1. St Louis Minibus Company /
  2. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in St Louis

FAQS

St Louis Minibus Company has been providing quality group transportation services across Missouri since 2011. We are a full-service charter bus company that can handle any type of trip or event, big or small. Our fleet includes vehicles of all sizes, from 15-passenger minibuses to 56-passenger motorcoaches, and even party buses and sprinter vans. We offer modern amenities like WiFi, power outlets, reclining seats, TVs, DVD players, PA systems, restrooms, and more. We also provide 24/7 customer support and dispatch so you can reach us anytime before, during, or after your trip. Whether you need a shuttle for a corporate event at America’s Center Convention Complex, a wedding at Forest Park, a school field trip to the Saint Louis Zoo, or a charter bus for a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium, we’ve got you covered.

We serve all types of groups in St Louis and throughout Missouri. Some of the most common groups we work with include schools, colleges, sports teams, corporations, wedding parties, religious organizations, tour operators, government agencies, military units, nonprofit organizations, and more. We can provide transportation for any occasion, such as field trips, campus tours, athletic competitions, business meetings, conferences, trade shows, conventions, employee shuttles, commuter routes, bachelor/bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions, worship services, mission trips, charity events, political rallies, protest marches, sightseeing tours, casino runs, winery/brewery crawls, ski trips, beach outings, cruises, airport transfers, and emergency evacuations. No matter what kind of group you have or where you need to go, we can get you there safely and comfortably.

A charter bus (also called a motorcoach or coach bus) is a large vehicle designed to transport groups of people over long distances. Charter buses typically seat 40 to 56 passengers and come equipped with amenities like cushioned reclining seats, overhead parcel racks, undercarriage luggage bays, restrooms, air conditioning, heating, tinted windows, window shades, reading lights, TV monitors, DVD players, sound systems, microphones, WiFi hotspots, USB ports, and electrical outlets. Some models may also feature tables, cup holders, footrests, headrests, seat belts, individual climate controls, or even leather upholstery. Charter buses are ideal for moving large groups efficiently and affordably while keeping everyone together in one comfortable space.

A minibus is a smaller version of a charter bus that usually seats between 15 and 35 passengers. Minibuses offer many of the same features as full-size coaches but in a more compact package that’s easier to maneuver through city streets and tight spaces. Common amenities include cloth or vinyl bench-style seating, modest overhead storage, basic audio/video equipment, PA microphones, strong HVAC systems, and optional WiFi or power outlets. Minibuses do not have onboard restrooms due to size constraints but are perfect for short-distance trips, airport shuttles, hotel transfers, corporate commuting, wedding guest transport, or any situation where you need to move a midsize group quickly and efficiently.

Most charter buses in our fleet have either 47, 52, or 56 seats. The exact number depends on the make and model of the bus. For example, a standard MCI J4500 or Prevost H3-45 has 56 seats, while a Van Hool CX45 has 55 seats, and a Setra S417 has 56 seats. Some older models like the MCI D4500 have 54 seats. If you need a specific seating capacity, let us know when you request a quote so we can match you with the right vehicle. All seats are forward-facing and come with padding, armrests, and headrests for comfort.

Our minibuses come in several different sizes ranging from 15 to 35 seats. The most common configurations are 20, 24, 28, and 32 seats. Smaller minibuses with 15-20 seats are great for airport transfers or executive shuttles, while larger ones with 28-35 seats can handle medium-sized groups going to weddings, concerts, or sporting events. Brands we use include Grech Motors, Turtle Top, Champion, Starcraft, ElDorado, and Goshen Coach. If you’re not sure what size you need, tell us about your group and itinerary and we’ll recommend the best option.

We offer a wide range of bus types to suit any group size or budget. Our fleet includes full-size charter buses (47-56 seats), minibuses (15-35 seats), party buses (10-40 seats), entertainer coaches (6-12 bunks plus lounge), sprinter vans (10-15 seats), school buses (44-48 seats), and double-decker buses (up to 81 seats). Popular models include the MCI J4500, Prevost H3-45, Van Hool CX45, Setra S417, Grech Motors GM33, Turtle Top Odyssey XL, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, and Blue Bird Vision. Whether you need to move 10 people or 1,000+, we have the vehicles and expertise to get it done right.

