The most useful verified facts are that the Gateway Arch tram ride costs adults $15 to $19 while the museum is free, and that Kansas City charges a 7.5% convention and tourism tax on hotel rooms. NOAA's normal highs at St. Louis Lambert run from 40.4°F in January to 89.6°F in July. We verified no other attraction prices, transit fares, driving times or flight prices.
Quick plan (our recommendation)
This is an editorial plan from official sources, not a trip we took. See the weekend itinerary for a short version.
- St. Louis: the Gateway Arch and its free museum; buy tram tickets ahead.
- Kansas City: budget for the 7.5% convention and tourism tax on rooms.
What it costs (verified figures only)
| Item | Figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gateway Arch tram | $15 to $19 for adults (16+) | Museum free; documentary $7. Source: Gateway Arch (via search summary). |
| Kansas City hotel tax | 7.5% convention and tourism tax | Sales tax and an arena fee are separate. Source: City of Kansas City. |
| Missouri sales tax | 4.225% state rate | Local taxes add. Source: Department of Revenue (via search summary). |
Getting around
We verified no Missouri transit fares; see transportation.
When to go
NOAA's 1991–2020 normals for St. Louis Lambert show highs of 85.9–89.6°F from June to August and 40.4–45.8°F in December–February, with up to 5.7 inches of snow in a month. May is the wettest month at 4.82 inches; see the best-time guide.
Safety and practical tips
In summer see National Weather Service heat guidance and use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen (American Academy of Dermatology). This guide publishes no crime or safety statistics.
What this guide does not cover
We do not rate hotels, restaurants, tours or stores, or claim first-hand visits; see the editorial policy.