Hotels in Ventura

Ventura: Where Nature Meets History in a Coastal Paradise

Nestled in North Iowa, Ventura is a serene lakeside gem perfect for families and nature lovers. With its stunning waterfront views of Clear Lake and access to the nearby Clear Lake State Park, outdoor adventures abound, from hiking to picnicking. Explore historic sites and enjoy the charming small-town atmosphere. Venture to Ventura's parks for delightful family outings, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque shoreline. Whether you’re fishing, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the tranquil ambiance, Ventura offers a refreshing escape that captures the essence of Midwestern charm and natural beauty. For the best hotel rates in Ventura 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 Ventura

Some of the best places to stay in Ventura are Clear Lake, Mason City and Northwood. Clear Lake, Mason City, and Northwood each offer unique attractions for travelers. Clear Lake is perfect for first-time visitors, featuring beautiful waterfront views and recreational activities. Mason City boasts a vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, while Northwood offers quaint charm and easy access to outdoor adventures. Accommodations range from budget-friendly motels to lakeside inns, ensuring options for all travelers seeking a comfortable stay in the area. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Ventura:

1. Clear LakeOpens in a new window: Clear Lake is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring stunning natural scenery and numerous recreational activities. Key attractions include the Surf Ballroom and Museum, a cultural landmark, and the Buddy Holly Crash Site, a poignant memorial. Clear Lake State Park offers ample opportunities for adventure and exploration. Hotels in the area include Lakeside InnOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel with dining options and entertainment like cable TV, and Best Western Holiday LodgeOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star property that welcomes pets and provides essential amenities. For families, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Clear LakeOpens in a new window is a suitable 2.5-star option with services tailored for children.
2. Mason CityOpens in a new window: Mason City is known for its romantic charm and rich culture, highlighted by the Historic Park Inn Hotel and the Surf Ballroom and Museum. Visitors can explore the Buddy Holly Crash Site as well. The Decker House Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.0-star bed and breakfast offering complimentary breakfast and recreational activities nearby. Families and pet owners will appreciate Quality Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel that provides child-friendly amenities and pet policies. Additionally, Cupola Inn Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star bed and breakfast featuring free breakfast and canoeing opportunities.
3. NorthwoodOpens in a new window: Northwood is a charming spot that combines romance and adventure, making it ideal for couples and families alike. Attractions include the Diamond Jo Casino for entertainment and Rice Lake State Park for outdoor activities. Accommodations include AmericInn by Wyndham Albert LeaOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel suitable for business travelers and pet owners, and DoubleTree by Hilton Austin, MNOpens in a new window, which provides ample business amenities and pet-friendly policies. Ramada by Wyndham Albert LeaOpens in a new window is another good option for business-focused guests, offering a variety of meeting spaces and services for pets.

Things to do in Ventura for first time

Ventura offers a perfect three-day getaway with its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush parks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and tree-top walks, along with vibrant nightlife and recreational areas. The scenic waterfront views make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Ventura:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the Surf Ballroom and Museum, a historic venue known for its connection to rock and roll legends. Next, venture to the Clear Lake Fire Museum, where you can learn about the local fire department's history and see vintage fire equipment. Finish your day with a relaxing stroll at City Beach Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of Clear Lake as the sun sets, a perfect way to unwind after a day of discovery.
• Day 2: Start your morning at Clear Lake State Park, where hiking trails and scenic views await. After a refreshing walk, visit the Central Gardens of North Iowa, a beautiful sanctuary filled with diverse plants and serene pathways. Conclude your day at The Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank, an architectural gem designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, where you can appreciate its unique design and perhaps enjoy a meal at its restaurant.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Clear Lake State Park Beach, a great spot for swimming or sunbathing. Then, head to Lime Creek Nature Center, where you can explore nature trails and learn about local wildlife. Wrap up your adventure at Pilot Knob State Park, known for its picturesque views and hiking trails, providing a perfect ending to your trip with a chance to connect with nature and reflect on your experiences.

5 tips to find a great Ventura hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: Ventura is a fantastic destination for travelers on a budget, especially during January, November, and December when hotel prices are at their lowest. To truly experience the area’s highlights, it's recommended to plan for at least a 2-3 day stay. Key attractions in Ventura include the scenic lake, the national state park, and historic sites, all offering great value for money and making it easy to enjoy an affordable getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Ventura, you might find great discounts on accommodations just in time for your getaway. To explore options on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could uncover competitive rates on hotels close to your travel date. Additionally, consider signing up for email alerts or enabling push notifications from Hotels.com to receive updates on flash sales and special promotions, helping you stay in the loop for potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. Thus, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Ventura.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit further out, while still balancing cost with easy access to the sights you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Ventura and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Ventura

Ventura 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 71.8°F (22.1°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Ventura are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, 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.