Service Overview
The MetroLink Red Line is St. Louis’ light-rail/metro service and the most budget-friendly, predictable way to leave St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). It runs on dedicated tracks for much of the trip, so it’s generally more reliable than driving when I-70 traffic builds.
This option is best for solo travelers, couples, and anyone heading downtown without needing door-to-door service. Families with lots of bags may prefer a shuttle or rideshare, but for most visitors MetroLink is an easy, safe, and straightforward ride—especially during daytime and early evening.
Route & Destinations
- Airport stations: LAMBERT AIRPORT TERMINAL #1 station and the Terminal 2 stop (signage directs you from the terminal exits).
- Downtown access: A common downtown gateway is CIVIC CENTER station. From there you can connect to other MetroLink services and local buses for neighborhoods, hotels, and attractions.
- Typical travel time: about 31 minutes from the airport to the downtown core under normal conditions.
- Connections: Easy transfers to MetroBus and other MetroLink stations across St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis, and into St. Clair County, IL.
Coverage is strongest along the MetroLink corridor; if your final destination is outside walking distance of a station, plan on a short bus connection or rideshare for the last mile.
Pricing & Tickets
- One-way fare: about $3 (where published).
- How to buy: Purchase in advance at station ticket machines or on your phone via the Transit app (mobile ticketing).
- Payment: Ticket machines and app payments vary by setup; using the Transit app is usually the quickest option after a flight.
- Passes/discounts: If you’ll make multiple rides in a day, check the app for day-pass style products and any visitor options.
Compared with a taxi or Uber/Lyft (often around $45 to downtown depending on demand and traffic), MetroLink is the clear value choice.
Schedule & Frequency
- Typical operating hours: roughly 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily.
- Frequency: described as regular service; published research commonly notes about hourly service in some periods, with closer intervals (about 20–40 minutes) at certain evening times (notably Sundays after early evening).
- Peak considerations: Trains avoid highway congestion, but allow extra time for waiting if you arrive between trains—especially late night.
- Late night/early morning: If you land after service ends or need a very early departure, plan on rideshare/taxi or a pre-booked shuttle.
Practical Tips
- Where to board: MetroLink pickup is at Terminal 1 (Door 1) and Terminal 2 (Door 12). Follow “MetroLink” signs from baggage claim/arrivals.
- Luggage: You’ll manage your own bags. Pack so you can comfortably lift and keep items close during the ride.
- Accessibility: Stations and trains are designed for step-free access; allow a little extra time if you need elevators/ramps.
- Real-time help: Use the Transit app for mobile tickets and to check arrivals.
- Best alternatives: For door-to-door with lots of luggage, consider a shared shuttle (often advertised from $15 one-way) or Uber/Lyft/taxi for the fastest direct trip (about 20 minutes in light traffic).