Hotels near St. Louis Zoo, Saint Louis

The Hampton Inn & Suites St. Louis at Forest Park is a mid-range, brand-name hotel at 5650 Oakland Avenue, on the park's southern edge. It suits travelers who want a predictable, comfortable stay close to the zoo and the park's other attractions.

Location and Zoo Access

• Distance: The zoo is under a mile away, roughly a 5-minute drive or a 15–20 minute walk, depending on your route and the entrance you use.
• Forest Park: The hotel is close to the park's museums, trails, and open green space. The Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Science Center are all nearby.
• Parking: Zoo parking can fill up on busy weekends and holidays. Driving over or taking a rideshare may be easier than walking with small children or strollers.
• Getting around: The hotel is also near the medical campus area and has fairly quick access to major roads. Downtown St. Louis is a short drive away.

Rooms and Comfort

• Expect clean, modern, practical rooms typical of the Hampton brand, with comfortable bedding, a work desk, and basic in-room amenities.
• Suite options can give families or small groups more space, which is helpful after a long day on your feet at the zoo.

Amenities

• Hampton properties typically include free Wi-Fi and a complimentary hot breakfast, which is a real convenience before a full day of sightseeing and can save money for families.
• A fitness center and a pool are common at this type of hotel. Check the hotel's current listing for pool hours and what is available.

Best For

• Families visiting the zoo and park attractions.
• Couples and solo travelers who want a quiet, dependable base near green space.
• Visitors with appointments at nearby medical facilities.

Things to Consider

• It is not in the center of downtown, so evening dining and nightlife options require a short drive or rideshare.
• Rates can rise during major events, school holidays, and peak summer weekends. Book early if your dates are fixed.
• Parking policies and fees can change, so confirm these when you book.

Verdict

This is a convenient, family-friendly choice for visiting the zoo and Forest Park. Its main strengths are its proximity to the zoo, the reliable Hampton standards, and a good value-to-comfort balance. It is a solid pick if you prioritize location and ease over a more upscale or downtown experience.

Forest Park Hotel, at 5915 Wilson Avenue, is roughly 1.3 miles (about 2 km) from the zoo. That is a 5–10 minute drive, depending on traffic, or about a 25–30 minute walk. It is close enough for easy day trips, though not an easy stroll for small children.

Location

• Proximity to the zoo: Close by car or rideshare. Walking is possible in good weather, but families with strollers or young kids will probably prefer to drive.
• Forest Park access: The hotel is near the park, so the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Science Center, the History Museum, and the Muny are all within a short ride.
• Dining and errands: The surrounding neighborhoods have local restaurants and everyday services, but check the exact walking route on a map before you count on it.

Who It Suits

• Families: The short drive makes it practical for a zoo day with a midday return for naps or breaks.
• Couples and solo travelers: A good base for exploring the park's museums and the city's neighborhoods.
• Budget-minded visitors: Hotels a little outside the immediate park edge are often better value than those right beside the main attractions, but confirm current rates.

Things to Check Before Booking

• Parking: Ask whether it is free or paid, since you will likely drive to the zoo.
• Amenities: Confirm breakfast, Wi-Fi, a pool, and family-room options. I can't verify these details here.
• Room types: If you are traveling with kids, ask about rooms with two beds or a sleeper sofa.
• Recent reviews: Look at the latest guest feedback on cleanliness, noise, and the surrounding streets.

Practical Tips

• Arrive at the zoo early. Parking and crowds are easiest in the morning, and the zoo's general admission is typically free, though some attractions charge.
• Use rideshare on busy event days when parking near the park is tight.
• If you plan to walk, go in daylight and pick a well-traveled route.

Bottom Line

Forest Park Hotel is a practical, reasonably close option for a zoo visit and for exploring Forest Park. It is best for travelers who have a car or don't mind rideshare. Confirm the amenities, parking, and current rates before you book.

Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Forest Park is a mid-range, suite-style hotel at 2111 Sulphur Avenue, on the south side of Forest Park. It suits families and leisure travelers who want to visit the zoo without paying for a hotel inside the park's busiest areas.

