Hotels in Estherville

Estherville: Where Serene Lakes Embrace Nature's Playground

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Estherville is a charming off-the-beaten-path destination that beckons nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, the city boasts stunning lakes and expansive natural parks perfect for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Visit the serene Spirit Lake and revel in the tranquility of the area's scenic beauty. Don’t miss the historical significance of the Estherville's local museums, which tell the story of its rich heritage. With friendly locals and a laid-back vibe, Estherville offers a unique escape for those looking to connect with nature and experience small-town charm. For the best hotel rates in Estherville, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Estherville

Some of the best places to stay in Estherville are Okoboji, Arnolds Park and Spirit Lake. Estherville, Iowa, offers easy access to the charming towns of Okoboji, Arnolds Park, and Spirit Lake, each boasting beautiful lakes, recreational activities, and vibrant local culture. Okoboji is particularly great for first-time visitors, with its stunning scenery and family-friendly attractions. Accommodations in these areas include a variety of hotels and guest rooms, ranging from cozy lakeside inns to larger resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers. Enjoy your vacation in this picturesque region! Here are some of the best hotels in Estherville that our travelers love:

1. OkobojiOpens in a new window: Okoboji is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, known for its beautiful lakes and vibrant recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic West Okoboji Lake, perfect for romantic outings or beach days. Families will appreciate the Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark, offering a fun-filled adventure for all ages. For accommodations, consider The Oakwood Inn – Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star bed and breakfast that welcomes pets and provides great amenities like food and water bowls for your furry friends. Another option is Lake Okoboji Resort & Conference CenterOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel featuring business amenities and direct beach access, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. For a more budget-friendly stay, Vintage Block Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel focusing on adventure activities like waterskiing and hiking.
2. Arnolds ParkOpens in a new window: Arnolds Park is a charming area perfect for families and adventure seekers, with attractions like the Arnolds Park Amusement Park and the picturesque West Okoboji Lake. The area is rich in outdoor activities, providing plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. For your stay, Bridges Bay ResortOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star resort that features a 24-hour business center and family-friendly amenities like an arcade game room and a water park. If you're bringing a pet, The Inn Hotel, Ascend Hotel CollectionOpens in a new window offers a comfortable stay with a pet-friendly policy, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests.
3. Spirit LakeOpens in a new window: Spirit Lake is an outdoor paradise, ideal for beach lovers and families alike, with access to West Okoboji Lake and nearby attractions like Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark. This destination is well-suited for visitors looking for both relaxation and adventure. For accommodations, Ramada by Wyndham Spirit Lake/OkobojiOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers and pet owners alike, featuring a 24-hour business center. Another excellent choice is Village West Resort & HotelOpens in a new window, a family-friendly resort with direct beach access, offering amenities such as mini-golf and an arcade game room. For travelers with pets, Northland Inn MotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel that ensures a comfortable stay with pet-friendly options.

Things to do in Estherville for first time

A three-day getaway to Estherville, Iowa, offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in stunning lakes, serene parks, and lush forests. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and picnicking, along with the opportunity to relax at local spas, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Estherville:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at West Okoboji Lake, where you can enjoy scenic views and perhaps a leisurely boat ride. After soaking in the beauty of the lake, head to Arnolds Park, a historic amusement park brimming with fun rides and attractions. Wrap up your day by visiting the Higgins Museum, which showcases fascinating exhibits on the history of the Iowa Great Lakes, providing insight into the region's rich heritage.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Elinor Bedell State Park, a serene spot perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. Following your outdoor experience, make your way to East Okoboji Lake, where you can relax by the shore or partake in water activities. Conclude your day at the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum, where you’ll learn about the maritime history of the region through engaging exhibits and displays.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Mini-Wakan State Park, known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic trails ideal for hiking and picnicking. Next, head to Lower Gar State Recreation Area, where you can indulge in fishing or simply unwind by the water. Finish your trip with a visit to Templar State Recreation Area, a beautiful locale for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors, making it the perfect closing chapter to your Estherville adventure.

5 tips to find a great Estherville hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Estherville is during April, October, and December, when hotel prices drop significantly. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, such as the beautiful lakes and scenic natural parks. This makes for an affordable getaway without compromising on the experience!
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Estherville, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore potential savings, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on their website, where you could find attractive hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, maximizing your chances of securing a great deal on accommodations in Estherville. With good availability and competitive pricing, you're likely to find options that suit your budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Estherville.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Estherville and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to Estherville

Estherville experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 16.5°F (-8.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.1°F (22.3°C). June is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Estherville, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.