Our St Louis bus rentals come with a variety of amenities to keep passengers comfortable and entertained. Standard features on most charter buses include reclining seats, climate control, overhead storage, reading lights, and a PA system. Many buses also have free WiFi, power outlets or USB ports at each seat, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, and an onboard restroom. Minibuses offer similar amenities but typically do not have a bathroom due to size constraints. If your group has specific needs—like extra luggage space, tables for card games, or ADA-accessible features—let us know and we’ll get you a bus that meets your requirements.

Yes, many of our buses are equipped with sound systems that allow you to play your own music through AUX, Bluetooth, or USB connections. Charter buses often have a main audio system with multiple speakers throughout the cabin, and you can connect a phone, tablet, or laptop to play playlists, stream Spotify, or use Pandora during the ride. Minibuses usually have a similar setup, though it may be more basic depending on the model. If having a specific type of media input is important to your group, please mention this when booking so we can ensure your bus has the right equipment. Some buses also have CD/DVD players if you want to bring physical media.

Charter buses offer the most luggage space, with large undercarriage bays that can hold about one suitcase per person plus carry-on items stored overhead inside the cabin. This makes them ideal for airport transfers to STL, multi-day tours, or any trip where passengers have lots of baggage. Minibuses have limited storage—usually just an overhead shelf and/or a small rear compartment—so they work best for groups traveling light. If your group has oversized items like band instruments, sports equipment, or trade show materials, let us know in advance so we can match you with a bus that has enough cargo capacity. For very large moves, we can even arrange for a separate luggage trailer.

Absolutely. We provide ADA-accessible buses with features like wheelchair lifts, wider aisles, priority seating areas, and accessible restrooms to ensure that everyone in your group can travel comfortably. If you have specific accessibility requirements, please let us know when booking so we can accommodate your needs.

Yes, you can wrap a charter bus for branding or promotional purposes. Bus wraps are commonly used by sports teams, schools, businesses, and event organizers to display logos, advertisements, or custom graphics. Full wraps cover the entire exterior of the bus, while partial wraps or decals can be applied to specific areas like the sides or rear. If you want to wrap your charter bus, please contact us at least 3 weeks before your trip to discuss the design, installation process, and any additional costs. You will be responsible for providing the artwork and arranging for a professional installer unless otherwise agreed upon. All wraps must be removed after the rental unless prior arrangements are made.

We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific bus models or colors, especially for groups with branding guidelines or personal preferences. Our fleet includes vehicles from top manufacturers like MCI, Prevost, Van Hool, Setra, Grech Motors, Turtle Top, and more. Common colors are white, black, silver, and blue. If you need a particular make/model (e.g., Prevost H3-45 for a band tour) or want all buses in your convoy to match, please specify this when booking. While we cannot guarantee availability of every model/color at all times, we will make every effort to fulfill your request or offer a suitable alternative.

The cost of renting a charter bus in St. Louis varies depending on factors like the size of the bus, length of the trip, time of year, and any special amenities requested. Local trips within the city are usually priced by the hour (with a 4- or 5-hour minimum), while out-of-town trips are quoted by the day or by mileage. To get an accurate estimate, call us at 314-449-9075 with your trip details and we’ll provide a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your itinerary.

Minibus rentals generally cost less than full-size charter buses, making them a budget-friendly option for smaller groups. Pricing depends on the same factors as above: trip duration, distance, season, and amenities. The best way to find out how much your minibus rental will cost is to contact us with your specific needs. We offer some of the most competitive rates in St. Louis and will work with you to get you a solution that fits your budget.

Several variables influence the price of a bus rental: the type and size of vehicle (charter bus vs. minibus), length of the trip (hours or days), total mileage, pickup/drop-off locations, time of year (peak season rates may apply), and any extra features like WiFi, or custom wraps. Large events like graduations, sports playoffs, or festivals can also impact availability and pricing. Providing us with as much information as possible when requesting a quote will help us give you the most accurate estimate.

Your quote covers the use of the bus for the duration of your trip, and standard onboard amenities. Tolls, parking fees, and driver lodging (for overnight trips) are typically not included and should be budgeted separately. There are no hidden charges—everything will be clearly outlined in your contract before you sign.

We recommend booking your bus as early as possible—ideally 3 to 6 months in advance—especially if your trip falls during a busy season like spring break, summer vacation, or around major events like Mardi Gras or the Great Forest Park Balloon Race. Last-minute bookings are possible if we have availability, but reserving early gives you the best selection of vehicles and rates. For large-scale events requiring multiple buses, 6 to 12 months’ notice is ideal.

