We had a great time this past weekend at the Seven Gables. My friend bought us a one-night stay so we could come visit her in St. Louis, and we loved it. The room was beautiful, the bed was comfortable, and there were cookies and coffee downstairs (all good things in my book!). Everyone was so gracious and nice, we were sad we could only stay the one night on this visit, but we plan on coming back, hopefully when it is warm and we can sit on the patio!

First, the people who work here were phenomenal to my fellow travelers and me. They exude hospitality and are joyful. The check in process was easy, and made easier by the warm and very delicious cookies provided. I love that when I walked into my guestroom I felt like I was staying at my Aunt Mary's house, and not an average hotel room. The property is an historic building which means it feels more like the Bunratty Castle Hotel than a Westin, but the charm and comfort of the place make up for the lack of modernity (i.e. an elevator). The rate was an excellent value. The bathroom was clean-ish and updated with nice finishes. It's not perfect, but its different and I liked the convenience and charm.

My wife and I like to stay at Clayton's Seven Gables Inn while we are in town for shopping or for a weekend in St. Louis. We typically do not like the downown scene and this location offers a quiet and quaint view of Clayton. The hotel is clean and we have never had any issues to speak of. The staff is always friendly and make us feel welcome. This place is definitely a cut above the cookie-cutter chain hotels and is unique in it's ambiance.

Pros:

Location - Close to shopping in the business district and is a very short walk from dining establishments like Ruth's Chris

Food/Drinks - On site bar/grill where you can relax and not worry about getting back out

Unique - Seven Gables lives up to the Inn as there are no elevators and the stairs/floors 'creak' as you manuever the hotel. The place seems very authentic throughout and offers a more personal touch that most other hotels.

Cons:

Can get busy - We have stayed at the hotel several times and they always seem to be rather busy. Not that this is bad but be aware that they host parties at the bar/grill so it can get pretty packed and won't be as quiet as you might expect.

Price - I would rate Seven Gables on the moderate to moderately expensive but the room size should make up for this...

Parking - This is my biggest pet peeve as the parking lot is extremely small and it is hit or miss whether you will get a parking place or not. We have been lucky for the most part and have always found a spot in their across-the-street spots. I am sure there are other parking options if you look around but if you do not park in their lot...tell them as they will charge you for valet parking (they charge for use of the parking lot each night).

All in all we will go back so the listed cons should be taken as advice/experience rather than detriment but this is more for a couples destination rather than family as they do not have the pool/hot tub/gym setup that bigger chains will offer.

Cozy, homey little inn that is listed on the National Register of Historic places. Staff was friendly and helpful. Room was well appointed with comfortable bed and chair. We enjoyed the room in front of the inn under the gable overlooking the street. The weather was a little cold to enjoy the beautiful patio between the buildings but would love to go back in warmer season. Slight staining and dirt on room carpet was a little distracting and probably should be replaced, but enjoyed the place so we overlooked that issue.