Just flew to Denver from STL and wasn’t sure what terminal is southwest at stl? Quick search told me it’s Terminal 2—thank goodness I looked it up! Terminal 2 is actually pretty nice: not huge, but organized and chill. Security went fast, and I even had time to grab a coffee before boarding. Definitely recommend checking terminal info ahead if you’re flying Southwest—it can really make your airport experience smoother.

Navigating the Southwest Airlines STL Terminal: Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Journey

If you’re flying in or out of St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) with Southwest Airlines, you’re in good company. Southwest is the dominant carrier at STL, making the airport a key hub for travelers across the Midwest. Whether you're a first-time flyer or a seasoned traveler, understanding the layout and offerings of the Southwest Airlines STL Terminal can make your airport experience far more enjoyable and stress-free.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines STL Terminal—from check-in to boarding, dining options, ground transportation, and handy travel tips.

Where is Southwest Airlines Located at STL?

Southwest Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal 2 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. While STL has two terminals—Terminal 1 and Terminal 2—Terminal 2 is much smaller and more streamlined, primarily serving low-cost and regional carriers, with Southwest being by far the largest tenant.

If you're flying Southwest in or out of STL, you can head straight to Terminal 2 without needing to worry about Terminal 1 unless you're transferring between airlines.

Getting to Terminal 2 at STL

Driving & Parking:
Terminal 2 is easily accessible by car. There are dedicated parking lots nearby, including short-term and long-term options. The Lot D economy parking is one of the most cost-effective options and is just a short shuttle ride away from the terminal entrance. For faster access, Terminal 2 also offers a close-in garage parking option, ideal for quick trips or picking someone up.

Public Transit & Rideshare:
MetroLink, St. Louis' light rail system, has a stop at STL that drops off at Terminal 1, but there’s a free terminal shuttle that can transport you to Terminal 2 in just a few minutes. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also well-integrated at STL, with designated pick-up and drop-off zones clearly marked at the terminal entrance.

Check-In and Security

The check-in area for Southwest Airlines at STL Terminal 2 is generally efficient, but like any busy airport hub, peak times can get crowded. Luckily, Southwest offers multiple self-service kiosks and full-service counters for checked baggage and assistance.

TSA PreCheck is available at Terminal 2, which can be a major time-saver. Security lines typically move fairly quickly, but it’s still a good idea to arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights, and 2 hours before international flights if applicable.

Terminal 2 Layout and Gate Information

After clearing security, travelers enter a compact yet functional concourse. Terminal 2 houses Gates E1 through E40, all used by Southwest. It’s a relatively easy terminal to navigate, with a single concourse layout, which minimizes walking distances and keeps amenities within close reach.

There are ample signs and flight information displays throughout, so even if you’re in a bit of a hurry, you can easily locate your gate.