Hotels in Forest Lake

Whispers of Nature: Explore the Enchantment of Forest Lake

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Forest Lake is a picturesque destination perfect for families and nature lovers alike. With its expansive lakes and lush forests, it offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from fishing and boating in the summer to hiking and snowshoeing in the winter. The vibrant community hosts lively events year-round, while nearby attractions like the renowned Mall of America provide an exciting urban escape. Discover the serene beauty and warm hospitality of Forest Lake, where every season brings a new way to explore and create lasting memories. For the best hotel rates in Forest 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 Forest Lake

Some of the best places to stay in Forest Lake are Downtown Minneapolis, Dinkytown and Northeast Minneapolis. Forest Lake, Minnesota, serves as a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Downtown Minneapolis, Dinkytown, and Northeast Minneapolis. Downtown offers vibrant urban experiences with shopping and dining, while Dinkytown is known for its eclectic atmosphere and local charm. Northeast Minneapolis boasts an artistic vibe with galleries and breweries. For accommodations, expect a variety of options, including budget-friendly hotels with free parking. For first-time visitors, Downtown Minneapolis provides the most iconic experiences and accessibility. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Forest Lake:

1. Downtown MinneapolisOpens in a new window: With its vibrant atmosphere, Downtown Minneapolis is a hub for sports, shopping, and entertainment. Key attractions include U.S. Bank Stadium, the Mall of America, and Target Field. For accommodations, consider Four Seasons Hotel MinneapolisOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel that caters to business travelers and pet owners alike, featuring multiple meeting rooms and pet amenities. Another excellent option is W Minneapolis - The FoshayOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel offering extensive business facilities and pet-friendly policies. Lastly, Hyatt Centric Downtown MinneapolisOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star property, is perfect for families and business travelers, featuring unique decor and a range of child-friendly amenities.
2. DinkytownOpens in a new window: Dinkytown is a lively area known for its youthful energy and proximity to local attractions like U.S. Bank Stadium and the Minneapolis Convention Center. Graduate by Hilton MinneapolisOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel ideal for business and pet-friendly stays, featuring a comprehensive conference center. Alternatively, Days Hotel by Wyndham University Ave SEOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, also welcomes pets and provides business amenities, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
3. Northeast MinneapolisOpens in a new window: This charming area boasts a family-friendly vibe with attractions such as U.S. Bank Stadium and the Mall of America nearby. For a comfortable stay, consider DoubleTree by Hilton Roseville MinneapolisOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to families and business travelers with extensive amenities, including a children’s pool and spa services. Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis NorthOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is another solid choice, offering a pet-friendly environment and essential business facilities, ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests.

Things to do in Forest Lake for first time

Three days in Forest Lake offer a perfect escape into nature, where lush forests meet serene lakes. Travelers can enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and golfing, alongside vibrant shopping and entertainment options. With stunning landscapes and recreational fun, it's an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Forest Lake:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at William O'Brien State Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature with hiking trails and stunning views of the St. Croix River. After enjoying the great outdoors, head over to the Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway for a scenic train ride that takes you through the beautiful countryside. Finally, wrap up your day at the Franconia Sculpture Park, where you can explore a unique collection of outdoor sculptures and art installations that make for great photo opportunities and thoughtful reflections.
• Day 2: Start your day at Pine Tree Apple Orchard, where you can pick fresh apples or indulge in delicious baked goods at their market. After savoring the flavors, make your way to the Lakeshore Players Theatre to catch a matinee performance and experience local talent showcasing their skills. Conclude your day at the Tamarack Nature Center, where you can explore the interactive exhibits and scenic trails that highlight the region's natural beauty, perfect for a relaxing evening walk.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, where you can explore the grounds and learn about the annual fair. Afterward, enjoy some leisure time at Golden Lake Park Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax by the water. End your day at Otter Lake Dog Park, where you can unwind in a tranquil environment or watch the playful pups, making it a perfect spot to reflect on your trip before heading home.

5 tips to find a great Forest Lake hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Forest Lake is in January, November, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least 3 months in advance to secure more affordable prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the area’s great value for money, including its scenic forests and beautiful lake. This destination offers a wonderful opportunity for those looking to explore nature on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Forest Lake, Hotels.com is a great option. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find attractive discounts on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of spotting the best offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you make the most of your travel budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Forest Lake.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit further out, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Forest Lake 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 Forest Lake

Forest 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 71.4°F (21.9°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Forest Lake, May to July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, 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.