Hotels in Rochester

Whispers of the Past: Explore Rochester’s Treasures in Words and Wonders

Rochester, Minnesota, is a vibrant city known for its blend of innovation and charm. Home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, the city offers a unique mix of healthcare excellence and cultural experiences. Stroll through downtown to discover delightful shops, art galleries, and the serene Peace Plaza. Nature lovers can explore the scenic trails of Quarry Hill Park or relax at Silver Lake. With its rich history, captivating museums, and blossoming culinary scene, Rochester invites travelers to experience a perfect balance of wellness, culture, and community spirit in the heart of the Midwest. For our best hotel rates in Rochester and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Rochester

Rochester, Minnesota offers a variety of hotel accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs. From upscale hotels with modern amenities to cozy inns and budget-friendly options, you'll find convenient stays close to attractions. Many hotels receive positive reviews for their comfort and service, ensuring a pleasant visit. Here are some of the best hotels in Rochester that our travelers love:

1. Hotel Indigo Rochester – Mayo Clinic Area by IHGOpens in a new window: Hotel Indigo Rochester – Mayo Clinic Area by IHG is a charming 3.5-star hotel perfect for leisure travelers seeking adventure and romance. This property boasts an array of amenities, including a 24-hour business center, and offers exciting adventure sports activities nearby, like kayaking and rock climbing. Guests can indulge in romantic experiences with packages that include limited-hour room service and champagne service. The spa and pool services create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation after a day of exploration. Positive sentiments highlight the hotel’s friendly staff, cleanliness, and excellent location, making it a favored choice for those visiting the nearby Mayo Clinic and Convention Center.
2. Hyatt House Rochester/Mayo Clinic AreaOpens in a new window: Hyatt House Rochester/Mayo Clinic Area is a delightful 3.5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, catering to adventure and city travelers. With a wide range of amenities, including a 24-hour business center, conference space, and a coworking area, it provides a seamless experience for those on the go. Guests can enjoy nearby hiking and biking opportunities, enhancing their urban adventure. The hotel is known for its comfortable rooms and convenient shuttle service to the Mayo Clinic, as well as easy access to public transport. Positive reviews emphasize the spacious accommodations and the attentive staff, making it a favorite for those looking to balance city exploration with comfort.
3. The Towers At Kahler Grand HotelOpens in a new window: The Towers At Kahler Grand Hotel is a sophisticated 4.0-star hotel tailored for business travelers. The property is equipped with a fully accessible business center and meeting rooms, ensuring a productive stay. Known for its comfortable and convenient accommodations, it provides a serene environment for professionals seeking a seamless experience. Guests appreciate the attentive service from the staff, creating an atmosphere of hospitality and comfort. Positive feedback highlights the hotel's focus on enhancing the business travel experience, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing efficiency and relaxation during their stay.

Top locations to stay in Rochester

Some of the best areas to stay in Rochester, Minnesota, are Historic Southwest, Downtown Rochester, and Kutzky Park. Historic Southwest offers charming architecture and local history, while Downtown Rochester features vibrant nightlife, art venues, and shopping. Kutzky Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with its recreational options. For first-time visitors, Downtown Rochester is the ideal choice due to its central location and diverse attractions.

1. Downtown RochesterOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for a vibrant place to stay, Downtown Rochester is the heart of the city, bustling with energy and excitement. You’ll find a range of cultural attractions like the Plummer House and the Rochester Art Center, perfect for art enthusiasts. The area is also home to the Olmsted County Fairgrounds, which hosts various events throughout the year. When the sun goes down, you can catch a show at the Jon Hassler Theater or the Rochester Civic Theater. For shopping, explore the Shops at University Square and Apache Mall, where you can find everything from local boutiques to popular retail chains.
2. Historic SouthwestOpens in a new window: For a charming and picturesque stay, the Historic Southwest area offers a unique glimpse into Rochester's past with its beautiful architecture and historic homes. This neighborhood is perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace and local culture. You can enjoy leisurely strolls through tree-lined streets and visit quaint shops and local galleries. The friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring the city, and you’ll find plenty of parks nearby for a peaceful retreat.
3. Kutzky ParkOpens in a new window: If you’re seeking a more laid-back experience, Kutzky Park is a lovely area surrounded by nature. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy walking or biking along scenic trails. The park itself features beautiful green spaces, making it a great place for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon. While more tranquil than other areas, it’s still conveniently located, allowing easy access to Rochester’s attractions. You’ll find that the community vibe here is welcoming and friendly, perfect for unwinding during your travels.

Things to do in Rochester

Rochester offers a delightful mix of outdoor fun and vibrant city life. Travelers can enjoy scenic parks and lakes for hiking, boating, or picnicking, while the lively urban scene buzzes with shopping and entertainment. Sports enthusiasts will find plenty of action, and the local arts scene invites you to catch a performance.

• Olmsted County FairgroundsOpens in a new window – Dive into the lively atmosphere at the Olmsted County Fairgrounds, where you can enjoy a variety of events throughout the year. Whether it's a local fair, festival, or community gathering, this venue is a hub of activity and excitement. Check the calendar for family-friendly entertainment and delicious fair food!
• Mayowood MansionOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Mayowood Mansion, a historic gem that offers a glimpse into the life of Dr. Charles Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic. Wander through the beautifully preserved rooms and admire the stunning architecture that reflects the elegance of a bygone era.
• Rochester Art CenterOpens in a new window – Unleash your creativity at the Rochester Art Center, where contemporary art comes to life. Explore inspiring exhibits that showcase local and national artists, and participate in engaging workshops that invite you to express your artistic side.
• Plummer HouseOpens in a new window – Discover the architectural beauty of the Plummer House, a historic estate surrounded by lush gardens. This picturesque location is perfect for leisurely strolls and offers insights into the life of Dr. Plummer, another key figure in Rochester's rich history.
• Silver Lake ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy the great outdoors at Silver Lake Park, where you can take a peaceful walk or have a picnic by the water. This urban oasis features scenic trails, playgrounds, and open spaces that invite you to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Rochester.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Rochester

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Rochester is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a great value for money experience, staying for at least 2 to 3 days allows you to fully explore the city's historic landmarks, cultural sites, and notable libraries. This timeframe offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate Rochester's rich history and vibrant culture while keeping costs down.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals to Rochester, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you capitalize on savings. Using the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options available. This way, you'll be alerted if prices drop or new rooms become available for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a Rochester hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest more affordable dates, enhancing your chances of finding a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to cost more, but with Rochester's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that’s still well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Rochester. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Rochester

Rochester 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 70.9°F (21.6°C). June is usually the wettest month. July, August, and October are the peak travel months in Rochester, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.