Payless Car Hire
Missouri

At St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the Payless hire desk is located within the airport's consolidated Rental Car Facility. This central building houses most of the major car hire companies, creating a convenient one-stop location for travellers. To get there from either terminal, follow the airport signs for the rental car shuttles. These complimentary buses run on a continuous loop and will take you directly to the facility where you can complete the hire process.

The easiest way to reach the Payless desk after a late-night arrival at STL is to use the airport's dedicated rental car shuttle service. These shuttles operate in line with flight schedules, including late arrivals. Once you have collected your luggage, follow the signs in the terminal for Ground Transport and Rental Car Shuttles. The well-lit pickup areas are located just outside the terminals, and the shuttle will provide a direct and secure ride to the Rental Car Facility.

As a general guideline for planning, it's sensible to allow approximately 60 to 90 minutes from the time your plane lands to when you drive away from the rental facility. This covers deplaning, walking through the terminal and collecting any checked luggage. Also factor in the short wait and travel time for the shuttle bus to the Rental Car Facility. The final step is completing paperwork at the desk, which can vary depending on how busy it is during a typical weekday.

When leaving the STL rental car area for downtown, the primary route is I-70 East, which can be tricky for first-time visitors. The most challenging part is the approach to downtown where several major interstates converge. The exits for key downtown destinations like the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium and the convention centre come up quickly and often require you to be in the correct lane well in advance. Using a satnav and paying close attention to the overhead signs as you near the Mississippi will help you navigate this complex series of interchanges successfully.

For a straightforward drive to Clayton from STL, the most direct route that avoids the more complex downtown interchanges is to take I-170 South. After leaving the airport area you will merge onto I-170, which is a major north–south connector in St Louis County. Stay on this interstate for several miles before taking one of the Clayton-area exits, such as Forest Park Parkway or Ladue Road. This route is generally less congested and easier to navigate than heading toward the city centre first.

A good strategy is to group visits by location to minimise driving and parking. Start the day at Forest Park, where you can park once and enjoy several free attractions like the Zoo, Art Museum and Missouri History Museum, all within the park. From there it's a relatively short drive to The Hill for a late lunch at one of its famous Italian restaurants. In the late afternoon, drive to the Gateway Arch, when crowds may be lighter and parking can be easier for an evening visit.

Most visitors driving to the Gateway Arch use the dedicated car parks located at the north end of the park, often accessed via Washington Avenue or nearby streets. These car parks are well signed as Arch Parking. Bear in mind that they can fill up quickly during peak tourist season and at weekends. Entering and exiting is typically straightforward, but it helps to note your parking level and location so you can easily find your car after visiting the monument and museum.

To avoid the most significant traffic and parking congestion for a Cardinals game, plan to arrive in the downtown area at least 90 minutes to two hours before the first pitch. This gives you time to navigate street closures and heavy traffic that build up around Busch Stadium on match days. Arriving early also gives you a better choice of parking spots in nearby car parks and surface lots. Many fans like to arrive ahead of time to explore the adjacent Ballpark Village.

Driving in downtown St. Louis changes noticeably during a Blues game or a major concert at the Enterprise Center. Expect increased traffic on main thoroughfares like Market Street and Clark Avenue, especially in the hour leading up to the event. Several car parks serve the arena, leading to queues on the streets immediately surrounding the venue as cars wait to enter. After the event, be prepared for a slow exit from the city as thousands of attendees leave the area at the same time.

During weekday rush hours, typically from 7–9am and 4–6pm, both I-64 (also known as Highway 40) and I-70 experience significant congestion. The morning commute is generally toughest for eastbound traffic heading into the downtown and Clayton business districts. In the afternoon the pattern reverses, with westbound traffic becoming very heavy as commuters head out to the suburbs. I-64, in particular, can be slow-moving for many miles, so it's wise to allow extra travel time or plan journeys outside these peak periods.

