Travel Budget for Saint Louis Visit Saint Louis on a Budget or Travel in Style

Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America

Saint Louis is an under rated city known for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Saint Louis?

You should plan to spend around $224 per day on your vacation in Saint Louis. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $93 on meals
  • $26 on local transportation
  • $202 on hotels

A one week trip to Saint Louis for two people costs, on average, $3,136. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $224
  • One Week Per person
    $1,568
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,136
  • One Month Per person
    $6,720
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,136
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,272
  • One Month For a couple
    $13,440
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Saint Louis cost?

A one week trip to Saint Louis usually costs around $1,568 for one person and $3,136 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Saint Louis on average costs around $3,136 for one person and $6,272 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Saint Louis will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Saint Louis on average costs around $6,720 for one person and $13,440 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Saint Louis expensive to visit?

Saint Louis is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

While Saint Louis can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $100 per day, mid-range travelers spend $224 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $437 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint Louis.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Louis is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Cincinnati or Philadelphia.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint Louis Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Louis?

The average Saint Louis trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Saint Louis travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Saint Louis cost?

Saint Louis on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$43 $101 $210
Local Transportation 1 $11 $26 $48
Food 2 $41 $93 $176
Entertainment 1 $20 $46 $87
Alcohol 2 $4-12 $9-28 $18-53

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Saint Louis with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.

What is a budget traveler, anyway?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $100 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

The city also offers superb public transit, making it easier for budget travelers to avoid the high costs of taxis and Ubers.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most tourists in Saint Louis are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $224 per person, per day.

There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Saint Louis. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Hampton Inn & Suites - Saint Louis South Interstate 55 is a good kid-friendly option, and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St Louis - Chesterfield is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Saint Louis here.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $437 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the city with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Photoshoot St Louis - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Saint Louis

The cost of hotels in Saint Louis can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $143, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $267. Overall, prices range from $101 to $373. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Saint Louis for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $202. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $101 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $101
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $202

Hotels in Saint Louis

Looking for a hotel in Saint Louis? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Saint Louis

The average hotel room price in Saint Louis based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $143 in the low season and $267 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Saint Louis include:

  • The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St Louis starting at $269
  • Angad Arts Hotel starting at $134
  • Lodge at Grant's Trail starting at $168
  • Benton Park Inn starting at $140
  • Drury Plaza Hotel St Louis Chesterfield starting at $156
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Saint Louis

Thanks to Saint Louis's great public transportation, you can stay outside the city for cheaper accommodations, but be aware of the potential for increased transportation costs and commute time.

In a family-friendly place like Saint Louis, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children.

If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid summer), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Saint Louis

Saint Louis has a fantastic public transit system. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town. For a quick and affordable way to get around, public transit is your best bet. Taxis and rideshare services are also available throughout the city.

Exploring Saint Louis is easier in its more walkable areas, allowing you to see many attractions. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (great)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $26 per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Louis. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint Louis is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $26

A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:

  • Private Transfers for Departure from Queens to JFK Airport for $29 details
  • St. Louis City to St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) - Departure Private Transfer for $64 details
  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Arrival Private Transfer for $64 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Saint Louis
How much does it cost to go to Saint Louis? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Saint Louis
The price of renting a car in Saint Louis will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Saint Louis

The food in Saint Louis is decent, though people don't specifically come here for the food. However, there are a few hidden gems in the city worth checking out. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Saint Louis can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint Louis is $93 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $93

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint Louis is around $93 ($93) per person, with previous travelers spending from $41 to $176. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Saint Louis are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $9 to $28
  • Lunch: $14 to $37
  • Dinner: $28 to $65
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $14

Cuisine of St. Louis has a long history and broad range of influences including Italian, German, Irish, and French, amongst others - making the food culture of the city a true melting pot of America. Unique to the city are specialized forms of traditional favorites like pizza, barbecue, ravioli, pork, and pastries. St. Louis-style pizza, for example, is made with Provel cheese on a super thin crust, while toasted ravioli is breaded and toasted dry or fried rather than the more common method of boiling. As far as barbeque goes, it usually involves direct grilling with a sweet, sticky, and acidic tomato-based sauce and one of two cuts - slow-cooked pork steak and St. Louis-style spare ribs. Gooey Butter Cake is one of the best-loved pastries, while Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is another favorite dessert with locals.

Food & Dining Tips

When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.

Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.

Carry your own water bottle instead of spending on drinks. It's also a positive step for the environment.

