Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids
St. Louis
St. Louis
Driving

Grand Rapids to St. Louis

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Grand Rapids to St. Louis is a 1,050-kilometer drive south through Minnesota, Iowa, and into Missouri. You will follow I-35 to Des Moines and then head east on I-80 and I-70. The drive takes about 11 hours. St. Louis is famous for the Gateway Arch, its historic neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene.

Total Distance: 1,050 km driving, 850 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest, taking 11 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical and direct way to reach St. Louis.
Compare Grand Rapids to St. Louis Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
11 hours
Avg Price
$170-$220 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
US-169 S to I-35 S, then I-80 E and I-70 E.

This is a long drive; plan for an overnight stop if necessary.

Travel Tips
  • Arch Tickets
    Book your tram tickets to the top of the Arch well in advance.
  • Transportation
    The MetroLink light rail system is a convenient way to get around the city.
  • Parking
    Downtown parking is available in garages; check for event-day rates.
  • Weather
    St. Louis can be hot and humid in the summer; plan accordingly.
  • Events
    Check the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra schedule for concerts.
Safety Tips
  • Highway Safety
    I-70 can be busy; stay alert and follow traffic laws.
  • Winter Travel
    Snow and ice are possible in winter; check road conditions before departing.
  • Emergency
    Keep a roadside emergency kit in your car.
  • General Safety
    St. Louis is generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings in downtown areas at night.
People Also Ask
  • How long is the drive to St. Louis?
    The drive takes approximately 11 hours.
  • Is St. Louis a good place to visit?
    Yes, it has a great cultural scene, beautiful parks, and historic sites.
  • Are there tolls on this route?
    No, there are no tolls on the route from Grand Rapids to St. Louis.
  • What is the best way to get around St. Louis?
    A car is the most convenient way to explore the city, plus the MetroLink.
  • Can I fly to St. Louis?
    You would need to drive to Minneapolis to catch a flight to St. Louis Lambert International Airport.
Quick Info
  • From Grand Rapids, Minnesota, United States
  • To St. Louis, Missouri, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring and fall for mild weather and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in St. Louis
1
Gateway Arch National Park
Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of the American West, and explore the museum below.
2
Forest Park
Explore this massive urban park, home to the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and Science Center.
3
City Museum
Experience this unique, interactive museum built from repurposed industrial materials.
4
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
Take a tour of the historic brewery and learn about the city's brewing heritage.
Tags
Grand Rapids to St. Louis driving to St. Louis MN to MO road trip I-70 to St. Louis St. Louis travel guide cheapest way to St. Louis fastest route to St. Louis Missouri travel
More to Grand Rapids