Getting Around Lambert Airport’s Terminal 2
Airport terminal navigation has gotten complicated with all the renovations and gate changes flying around. As someone who has been through St. Louis Lambert’s Terminal 2 plenty of times, I learned everything there is to know about getting around this Southwest Airlines hub efficiently. Today, I will share it all with you.
If you are flying through St. Louis, there is a good chance you will end up in Terminal 2. It handles most of Southwest’s domestic routes, so yeah, you’ll probably be here at some point.
Finding Your Way Around
Probably should have led with this section, honestly. Terminal 2 sits on the east side of Lambert Airport. Getting there is straightforward whether you are driving, taking public transit, or getting dropped off. The layout inside is pretty intuitive – the concourse branches out in a way that makes sense.
What I appreciate is that it does not get as congested as some terminals. The design actually helps with passenger flow, which matters during busy times. That’s what makes regional hubs endearing to us frequent flyers — they’re designed for efficiency, not just size.
What is Available
Check-in counters line the entrance, and there are self-service kiosks if you are the type who prefers to handle things yourself (I usually am). Security is positioned logically, so you are not backtracking. Smart design decisions matter.
Once you are through security, you will find the usual suspects: duty-free shops with everything from cologne to electronics, food options ranging from quick bites to actual sit-down places, and coffee shops doing their thing. Nothing fancy, but solid options.
Getting There and Parking
Parking options are plentiful near Terminal 2. Short-term if you are picking someone up, long-term if you are leaving your car while you travel. Shuttles run between the lots and the terminal pretty regularly. No long waits typically.
Here is a tip that has saved me money: the MetroLink light rail connects directly to Terminal 2. It runs to downtown St. Louis and beyond, and it is way cheaper than parking or taxis if you are not in a rush. Game changer for budget-conscious travelers.
Flying Southwest from Here
Southwest dominates Terminal 2. They run tons of domestic flights across the US, plus some international routes to Mexico and the Caribbean. Their schedules are designed for connections, so layover times are usually reasonable. They’ve got the timing down.
The check-in and boarding process here is pretty smooth. Southwest’s no-assigned-seats thing can be chaotic elsewhere, but the staff at Lambert seem to have it down. Practiced efficiency shows.
Recent Improvements
They have been upgrading Terminal 2 over the past few years. New seating areas, charging stations everywhere (finally), and better Wi-Fi. Nothing worse than a 3-hour layover with 12% battery and no outlets in sight – that is less of a problem now. Thank goodness.
There has also been a sustainability push – energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, that kind of thing. Nice to see airports taking this seriously.
If You Need Accessibility Help
Terminal 2 handles accessibility well. Elevators and escalators are everywhere, doors are automatic, signage is clear. If you need wheelchair assistance or other help, they can arrange it in advance or when you show up. Actually accommodating, not just checking boxes.
What People Say
Most folks seem to have positive experiences here. The efficient layout helps, the staff are generally helpful, and it is kept clean. Compared to some terminals I have been stuck in, Lambert Terminal 2 is pretty good. Above average for sure.
What is Next
There is talk of more expansion and improvements coming. More gates, more shops, maybe some more advanced tech like biometric boarding. The future looks promising.
For now, it is a solid terminal that does what you need it to do without too much hassle. That is really all you can ask for from an airport, honestly. Function over flash.
