A Complete Guide to the Southwest Airlines Terminal at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)

When flying through the Midwest, St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is a key hub for both domestic and connecting travelers. Among the many airlines operating at STL, Southwest Airlines stands out as one of the most popular carriers, known for its customer-friendly service, generous baggage policies, and robust route network.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about southwest terminal stl, including terminal layout, check-in procedures, gate information, lounges, parking, nearby amenities, and tips to make your experience smooth and efficient.

Overview of St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)

Located about 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis, St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) serves as the largest and busiest airport in Missouri. The airport features two terminals:

• Terminal 1: Houses airlines such as American, Delta, United, and Air Canada.

• Terminal 2: Dedicated exclusively to Southwest Airlines.

For Southwest passengers, this means an efficient, streamlined experience, free from the crowds and congestion often found in multi-airline terminals.

Terminal 2 – The Home of Southwest Airlines at STL

1. Location and Layout

Terminal 2 is located on the east side of the airport and is designed to accommodate the high volume of Southwest flights. It’s a relatively compact terminal, making it easy to navigate for both first-time and seasoned travelers.

Key features:

• Single-level ticketing and baggage claim

• Concise security checkpoint

• 16 gates (Gates E1 through E40, with Southwest primarily using E10-E40)

• Open seating and large windows overlooking the tarmac

Since Terminal 2 is used exclusively by Southwest Airlines, passengers benefit from short walking distances and quick check-ins.

2. Check-in and Baggage Drop

Southwest Airlines offers multiple check-in options at STL:

• Self-service kiosks: Located near the terminal entrance.

• Full-service counters: Staffed by Southwest agents for baggage drop, special requests, and ID checks.

• Curbside check-in: Available for travelers wanting to bypass lines inside the terminal.

Check-in typically opens 2 hours before the first flight of the day and remains open until the last departure.

Baggage tips:

• Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger.

• Oversized or overweight items incur additional fees.

• Be sure to check TSA guidelines on prohibited items before packing.

Security Checkpoint and Pre-Flight Prep

1. TSA Screening

Terminal 2 has a single centralized TSA checkpoint. Although the terminal is small, it can get busy during peak hours—especially early mornings and evenings.

Pro tips:

• Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic departures, and more during holiday travel.

• Enroll in TSA PreCheck for expedited screening (there is a dedicated PreCheck lane in Terminal 2).

• Security lines tend to move quickly thanks to Southwest's efficient boarding process and passenger flow.

2. Post-Security Amenities

Once you’ve cleared security, you’ll enter the main gate area with various dining, shopping, and relaxation options.

Dining and Snacks:

While Terminal 2 is not as vast as Terminal 1, it still offers several dining options for a quick bite or sit-down meal:

• Schlafly Beer Bar & Grill: A local favorite offering craft beer and burgers.

• The Great American Bagel: Ideal for breakfast or a light snack.

• Hudson News Café: Coffee, pastries, and convenience items.

• Chili’s Too: Classic American fare with table service.

• Starbucks: Located near the gates for your caffeine fix.

Shopping:

• Hudson Booksellers: Books, magazines, and travel essentials.

• Relay Stores: Snacks, electronics, souvenirs, and more.

Boarding with Southwest Airlines at STL

Southwest Airlines uses an open seating policy, which means no assigned seats. Instead, passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position number (1–60) based on check-in time or fare class.

Boarding Process:

1. Arrive at your gate early to find the boarding signs.

2. Line up according to your group and number.

3. Board in numerical order and choose any open seat on the aircraft.

To improve your boarding position:

• Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight.

• Purchase EarlyBird Check-In, which checks you in automatically.

• Fly Business Select, which guarantees an A1-A15 position.

Southwest Routes from STL

Southwest Airlines offers nonstop service to over 40 destinations from STL, including major cities, vacation hotspots, and seasonal routes.

Popular Nonstop Destinations from STL:

• Chicago Midway (MDW)

• Denver (DEN)

• Dallas Love Field (DAL)

• Las Vegas (LAS)

• Phoenix (PHX)

• Orlando (MCO)

• Nashville (BNA)

• Tampa (TPA)

• New Orleans (MSY)

• Atlanta (ATL)

Southwest's strong point-to-point model enables easy connections for travelers heading west, south, or to leisure destinations without relying on traditional hub-and-spoke models.

Ground Transportation and Parking

1. Parking Options

STL offers several parking facilities near Terminal 2:

• Lot D (Short-Term/Hourly Parking): Closest to Terminal 2, ideal for pick-up/drop-off.

• Lot E (Economy Lot): Budget-friendly, with a free shuttle to Terminal 2.

• Garage Parking (Terminal 1 only): Requires a shuttle ride to Terminal 2 but offers covered parking.

2. Rideshares and Taxis

Designated pick-up zones for Uber, Lyft, and taxis are located just outside Terminal 2. The area is clearly marked and accessible without needing to cross any major roads.

Approximate ride costs to/from STL:

• Downtown St. Louis: $25–$40

• Clayton: $30

• Chesterfield: $40–$50

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Amenities

1. Accessibility Services

Southwest and STL Airport provide several accommodations:

• Wheelchair assistance (request during booking or at check-in)

• Accessible restrooms

• Visual paging systems

• Elevators and ramps throughout Terminal 2

2. Traveling with Kids

Southwest Airlines is known for being family-friendly, and Terminal 2 reflects that:

• Family restrooms are available post-security.

• Nursing rooms are located near gates E6 and E32.

• Southwest offers Family Boarding after Group A for families with children under 6 years old.

Lounge Access – Does Southwest Have a Lounge at STL?

Unfortunately, Southwest Airlines does not operate a branded lounge at STL or in any airport. Lounge access is not a part of their business model.

However, if you carry credit cards like American Express Platinum or Capital One Venture X, you may receive airport lounge benefits through other networks such as Priority Pass—but these are typically located in Terminal 1, not Terminal 2.

Lost & Found and Customer Service

If you lose an item during your flight or at the gate area:

• On the plane: Contact Southwest Airlines Lost & Found via their website.

• In the terminal: Contact STL Airport Lost & Found at (314) 890-1370.

Southwest’s customer service counters are located near baggage claim in Terminal 2, and agents are available to assist with rebooking, delays, or issues with checked bags.

Nearby Hotels for Early or Late Flights

There are several hotels within a 5-mile radius of STL for those with early departures or late-night arrivals:

• Hilton St. Louis Airport – Across the street from Terminal 1, free shuttle to Terminal 2.

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites STL Airport – Offers breakfast and a 24-hour shuttle.

• Marriott St. Louis Airport – Comfortable stay with dining and event spaces.

• Drury Inn & Suites – Complimentary evening snacks and family-friendly options.

Tips for a Smooth Experience at Southwest STL Terminal

1. Check in early to secure a good boarding position.

2. Use curbside check-in if traveling light and want to skip lines.

3. Arrive 90–120 minutes before your flight, especially during holidays.

4. Pack snacks in case of limited food options at your gate.

5. Use TSA PreCheck if you travel frequently.

6. Download the Southwest app for flight status, mobile boarding passes, and gate updates.

Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines’ operation at Terminal 2 of St. Louis Lambert International Airport provides a streamlined, easy-to-navigate experience ideal for both business and leisure travelers. With its dedicated terminal, efficient boarding system, and broad route network, Southwest continues to be a top choice for those flying in and out of St. Louis.

Whether you're heading to a beach vacation, a business meeting, or home to visit family, your journey begins with a smooth and friendly experience at the Southwest STL Terminal.