Hotels in Arlington

Discover the charming town of Arlington, South Dakota, where serene lakes and picturesque landscapes come together for an unforgettable escape. Nestled between Lake Thompson and Lake Poinsett, this off-the-beaten-path gem offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Explore the stunning scenery at nearby state parks, indulge in fishing or boating at the local marina, and soak in the tranquility of nature. With friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere, Arlington is an ideal destination for families, couples, and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of America. For the best hotel rates in Arlington 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 Arlington

Some of the best places to stay in Arlington are Brookings, Madison and Lake Norden. Brookings, Madison, and Lake Norden each offer unique attractions for travelers. Brookings, home to South Dakota State University, features vibrant shops and parks, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Madison boasts beautiful lakes and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Lake Norden is known for its outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking. Hotel accommodations across these towns typically include motels and inns with free Wi-Fi, self-parking options, and reasonable room rates, catering to various budgets. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Arlington:

1. BrookingsOpens in a new window: Brookings is a vibrant town known for its outdoor activities and rich cultural experiences. It's home to South Dakota State University, which adds a youthful energy to the area. Families can enjoy the Swiftel Center for entertainment and McCrory Gardens for a relaxing stroll. For accommodations, consider Brookings InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel perfect for business and family travelers, featuring amenities like a conference center and a children’s water park. Another option is My Place Hotel - Brookings, SDOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides 24-hour business services. Finally, Comfort Suites UniversityOpens in a new window offers a 2.5-star experience geared towards business travelers, with accessible business amenities and pet-friendly policies.
2. MadisonOpens in a new window: Madison is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with attractions like Lake Herman State Park and Dakota State University. The town's blend of adventure and culture makes it a great spot for exploration. For lodging, UBar Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel ideal for pet owners, allowing pets on-site. AmericInn by Wyndham Madison SDOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, focuses on business travelers with essential business amenities. Lastly, Best Western Plus Lakeview HotelOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly environment with meeting spaces and pet-friendly policies, catering to both leisure and business guests.
3. Lake NordenOpens in a new window: Nestled among natural beauty, Lake Norden is perfect for those seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures. With attractions like Lake Poinsett and Oakwood Lakes State Park, it offers stunning scenery and recreational activities. Ramkota Hotel - WatertownOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, is pet-friendly and provides great amenities for travelers with pets. Travel InnOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star motel that welcomes pets and offers essential lodging services. Lastly, Hampton Inn & Suites WatertownOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, caters to families and business travelers alike, featuring meeting rooms and business amenities, making it a versatile choice for visitors.

A three-day visit to Arlington offers a perfect blend of scenic lakes, lush forests, and expansive parks, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and camping, all within a tranquil environment that invites relaxation and exploration, making it a delightful getaway for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Arlington:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Arlington by exploring the natural beauty of Oakwood Lakes State Park. Enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, or a serene picnic by the lake. After soaking in the fresh air, head to the South Dakota Art Museum, where you can admire a diverse collection of regional artwork. Conclude your day at the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum, which showcases the rich agricultural history of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
• Day 2: Your exploration continues at Lake Poinsett, a perfect spot for fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the lakeside scenery. Next, visit McCrory Gardens, a stunning botanical garden featuring beautiful landscapes and vibrant floral displays. Spend the afternoon at Dakota Nature Park, where you can take leisurely walks along the trails or participate in wildlife viewing, all while immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature.
• Day 3: Your final day starts at Ingalls Homestead, where you can step back in time and experience pioneer life through hands-on activities. Following this, head to Lake Campbell to enjoy some relaxing time by the water—ideal for fishing or a peaceful walk along the shore. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial, which pays homage to the beloved author and her connection to the area, providing insights into her life and legacy.

5 tips to find a great Arlington hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to travel on a budget, the best time to visit Arlington is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. To truly enjoy the area's main attractions, it's advisable to plan a stay of at least 2-3 days. Key highlights include the scenic lake, the expansive national park, and the marina, all of which offer great value for money and memorable experiences.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're searching for last-minute deals to Arlington, Hotels.com is a great resource. Begin by checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. You might also want to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you’re more likely to snag a great deal and save on your accommodations in Arlington.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Arlington.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Arlington and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Arlington

Arlington experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 14.5°F (-9.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.3°F (22.4°C). June is usually the wettest month. June, July, and September are the peak travel months in Arlington, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.