**A Comprehensive Guide to Southwest Terminal at STL (St. Louis Lambert International Airport)** St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is Missouri's busiest and largest airport, serving millions of travelers each year. Among the many carriers that operate at STL, Southwest Airlines stands out as a leading airline with a strong presence at the airport. Whether you're a first-time flyer, a frequent Southwest passenger, or just curious about the layout and facilities, this blog will take you through everything you need to know about the [southwest terminal stl](https://airlinesofficesworld.com/southwest-airlines-stl-terminal-st-louis-lambert-international-airport/ )—from check-in to boarding, dining to parking, and everything in between. **Overview of St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)** St. Louis Lambert International Airport, located about 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis, is the primary airport for the metropolitan area. Named after Albert Bond Lambert, a pioneer in aviation and an Olympic silver medalist, STL has long been a hub for air travel in the Midwest. The airport is owned by the City of St. Louis and has two main terminals: **Terminal 1**: Houses several airlines, including United, Delta, Air Canada, and others. **Terminal 2**: Dedicated exclusively to Southwest Airlines. This setup makes STL incredibly user-friendly for Southwest customers since the entire terminal is tailored to serve their specific needs. **Southwest Airlines at STL: Terminal 2** Southwest Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal 2 at STL, also known as the East Terminal. Unlike Terminal 1, which is more expansive and multi-purpose, Terminal 2 is streamlined and efficient, designed with Southwest's high-volume, rapid-turnaround model in mind. **Terminal 2 Address:** Terminal 2, St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) 10701 Lambert International Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63145 **Airlines at Terminal 2:** Southwest Airlines (exclusive carrier) This single-airline setup helps in minimizing confusion, improving passenger flow, and enhancing the travel experience for Southwest passengers. **Getting to Terminal 2** Whether you’re arriving by car, rideshare, or public transportation, Terminal 2 is easy to access: **Driving:** From I-70, take Exit 238A and follow the signs for Terminal 2. The airport signage is clear and well-marked. **Public Transportation:** MetroLink, St. Louis’ light rail system, has a stop at the airport. However, note that the MetroLink station is at Terminal 1. You can take the free terminal shuttle or walk (about 10-15 minutes) to reach Terminal 2. **Rideshare & Taxi:** Uber, Lyft, and taxis drop off passengers right outside the Terminal 2 entrance. For pickups, follow the signs to the designated rideshare area on the departures level. **Check-in and Ticketing at Terminal 2** Southwest makes check-in fast and simple. Upon entering Terminal 2, you’ll find the Southwest Airlines ticket counters and kiosks directly ahead. **Check-in Options:** Self-service kiosks: Quickly print your boarding pass and baggage tags. Counter check-in: Staffed counters for those who need extra help or are checking in special baggage. Curbside check-in: Available during peak travel times, great for those who want to avoid going inside. **Baggage:** Southwest’s two free checked bags policy is still in effect, making them a budget-friendly option. Oversized or specialty baggage must be checked at designated counters. Pro tip: Arrive at least 90 minutes before your scheduled flight to allow enough time for check-in, security, and boarding. **Security Screening at Terminal 2** The TSA security checkpoint at Terminal 2 is located just past the ticketing area and leads directly to the gates. The layout is straightforward, and the lines move relatively fast compared to larger hubs. **TSA PreCheck:** Southwest Airlines participates in TSA PreCheck, allowing eligible travelers to use the expedited screening lanes. **CLEAR:** As of now, CLEAR is not available at STL, so TSA PreCheck is the main expedited option. Once past security, you'll be in the main departures concourse, where all Southwest gates are located. **Gates and Concourse Layout** Terminal 2 at STL features Gates E1 through E40, all used exclusively by Southwest Airlines. The gates are located in a single concourse, making it easy to find your departure gate without navigating a labyrinth of corridors. **Key Points:** Gates are well-signed and easy to navigate. Walking time from