St Louis Railway Station

St. Louis Railway Station, officially known as the Gateway Transportation Center, is the city's main transport hub, consolidating both rail and bus routes. This modern multimodal complex is located in the very centre of the city, providing convenient access to business districts and tourist locations. The station building features a functional design and serves as a vital transfer point for travellers heading to Chicago, Kansas City, and other major US metropolises.

It is important for passengers to know that the station serves not only Amtrak trains but also Greyhound and Megabus intercity buses. The building has clear navigation: the main waiting hall is located on the first level, from where exits to the platforms are provided. The station is integrated with the city's MetroLink light rail system (Civic Center station), allowing for easy access from anywhere in the city without the need to go outside.

• Official website: Station page on amtrak.com
• Information line (Amtrak): +1 800-872-7245 (general line)
• Address: 430 South 15th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
• Opening hours: The waiting hall is open 24/7, ticket counters operate from 07:00 to 22:30 (hours are subject to change)
• Luggage storage: Available for passengers with Amtrak tickets (fees may apply)
• Accessibility: The station is fully equipped for people of determination (ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms)

Getting to the Gateway Transportation Center in St. Louis is quite simple thanks to its central location. The most convenient method is to use the MetroLink light rail system. The Civic Center station is located in immediate proximity to the station; a trip from St. Louis Lambert International Airport will take approximately 30–40 minutes.

If you prefer buses, numerous routes of the MetroBus city network arrive here. For those using taxis or Uber/Lyft services, there is a convenient drop-off zone right at the main entrance on the 15th Street side. A walk from popular city centre hotels or the famous Gateway Arch will take between 15 and 25 minutes, though using transport is recommended if you are carrying heavy luggage.

At the Gateway Transportation Center, passengers are provided with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait. The spacious waiting hall has ample seating, and complimentary Wi-Fi is available. For ticket purchases, both staffed counters and Quik-Trak self-service kiosks are available.

Other amenities worth noting include clean washrooms, drinking water stations, and ATMs. For Amtrak passengers, checked baggage service (on select routes) and assistance with transporting belongings (Red Cap service) are available. The building is fully adapted for people with reduced mobility, including specially equipped waiting areas and washrooms.

Dining options at the station itself are quite limited. Inside the building, you will primarily find vending machines with drinks and snacks, and perhaps a small fast-food kiosk may be operating, but one should not count on a full meal here.

If you have at least an hour to spare, we recommend walking to the historic Union Station complex, located literally in the next block. There you will find a multitude of restaurants, cafes, and even the famous Soda Fountain, where you can have a substantial meal with an average bill of 15 to 30 dollars. For a quick snack before the train, it is better to purchase food in the city beforehand.

The history of rail transport in St. Louis is inextricably linked with the legendary historic Union Station, which was once one of the busiest in the world. However, with the decline in passenger transport in the second half of the 20th century, the massive old complex ceased to perform its primary function and was converted into an entertainment centre and hotel.

The current station, Gateway Transportation Center, was opened in 2008 as a modern replacement for the temporary structures that served Amtrak passengers after the old station tracks closed. The construction of this multimodal hub, costing over 26 million dollars, allowed for the consolidation of rail and bus transport under one roof, returning St. Louis to its status as a significant transport hub in the US Midwest.

When planning a trip through St. Louis, it is recommended to arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before your train's departure, especially if you need to check luggage. Boarding for Amtrak trains usually begins 15–20 minutes prior to departure. Be sure to keep your identification and ticket (electronic or printed) with you.

During night hours, the station is guarded, but passengers are advised to wait for their service inside the building rather than on the street. If you have a long layover, please note that luggage storage is available only if you hold an Amtrak train ticket. Stay alert: platform assignments may change, so please monitor the announcements on the electronic screens in the main hall.