Hotels near Minnesota Zoo

Explore the Enchanted Wilderness: Minnesota Zoo Awaits You

Discover the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley, a captivating blend of nature and wildlife just a stone's throw from downtown Minneapolis. This expansive zoo offers immersive experiences, from the enchanting Discovery Bay to the serene Minnesota Trail, showcasing native wildlife in their natural habitats. Explore the lush landscapes, engage with interactive exhibits, and witness the wonders of conservation. Perfect for families and animal lovers alike, the Minnesota Zoo invites you to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories in a vibrant, eco-friendly setting. Experience the magic of wildlife up close in this off-the-beaten-path gem! For great hotel rates near Minnesota Zoo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay near Minnesota Zoo

When planning a vacation to the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley, you'll find a variety of hotel accommodations nearby. From budget-friendly inns to top-rated hotels, options abound to suit every traveller's needs. The closest hotels offer convenience and easy access to the zoo, while those in Minneapolis downtown provide additional amenities and attractions. Whether searching for a new hotel or a charming inn, you're sure to find the perfect spot for a memorable stay. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Minnesota Zoo:

1. Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis EaganOpens in a new window: This 3-star hotel is located approximately 1.6km from Minnesota Zoo, making it a convenient choice for zoo visitors. It caters to business, family, and pet travellers, offering meeting rooms and conference space for business needs. Families can benefit from amenities such as free cribs and window guards for children. The hotel also welcomes pets with certain restrictions, ensuring a comfortable stay for all family members, including furry ones.
2. Blue Way Inn Eagan Extended StayOpens in a new window: Also situated about 1.6km from Minnesota Zoo, this 2.5-star hotel is a great option for business travellers. It features essential business amenities such as meeting rooms, conference space, and a 24-hour business centre. While it focuses on corporate needs, its proximity to the zoo makes it an appealing choice for those wanting to balance work and leisure during their stay.
3. Candlewood Suites Eagan Arpt South - Mall Area by IHGOpens in a new window: This 3-star hotel is conveniently located just 1.6km from Minnesota Zoo, ideal for both business and pet travellers. With a 24-hour accessible business centre and other business amenities, it supports professional needs effectively. Pets are welcomed here, providing an inclusive environment for guests who wish to bring their furry companions along.

Things to do near Minnesota Zoo for first times

A visit to Minnesota Zoo offers an immersive experience in a stunning natural landscape, with lush forests and serene lakes ideal for hiking and birdwatching. Over three days, enjoy wildlife encounters, local shopping, and outdoor adventures, making it a memorable destination for nature enthusiasts. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Minnesota Zoo:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Nickelodeon Universe, where you can experience thrilling rides and attractions that will bring out your inner child. After an exhilarating morning, head over to the Airport Dog Park for a relaxing stroll where you can enjoy the outdoors and watch furry friends play. Finally, wrap up your day with a visit to the John H Stevens House Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the local history and learn about the life of the area's early settlers.
• Day 2: Start your day by exploring the natural beauty of Fort Snelling State Park, where you can hike scenic trails and enjoy the serene landscapes. Afterward, take a short drive to Snelling Beach to unwind by the water—perfect for a picnic or just soaking in the sun. Conclude your day at the Sibley House Historic Site, where you can delve into Minnesota's history and appreciate the well-preserved architecture of this historic home.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Minnehaha Park, a stunning urban oasis featuring picturesque waterfalls and lush trails, ideal for a morning stroll. Next, enjoy some fun and games at Skateville, where you can skate or just relax with friends. End your day at Crystal Lake Beach, where you can take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the beautiful sunset over the water, making for a perfect conclusion to your Minnesota adventure.

4 tips to find a great Minnesota Zoo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Minnesota Zoo are in January, March, and December, as hotel prices are generally lower during these months. Domestic travellers should aim to book their flights at least 8 months in advance for the best deals, while international travellers should secure their flights at least 3 months ahead to enjoy more affordable prices. To fully experience the main attractions in the area, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Nearby attractions include beautiful nature and scenic lakes, making it a great value for money destination for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to the Minnesota Zoo, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find reduced rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of finding cheap hotels, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll be updated on flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you save while enjoying reviews from fellow travellers to ensure a pleasant stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses near the Minnesota Zoo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to popular attractions or downtown areas may offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit.

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Minnesota Zoo 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, January, February, and April are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.