What it is

A 142-room retreat with traditional bones, a 2,000-square-foot spa, well stocked 24-hour gym, al fresco pool and three buzzing bars and restaurants (one on the roof).

What it isn't

Poorly serviced. Expect indulgent offerings like room service, daily housekeeping, valet, dry cleaning, and gratis coffee and tea to keep you perky.

What we think

In a city known for good design like St. Louis—home to Eero Saarinen’s Gateway Arch and the Beaux Arts, circa 1879 Saint Louis Art Museum—you simply must stay somewhere stunning. Hotel Saint Louis fits the bill. Even the “starter” guest room option here, the 432 square foot Guest Room 1 King, is luxuriously appointed with champagne velvet upholstery, a glimmering chandelier, tufted headboard, mini fridge, and marble-lined bath (including a bidet). To live like St. Louis icons like Catherine Deneuve, Maya Angelou or Tina Turner, treat yourself to a King Balcony Suite; they come with separate living rooms and—yep—an al fresco balcony perfect for sipping your St. Louis Sling amid a postcard worthy view.

You're here because

It’s not a vacay without a spa, and this one offers everything from hydro facials to Dead Sea mud wraps.

The Moment

After an afternoon poolside, you’re ready for a nosh with a view—and the hotel’s rooftop Form Skybar is exactly the place. You’ve never had a better martini (or a better panorama of the city).

Restaurants & Bars

Union30 - All day American cuisine

Form Skybar - Rooftop bar

Location

In the storied downtown, six blocks from The Gateway Arch and two from Citygarden Sculpture Park, home to pieces by Keith Haring and Fernand Léger.