Let’s meet in St. Louis. This fantastic Midwestern city is known as a great sports town. Blues hockey games and Cardinals baseball games are a favorite pastime, as are the bars and clubs that line the Mississippi River offering the blues, jazz, and plenty of local bands. The nearby Central West End is filled with cafes and bistros, and The Hill has some of America’s best Italian food. The 1,300-acre Forest Park, the site of the 1904 World’s Fair, includes the St. Louis Zoo, The Missouri Museum of History, the Saint Louis Science Center, The St. Louis Art Museum, a boathouse with rental paddle boats, and more. Its best hotels and top suites are the subject of this week’s spotlight.
1. Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
2. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis
3. Magnolia Hotel St. Louis
4. Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza
5. St. Louis Union Station Hotel
1. Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
Forbes Travel Guide reports, “The Gateway Arch has never looked grander than it appears from the 19-story Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. But even before you enter the 200-room building that sits a mere four-minute drive from the famed Arch, the aesthetics of the facility will capture your attention upon driving up to the entrance. Walk through a pathway of sleek glass doors, and directly to your left is a welcome area occupied by a duo of professional attendants waiting to help. In front of you, a running stream of gentle waters softly penetrates your ears, accentuating a sculpted piece of art sitting gracefully in the center. From there, a world of wonder awaits your senses.”
U.S. News says, “The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis is an opulent, modern property. Here, you’ll find a spa with a menu of services that includes hot stone massages and detoxifying facials; the elegant Cinder House restaurant that features views of the Gateway Arch.”
Presidential Suite
The 2,661-sq.ft. top-floor Presidential Suite offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the Gateway Arch from its wall of windows. A dining area seats six, with an adjoining pantry and a media room.
More suites at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis
Forbes Travel Guide inspectors says, “The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis is located in the posh neighborhood of Clayton, a charming oasis in the city. Experience that famous Midwestern warmth and hospitality in this arts and garden district, home to a thriving culinary scene, the beautifully landscaped Forest Park, and an array of museums and boutiques, all within a short distance of this Four-Star hotel. This sophisticated property features spacious and comfortable guest rooms, all with private balconies with views of the city skyline. A comprehensive fitness center with lap and hydrotherapy pools ensures you can grab a workout. Be sure to stop by The Wine Room. This unique spot allows you to sample one of the hotel’s more than 7,000 bottles.”
The Telegraph adds, “Some of St. Louis’ most highly regarded restaurants are a short walk away. The property is conveniently located adjacent to a major traffic artery and is near a Metrolink station for easy access to the most tourist-inclined parts of the city, such as Forest Park, two miles away, which contains several of the city’s top attractions, and the performing arts district of Grand Center.
The Ritz-Carlton Suite
The 2,500-sq.ft. suite sits on the top – 18th floor – of the hotel – features a large living and dining area, with a table to seat up to six guests, a media room, and panoramic views from a Juliet balcony.
More suites at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel St. Louis.
3. Magnolia Hotel St. Louis
U.S. News reports, “If you’re looking for a boutique property with history and style, you can’t go wrong with the Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, according to recent guests. This downtown outpost, which first opened in 1925 as the Mayfair Hotel, holds a spot on National Register of Historic Places. Upon entering the lobby, you’ll notice the ornate columns, lavish chandeliers, and intricate ceiling patterns that were hallmark architectural elements of the time. But though the hotel celebrates its historic beginnings, it doesn’t skimp on modern conveniences, offering a fitness center and free internet access. Rooms are equally modern, decorated in a “Hollywood glam” style (think faux leather headboards and glass nightstand lamps) with a gray and yellow color palette, and outfitted with flat-screen TVs and coffee makers.”
Timeout adds, “After undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2014, this luxury boutique hotel is a welcome addition to the downtown lodging options. The dining and shops of Washington Ave are steps away, and the City Museum and the Arch grounds are within walking distance. The lovely rooms are part modern, part soothing old Hollywood glam – a winning mix of pristine white linens, ecru woven textured bedding, and gentle touches of color here and there. Dine on-site at Robie’s Restaurant and Lounge or take a complimentary car within the downtown area to a hotspot of your choice.”
Cary Grant Suite
The 18th-floor, 950-sq.ft. Cary Grant Suite is named after its most famous guest and offers St. Louis skyline views.
More suites at Magnolia Hotel St. Louis.
4. Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza
Timeout writes, “The Central West End is one of St Louis’ most walkable neighborhoods, and The Chase is one of its most recognizable landmarks. Look out over beautiful Forest Park from your comfortable room, then head down to explore the many shops and restaurants in the area. Traveling without a car? No problem. The nearby Metro Link can easily get you both downtown and to Clayton. The swanky hotel features a movie theater, and classic dining and drinking options, including the cocktail-forward restaurant, The Preston. During warmer months, the pool is an oasis in the city and a mandatory amenity during humid STL summers.”
Presidential Suite
The 1,250-sq.ft. Presidential Suite includes a living and dining area, perfect for socializing or meetings, and an oversize bedroom.
More suites at Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza.
5. St. Louis Union Station Hotel
Timeout notes, “A multi-decade renovation has brought this historical building – once the transportation hub of St Louis – back to life. The Grand Hall is the hotel’s crown jewel, featuring 65-foot-high barrel-vaulted ceilings, intricate artwork, and a nightly light show. Whether you choose to stay here or not (and we advise you do, for the 539 spacious, beautifully styled rooms and the outdoor pool), it’s worth swinging by for a drink. Besides its stunning interiors, the hotel is right in the heart of downtown, and, Hockey fans take note, the Blues play next door.”
Clocktower Conductor’s Suites
Conductor’s Suites are approximately 1,200-sq.ft. with a seating area, four-person dining table, and wet bar, The Clock Tower suites are located adjacent to the Grand Hall with easy access to the Grand Hall Lounge, Market, and Fitness Center.
More suites at St. Louis Union Station Hotel.
