logistics/ rental car

Question

looking at arriving around 11 pm on a friday... if i stayed at an airport hotel.. is it normal/reasonable for their shuttle to take me back to the airport in the morning for a rental car? was looking at marriott possibly.

really dont want to venture into downtown for a hotel at night plus an extra "day" of rental car.. thoughts?

Answer

Staying at an airport hotel in St. Louis for a late-night arrival is a very common and practical choice, especially if you prefer to avoid driving into downtown at night. Most airport hotels, including Marriott properties near STL, offer complimentary 24-hour shuttle service to and from the airport, so it is entirely reasonable to expect them to shuttle you back to the airport in the morning for your rental car pickup.

Considerations for using an airport hotel:

Check the hotel’s shuttle schedule—most airport hotels run continuously, but it’s a good idea to confirm that early morning shuttle service is available to meet your rental car pickup time.
Many airport hotels are quieter and safer for late arrivals compared to downtown, which is convenient if you land at 11 pm.
Staying at the airport means you can avoid paying for an extra “day” of a downtown hotel just to be closer to city attractions.

Rental car logistics:

Most major rental car companies at STL are located on-site or just a short shuttle ride from the airport terminals, so the shuttle from your hotel in the morning will get you directly to the rental desk.
Booking your rental car in advance ensures it will be ready for pickup, minimizing wait times and allowing you to start your trip efficiently.
After picking up the rental, you can drive directly to your planned destinations in St. Louis or beyond, making the airport hotel stay very convenient for late-night arrivals.

Recommendation:

For your situation—arriving late Friday night, wanting to avoid downtown driving, and not needing the hotel for sightseeing—it makes perfect sense to stay at an airport hotel like Marriott. The shuttle system is reliable, and this strategy avoids the hassle and extra cost of a downtown hotel, while still allowing you to pick up your rental car first thing in the morning and begin your trip smoothly.