Hotels near Minnesota Zoo

Discover the Wild Heart of Minnesota: Nature's Lakeside Sanctuary

Discover the wonders of the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley, a captivating nature destination just a short drive from Minneapolis. Nestled in lush landscapes, this award-winning zoo invites visitors to explore its diverse habitats, featuring over 4,300 animals from around the globe. Wander through the immersive exhibits like the Medtronic Minnesota Trail and the Discovery Bay, where you can encounter playful sea otters and majestic bison. Ideal for families and nature lovers, the zoo offers enriching experiences, including animal encounters and educational programs. With nearby hotels, it’s a perfect day trip or weekend getaway to connect with wildlife and the great outdoors. For great hotel rates near Minnesota Zoo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels near Minnesota Zoo

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations near Minnesota Zoo, from cozy budget options to comfortable mid-range stays. You'll find several top hotels within a short drive, offering convenient access to the zoo and surrounding attractions. Prices typically vary, making it easy to find a suitable overnight option for your trip. Here are some of the best hotels near Minnesota Zoo that our travelers love:

1. InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport by IHGOpens in a new window: This luxurious 5.0-star hotel offers an exceptional experience for discerning travelers seeking comfort and elegance. Featuring spacious rooms with super comfortable beds and unique original art, the property ensures a peaceful retreat. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and attention to detail, making it a standout choice. With amenities like a well-equipped business center and meeting spaces, the hotel caters perfectly to those looking for a refined atmosphere to conduct business or simply unwind in style.
2. JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of AmericaOpens in a new window: Ideal for business travelers, this 4.5-star hotel boasts a prime location with easy access to the iconic Mall of America. Enjoy a seamless check-in experience and modern accommodations that prioritize comfort and tranquility. With well-appointed meeting rooms and a business center, this hotel is designed to facilitate productive stays. The luxurious ambiance, complemented by high-quality service, ensures a memorable experience in a vibrant area filled with shopping and dining options.
3. Radisson Blu Mall of AmericaOpens in a new window: Perfect for leisure travelers, this 4.5-star hotel offers a delightful blend of luxury and comfort. Guests enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service and top-notch amenities, including a clean pool and an on-site restaurant known for its delicious breakfast options. The hotel’s strategic location enhances the overall experience, providing easy access to attractions while ensuring a relaxing environment. With an emphasis on quality and guest satisfaction, this hotel stands out for those seeking a refreshing getaway.

Things to do near Minnesota Zoo

Nestled amidst lush forests and serene lakes, the Minnesota Zoo invites travelers to explore diverse wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities like birdwatching and hiking. With beautiful trails and ample opportunities for nature photography, this destination is a must-visit for those seeking a rich blend of adventure and tranquility.

• Nickelodeon UniverseOpens in a new window – Get ready for some excitement at Nickelodeon Universe, an exhilarating amusement park that promises fun for all ages. With a variety of rides and attractions themed around popular Nickelodeon characters, it’s the perfect place to unleash your inner child. Make sure to try the roller coasters and interactive experiences that will have your heart racing!
• Fort Snelling State ParkOpens in a new window – Embrace the great outdoors at Fort Snelling State Park, where history and nature intertwine beautifully. Explore scenic trails that wind through lush landscapes and along the banks of the Minnesota River. Perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the serene beauty of the park, this is a great spot to reconnect with nature.
• Minnehaha ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the charm of Minnehaha Park, a vibrant urban oasis featuring the stunning Minnehaha Falls. Stroll along picturesque paths, take in the sights along the creek, and enjoy the lush gardens. This park is ideal for a leisurely day out, with plenty of spots to relax and soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
• Crystal Lake BeachOpens in a new window – Dive into summer fun at Crystal Lake Beach, a delightful spot for swimming and sunbathing. The sandy shores and clear waters invite you to relax and unwind. Pack a picnic, rent a kayak, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance while taking in the lovely lakeside views.
• SkatevilleOpens in a new window – Roll into fun at Skateville, a lively venue that offers more than just skating. With themed nights and exciting events, it’s a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy some active entertainment. Whether you’re a skating pro or a beginner, you’ll find the atmosphere welcoming and exhilarating.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel near Minnesota Zoo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit the Minnesota Zoo is in January, March, and December, when hotel prices may drop. For a great value for money experience, it’s recommended to stay at least 2 to 3 days to fully explore the area’s key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural attractions, including beautiful lakes and historical sites. This duration allows visitors to appreciate the rich history and nature surrounding the zoo while keeping costs manageable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for the Minnesota Zoo, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. It’s beneficial to enable email alerts or push notifications for updates on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you stay informed about potential savings. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make the best choice. With these resources, you're more likely to find great opportunities for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay near the Minnesota Zoo hotel. For those interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with higher prices. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in less central neighborhoods, which usually tend to be more affordable while still allowing for easy access to the sights you want to see. Additionally, you could consider independent hotels a bit farther out, as they can offer a more authentic experience at a better price.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay near Minnesota Zoo. 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 Minnesota Zoo

Minnesota Zoo experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 15.1°F (-9.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). June is usually the wettest month. March, July, and August are the peak travel months at Minnesota Zoo, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.