The most direct route for commuting from St. Charles into St. Louis is via I-70 East. This interstate will take you from the St. Charles area, across the Missouri River and directly toward downtown St. Louis and its main attractions. For destinations in the central corridor like Forest Park or the Central West End, you can take I-70 to I-170 South to connect to other highways. While this is the most straightforward path, be mindful that I-70 is a major commuter route and can be busy during peak hours.

While having a hire car offers flexibility, using a ride-share can be much easier for an evening out in the Soulard neighbourhood. Soulard is known for its historic, narrow streets and limited on-street parking, which can be very difficult to find, especially on weekend nights. Opting for a ride-share allows you to be dropped off directly at your restaurant or venue without the stress of searching for a parking space, so you can fully enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Driving to the St. Louis Zoo in Forest Park is straightforward, but parking on a busy weekend requires some planning. The Zoo has dedicated parking lots, one on the north side and one on the south side, which are clearly signposted. These lots often fill to capacity by late morning on pleasant weekends and holidays. An alternative is to find free on-street parking elsewhere in Forest Park and enjoy a pleasant walk to the Zoo entrance, but be sure to note where you parked.

To ensure the smoothest drive from St. Louis to Cahokia Mounds in Illinois, plan to cross the Mississippi River during off-peak hours. The best time is typically mid-morning, between 10am and 12pm, after the morning rush hour has subsided. An early afternoon trip, between 1pm and 3pm, is also a good option before the evening commute begins. This timing helps you avoid the significant traffic backups that can occur on the bridges connecting Missouri and Illinois during peak travel times.

During peak commute times, traffic around the Poplar Street Bridge and other river crossings becomes heavily congested. In the morning, roughly 7–9am, you'll find the heaviest traffic flowing westbound from Illinois into Missouri as people commute into St. Louis for work. In the evening, from 4–6pm, the flow reverses, with significant eastbound backups as commuters head home to Illinois. These bridges are major arteries, so any accident or roadworks can cause substantial delays beyond the usual rush hour.

The most direct and easiest route for a road trip from St. Louis to Kansas City is to take I-70 West for the entire journey. It's a major interstate that is well maintained and clearly signed, making navigation simple for out-of-town drivers. For a good place to stretch your legs, Columbia, located about halfway, is an excellent stop with plenty of restaurants and shops near the university. Another great option is Rocheport, a small historic town just off the highway with scenic views of the Missouri River.

A realistic plan to drive from St. Louis to Branson and arrive with time for evening activities is to depart by late morning. The drive typically takes around four to four-and-a-half hours without significant stops. Leaving St. Louis by about 11am should have you arriving in Branson by mid-afternoon, giving you ample time to check into your accommodation and relax before dinner or a show. This schedule allows for a comfortable pace and a brief stop for fuel or a snack.

As you approach the Lake of the Ozarks, the final hour of your drive will transition from major highways to more challenging local roads. Be prepared for winding, two-lane roads with frequent hills and sharp bends that can limit visibility. These lake roads often lack hard shoulders and can be narrow, so it's important to reduce your speed and stay alert for other vehicles and wildlife. Pay close attention to your navigation, as many smaller roads and addresses can be tricky to find, especially after dark.

To reach Columbia from St. Louis at a comfortable pace, plan for a drive of about two hours. If you have a specific event or appointment time, it's wise to leave St. Louis at least two-and-a-half hours in advance. This builds in a buffer for potential traffic delays on I-70, especially if you are travelling during peak commuter times or on a busy weekend. Arriving with extra time also makes it easier to navigate the university campus and find appropriate parking without feeling rushed.

For an easy and scenic drive near St. Louis, the Great River Road (Route 94) heading west from the Chesterfield area offers attractive countryside views. This route winds through rolling hills and bluffs along the Missouri River, passing charming small towns like Defiance and Augusta. Another excellent option is driving south on I-55 to Route 67, which takes you toward the rolling hills and forests of the Ozark foothills. Both drives can be enjoyed in just a few hours and provide a pleasant escape from the city.

