Hotels in Owatonna

Owatonna Unveiled: Where Historic Charm Meets Natural Splendor

Nestled in the heart of southern Minnesota, Owatonna enchants visitors with its charming blend of history and culture. Known for its stunning architecture, including the historic Steele County Courthouse, the city invites exploration through its vibrant downtown and lush parks. Don't miss the captivating Owatonna Public Library, a gem for book lovers, or the nearby Mineral Springs Park, perfect for leisurely strolls. Rich in heritage, Owatonna offers a delightful escape with its warm community spirit and unique attractions, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking a genuine Midwestern experience. For the best hotel rates in Owatonna 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 Owatonna

Some of the best places to stay in Owatonna are Albert Lea, Northfield and Faribault. Albert Lea, Northfield, and Faribault each offer unique attractions for travelers. Albert Lea is known for its beautiful lakes and parks, while Northfield boasts a charming downtown and historical significance, particularly with its college town vibe. Faribault features stunning architecture and cultural sites. For accommodations, you'll find a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to comfortable suites. Northfield is particularly great for first-time visitors due to its vibrant atmosphere and rich history. Enjoy your stay! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Owatonna:

1. Albert LeaOpens in a new window: Albert Lea is a charming city known for its romantic lakeside settings and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Fountain Lake and the excitement of the Diamond Jo Casino. Those looking for accommodations will find several options, including The Urstad House B&BOpens in a new window, a cozy 3.5-star bed and breakfast that caters to adventure seekers and business travelers alike, offering ski access and a variety of recreation activities. For a more budget-friendly option, Ramada by Wyndham Albert LeaOpens in a new window provides essential amenities, a business center, and a pet-friendly policy for travelers with furry companions.
2. NorthfieldOpens in a new window: Northfield boasts a vibrant small-town atmosphere, enriched by its historic colleges, St. Olaf and Carleton, making it a great destination for education and culture. Visitors can easily access shopping and entertainment at the nearby Mall of America. For luxurious stays, InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a top choice, featuring extensive business facilities and a pet-friendly policy. Alternatively, families can enjoy Radisson Blu Mall of AmericaOpens in a new window, which offers business amenities along with child-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
3. FaribaultOpens in a new window: Faribault is an outdoor paradise, appealing to nature lovers with its proximity to the Nerstrand Big Woods State Park and Medford Outlet Center for shopping. This city is perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Guests can stay at The Inn at Shattuck St. Mary'sOpens in a new window, a charming 3.5-star bed and breakfast that welcomes pets and offers golfing experiences. For business travelers, Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels - FaribaultOpens in a new window is a solid option, providing essential meeting facilities and a pet-friendly environment as well. Alternatively, GrandStay Residential Suites HotelOpens in a new window caters to families, featuring children’s amenities alongside business services.

Things to do in Owatonna for first time

Owatonna is a charming destination perfect for a three-day getaway, offering scenic parks and tranquil lakes ideal for hiking and boating. Enjoy vibrant festivals and local shopping experiences that highlight the community's unique character, making it a delightful stop for travelers seeking a blend of nature and culture. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Owatonna:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Rice Lake State Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature with scenic trails and serene lake views—perfect for a morning hike or birdwatching. Following your time at the park, head over to the River Bend Nature Center, just a short drive away, where you can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Conclude your day with a visit to the Paradise Center for the Arts, where you can appreciate local art, catch a performance, or participate in a workshop, soaking up the vibrant cultural scene of Owatonna.
• Day 2: Start your day at Loon Lake Park, where you can relax by the water or take part in recreational activities like fishing or picnicking. Afterward, visit the Rice County Fair Grounds, which often hosts events and exhibitions that highlight local culture. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour, a beautiful architectural gem where you can reflect and appreciate its stunning interior and peaceful atmosphere.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a nature-filled excursion to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, where you can hike through lush forests and discover the area’s rich biodiversity. Next, make your way to Frog Creek Pottery, where you can explore unique pottery pieces and even try your hand at pottery-making. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Northfield Arts Guild, where you can enjoy art exhibits or perhaps attend a local performance, leaving you with memorable experiences from your time in Owatonna.

5 tips to find a great Owatonna hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking to travel on a budget, the best time to visit Owatonna is in January, November, and December when hotel rates are more affordable. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance for better deals. To truly experience the charm of Owatonna, consider staying for at least 2-3 days, allowing you to explore its notable attractions, including the local library and unique architecture. This approach ensures you get great value for your money while enjoying a budget-friendly getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Owatonna, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers various options that often range from budget-friendly to mid-range prices, giving you good availability for your travel plans. To uncover these deals, you could visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover attractive rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can change depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Owatonna.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Owatonna usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations that are further away from the city center, you can utilize transportation options like driving, taking the bus, or walking to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Owatonna and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Owatonna

Here are some famous dishes in Owatonna, Minnesota, United States of America:

• Cheeseburger: A classic American favorite, the cheeseburger in Owatonna is often grilled to perfection, topped with a slice of melted cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and pickles, all served on a toasted bun. Local diners may add unique sauces or toppings that reflect Minnesota's flavors, such as local cheeses or even wild mushrooms, enhancing this beloved dish with regional flair.
• Tacos: In Owatonna, tacos showcase a delightful fusion of flavors, often featuring locally sourced meats and fresh vegetables. Whether you prefer traditional options like carne asada or more inventive choices with unique salsas and toppings, these handheld delights are perfect for a casual meal, often enjoyed at food trucks or local eateries, highlighting the community's vibrant culinary scene.
• Pasta: Pasta dishes in Owatonna often celebrate Italian-American heritage, with local restaurants serving fresh, handmade noodles paired with rich sauces. Whether it’s a creamy alfredo or a zesty marinara, these dishes reflect a blend of comfort and creativity, making them a favorite for family gatherings and social dinners.

Best time to go to Owatonna

Owatonna experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 14.7°F (-9.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.4°F (21.9°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Owatonna, 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, February, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Owatonna Travel Information