Hotels in Bloomington

Bloomington: Where Nature and Culture Weave a Vibrant Tapestry

Bloomington, Minnesota, is a vibrant blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Home to the iconic Mall of America, shoppers and thrill-seekers can explore endless retail and entertainment options. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the serene landscapes of the Minnesota Zoo, where wildlife encounters abound. The lush parks and trails invite outdoor adventures year-round. With its welcoming community and diverse attractions, Bloomington offers a unique escape for families, couples, and solo travelers alike—making it the perfect destination for a memorable getaway. For the best hotel rates in Bloomington, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Bloomington

Some of the best places to stay in Bloomington are Downtown Minneapolis, Downtown West and Dinkytown. Bloomington, Minnesota, offers easy access to vibrant areas like Downtown Minneapolis, Downtown West, and Dinkytown. Downtown Minneapolis features a bustling atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Downtown West offers a mix of business and leisure options, while Dinkytown is known for its youthful energy and local charm. Hotel accommodations range from budget-friendly options to comfortable suites, ensuring a variety of choices for every traveler, including those looking for cheap hotels or more luxurious stays. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Bloomington:

1. Downtown MinneapolisOpens in a new window: Downtown Minneapolis is an exciting urban hub, perfect for families and sports enthusiasts. The area boasts key attractions like the U.S. Bank Stadium and the Mall of America, offering a mix of sports, shopping, and entertainment. For your stay, consider Elliot Park Hotel, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel ideal for business and family travelers, featuring amenities like a business center and free cribs for kids. Another option is Four Seasons Hotel MinneapolisOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers multiple meeting rooms for business needs. Lastly, Emery, Autograph Collection HotelOpens in a new window is also a 4.5-star choice, providing a family-friendly atmosphere with excellent business facilities.
2. Downtown WestOpens in a new window: Downtown West is a vibrant area that combines family-friendly attractions with urban conveniences, featuring the Minneapolis Convention Center and the U.S. Bank Stadium. For affordable accommodations, Nicollet Island InnOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star pet-friendly hotel that allows dogs and cats, making it a great choice for pet owners. Alternatively, Midtown ManorOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel approximately two miles from the center, offering various dining options and entertainment amenities like cable TV and pay movies.
3. DinkytownOpens in a new window: Dinkytown is known for its youthful vibe and artistic atmosphere, making it ideal for city explorers. The area is close to the University of Minnesota and offers easy access to attractions like the Mall of America. Graduate by Hilton MinneapolisOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star business-friendly hotel that allows pets and features a conference center, making it suitable for business travelers. For luxury seekers, New Victorian Mansion Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window offers a plush experience, while InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is another 5.0-star option that combines luxury with pet-friendly policies and extensive business amenities.

Things to do in Bloomington for first time

Bloomington is a nature lover's paradise, perfect for a three-day getaway. Explore lush forests, serene lakes, and scenic parks while enjoying activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. With vibrant shopping and entertainment options, plus winter sports like hockey, it's an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Bloomington:

• Day 1: Start your Bloomington adventure at Minnehaha Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the iconic Minnehaha Falls and explore the beautiful trails. Afterward, head to Snelling Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the water, perfect for sunbathing or taking a dip. Conclude your day with a visit to the Sibley House Historic Site, where you can learn about Minnesota’s history and explore the charming grounds of this historic home.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Fort Snelling State Park, a site steeped in history with scenic views of the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. After hiking through the park, make your way to Lake Nokomis 50th Street Beach, where you can unwind and enjoy the sandy shores. Wrap up your day at the John H Stevens House Museum, showcasing the life of one of Minneapolis's early settlers with fascinating exhibits.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Lake Harriet, a picturesque spot ideal for walking or biking along the scenic paths. Next, venture over to Lake Nokomis, where you can relax by the water or enjoy a picnic. End your Bloomington journey at the Basilica of Saint Mary, an architectural marvel that offers stunning interiors and serene gardens, perfect for reflection and appreciation of its beauty.

5 tips to find a great Bloomington hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Bloomington is during January, November, and December when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best deals. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's highlights, including its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. This makes Bloomington a great value for money destination for those looking to explore nature while staying on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to Bloomington can offer great savings for travelers looking for flexible accommodations. To uncover these bargains on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you're more likely to find attractive rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you take advantage of potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel’s location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you have some flexibility with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Bloomington.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Bloomington usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations that are further from downtown, you can take advantage of transportation options like rental cars, taxis, metro transit buses, and light rail trains to explore the area while saving money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Bloomington 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 Bloomington

Here are some must-try dishes in Bloomington, Minnesota, United States of America:

• Juicy Lucy: A true Minnesotan classic, the Juicy Lucy is a mouthwatering cheeseburger with melted cheese stuffed inside the patty, rather than on top. This unique preparation creates a delightful surprise as you bite into it, with gooey cheese spilling out. You can find this delicious creation at various burger joints near the Mall of America, making it a perfect stop during your culinary exploration.
• Wild Rice Soup: This hearty soup is a staple in Minnesota, often featuring a blend of wild rice, cream, vegetables, and herbs. It reflects the state's Native American heritage and is perfect for warming up during chilly days. Many local diners serve it with fresh bread, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.
• Swedish Meatballs: A nod to Minnesota's Scandinavian roots, Swedish meatballs are typically made from ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices, and served with creamy gravy. These savory bites are often accompanied by lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes, offering a delightful taste of the region's culinary heritage.

Best time to go to Bloomington

Bloomington experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 15.3°F (-9.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.6°F (23.1°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Bloomington, March, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Bloomington Travel Information