Yes, we offer flexible packages to suit your itinerary: one-way transfers (e.g., airport drop-off), round trips (e.g., day excursion to Hermann wine country), and multi-day charters for extended tours or out-of-state travel. Just tell us your schedule and we’ll customize the rental accordingly.

Absolutely! We can provide long-distance bus rentals to destinations across Missouri and beyond. Whether you’re planning a multi-day trip to Chicago, Indianapolis, Nashville, Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, Branson, Lake of the Ozarks, or even farther, we have the experience and resources to get your group there safely and comfortably.

For overnight trips that require the driver to stay with your group for more than one day, you will need to provide hotel accommodations. Drivers must have their own room (not shared with passengers) and should be given access to restroom and shower facilities. Most groups book a room at the same hotel where they are staying for convenience. If your itinerary includes multiple overnight stops, a separate room will be needed at each location. For single-day trips returning to St. Louis the same night, no lodging is required.

Getting a quote is fast and easy! Simply call our office at 314-449-9075 or fill out the online form on our website with details about your trip: date(s), destination(s), number of passengers, and any special requests. One of our representatives will review your information and send you a personalized quote within minutes. There’s no obligation to book, and we’re happy to answer any questions you have about the process.

Plan your itinerary carefully, including exact pickup/drop-off addresses and timing for each stop. Consider traffic patterns around downtown, construction zones (like those near I-64/40), and special events that could affect travel time. Budget for tolls on bridges like the Poplar Street Bridge, parking fees at venues like Busch Stadium or Enterprise Center, and driver lodging if applicable. Communicate any special needs upfront (ADA access, extra luggage space, etc.), and read the contract terms before signing. Stay in touch with your account manager if plans change—they’re here to help!

We provide charter bus service to and from all major airports in the St. Louis area, including St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) in Belleville, and Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS) in Chesterfield. Whether you’re flying in a group for a corporate event or need a reliable shuttle for departing flights, we’ll make sure everyone arrives on time.

Sports fans love using our buses to catch games at iconic venues like Busch Stadium (home of the St. Louis Cardinals), Enterprise Center (St. Louis Blues hockey), CITYPARK (St. Louis CITY SC soccer), and Chaifetz Arena on the SLU campus. We also serve smaller college and high school facilities across the metro area. Avoid the hassle of downtown parking and ride together with fellow supporters!

Catch your favorite artists live without worrying about parking or designated drivers by booking a concert shuttle to venues like The Dome at America’s Center, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre in Maryland Heights, The Pageant in Delmar Loop, Stifel Theatre downtown, Fabulous Fox Theatre in Midtown, or smaller clubs like Blueberry Hill, Off Broadway, and Old Rock House. Enjoy the show and let us handle the transportation.

Make your special day stress-free by arranging guest transportation to popular wedding venues such as Windows on Washington, The Caramel Room, Union Station Hotel, Forest Park Visitor Center, Missouri Botanical Garden, The Jewel Box, World’s Fair Pavilion, Chase Park Plaza, Lumen Private Event Space, Moulin Events, and more. We also serve churches, banquet halls, country clubs, wineries, and rural locations outside the city.

St Louis Minibus Company proudly serves the entire St. Louis metropolitan area, including nearby cities such as Clayton, Kirkwood, Chesterfield, Florissant, St. Charles, O’Fallon, Edwardsville, Belleville, Collinsville, and more. We also provide statewide service to Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, Branson, Cape Girardeau, Jefferson City, and beyond.

St. Louis hosts numerous annual events and festivals that attract large crowds. We provide group transportation to popular gatherings like Mardi Gras in Soulard, Fair Saint Louis over Fourth of July weekend, the Great Forest Park Balloon Race, Taste of St. Louis, Shakespeare Festival in Forest Park, PrideFest, LouFest, Blues at the Arch, and more. Avoid traffic congestion and limited parking by arriving together on a charter bus.

Business travelers can rely on us for shuttles to major convention centers including America’s Center in downtown St. Louis, Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville, St. Charles Convention Center, and regional meeting spaces at local hotels. We’ll keep your conference or trade show running smoothly with scheduled pickups for attendees, exhibitors, and VIPs.

We regularly transport students, faculty, and staff to campuses such as Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL), Harris-Stowe State University, Fontbonne University, Webster University, Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), and local K-12 districts. Book a charter bus for campus tours, academic competitions, athletic games, or daily commuter shuttles.