Hotels in Mason City

Mason City: A Tapestry of History and Serenity by the Lake

Discover the charm of Mason City, Illinois, a hidden gem that beautifully blends history with natural allure. Stroll through its historic downtown, where stunning civic buildings tell tales of the past. Explore the serene landscapes surrounding the picturesque lake, perfect for leisurely afternoons. Don’t miss the poignant memorials that honor the town’s rich heritage. With its inviting atmosphere and unique attractions, Mason City offers a delightful escape for history buffs and nature lovers alike, making it an enchanting destination off the beaten path. For the best hotel rates in Mason City, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Mason City

Some of the best places to stay in Mason City are Downtown Springfield, Bartonville and Morton. Mason City, Illinois, offers great nearby destinations for travelers. Downtown Springfield is perfect for history buffs, featuring museums and vibrant nightlife. Bartonville provides a relaxed atmosphere with local eateries, while Morton is known for its charming parks and community spirit. Hotel accommodations in these areas include friendly options with comfortable guest rooms, ranging from budget-friendly motels to more upscale stays. For first-time visitors, Downtown Springfield is the best choice due to its rich attractions and accessibility. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Mason City:

1. Downtown SpringfieldOpens in a new window: If you're looking to immerse yourself in American history, Downtown Springfield is the perfect destination. With attractions like the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, this area is rich in culture. The Illinois State Fairgrounds offers outdoor activities for family-friendly fun. For accommodation, consider President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - DoubleTree by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel tailored for business travelers with amenities like a 24-hour business center and multiple meeting rooms. Alternatively, Wyndham Springfield City CentreOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers business facilities, making it great for both work and leisure. Another option is Inn at 835 Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, located within a mile of downtown and featuring romantic packages and spa services for a relaxing getaway.
2. BartonvilleOpens in a new window: Bartonville is a charming place for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions like the Peoria Civic Center and Par-A-Dice Casino for entertainment and leisure. The area is also home to Bradley University, adding a cultural touch. For lodging, Embassy Suites by Hilton E Peoria Riverfront Conf CenterOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that combines business amenities with a natural experience, allowing pets and offering outdoor spaces to enjoy nature. Another option, Peoria Marriott Pere MarquetteOpens in a new window, is a 3.5-star hotel focused on business travelers with ample meeting facilities. Courtyard Peoria DowntownOpens in a new window, also 3.5-star, provides a full spa and pool service, perfect for relaxation after a day exploring the area.
3. MortonOpens in a new window: Morton is an inviting area for families and those seeking outdoor adventures, featuring attractions like the Peoria Civic Center and Par-A-Dice Casino. For affordable accommodations, Super 8 by Wyndham El Paso ILOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that offers business amenities and welcomes pets. Days Inn by Wyndham El PasoOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, provides free Wi-Fi and self-parking, making it convenient for travelers. Lastly, Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham BloomingtonOpens in a new window, also 3.0-star, caters to business guests with meeting facilities and a business center, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

Things to do in Mason City for first time

Mason City is a charming destination perfect for a three-day getaway, offering a blend of historic sites and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and exploring scenic lakes and lush parks, making it an ideal spot for education and recreation in a tranquil setting. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Mason City:

• Day 1: Start your exploration of Mason City with a visit to Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, a recreation of the village where Abraham Lincoln lived and worked during his early adulthood. Here, you can walk through historic buildings and learn about Lincoln's formative years. After that, head to Edwards Place Historic Home, where you can admire the stunning architecture and gain insight into the life of a prominent local family in the mid-19th century. Conclude your day at Lincoln's Tomb, an impressive tribute to the 16th President of the United States, where you can pay your respects and reflect on Lincoln's legacy.
• Day 2: Your day begins with a visit to the Railsplitter Covered Wagon, a unique roadside attraction that celebrates Lincoln's connection to the American frontier. Next, make your way to Postville Courthouse State Historic Site, where you can explore the courthouse where Lincoln practiced law. Finally, immerse yourself in history at the Lincoln Heritage Museum, featuring exhibits that delve deeper into Lincoln's life and the era in which he lived.
• Day 3: Start your day at Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where you can tour the only home ever owned by Abraham Lincoln and learn about his life in Springfield. Next, visit the Pasfield House, another beautiful historic home that showcases local history and architecture. End your day at the Dana-Thomas House, a stunning example of Frank Lloyd Wright's prairie-style architecture, featuring intricate designs and beautiful gardens that provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

5 tips to find a great Mason City hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Mason City is from October to December, when hotel rates drop significantly. To fully experience the key attractions, it's best to plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. During your visit, you can explore the historic sites, enjoy the scenic lake, and learn about local history at the museum. This makes for a budget-friendly getaway that offers great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Mason City, you're in luck! By heading to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, you could find enticing discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of scoring the best value, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. This way, you won’t miss out on opportunities to save on your Mason City getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to various factors, including the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Mason City.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com during your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, balancing cost with the accessibility of the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Mason City 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.

Best time to go to Mason City

Mason City experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.8°F (-2.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.8°F (23.8°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Mason City are June, September, and October, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, April, August, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.