, plus massage rooms and a couple’s massage space. Casa Don Alfonso is a great place to enjoy timeless Mediterranean cuisine.
Stylish guest rooms are some of the largest in St. Louis. A total revamp of the accommodations blends contemporary and classic styles, including Juliet balconies. While the regular rooms are quite spacious, families may prefer the more expansive suites.
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Four Seasons
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Families in the know are aware of just how great the Four Seasons is for kids. With exceptional welcome amenities and complimentary children’s toiletries on offer, it stands out as one of the best family hotels in St. Louis. Board games, puzzles and books, a children’s movie library, and babysitting services make this a one-stop destination for families with younger kids. Did we mention the complimentary family movie night with popcorn?
Apart from these specials for kids, there are other amenities for the whole family. Adults can take a swing at the first-ever Topgolf Swing Suite with comfy seating and food and beverage by Cinder House. Cinder House is the perfect place to indulge your tastebuds by serving award-winning cuisine. You can also enjoy a meal at the Sky Terrace or cool off at the outdoor pool, complete with a splash pad and private cabanas.
When it comes to accommodation, you can look forward to stylish and well-appointed guest rooms that offer the best in comfort and privacy. Rooms are modern and spacious, with large windows allowing natural light. Families can request a rollaway or crib if necessary.
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Where to Stay in St. Louis
St. Louis has several distinct neighborhoods with their attractions and vibe. If you are in the city for the first time, downtown and the riverfront area have plenty of attractions to keep you busy.
However, if you are in town for a game, then a good idea would be to look at family hotels in St. Louis, MO, close to Busch Stadium.
Another good area to base yourself with family is the Forest Park neighborhood, west of downtown. With the Saint Louis Zoo and America’s oldest and biggest outdoor musical theater in the area, there is enough here to keep the family entertained.
You’ll also find the buzzing Grove neighborhood with its restaurants and pubs west of downtown.
Recommended Family Restaurants / Bars in St. Louis
- Incredible Pizza Company – It’s not just about pizza at this iconic place but fun too with a game room and other fun activities like go karts and bumper cars. The all you can eat buffet has more than enough to satisfy all kinds of palates. And no, it’s not just pizza but so much more!
- Crown Candy Kitchen – Stepping into this St. Louis institution is like taking a step back in time. Featuring the oldest Soda Fountain in St. Louis among other things, it’s the best place to indulge your sweet tooth. You can also enjoy a variety of sandwiches.
- The Fountain on Locust – This one of a kind ice cream bar and restaurant has an extensive menu that caters to all kinds of tastes. If you’re craving for lip-smacking ice cream desserts and food this is a place the kids will love.
Recommended Family Activities in St. Louis
- Saint Louis Zoo – Kids love animals so what better place to get up close to them than at the zoo in Forest Park. Spread over 90 acres, this may not be the largest zoo in the world but it has plenty to entertain the family.
- St. Louis Aquarium – From personalized animal encounters to a behind the scenes tour, this aquarium will definitely enthrall the whole family. Located in the former mall area within the Union Station, the aquarium is definitely worth a visit.
- St. Louis Union Station – Apart from the interesting aquarium, this National Historic Landmark houses other fun things for the family. From mini golf, a mirror maze and a classic old school carousel, a trip to the station will be a memorable one.