St. Louis, known as the “Gateway to the West,” is a major city in Missouri situated along the western bank of the Mississippi River. Famous for its iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis offers a rich blend of history, culture, and Midwest charm. The city is renowned for its vibrant music scene (particularly blues and jazz), passionate sports fans, and diverse neighborhoods. St. Louis boasts numerous parks, free museums, and a thriving food scene, including its famous St. Louis-style pizza and barbecue.
Choose your destination, travel dates, number of passengers and click Search
Airlines, Frequency, and Prices
Several airlines operate flights between Chicago and St. Louis:
- Southwest Airlines: Up to 6 daily flights
- United Airlines: Up to 5 daily flights
- American Airlines: Up to 4 daily flights
Southwest Airlines often offers the most competitive prices, but this can vary depending on promotions and seasons. It’s advisable to compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms for the best deals. The Chicago to St. Louis route is relatively short, so prices are generally moderate compared to longer domestic flights.
Festivals in St. Louis
St. Louis hosts numerous festivals throughout the year:
- Fair Saint Louis (July) – “America’s Biggest Birthday Party”
- St. Louis Blues Festival (August/September)
- St. Louis International Film Festival (November)
- Shakespeare Festival St. Louis (May/June)
- Festival of Nations (August)
- St. Louis Brewers Heritage Festival (June)
- St. Louis Art Fair (September)
Shopping and Prices
St. Louis offers diverse shopping experiences:
- The St. Louis Galleria: Upscale shopping mall
- The Loop: Eclectic shopping district with unique local shops
- Central West End: Trendy neighborhood with boutiques and galleries
- St. Louis Premium Outlets: For bargain hunters
Prices in St. Louis are generally lower than in Chicago. A meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost $12-20 per person, while a coffee typically ranges from $2-4.
Employment Comparison
Both Chicago and St. Louis have diverse job markets, but they differ in key industries:
Chicago:
- Finance
- Manufacturing
- Information Technology
- Healthcare
St. Louis:
- Healthcare and Biosciences
- Aerospace and Transportation
- Financial Services
- Agriculture and Food Production
While Chicago offers a larger job market overall, St. Louis has strengths in specific sectors like healthcare, aerospace, and agriculture-related industries.
St. Louis Airports and Public Transportation
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is the primary airport serving the city. It’s located about 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis.
Public transportation options:
- MetroLink: Light rail system connecting the airport to downtown (One-way fare: $2.50)
- MetroBus: Extensive bus network covering the metro area (One-way fare: $2)
- St. Louis Downtown Trolley: Seasonal trolley service in downtown area
St. Louis also has bike-sharing programs and e-scooters available for short trips around the city.
Distance and Flight Duration
The distance between Chicago and St. Louis is approximately 297 miles (478 km). A direct flight typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on wind conditions and the specific route taken.
Interesting Facts:
- The flight path often offers views of the Illinois prairies and the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers near St. Louis.
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport is named after Albert Bond Lambert, an Olympic golfer and aviation enthusiast who supported Charles Lindbergh’s famous transatlantic flight.
- There’s no time zone change between Chicago and St. Louis, as both cities are in the Central Time Zone.
- The approach to St. Louis often provides a spectacular view of the Gateway Arch, especially on clear days.
This guide provides comprehensive information about flights from Chicago to St. Louis, including key details about the destination city. Whether you’re traveling for business, to explore Midwest culture, or to enjoy the city’s attractions, understanding these aspects can help you plan a more enjoyable and efficient trip to the Gateway City.