If you want a historic hotel within walking distance of St. Louis’ biggest attractions, Hilton Pennywell St. Louis at the Arch is a terrific choice.

The 195-room Hilton property is close to the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, America’s Center and The Dome. Its downtown location works especially well for a concert, game, convention or weekend of sightseeing.

The Pennywell’s Banking History

The eight-story building was completed in 1888 and once housed Merchants-Laclede National Bank.

Its banking past remains part of the hotel’s character. The Vault Marketplace sits behind the original bank-vault doors, while vintage-inspired furnishings complement the lobby’s soaring ceilings and historic architecture.

It is a wonderful blend of old St. Louis and contemporary style.

Spacious Rooms With Historic Character

My room was spacious, with high ceilings, clean-lined furnishings and artwork nodding to the building’s past. Corner rooms offer even more space.

Rooms include a desk, seating area, large television and blackout curtains. My bathroom was equally roomy, with plenty of vanity space.

It had the modern comforts I wanted without erasing the building’s history.

Dining at Pennydrop Bar + Kitchen

Pennydrop Bar + Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. I enjoyed a filling chopped salad during my stay and returned for breakfast the next morning. Live music typically fills the lobby on weekends.

Hearty options such as omelets provide plenty of fuel for sightseeing, while lighter choices are available when you don’t want to start the day with a food coma.

The Vault Marketplace offers convenient grab-and-go items. Weekend entertainment and hotel events vary, so check the current schedule before your stay.

Know Before You Go

Hilton Pennywell St. Louis at the Arch is pet-friendly and offers free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center and more than 5,000 square feet of event space.

Self-parking and valet parking are available for additional fees. Since rates can change, confirm current parking costs before arrival.

Is The Pennywell Worth It?

The Pennywell is an excellent downtown St. Louis hotel for travelers who appreciate historic architecture, spacious rooms and a walkable location.

I’m a longtime Hilton Honors member and particularly enjoy Hilton properties that preserve the stories of old buildings. The Pennywell does that beautifully.

For another historic Hilton stay, head west to Oklahoma and check into the Art Deco Tulsa Club Hotel, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection.