St. Louis Union Station Hotel

Do you ever walk into a place and know that there is a history that has got to be fascinating?

That was the feeling that I immediately got when I stepped into the Union Station hotel in St. Louis.

This former train station was grand in its own right while it was used for transportation. Those were the days of beautiful details, rather than a focus on mass transportation. The transformation from train depot to hotel was done seamlessly and is the perfect place to stay if you are looking for something beyond your typical chain hotel.

The St. Louis Union Station Hotel is operated by Hilton, so you know that you will get the service that comes along with that name.

The rooms at Union Station:

The rooms at Union Station are nicely appointed and have (an obvious) train theme. We were in a double bed room, that had two full sized beds, a chair and a desk. Which is pretty standard in a hotel room.

Extras at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel

There is so much to see and do at the hotel, that frankly, if you choose to stay on property and never leave, you would have plenty to keep you entertained.

Grand Hall Light Show:

In the Grand Hall of St. Louis Union Station, there is a light show that happens each evening. The shows run on the hour from 5pm – 10pm and the lights are projected on the ceiling. My kids were totally enthralled by what was going on. When we were there we even got a peek at what is showing during Christmas time. Even, if you aren’t a guest of the hotel, grab a drink from the bar and stay a while to watch the show!

Fire and Light Show:

Overlooking the lake, just beyond the pool, you will be dazzled with a water and fire show set to music. This is a free attraction and I promise will keep everyone’s attention, kids included! The show happens daily every half hour starting at 5pm with the last show starting at 9pm.

St. Louis Wheel:

The St. Louis Wheel is a 200-foot high observation wheel with 42 fully enclosed, climate controlled gondolas that seat up to six adults each. The ride is about 15 minutes long and allows for several photo opportunities above the city, offering beautiful views of the city. The St. Louis Wheel is open 365 days per year.

Individual tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children

The St. Louis Aquarium:

The St. Louis Aquarium has been a work in progress for quite some time, and at the time of publication it isn’t open, yet. The hope is to have the aquarium open to the public Winter 2019.

You can read more about the St. Louis Aquarium here.

No matter the reason behind your visit to St. Louis, make sure you make a trip to Union Station, even if it is just to walk through the common areas of the hotel and imagine what things were like while the property was still a bustling train station.