To structure a relaxing drive to Missouri wine country, plan to start your day early, leaving St. Louis by mid-morning. For Augusta, take Highway 94 for a scenic route along the river bluffs. For Hermann, I-70 West to Highway 19 South is more direct. A good strategy is to choose two or three wineries to visit rather than trying to see them all. This allows you to savour the experience at each location, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and still have a comfortable and safe drive back to St. Louis before it gets too late.

Driving to Jefferson City from St. Louis is a relatively easy trip, primarily on I-70 West and then US-54 West. Once you arrive downtown, the street grid around the Missouri State Capitol is fairly straightforward. However, be aware that the area is quite hilly, with some steep streets that can be surprising for first-time visitors. Parking is generally available in metered on-street bays or in public car parks, but it's a good idea to have a plan, especially if the legislature is in session, as spots can become scarce.

Road construction season in St. Louis typically runs from spring through autumn, and planning ahead is key. Before you drive, it's helpful to check a real-time traffic app or the state's department of transportation website for the latest updates on lane closures and diversions. Major interstates like I-64, I-70, I-270 and I-44 are frequently impacted by long-term projects. Always build extra time into your travel schedule, especially when heading to the airport or to a time-sensitive event, as construction can cause unexpected delays.

Missouri's weather is known for its variability, which can directly affect driving conditions. In spring and summer be prepared for sudden, powerful thunderstorms that can bring heavy rain, high winds and reduced visibility. Fog is also common, especially in the mornings in low-lying areas near rivers. In winter, the biggest threat is often freezing rain or sleet, which creates slick, icy conditions on roads, bridges and overpasses, requiring extreme caution and slower speeds.

During winter weather in St. Louis, elevated surfaces like bridges, overpasses and motorway ramps are the first to become slick and icy. This is because cold air affects the road surface above and below, causing them to freeze faster than the ground. Less-travelled secondary roads and hilly residential streets also tend to remain hazardous longer. After a snowfall, it's safest to delay your journey until road crews have had time to treat the main arteries, and always allow for significantly more travel time and stopping distance.

The simplest way to handle St. Louis's complex highway system is to use a reliable satnav app and review your route before you start driving. Set your destination in advance so you receive turn-by-turn voice directions, which allows you to focus on the road and traffic. It's also helpful to have a passenger act as a co-pilot to watch for upcoming exits and lane changes. Pay close attention to overhead signs, as they often provide crucial information about which lane you need to be in well ahead of a major split or exit.

For families with children, several St. Louis attractions are very convenient with a hire car. The Magic House in Kirkwood and the St. Louis Zoo in Forest Park both have large, dedicated car parks located very close to their main entrances, minimising long walks for little ones. Grant's Farm is another excellent choice, as its parking tram takes you directly to the attraction's entrance. These venues are designed with families in mind, making the logistics of arriving and departing by car relatively stress-free.

For a couple's weekend focused on parking once and exploring, the Central West End is an excellent choice. This vibrant neighbourhood is highly walkable, with numerous cafés, galleries and restaurants, and many hotels offer guest parking. Another great option is Clayton, which has a more upmarket, relaxed feel with plenty of fine dining and boutiques within a few blocks. Both neighbourhoods provide a great base from which you can walk to many attractions and only use your hire car for venturing further out.

When visiting Washington University's Danforth Campus, it's important to plan for parking in advance. The campus is large and parking regulations are strictly enforced. Your best option is to use one of the designated visitor parking garages, such as the Danforth University Center (DUC) garage or the Millbrook Garage. These are centrally located and offer hourly rates. Be sure to note the garage's location and pay at the kiosk before returning to your vehicle to avoid any issues.

The drive to Six Flags St. Louis, located in Eureka, is a straightforward trip west on I-44 from both the airport and downtown. The journey typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes in normal traffic. The entrance roads leading to the park's car parks become most congested in the hour right after the park opens, especially on summer weekends and bank holidays. To avoid the longest queues of cars, plan to arrive either about 30 minutes before opening time or wait until the early afternoon.

