The St. Louis Airport: Bigger Than You Think!
Hello there, fellow travelers! Today, we're going to chat about an airport that's often overlooked but deserves some love: St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). You might be wondering, "Is the St. Louis airport big?" Well, grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and is the st louis airport big.
A Brief History of STL
Before we talk size, let's set the stage. The St. Louis airport was established in 1923, making it one of the oldest airports in the U.S. It started as a small municipal airport, but it's grown quite a bit since then. In fact, it's come a long way from the days when Charles Lindbergh took off from here on his famous flight to Paris in 1927!
The Size of the St. Louis Airport
Now, let's get to the main event: is the St. Louis airport big? The short answer is yes, but let's break it down.
Terminals and Gates
STL has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the larger one, with 36 gates spread across two concourses. Terminal 2, on the other hand, has 12 gates. So, in total, the St. Louis airport has 48 gates. That's not as many as some of the giants like Atlanta or Chicago, but it's still pretty impressive!
Runways
As for runways, STL has four. Three of them are used for takeoffs and landings, while the fourth is primarily used for military and general aviation. The longest runway is over 10,000 feet, which is plenty of space for just about any aircraft to take off and land.
Airport Size in Acres
If you're talking about the physical size, the St. Louis airport covers about 2,271 acres. That's over 3.5 square miles! To put that into perspective, it's about the same size as Central Park in New York City. So, yeah, it's pretty big!
Airlines and Destinations
STL serves as a hub for Allegiant Air and Spirit Airlines. It also has non-stop flights to over 90 destinations across the U.S. and a few international ones. That's not too shabby for a 'small' airport, right?
Amenities and Things to Do
Now, let's talk about what makes STL more than just a place to catch a flight. Is the St. Louis airport big on fun? You bet!
Dining and Shopping
STL has a variety of places to eat and shop. You'll find local favorites like Ted Drewes Frozen Custard and St. Louis-style BBQ. There are also plenty of shops to browse, from newsstands to local boutiques.
Art and Culture
The St. Louis airport is also a great place to appreciate art. You'll find exhibits throughout the terminals, featuring works by local and regional artists. There's even a public art program that lets you vote on your favorite pieces!
Family-Friendly Features
Traveling with kids? STL has you covered. There are play areas for little ones, and even a nursing room for new parents. Plus, the St. Louis airport is home to Arch Arch, a mini version of the Gateway Arch, which is a fun photo op for the whole family.
Sustainability Efforts
STL is also making big strides in sustainability. It's working to reduce its environmental impact through initiatives like solar panel installation, energy-efficient lighting, and waste reduction. It's even been recognized as a carbon-neutral airport!
Getting Around STL
Transportation
Now, let's talk about getting to and from the St. Louis airport. STL is served by several transportation options, including MetroLink, a light rail system that connects to downtown St. Louis. There are also taxis, ride-sharing services, and several hotel shuttle services.
Parking
If you're driving, STL offers plenty of parking options. There are economy lots, terminal lots, and even a garage. Plus, there are special parking areas for oversized vehicles, electric vehicles, and more.
Fun Facts About STL
Before we wrap up, let's drop some fun facts about the St. Louis airport:
- STL is the oldest airport in Missouri and the second oldest in the U.S. - The St. Louis airport was the first to have an air traffic control tower in the U.S. - In its early days, STL was known as Berkeley Airport, named after the nearby town of Berkeley. - The Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis, is located just minutes from the airport.
Final Thoughts
So, is the St. Louis airport big? In size, it's definitely up there. But more importantly, it's big on heart. It's a place where you can find a taste of St. Louis, from the food to the art to the friendly Midwestern charm. Next time you're in the area, give STL a chance. You might be surprised by what you find!
Happy travels, folks!