Southwest Terminal STL: Your Ultimate Guide to Southwest Airlines at St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Traveling through an airport can be both exciting and overwhelming. For those flying with Southwest Airlines from or to St. Louis, Missouri, the experience is streamlined thanks to the airline’s dedicated operations at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a first-time visitor to STL, or someone just planning ahead, understanding everything about the Southwest terminal at STL will help you move confidently and efficiently through your journey.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything from terminal location and amenities to check-in procedures, dining options, transportation, and more.

Overview of St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)

St. Louis Lambert International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Missouri. Located about 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis, STL serves as a significant hub for domestic travel and handles millions of passengers each year. It has two main terminals:

• Terminal 1: The larger of the two, with Concourse A, B, C, and D (only A and C are operational).

• Terminal 2: A smaller, more focused terminal used almost exclusively by Southwest Airlines.

Southwest Airlines at STL

Southwest Airlines is the primary occupant of Terminal 2. In fact, it is the only airline operating out of Terminal 2, making it the go-to terminal for all Southwest flights to and from St. Louis.

Terminal 2: The Southwest Airlines Terminal at STL

Terminal 2 is a compact yet efficient terminal tailored to suit the needs of Southwest Airlines passengers. Despite its smaller footprint compared to Terminal 1, it offers a full array of passenger services, security, and amenities.

Features of Terminal 2:

• Airline: Exclusive to Southwest Airlines

• Concourses: Single concourse design

• Gates: Southwest typically uses gates E2 through E40

• Check-in Counters: Located at the terminal entrance

• Security Checkpoint: TSA PreCheck available

• Baggage Claim: Easily accessible on the lower level

• Parking: Adjacent surface lots and garages

• Transportation Access: Taxis, rideshare, shuttles, and public transit nearby

Check-in and Security Process

Southwest Check-in

Southwest offers various options for check-in:

• Online Check-in: Available 24 hours before departure

• Mobile App: Easy boarding pass access and updates

• Self-Service Kiosks: Located near the entrance of Terminal 2

• Full-service Counters: For checked bags or special assistance

Pro tip: Since STL Terminal 2 is dedicated solely to Southwest, check-in queues generally move quickly, especially if you have already checked in online or via the app.

Security Screening

• TSA Checkpoint: Right past the ticketing area

• TSA PreCheck Available: Saves time for eligible passengers

• Wait Times: Typically shorter than larger multi-airline terminals

Arrive 90 minutes to 2 hours before domestic flights, especially during peak hours like early morning and early evening.

Concourse and Gate Experience

Once past security, you’ll enter the concourse area. Here’s what you can expect:

• Seating Areas: Plentiful and comfortable seating near gates

• Charging Stations: Available near most gates

• Flight Information Displays: Real-time updates throughout the concourse

• Restrooms: Clean and regularly maintained, located at multiple points

• Customer Service: Southwest service desks available for last-minute questions or rebookings

Dining and Shopping Options

Despite being a smaller terminal, Terminal 2 at STL offers several dining and retail options to help pass the time or grab essentials before your flight.

Dining:

1. The Great American Bagel – Ideal for a quick breakfast or snack

2. Schlafly Beer Bar – A local favorite for craft beer and pub food

3. Chili’s Too – Sit-down American fare and drinks

4. Lone Star Steakhouse Express – Steak sandwiches and hearty meals

5. Burger King & Starbucks – For familiar fast-food choices and coffee

Shopping:

1. Hudson News – Snacks, magazines, and travel accessories

2. Tech On The Go – Chargers, headphones, and other electronics

3. Discover St. Louis – Souvenirs and STL-themed merchandise

These outlets are located conveniently post-security, so you can shop and dine without worrying about missing your flight.

Wi-Fi and Workspaces

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 2. Simply connect to the airport’s network and follow the login prompts. The signal is generally strong in all areas, including the gates and dining zones.

There are also workstations and charging areas for travelers needing to catch up on emails or attend virtual meetings.

Accessibility Services

STL and Southwest Airlines both offer comprehensive accessibility services for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. Services include:

• Wheelchair Assistance

• Visual Paging Systems

• Accessible Restrooms

• Elevators and Ramps

• Designated Parking Spaces Near Entrances

If you need special assistance, it's best to request it during booking or at least 48 hours before your flight.

Parking and Transportation

Parking Options:

• Lot D: Closest to Terminal 2; ideal for short- to medium-term parking

• Terminal 2 Garage: Covered, easy access, slightly higher rate

• Long-Term Parking (Lot E): Budget-friendly, shuttle access to the terminal

Parking rates vary, but expect around:

• $5/hour short-term

• $12-$15/day long-term

Ground Transportation:

• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft pickups are available outside baggage claim

• Taxis: Easily hailed curbside

• Shuttles: Hotel and rental car shuttles run frequently

• Public Transit: MetroLink’s Red Line stops at both terminals, connecting the airport with downtown St. Louis

Baggage Claim and Arrivals

Arriving at STL on Southwest is a straightforward process:

1. Deplane at Gate: Exit directly into the concourse

2. Follow Signs to Baggage Claim: Located one level down

3. Baggage Carousels: Clearly labeled with flight numbers

4. Ground Transportation: Available just outside

Southwest is known for its efficient baggage handling. If your bag is delayed or missing, the airline has a baggage service desk near the claim area.

Southwest Airlines Destinations from STL

Southwest offers a wide array of nonstop and connecting flights from STL to major destinations across the U.S.

Popular Nonstop Destinations:

• Chicago (MDW)

• Denver (DEN)

• Dallas (DAL)

• Las Vegas (LAS)

• Orlando (MCO)

• Phoenix (PHX)

• Nashville (BNA)

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Los Angeles (LAX)

Seasonal routes and flight frequencies may vary. Southwest frequently adjusts its schedules to meet demand, especially during holidays and travel peaks.

Benefits of Flying Southwest at STL

Flying Southwest out of STL Terminal 2 offers a number of advantages:

• Exclusivity: No terminal-sharing congestion

• Fast Check-in & Security: Less time spent in line

• Customer Service: Friendly and responsive staff

• No Change Fees: Flexible policies for rebooking

• 2 Free Checked Bags: A significant savings perk

• Family Boarding: Helpful for those traveling with young kids

For business or leisure travelers alike, Southwest’s setup at STL promotes a smooth and enjoyable airport experience.

Tips for a Smooth Experience at the Southwest STL Terminal

1. Check-in Early Online: Secure your preferred boarding group

2. Use TSA PreCheck: Especially during peak times

3. Arrive Early: At least 90 minutes before your flight

4. Pack Smart: Southwest has generous bag policies, but carry-ons must fit size limits

5. Watch Gate Announcements: Southwest does not assign seats, so early boarding helps secure the best spots

6. Enjoy Local Dining: Try Schlafly for a taste of St. Louis before you fly

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re flying for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, traveling via Southwest’s Terminal 2 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport offers a streamlined, traveler-friendly experience. With dedicated facilities, easy navigation, and efficient service, STL’s Terminal 2 is one of the best examples of how a single-airline terminal can be designed for convenience.

From smooth check-in procedures and reliable baggage handling to great dining and helpful amenities, Southwest and STL work in harmony to make your journey as comfortable as possible. So next time you're booking a flight through St. Louis, rest assured that the Southwest terminal STL has you covered from takeoff to touchdown.