Hotels in Big Lake

Big Lake: Where Serenity Meets Adventure in Nature’s Embrace

Discover the charming allure of Big Lake, Minnesota, where outdoor adventure meets small-town hospitality. Nestled around a stunning lake, this destination offers fishing, boating, and summer fun at Big Lake and Blue Springs. Stroll through the quaint downtown area, filled with local shops and eateries. The nearby Prior Lake adds to the scenic beauty, perfect for leisurely days by the water. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an active escape, Big Lake invites you to create unforgettable memories amidst its natural splendor and friendly community spirit. Experience the heart of Minnesota's lakeside charm! For the best hotel rates in Big Lake 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 Big Lake

Some of the best places to stay in Big Lake are Downtown St Cloud, Oak Grove and Medicine Lake. Downtown St. Cloud is vibrant, offering shops, dining, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Oak Grove features beautiful parks and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers. Medicine Lake boasts scenic views and outdoor activities, especially for water enthusiasts. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to more extensive chains, often equipped with amenities like mini refrigerators, ensuring a comfortable stay. For a well-rounded experience, Downtown St. Cloud is the best choice for newcomers. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Big Lake:

1. Downtown St CloudOpens in a new window: Downtown St Cloud is a vibrant area perfect for those interested in business and local culture. The proximity to St. Cloud State University, the St. Cloud River's Edge Convention Center, and the National Hockey Center makes this a great hub for both leisure and professional activities. For accommodations, The Pillar InnOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast that offers adventure sports and recreation activities, making it suitable for adventurous travelers. Best Western Plus Kelly InnOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, caters to families and business travelers with comprehensive amenities, including a business center and children's activities. Another option is Courtyard St. CloudOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star property focused on business travelers, providing essential services like a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms.
2. Oak GroveOpens in a new window: Oak Grove is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, featuring attractions like Bunker Beach Water Park and Wild Woods Water Park, making it ideal for family adventures. The area is also close to Anoka Technical College, adding a youthful vibe. For accommodations, AmeriVu Inn and Suites - Chisago CityOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers business amenities, along with nearby adventure sports. Wyndham Garden Otsego-MinneapolisOpens in a new window is a family-friendly 3.0-star hotel with an arcade game room and water park, while Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Minneapolis North/BlaineOpens in a new window, another 3.0-star hotel, focuses on business travelers with excellent meeting facilities and coworking spaces.
3. Medicine LakeOpens in a new window: Medicine Lake is a great choice for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor activities and urban amenities, with nearby attractions like U.S. Bank Stadium and the Mall of America. This area is perfect for sports fans and shoppers alike. For stays, InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5.0-star hotel offering top-notch business amenities and pet-friendly policies. New Victorian Mansion Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a charming 5.0-star Bed & Breakfast, provides a cozy and upscale experience. Another luxurious option is Four Seasons Hotel MinneapolisOpens in a new window, which balances business facilities with a welcoming atmosphere for pets, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers.

Things to do in Big Lake for first time

Three days in Big Lake offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and small-town charm. Explore the scenic Big Lake and Blue Springs, enjoy recreational activities at Prior Lake, and stroll through downtown Big Lake for local shops and dining. It's an ideal getaway for nature lovers and families alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Big Lake:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Big Lake by exploring Mississippi Drive Park, where you can enjoy scenic views and perhaps take a leisurely walk along the riverbank. After soaking in the natural beauty, head to J. O'Donoghue Books, a charming local bookstore where you can find unique reads and gifts to remember your trip. Conclude your day at Swan Park, perfect for a relaxing evening stroll or a picnic while watching the swans glide across the water.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Lake Minnetonka, one of Minnesota's most beautiful lakes, ideal for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. Next, make your way to Depot Docks, where you can learn about the area's history and enjoy waterfront views. Wrap up your day at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, where you can admire local art exhibits or even participate in a workshop to unleash your creativity.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Lake Rebecca, a tranquil spot perfect for hiking and birdwatching, allowing you to connect with nature. Following that, visit Lake Independence, another picturesque lake where you can enjoy swimming or picnicking on the shore. End your day at The Bookcase, a delightful bookstore that offers a cozy atmosphere for browsing and discovering your next great read while reflecting on your trip.

5 tips to find a great Big Lake hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Big Lake is from October to December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For a great value for money experience, it's best to plan for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area's key attractions. Highlights in Big Lake include the beautiful lake, the scenic park, and a national state park, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Big Lake, Hotels.com is a great resource. You could find discounted hotel rates by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section. With good availability, you may come across the latest prices that fit your budget. To maximize your chances of snagging a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, so you don't miss any savings opportunities.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates might allow you to save on hotel expenses in Big Lake.
4. Consider your location: When making reservations on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer 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 accessibility to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Big Lake 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.

Best time to go to Big Lake

Big Lake experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 13.6°F (-10.2°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.1°F (22.3°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Big Lake are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.