Approaching the Missouri Botanical Garden by car is quite easy, as it is conveniently located near major roads. From I-44, take the Vandeventer Avenue exit and follow the signs for a few blocks to the garden's entrance. The garden provides a large, free visitor car park directly on-site, just steps from the main gate and ticket counters. This makes parking simple and convenient, allowing you to begin your visit without the hassle of searching for a spot on nearby streets.

When driving on St. Louis city streets at night, it's important to remain aware of your surroundings, just as you would in any major city. In entertainment districts like the Delmar Loop or Washington Avenue, be prepared for increased pedestrian traffic and cars pulling in and out of parking spaces. Some areas may have one-way streets that can be confusing if you're unfamiliar with the layout. Stick to well-lit main thoroughfares and have your route planned in advance for a smoother and more secure driving experience.

For a stress-free early-morning return to the STL rental car facility, the key is to use major highways and follow the airport signage closely. Regardless of your starting point, routes like I-70, I-170 and I-270 provide the most direct access to the airport exit. As you get close to the airport, dedicated signs will clearly direct you to the Rental Car Return area. Following these specific signs is crucial, as they guide you away from the departures and arrivals terminals and onto the correct access road for the facility.

It's sensible to build in an extra 20 to 30 minutes to refuel your hire car before returning it to STL. There are several petrol stations conveniently located along major roads leading to the airport, such as Natural Bridge Road or Lambert International Boulevard. Refuelling at one of these stations before you get into the immediate airport loop can help you avoid the most congested traffic right at the terminal entrances. This buffer ensures you can refuel, return the car and catch the shuttle to your terminal without feeling rushed.

If your airport hotel offers a complimentary shuttle, it is often easier and more relaxing to take the shuttle to your hotel after you land and pick up your hire car the next morning. This allows you to settle in after your flight without the immediate task of navigating to the hire facility and then to your hotel in an unfamiliar area, especially if you arrive late at night. The next day, you can take the hotel shuttle back to the airport's Rental Car Facility to begin your sightseeing adventure feeling refreshed.

Driving in Missouri is generally similar to other states, but it's good to be aware of a few common practices. Turning right on a red light after a complete stop is permitted unless a sign specifically prohibits it, which is standard in most of the US. On multi-lane motorways, the left lane is legally designated for overtaking only, and drivers are expected to stay in the right-hand lanes when not overtaking another vehicle. Adhering to this helps maintain smooth traffic flow and is a common courtesy on Missouri interstates.

Visitors to St. Louis often notice the prevalence of very short slip roads and exits on older highways like I-64, which require you to accelerate or decelerate quickly. Merging can feel assertive, so it's important to be decisive and aware of your surroundings. Another local quirk is the frequent interchange of street names and highway numbers; for instance, I-64 is often called "Highway 40" by locals. Finally, the complex interchange where I-44, I-55 and I-70 meet near the city centre can be confusing, so careful navigation is key.

For beautiful autumn colours, the Great River Road along the Mississippi north of St. Louis offers stunning views of the bluffs. Another excellent option is driving west on Highway 94 through Missouri's wine country around Augusta and Hermann. The peak foliage season is typically in mid-to-late October. These scenic routes become most crowded at weekends during this peak period, so for a more peaceful drive consider a weekday trip if your schedule allows.

A practical way to plan a multi-stop Missouri trip is to create a directional loop or a one-way route. For example, you could start at STL, drive west on I-70 to visit Columbia and Kansas City, then head south on I-49 toward Joplin and Springfield. From there, you could explore the Ozarks and Branson before heading back toward St. Louis on I-44. This creates a logical progression across the state, allowing you to experience different regions efficiently without wasting time backtracking over the same motorways.

When planning a day trip into Illinois, timing your Mississippi River crossings is crucial for managing traffic. To avoid the heaviest congestion, plan to cross into Illinois after the morning rush hour, typically after 9:30am. For your return to Missouri, aim to cross back before 3:30pm or after 6:30pm to miss the peak evening commute. The Poplar Street Bridge is the main artery and often the busiest, so checking a traffic app for conditions on alternative bridges like the Eads or Stan Musial Veterans Memorial can sometimes save you time.