Hotels in St Cloud

St. Cloud: Where Blossoms Bloom and Stories Flourish

Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, St. Cloud, Minnesota, is a charming blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning gardens and floral displays, visitors can explore the picturesque Munsinger Clemens Gardens or unwind in Riverside Park. The city boasts a rich artistic scene, highlighted by the Stearns History Museum and the iconic Paramount Theatre. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy biking along scenic trails or kayaking on the river. With its welcoming community and captivating landscapes, St. Cloud offers a delightful escape for those seeking a unique Midwestern experience. For the best hotel rates in St Cloud and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in St Cloud

Some of the best places to stay in St Cloud are Downtown St Cloud, Buffalo and Little Falls. St. Cloud, Minnesota is a fantastic destination for travelers, offering vibrant downtown spots, scenic beauty in Buffalo, and charming historical sites in Little Falls. Downtown St. Cloud is ideal for first-time visitors, with a variety of accommodations, including hotels with modern amenities and easy access to local attractions. Buffalo and Little Falls also provide cozy inns and suites, often with picturesque views. Room rates in all areas vary, catering to couples and families alike, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. Here are some of the best hotels in St Cloud that our travelers love:

1. Downtown St CloudOpens in a new window: Downtown St Cloud is a vibrant area perfect for business and leisure travelers alike, featuring key attractions such as St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud River's Edge Convention Center, and the National Hockey Center. The area offers a mix of educational and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal location for those seeking both adventure and business amenities. For accommodations, consider The Pillar InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast known for its adventure sports and recreation activities. Best Western Plus Kelly InnOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, is suitable for families and business travelers, offering a range of services including a business center and children’s amenities. Courtyard St. CloudOpens in a new window is another 3.0-star option, tailored for business travelers with 24-hour business services.
2. BuffaloOpens in a new window: Buffalo is an outdoor lover's paradise, home to attractions like Albertville Premium Outlets and Monticello Country Club. The area is perfect for families and those looking for recreational activities, including golfing and winery visits. The Hotel LandingOpens in a new window is a luxurious 4.0-star hotel that caters to adventure enthusiasts and business travelers alike, boasting top-notch facilities and various outdoor activities. Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and is family-friendly, offering arcade games and a business center. Sheraton Minneapolis West HotelOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star option, provides additional facilities for business travelers and is pet-friendly.
3. Little FallsOpens in a new window: Little Falls is an outdoor destination rich in culture, featuring attractions such as the Minnesota Fishing Museum and Charles A. Lindbergh State Park. The area appeals to adventure seekers and families looking to explore nature and history. Kavanaugh's Sylvan Lake ResortOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel offering beach access and various adventure sports. The Lodge at Brainerd LakesOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, is ideal for families and business travelers, providing a playground and business amenities. For a more upscale experience, Maddens On Gull LakeOpens in a new window offers direct beach access and extensive business facilities, making it perfect for both leisure and work.

Things to do in St Cloud for first time

A three-day visit to St. Cloud offers a delightful escape into a landscape of lush gardens and serene lakes. Enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and exploring vibrant parks, while evenings bring lively entertainment with shopping, theater, and live music, making it a perfect getaway for travelers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to St Cloud:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, where you can explore the beautiful trails and take in the stunning natural scenery. After enjoying the serenity of the park, head to Saint John's Abbey, a remarkable architectural masterpiece where you can appreciate the tranquil surroundings and learn about its history. Conclude your day with a visit to Saint John's Beach, perfect for unwinding by the water and soaking in the sunset views.
• Day 2: Start your day at Avon Beach, a lovely spot ideal for swimming and sunbathing. After some time by the water, take a leisurely stroll along the Swan River, where you can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature and possibly catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Wrap up your day at Sportsman's Park, where you can participate in recreational activities or relax amidst the beautiful greenery.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at the unique Grasshopper Chapel, with its fascinating architecture and serene atmosphere—perfect for reflection and photography. Next, delve into automotive history at the Veit Automotive Foundation Museum, where you can marvel at an impressive collection of classic cars. Finish your day by exploring Lake Maria State Park, where you can hike through scenic trails or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading back.

5 tips to find a great St Cloud hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit St. Cloud is between October and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least 5 months in advance to secure the best prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the city's highlights, such as its beautiful gardens and vibrant library. This period not only offers great value for money but also allows you to enjoy the city's charm without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in St. Cloud, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. You could find great discounts on accommodations as your travel date approaches, offering good availability for your stay. To enhance your chances of snagging a deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, which can keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you save on your St. Cloud getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in St. Cloud.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in St. Cloud is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car, bus, or taxi to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in St Cloud 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.

What to eat in St Cloud

Here are some popular dishes in St Cloud, Minnesota, United States of America:

• Juicy Lucy Burger: This iconic Minnesota dish features a burger with melted cheese stuffed inside the patty rather than on top. Often served with a side of fries or coleslaw, it’s a must-try for meat lovers. Locally, you’ll find variations that include unique toppings and sauces, making it a perfect representation of St. Cloud's spontaneous dining culture.
• Wild Rice Soup: A creamy, hearty soup that showcases Minnesota's native wild rice, this dish is often enriched with chicken, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s a comforting staple, particularly popular during the colder months, and reflects the region's culinary heritage and love for locally sourced ingredients.
• Lutefisk: A traditional Scandinavian dish, lutefisk is made from dried fish treated with lye. Often served during holiday gatherings, it embodies the area's rich cultural influences and is usually accompanied by potatoes and white sauce, creating a unique dining experience that sparks conversation.

Best time to go to St Cloud

St Cloud experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 12.7°F (-10.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in St Cloud, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.