Hotels in Onalaska

Onalaska: Where Rivers Whisper Secrets and Nature Beckons

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River, Onalaska, Wisconsin, is a charming destination that perfectly blends rustic allure with outdoor adventure. This welcoming city boasts scenic trails, pristine parks, and vibrant waterfront activities, making it ideal for nature lovers and families alike. Explore the stunning landscapes at La Crosse River State Trail or enjoy kayaking on the tranquil waters. With its rich history, local shops, and delightful dining options, Onalaska invites travelers to experience a delightful escape infused with small-town warmth and breathtaking views. Discover the hidden gems of this serene riverside haven! For the best hotel rates in Onalaska, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Onalaska

Some of the best places to stay in Onalaska are Historic Downtown La Crosse, Winona and Sparta. Onalaska, Wisconsin, offers a charming vacation experience with nearby attractions. Historic Downtown La Crosse is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring vibrant shops and restaurants. Winona boasts picturesque landscapes and cultural sites, while Sparta is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with its biking trails. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to modern hotels, ensuring comfort for all travelers. Whether you seek a suite or a budget-friendly option, you'll find suitable lodging throughout Onalaska and its neighboring towns. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Onalaska:

1. Historic Downtown La CrosseOpens in a new window: This vibrant area boasts a mix of family-friendly entertainment and outdoor activities, making it ideal for travelers looking to explore local culture. With attractions like the La Crosse Center and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse nearby, it’s a hub of activity. For accommodations, consider The Charmant HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to adventure and business travelers, offering amenities like a Business Center and nearby adventure sports. Another option is Radisson Hotel La CrosseOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that specializes in skiing and adventure themes, featuring a Business Center and ski shuttle access. Lastly, Alexander Mansion Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, a cozy 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast, provides a welcoming atmosphere with pet-friendly policies and business amenities.
2. WinonaOpens in a new window: Nestled along the Mississippi River, Winona is known for its outdoor activities and cultural experiences, with attractions such as Winona State University and the Minnesota Marine Art Museum. For budget-conscious travelers, White Valley MotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star motel that welcomes pets, perfect for those traveling with furry companions. Alternatively, Coffee Street InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star guesthouse, offers adventure and golf experiences, along with pet-friendly amenities. Another option is Stone Mill Hotel & SuitesOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that focuses on business and golf, providing essential business services and outdoor activities nearby.
3. SpartaOpens in a new window: Known for its outdoor recreation, Sparta offers access to the LaCrosse River Trail and Whitetail Ridge Ski Area, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Best Western Tomah HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that caters to families and business travelers, featuring a Business Center and pet-friendly policies. Another choice is Three Bears Resort, Ascend Hotel CollectionOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star resort that gives guests direct beach access and adventure activities. Lastly, Best Western Plus Sparta Trail LodgeOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, is suited for business-oriented guests, providing a Business Center and golf experiences while being pet-friendly.

Things to do in Onalaska for first time

Three days in Onalaska offers a perfect blend of picturesque river landscapes, lush forests, and scenic parks. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating along the waterways, hiking through wooded trails, and sledding in the winter, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Onalaska:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Oktoberfest Grounds, where you can soak in the festive atmosphere and enjoy local food and beverages if your visit coincides with the event. Next, make your way to the serene Mary of the Angels Chapel, a beautiful spot perfect for reflection and admiring the architecture. Complete your day with some relaxation at Pettibone Beach, where you can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline or simply unwind with stunning views of the river.
• Day 2: Start your day at Riverside Park, a picturesque location ideal for a morning stroll or a picnic. From there, head to the St. Rose of Viterbo Convent, where you can appreciate the peaceful surroundings and perhaps learn about its history. Conclude your day with a visit to the Hixon House, a historical gem that offers insights into the region's past and showcases beautiful architecture and gardens.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a serene and inspiring place that offers breathtaking views and spiritual reflection. Afterward, explore the scenic trails at Great River Bluffs State Park, where you can enjoy hiking and stunning vistas of the Mississippi River. Finally, wind down your trip at Black River Beach, a lovely spot to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you.

5 tips to find a great Onalaska hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Onalaska is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're an international traveler, aim to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best deals. For a budget-friendly experience, plan to stay at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including the beautiful river. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping costs down, ensuring great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Onalaska, Hotels.com offers a great way to find competitive rates on hotels. Begin by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover appealing discounts close to your travel date. To enhance your chances of snagging the best offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could find out about flash sales and exclusive promotions, making it easier to save on your stay in Onalaska.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Onalaska.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Onalaska is usually more expensive. However, if you opt to stay further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, biking, or walking to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Onalaska. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Onalaska

Here are a few top restaurants to try in Onalaska, Wisconsin, United States of America:

• Culver's: A beloved chain known for its ButterBurgers and fresh frozen custard, Culver's emphasizes quality ingredients and local flavors. The menu features a variety of delectable options, including the popular Wisconsin Cheese Curds, showcasing the region's dairy heritage.
• Texas Roadhouse: This lively restaurant is famous for its hand-cut steaks and made-from-scratch sides. With a commitment to freshness, Texas Roadhouse offers a robust menu that includes their signature baby back ribs and homemade rolls, all served in a warm, friendly atmosphere.
• Rocky Rococo Pan Style Pizza: Known for its unique pan-style pizza, Rocky Rococo elevates pizza with a focus on high-quality toppings and a buttery crust. Their dedication to flavor and creativity makes it a go-to spot for pizza lovers looking to experience something different.

Best time to go to Onalaska

Onalaska experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 16.7°F (-8.5°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 Onalaska are April, July, and September, 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 light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.