If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Saint Louis, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - St. Louis, MO for $88 details
  • Handmade Pesto Gnocchi Cooking Class in St Louis for $55 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint Louis

The allure of Saint Louis is undeniable, especially since it offers museums and attractions, family-friendly activities, food, and nightlife.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint Louis typically cost an average of $46 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $46

Beyond the Gateway Arch (a tribute to the early 19th-century explorations of Lewis and Clark and America's westward expansion), St. Louis is home to a number of monuments, museums, parks, and other attractions unique to the city. The St. Louis Zoo, for example, is recognized as one of the top five zoos in the nation. It is located in Forest Park, one of the nation's largest city parks with 1,293 acres, open to the public for activities like golf, tennis, baseball, bicycling, boating, fishing, handball, ice skating, in-line skating, jogging, cricket, rugby, and more. The park is also home to the St. Louis Science Center and the Missouri History Museum, and was historically the site of the 1904 Louisiana Purchase World's Fair.

Other top sights include the Missouri Botanical Garden, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis (known especially for its mosaic art), the City Museum (which is more of an architectural playground with mazes, obstacle courses, tunnels, airplanes suspended in midair, and chutes and ladders), and the St. Louis Art Museum.



In addition to exploring some of the top attractions - museums, parks, and architecture included - St. Louis is a great place to get lost in the cultures of each distinctive neighborhood. The descriptions above give some insight into the top districts, the Central West End, Laclede's Landing, and Soulard being especially popular with visitors. Additional parks worth visiting include the one at Lafayette Square (the oldest in the city, chartered in 1806), Laumeier Sculpture Park, and South Grand and Tower Grove Park (which features bike paths, playgrounds, a wading pool, several restored Victorian pavilions, and seasonally hosts a Farmer's Market and festivals).

Other activities including movies, Mississippi River cruises, sporting events, and musical performances from jazz to folk, classical, and more.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
When people think of Saint Louis, they often think of its famous museums and landmarks. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

Shopping:
Shopping here is an enjoyable experience. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

A nice way to explore destinations in Saint Louis is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Private Gastronomy Tour (BBQ Joints & Breweries) in St. Louis for $129 details
  • St Louis Cardinals Baseball Game Ticket at Busch Stadium for $89 details
  • St. Louis Christmas Spectacular Tour for $239 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on sightseeing in Saint Louis?

Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Saint Louis, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.


  • Gateway Arch parking
    $6.00


Nightlife Budget in Saint Louis

Though Saint Louis has some nightlife options, it's relatively quieter compared to other more popular cities. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $19 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint Louis per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $19
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.

Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're drinking at night. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so stick with trusted friends and avoid wandering alone.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Saint Louis. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour for $25 details

Recommended


Budgeting and Travel Tips for Saint Louis

  • During summer, the city can get crowded and prices can rise significantly. To save money and enjoy a quieter experience, consider planning your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Traveling more slowly can help you save some cash while enjoying the beauty of the area. When you fill your days with activities, expenses can skyrocket. But taking it easy often means enjoying yourself more and spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • If you're on the road with little ones, you'll probably want to consider a private vehicle or taxi. It can often be simpler to bypass the complications of public transit, but be prepared to spend a bit more.
  • Saint Louis isn't particularly known for its hostels, so if you're expecting a budget dorm, you may need to reconsider. Look into affordable hotels or consider renting an apartment instead.
Traveling in Saint Louis
Saint Louis The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri

Nicknamed the "Gateway to the West" and perhaps best known for its iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri, has grown from a last stop for pioneers journeying west to a thriving metropolis notable for its diverse culture, impressive architecture, and unique neighborhoods. It sits on the Mississippi River and has plenty to offer in dining, shopping, sight-seeing, and entertainment.



Neighborhoods & Around

St. Louis has one of America's most distinctive neighborhood cultures, each community upholding its own individual flare. Downtown makes up the central business district of the city, featuring all three professional sporting teams' stadiums, dozens of hotels, corporate headquarters, dining and shopping, entertainment, nightlife, and the famous Gateway arch. Laclede's Landing, on the city's eastern edge, is one of the oldest standing neighborhoods of the city with cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, restaurants, and bars. Soulard is another of St. Louis' old neighborhoods, known for its red brick architecture, barbeque restaurants, and blues music clubs, while Lafayette Square is also nearby featuring tree-lined streets with shopping, dining, and a number of bed and breakfasts. These are just a few of the 79 government-designated neighborhoods within the City of St. Louis. Some others include the historic Old North Saint Louis, the arts, theatre, and museum district of Grand Center/Midtown, the upscale Central West End, St. Louis' Little Italy at The Hill, and the historic African-American neighborhood of North St. Louis.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.