Hotels in Altoona

Altoona Awaits: Dive into Nature's Hidden Gem by the Lake

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, Altoona is a charming destination that invites travelers to explore the serene beauty of Lake Altoona. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this lakeside gem offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply basking in the sun along the picturesque shores. The vibrant community hosts seasonal events that celebrate local culture and cuisine, making it an ideal spot for families and couples alike. With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning natural scenery, Altoona is a delightful off-the-beaten-path escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers. For the best hotel rates in Altoona and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Altoona

Some of the best places to stay in Altoona are Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls and Osseo. Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and Osseo offer unique experiences for travelers. Eau Claire is vibrant with arts and dining, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Chippewa Falls is known for its picturesque parks and breweries, while Osseo boasts charming small-town vibes. Accommodations range from budget-friendly options to mid-range hotels with amenities like jacuzzi suites. All areas provide comfortable stays, ensuring a pleasant experience in Wisconsin. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Altoona:

1. Eau ClaireOpens in a new window: Eau Claire is a vibrant city known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Oakwood Mall for shopping, and the fun-filled Chaos Waterpark. For accommodations, consider The Lismore Eau Claire - a DoubleTree by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel ideal for business travelers, featuring a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms. Another great option is Otter Creek Eau Claire AltoonaOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star inn that caters to adventure seekers and couples, offering activities like fishing and kayaking. Finally, Metropolis ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is perfect for families and business travelers alike, providing amenities such as archery and ziplining.
2. Chippewa FallsOpens in a new window: Chippewa Falls is an outdoor paradise, home to scenic spots like Lake Wissota State Park and the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company. This charming town offers a mix of adventure and romance. For your stay, Cobblestone Hotel & Suites – Chippewa FallsOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides business amenities. You might also consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Chippewa Falls, WIOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that’s family-friendly and features a 24-hour business center. For a cozy experience, Inn On Lake WissotaOpens in a new window offers a bed and breakfast atmosphere with complimentary breakfast and nearby recreational activities.
3. OsseoOpens in a new window: Osseo is a quaint town ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions like the Osseo Golf Club and Stoddard Park. The town is perfect for family outings and sports activities. For accommodations, Oak Park InnOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star pet-friendly bed and breakfast that offers a warm atmosphere. AmericInn by Wyndham Black River Falls I-94 on ATV TrailOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star option, catering to business travelers and pet owners alike, with a 24-hour business center available. Lastly, Comfort Inn & Suites Black River Falls I-94Opens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, is family-focused and equipped with amenities for children, making it a great choice for family stays.

Things to do in Altoona for first time

Three days in Altoona offer the perfect opportunity to explore its stunning lakeside landscapes, lush forests, and picturesque mountains. Enjoy activities like hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing in winter, and boating or relaxing by the beaches in warmer months, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Altoona:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Altoona by visiting the Pablo Center at the Confluence, where you can immerse yourself in the local arts scene with dynamic performances and exhibitions. Afterward, take a short drive to the Waldemer Ager House, a charming historical site that showcases the local heritage. Conclude your day at the Cook-Rutledge Mansion, an elegant Victorian home, where you can admire its stunning architecture and learn about its fascinating history through guided tours.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Schlegelmilch-McDaniel House, a beautifully preserved historic home that offers a glimpse into the life of early settlers. Next, enjoy some relaxation time at Half Moon Beach, where you can soak up the sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. To wrap up your day, head to the Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum, where you can delve into the rich logging history of the region through engaging exhibits and outdoor displays.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to Lake Wissota State Park, where you can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the stunning natural scenery. After some outdoor fun, unwind at the State Park Beach, perfect for a picnic or a refreshing swim. Finally, make your way to the Heyde Center for the Arts, where you can catch a live performance or art exhibit, providing a perfect cultural end to your memorable trip in Altoona.

5 tips to find a great Altoona hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Altoona is from October to December, when hotel rates are more affordable. To truly experience the city’s main attractions, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. While in Altoona, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, making your trip a great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Altoona, Hotels.com is the place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section to explore discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com; this way, you're more likely to stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, giving you a better chance to snag fantastic hotel deals in Altoona.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Altoona.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer added convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, as they usually tend to be cheaper. Just be sure to weigh the cost against the ease of reaching the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Altoona and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Altoona

Altoona experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 14.4°F (-9.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.5°F (21.4°C). June is usually the wettest month. February, June, and July are the peak travel months in Altoona, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.