Location and Zoo Access

• Distance: The zoo is roughly 1.5 miles away, about a 5-10 minute drive depending on traffic and which entrance you use.
• Getting there: You'll most likely drive or take a rideshare. It's not an ideal walk with small children or in extreme heat or cold.
• Parking at the zoo: Zoo parking can fill up on busy weekends and holidays. Arriving early helps.
• Nearby highways: The hotel has quick access to the main interstate routes. That makes downtown, the Gateway Arch, and the airport easy to reach.

What You Can Expect

• Breakfast: Drury properties are known for a free hot breakfast, which saves time and money before a long zoo day.
• Evening reception: Drury typically offers a complimentary early-evening snack and drink reception, which is useful after a day on your feet.
• Rooms: Rooms and suites tend to be roomy, with extra seating and workspace. They work well for families who want more space than a standard hotel room.
• Other amenities: Free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a pool are standard for the brand. Confirm current details and hours directly with the hotel before booking.

Best For

• Families visiting the zoo, Science Center, or other Forest Park attractions
• Travelers who value included meals and good value
• Visitors who have a car and want convenient highway access

Things to Consider

• Not walkable to the zoo: Plan on driving or using a rideshare.
• Highway proximity: Some rooms may pick up road noise. Ask for a quieter room away from the highway side.
• Chain-hotel feel: It's comfortable and consistent, but not a boutique or luxury experience.
• Peak-season pricing: Rates can rise during major events and summer weekends, so book early.

Bottom Line

This is a practical, good-value choice for a zoo trip, with generous free perks and plenty of room. Its main drawback is that you can't comfortably walk to the zoo, but the short drive makes up for it.

The Moonrise Hotel is an independent boutique property in University City's Delmar Loop, one of St. Louis's most walkable entertainment districts. Its celestial design gives it more personality than a typical chain hotel.

Distance to the Zoo

• Approximate distance: About 1.4 miles (roughly 2.2 km) from the zoo.
• By car or rideshare: Usually around 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
• By public transit: The Delmar Loop area is served by MetroLink and local buses, so you can reach Forest Park without driving. Check current schedules before you go.
• Biking: The ride is short and manageable, and the route runs toward Forest Park, which has bike-friendly paths.

Pros

• Close to the zoo and Forest Park: You can easily spend a day at the zoo and then visit the nearby art museum, science center, or history museum.
• Walkable neighborhood: The Loop has independent restaurants, cafés, shops, and entertainment venues within a short walk, so you can eat out without getting back in the car.
• Distinctive character: The moon-and-stars theme and boutique feel suit travelers who prefer something memorable to a standard hotel.
• Rooftop atmosphere: The hotel is known for its rooftop space, which is a nice way to unwind after a day of walking. Hours and seasonal availability can vary, so confirm before you plan around it.
• Good for adults and couples: Evening entertainment is right outside the door.

Cons

• Not right next to the zoo: You will likely want a car, rideshare, or transit rather than walking, especially with young children or in hot or cold weather.
• Lively area: The Loop can be busy and noisy on weekend evenings, particularly if you are a light sleeper or prefer a quiet stay.
• Boutique size: Rooms and common areas may be more compact than at larger full-service hotels, which can matter for families with lots of gear.
• Parking and fees: Confirm current parking arrangements and any associated costs when you book.

Best For

• Couples and adult travelers who want a fun, walkable base near the zoo.
• Visitors planning to see several Forest Park attractions and enjoy the dining and nightlife.
• Guests who value local character over a predictable chain experience.

Things to Consider

• If you are traveling with small children and want the shortest possible trip to the zoo, a hotel closer to Forest Park or the Central West End may be more convenient.
• Check recent guest reviews for updates on room condition, noise levels, and amenities before booking.

Verdict

The Moonrise Hotel is a stylish, characterful choice with an easy trip to the zoo and plenty to do on its own doorstep. It is especially appealing to travelers who want to pair a zoo visit with a lively neighborhood experience. Families who prioritize quiet or a very short trip to the zoo may prefer a different location.

The Knight Center at Washington University is a campus-based hotel and conference venue at Throop Drive and Snow Way, on the western side of the university's Danforth Campus. It is geared toward university guests, executive education attendees, and business travelers. Families heading to the zoo can use it too, but it works best for travelers who prefer a calm, polished setting.

