Terminal layout & organization
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is organized into two main terminals with three concourses that you’ll see listed here as: Terminal 1 (made up of Concourse A and Concourse C) and Terminal 2 (made up of Concourse E). In general, Terminal 1 handles most domestic flying and several non-Southwest carriers, while Terminal 2 / Concourse E is the home for Southwest and also processes international arrivals that require U.S. customs (no preclearance). If your boarding pass shows an A or C gate, head to Terminal 1; if it shows an E gate, head to Terminal 2.
Navigation between terminals
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are not connected airside, so you can’t walk between concourses without leaving security. They’re roughly 0.5–1 mile apart; plan on 10–15 minutes by shuttle depending on curb traffic and wait time. Use the free 24/7 inter-terminal shuttle if you’re changing terminals with checked bags or traveling late/early. If you’re already on the lower level at Terminal 2, the MetroLink station (via the pedestrian walkway) can also be a quick landside transfer option. Follow overhead signs for “Terminal 1,” “Terminal 2,” “Shuttle,” and “MetroLink”; gate letters (A/C vs E) are your fastest wayfinding shortcut.
Traveler-specific tips
- Families: Find nursing/lactation rooms in Terminal 1 near Concourse C (around C9) and in Terminal 2 near Concourse E (around E33). Strollers are easy curb-to-gate, but if you must switch terminals, budget extra time for the shuttle and security re-screening.
- Business travelers: Work-friendly stops include the American Airlines Admirals Club (post-security near Concourse C) and the Wingtips Lounge in Terminal 2 / Concourse E. For faster screening, look for CLEAR at checkpoints in Terminal 1 (A and C) and Terminal 2 (E/F).
- Travelers with disabilities: Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are elevator-equipped and step-free from curb to gates. If you need a wheelchair or escort help, request it from your airline early—especially if your itinerary requires a terminal change.
- Budget travelers: Use free terminal amenities like water fountains and seating with charging/power distributed throughout gate areas; Concourse E and Concourse A/C each have multiple food options (Starbucks in both terminals) if you’re comparing prices before buying.
Practical information
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 1 (Concourse A and Concourse C) and Terminal 2 (Concourse E); if speeds feel slow, move closer to the gate seating clusters where access points are typically densest. Power outlets/USB are most commonly found at gate seating and in dining areas—plug in before boarding announcements begin, as seats near popular gates fill quickly. For in-person help, look for staffed airline counters and airport help points in each terminal; if you’re meeting military members, STL has a notable USO presence (a large facility in Terminal 1 near baggage claim and a satellite in Terminal 2 baggage claim area). If you encounter temporary reroutes, follow digital screens and overhead signs—STL periodically updates gate areas, so allow a few extra minutes to reach farther A, C, or E gates.