security to the farthest gate is approximately 5-10 minutes. Plenty of seating is available at each gate, with charging stations and Southwest service desks nearby. **Dining and Shopping in Terminal 2** Though smaller than Terminal 1, Terminal 2 offers a solid variety of dining and shopping options to keep travelers satisfied while waiting for their flight. **Dining Options:** The Great American Bagel Bakery – Ideal for a quick breakfast or coffee. Chili’s Too – Sit-down meals with Southwest flair. Schlafly Beer Bar – Local craft beers and hearty snacks. Dunkin’ – Popular for coffee and donuts on the go. The Local @ STL Market – Sandwiches, salads, snacks, and more. **Shopping:** Hudson News – Books, magazines, snacks, and travel essentials. Tech on the Go – Electronics and accessories. Discover St. Louis – Local souvenirs and regional gifts. While the offerings are not as vast as major international terminals, Terminal 2 still provides enough variety for a comfortable pre-flight experience. Amenities and Services at Terminal 2 In addition to food and retail, Terminal 2 at STL offers a range of passenger amenities: **Free Wi-Fi:** STL provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, so you can stay connected while you wait. **Charging Stations:** Located at most gates and seating areas. **Pet Relief Area:** Located just outside the terminal, suitable for service animals and pets. **Family Restrooms:** Available throughout the concourse for families with young children. **ATMs:** Provided by major banks and located near the entrance and boarding areas. **Southwest Lounges at STL** Unlike some other airlines, Southwest does not operate airport lounges at STL or elsewhere. Their focus is on affordability and efficiency, not luxury lounges. However, the terminal’s ample seating, restaurants, and Wi-Fi help make the wait comfortable. **Parking at Terminal 2** STL offers a variety of parking options, both short-term and long-term: **Terminal 2 Parking Garage:** Located directly across from the terminal. Great for short stays or drop-offs/pick-ups. Rates: ~$2/hour, $23/day Lot D (Long-term Parking): Most economical for extended trips. Shuttle service provided to Terminal 2. Rates: ~$7-10/day **Economy Lot:** Also serviced by free shuttles. Often the most budget-friendly choice. Pro tip: During holidays or peak seasons, book your parking in advance through the STL website to guarantee availability. **Accessibility at Terminal 2** STL Terminal 2 is fully accessible, with features including: Elevators and ramps Accessible restrooms Wheelchair assistance (request through Southwest or at check-in) Designated parking spots for disabled travelers Flight Destinations and Frequencies Southwest Airlines offers a wide range of destinations from STL, making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers. Some of the most frequent and popular routes include: **Domestic Destinations: Chicago Midway (MDW)** Dallas Love Field (DAL) Denver (DEN) Las Vegas (LAS) Phoenix (PHX) Orlando (MCO) Los Angeles (LAX) Atlanta (ATL) Seasonal Destinations: Tampa (TPA) Fort Lauderdale (FLL) San Diego (SAN) Nashville (BNA) Southwest’s flexibility with ticket changes, lack of baggage fees, and no change fees make it a top pick for travelers who prioritize convenience and value. **Tips for Flying Southwest at STL** Check in Early: Use the Southwest mobile app or website to check in 24 hours before departure to get a better boarding group (Southwest doesn’t assign seats). **Arrive Early:** Especially during holidays, arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights. **Pack Smart:** Take advantage of the two free checked bags. **Use the App:** It keeps you updated on gate changes, boarding status, and flight times. **Bring Snacks:** While there are food options, having a backup snack is always smart. **Conclusion** Flying with Southwest Airlines out of Terminal 2 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is a streamlined and stress-free experience. With an entire terminal dedicated to one airline, travelers can enjoy simplified navigation, quick check-ins, and efficient boarding processes. Whether you’re headed to a sunny beach in Florida or a business trip to Chicago, Southwest’s reputation for reliability and affordability makes it a top choice for STL flyers. From easy access to comfortable amenities, STL’s Terminal 2 is a testament to what modern domestic travel should feel like—efficient, friendly, and well-organized. So the next time you're flying out of St. Louis, rest easy knowing that Southwest at STL has you covered.