Location and Distance to the Zoo

• Distance: The zoo is roughly 1.5 miles away, about a 5–10 minute drive depending on traffic and the entrance you use.
• Forest Park access: The campus sits right beside Forest Park. That makes it easy to plan a full day around the zoo and the park's other attractions, such as the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Science Center.
• Getting around: The distance is walkable for confident walkers, and a rideshare or short drive is easy. The campus area is also close to MetroLink service, which is handy if you want to avoid parking in the city.

What to Expect

• Atmosphere: Expect a quiet, professional, university-oriented feel rather than a resort or theme-park hotel.
• Setting: The tree-lined campus is pleasant for morning walks and feels safe and well kept.
• Amenities: Venues like this typically offer meeting spaces, dining options, and business-friendly services. Amenities and room types can vary, so check the current offerings before booking.

Pros

• Close to the zoo and the rest of Forest Park
• Peaceful, attractive campus setting
• Good fit for business, academic, and conference travelers
• Easy access to nearby neighborhoods, including the Delmar Loop, for dining and entertainment

Cons

• It is not directly next to the zoo, so you will need a car, rideshare, or a longer walk.
• It has a campus or institutional feel rather than the kid-oriented extras of a family resort.
• Availability and policies may be tied to university events, so rates and openings can shift during commencement, move-in periods, or conferences.

Tips

• Book early if your dates overlap with major university events.
• Confirm parking options and fees in advance.
• Ask about shuttle or transportation help if you plan to visit the zoo without a car.
• Go to the zoo early on weekends, when parking and crowds are most challenging.

Verdict

The Knight Center is a good choice if you want a quiet, well-located base within a short drive of the zoo and Forest Park. It is especially appealing for travelers combining a zoo visit with a business or university trip. If you want to be within walking distance of the zoo entrance or prefer a hotel with a strong family-resort focus, you may want to compare other options as well.

The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza is one of St. Louis's best-known landmark hotels. It's a large, historic property with a classic, upscale feel, set at the edge of Forest Park in the Central West End. It suits travelers who want a polished base with plenty to do nearby, not just a place to sleep.

Location and Getting to the Zoo

• Distance: The zoo is roughly 1.5–2 miles away, about a 5–10 minute drive or rideshare depending on traffic.
• Walking: Forest Park is right across the street, so a walk or bike ride through the park is pleasant. With kids or in hot or cold weather, the full trip on foot is a stretch, so plan on driving.
• Neighborhood: The Central West End has many restaurants, cafés, bookstores, and bars within walking distance. That's a big plus after a day at the zoo.
• Nearby attractions: The Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and the Science Center are all in or around Forest Park, so the hotel works well for a multi-day visit.

Rooms and Comfort

• Rooms and suites are generally spacious by city-hotel standards, with a traditional, upscale style.
• Suites and connecting rooms can work well for families or small groups.
• As in many historic buildings, room layouts and renovation levels can vary, so it's worth requesting a recently updated room or a park view.

Amenities

• Multiple on-site dining and bar options, which is convenient with tired kids or after a long day.
• A pool and fitness center are available, a good break between outings.
• Event and meeting spaces mean the hotel can get busy during conventions and weddings.

Pros

• Prime Central West End location beside Forest Park
• Short ride to the zoo and other major park attractions
• Walkable dining and nightlife
• Historic character with full-service amenities
• Good for families, couples, and groups

Things to Consider

• Not walking distance to the zoo for most visitors
• Fees: Parking and resort or amenity fees may apply, so check the total price before booking.
• Pricing: Rates can be higher than at basic hotels, especially on event weekends.
• Crowds: Large events can mean busier lobbies and elevators.

Best For

Families and leisure travelers who want a full-service hotel with a historic feel, restaurants nearby, and easy access to Forest Park's attractions. If your priority is the cheapest possible stay or a spot within a short walk of the zoo entrance, compare other options. If you value atmosphere, dining, and neighborhood energy, this is a strong choice.

Tips

• Ask about a park-facing room and confirm parking costs at booking.
• Drive or rideshare to the zoo in the morning and explore the park on foot afterward.
• Book early for weekends and major event dates.