Hotels in Grand Island

Grand Island: Where Nature Blooms and Culture Flourishes

Nestled in the heart of Nebraska, Grand Island is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends nature and culture. Renowned for its stunning floral displays, particularly during the annual Nebraska State Fair, this vibrant city offers a unique mix of attractions. Explore the scenic landscapes at the nearby Platte River, or immerse yourself in history at the fascinating local museums. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding parks, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Grand Island invites you to discover its charm and welcoming spirit. For the best hotel rates in Grand Island, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Grand Island

Some of the best places to stay in Grand Island are Hastings, Aurora and Alda. Hastings, Aurora, and Alda each offer unique charm for travelers. Hastings is great for first-time visitors, featuring vibrant local culture and attractions. Aurora provides a quieter atmosphere with friendly hospitality, while Alda offers a peaceful retreat with outdoor activities. Generally, hotel accommodations in these areas include comfortable options like quality inns, sleep inns, and comfort suites, often featuring amenities such as indoor pools and business centers, ensuring a pleasant stay for all types of travelers. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Grand Island:

1. HastingsOpens in a new window: Hastings is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, featuring attractions such as Hastings College, Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center, and Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History. This area offers a variety of lodging options for travelers. Consider Hampton Inn HastingsOpens in a new window and My Place Hotel - HastingsOpens in a new window, both 2.5-star hotels that cater to business and pet-friendly travelers, providing essential amenities like 24-hour business centers and meeting rooms. Another option is Comfort InnOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, which is well-equipped for business travelers.
2. AuroraOpens in a new window: Aurora is an inviting spot for those who appreciate scenic outdoor experiences, with highlights like the Platte River and Nebraska State Fair Grounds. The hotels here, such as Yorkshire MotelOpens in a new window and Victorian Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window, both offer a blend of business and pet-friendly accommodations, featuring amenities like 24-hour business centers and pet policies that allow for certain pets on-site. For family-oriented travelers, Quality InnOpens in a new window provides a comfortable atmosphere, complete with child-friendly services.
3. AldaOpens in a new window: Alda is a family-friendly destination with attractions like Nebraska State Fair Grounds and the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. For accommodation, Ramada by Wyndham Midtown Grand IslandOpens in a new window stands out as a 3.0-star hotel that caters to both business and family travelers, offering amenities like a conference center and mini-golf. If you're traveling with pets, Hampton Inn Grand IslandOpens in a new window allows pets on-site, while Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Grand IslandOpens in a new window offers a complimentary breakfast and entertainment options such as Netflix, making it a comfortable choice for visitors.

Things to do in Grand Island for first time

Grand Island, located in the scenic state of Iowa, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. With its lush parks, serene lakes, and vibrant flowers, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and birdwatching, alongside lively festivals and shopping opportunities. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Grand Island:

• Explore Platte River: A visit to the Platte River offers stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching, as well as picturesque walking trails that showcase the area's diverse wildlife.
• Visit Heartland Public Shooting Park: This premier shooting facility is ideal for both beginners and experienced shooters. It features a range of shooting sports, including trap, skeet, and rifle ranges, providing a unique opportunity to enhance your skills or simply enjoy a day out in a safe and controlled environment.
• Discover The Plainsman Museum: Dive into the rich history of the region at The Plainsman Museum. It showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the pioneer days, offering insights into the lives of early settlers and the development of the Great Plains, making it a great educational stop for visitors.
• Admire Howard County Courthouse: This beautiful historical building is a fantastic example of classical architecture and serves as a centerpiece of the local community. Take a moment to appreciate its stunning design and learn about its significant role in the history of Grand Island and Howard County.

5 tips to find a great Grand Island hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Grand Island is from October to December, when hotel rates drop significantly. For international travelers, it’s advisable to book flights at least six months in advance to secure more affordable prices. To truly enjoy the main attractions, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Grand Island offers a great value for money with its stunning natural scenery, beautiful islands, and engaging museums, making it a fantastic destination for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're searching for last-minute deals to Grand Island, you might find great rates on Hotels.com that offer exceptional value. To start, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize any opportunities to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Grand Island.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Grand Island is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Grand Island and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Grand Island

Here are some must-try dishes in Grand Island, Nebraska, United States of America:

• Hamburger: A classic American staple, the hamburger in Grand Island is often served with locally sourced beef, grilled to perfection and topped with fresh vegetables and unique sauces. This dish reflects the region’s agricultural roots, making it a must-try at local diners and burger joints that pride themselves on quality ingredients and customization options.
• Steak: Known for its rich flavor and tenderness, steak in Grand Island is often prepared using traditional grilling techniques, showcasing the region's beef production. Many restaurants offer a variety of cuts, allowing diners to personalize their experience with different seasonings, sides, and cooking preferences, making it a highlight of the local culinary scene.

Best time to go to Grand Island

Grand Island experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.9°F (-3.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.6°F (24.8°C). May is usually the wettest month. June, July, and September are the peak travel months in Grand Island, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.