Help with Hotel near Arch

Hello! I'm having a ton of trouble trying to find a nice clean hotel near the Arch. Couple in 40s - looking at the Pennywell, Hotel St. Louis Autograph collection (not sure about that street its on) and Drury and Curio Union Station?. People on here seem to recommend the Drury. Seems a little tired to me - all I really want is a nice CLEAN bug free room with comfortable beds and where we feel safe walking. Plan on visiting the Arch, and Clydesdales while on a road trip so we will will have a car. Reading bad things about safety in both St. Louis and Memphis and considering rerouting to Louisville but my husband really wants to see the Arch. Not really looking to shell out 450 a night to stay at the Four Seasons - not really walkable to the Arch. Thanks.

Finding a hotel near the Gateway Arch in St. Louis that balances comfort, cleanliness, and safety can be tricky, but there are several solid options to consider. Since you have a car, you also have flexibility with parking, which opens up more choices slightly farther from the Arch but still convenient for driving.

Here’s a breakdown of some hotels you mentioned and others in the area:

  • Pennywell Hotel: This boutique property is clean and modern, but some reviewers have mentioned smaller rooms. Safety is generally fine, and it’s reasonably close to downtown attractions.
  • Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection: This is in the historic Union Station building. Rooms are stylish and clean, with comfortable beds. Union Station itself is well-patrolled and safe. There are restaurants and bars inside, making it convenient if you prefer to walk.
  • Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch: Very popular for value and convenience, with free breakfast and evening socials. Rooms are comfortable but slightly dated, though well-maintained. Safety in this immediate area is generally fine, and it’s an easy walk to the Arch.
  • Curio Collection at Union Station: Upscale and clean, with a more modern feel than Drury. Rooms are comfortable, and it shares the benefits of Union Station amenities. This is a good option if you prefer a more contemporary style without going into luxury pricing.

Other considerations:

  • Magnolia Hotel Downtown St. Louis: Modern rooms, clean, and centrally located. Walkable to some attractions, though you will drive to others like Clydesdales.
  • Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch: Recently renovated in parts, very close to the Arch, and offers underground parking. Slightly larger hotel, with reliable service and cleanliness.

Tips for safety and comfort:

  • Stick to well-lit streets around the Arch and downtown, especially in the evenings.
  • Use your car or rideshare if walking after dark outside of the main tourist areas.
  • Parking in your hotel garage or designated lots is safest. Avoid street parking at night.

Overall, for a mix of cleanliness, comfort, and walkability, the Hotel Saint Louis (Autograph Collection) or Curio at Union Station are excellent options. Drury is safe and reliable but slightly dated, while the Pennywell offers boutique charm at a smaller scale. Since you have a car, you don’t need to worry as much about walking distance to the Clydesdales or other nearby attractions.


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