Moonrise?

Question

I have a follow up on my metro link question: we were thinking of staying at the moonrise but not sure based on reviews. Some love it most seem disappointed esp. due to the pricing and the car parking. Central west end looks promising but the hotel options are meh. We would prefer to keep the car parked and walk around rather than drive, other than to the hill for a bite! Thanks . Oh this is our 3rd visit and have done the arch train station and city museum as well as pappy’s and Ted Drew’s! I am interested in neighborhoods and forest park ! Thanks

Answer

Based on your preferences—wanting to park the car and walk around, exploring neighborhoods like Central West End and Forest Park, and already having done major attractions like the Arch and City Museum—here’s some guidance on staying at Moonrise Hotel versus other options in St. Louis.

Moonrise Hotel: The hotel has a stylish, modern vibe and is located near the Delmar Loop, which is a fun area with music, restaurants, and shops. Many reviews praise its design, rooftop bar, and convenience if you’re visiting the Loop area. Downsides reported include:

Parking can be pricey and somewhat limited. Valet is common, and self-parking options nearby may require walking a bit.
Room rates are often seen as higher than what some feel the experience delivers.
The area can be lively at night, which might not be ideal if you prefer quiet streets right outside your hotel.

For your stated goals—keeping the car parked and walking around—other areas to consider might be slightly better:

Central West End (CWE): Offers a nice mix of boutique hotels, walkable streets, and dining options. You can stroll to Forest Park easily from parts of CWE, and it has good local cafes and shops. Hotels may be more traditional or “meh” compared to Moonrise’s trendy style, but the location is excellent for exploring without a car.
Forest Park area: Staying close to the park itself can be convenient for walking and exploring. However, hotel options are more limited, and you may need to drive for dining or nightlife.
Clayton or Midtown neighborhoods: Mid-priced hotels, quieter streets, and reasonable walkability in some areas. Midtown offers proximity to the Grand Center arts district.

Tips:

If nightlife and a trendy scene are important, Moonrise is fine—but be prepared for parking fees and the possibility of some street noise.
If convenience for walking to restaurants and Forest Park is your priority, Central West End may offer the best balance, even if the hotels are more conventional.
Consider using rideshare for trips to The Hill or other areas outside your immediate neighborhood to minimize driving stress.

Overall, Moonrise is a solid choice if you enjoy its vibe and don’t mind parking logistics. For walking-focused exploring near CWE and Forest Park, CWE hotels might offer a slightly more relaxed experience, though with less “wow” design factor than Moonrise.