Hotels in Waterloo

Waterloo Unveiled: Where Serenity Meets Adventure by the Water's Edge

Nestled in the heart of New York, Waterloo is a charming destination that offers a delightful blend of nature and culture. Explore the serene shores of Cayuga Lake, where stunning waterfalls cascade into picturesque landscapes. Just a stone's throw away, the historic town of Seneca Falls beckons with its rich heritage. For those seeking a shopping spree, the Waterloo Premium Outlets provide a treasure trove of deals. With its tranquil marina, scenic trails, and vibrant local charm, Waterloo is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, promising unforgettable experiences in every corner. For the best hotel rates in Waterloo 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 Waterloo

Some of the best places to stay in Waterloo are Sheldrake, Canandaigua and Penn Yan. Sheldrake, Canandaigua, and Penn Yan are fantastic destinations for travelers seeking the charm of the Finger Lakes region. Sheldrake offers scenic lakeside views, while Canandaigua boasts vibrant dining and shopping options. Penn Yan is known for its quaint atmosphere and wineries. Hotel accommodations range from cozy inns to comfortable chain hotels, ensuring a stay for every budget. For first-time visitors, Canandaigua is the best choice due to its lively atmosphere and variety of attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in Waterloo that our travelers love:

1. SheldrakeOpens in a new window: Sheldrake is a beautiful destination known for its outdoor activities and scenic views, particularly around Cayuga Lake and Taughannock Falls State Park. It’s perfect for travelers seeking adventure and romance in nature. In this area, you can find Inns of Aurora Resort & SpaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel offering adventure sports and business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and corporate guests. Another great option is Gothic Eves Inn and Spa Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, a cozy 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast featuring complimentary breakfast and nearby health club access. For a more casual stay, consider Inn at Taughannock FallsOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel providing free daily breakfast and access to hiking trails.
2. CanandaiguaOpens in a new window: Canandaigua is renowned for its outdoor adventures, particularly at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort and Canandaigua Lake, making it an ideal getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. Among the hotels, The Lake House on CanandaiguaOpens in a new window stands out as a 4.5-star property with excellent business facilities and close proximity to skiing and hiking activities. For a more intimate experience, 1795 Acorn Inn B&BOpens in a new window is a luxurious Bed & Breakfast, while B&B at Oliver PhelpsOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast, offers adventure sports nearby, ensuring a thrilling stay.
3. Penn YanOpens in a new window: Penn Yan is a charming town known for its outdoor attractions and wineries, perfect for a relaxing escape. Guests can stay at The Naples HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that caters to families and adventure seekers with easy access to skiing and biking. Also, Cohocton Valley InnOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly 2.5-star guesthouse, allowing travelers to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.

Things to do in Waterloo for first time

Three days in Waterloo offers a delightful escape into nature, featuring serene lakes, majestic waterfalls, and lush parks. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating on tranquil waters, hiking through scenic trails, and unwinding at sandy beaches, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Waterloo:

• Day 1: Kick off your adventure in Waterloo at the It's A Wonderful Life Museum, where you can explore memorabilia from the beloved classic film and learn about its impact on American culture. After soaking in the nostalgia, head to the Seneca Meadows Wetlands Preserve for a relaxing stroll through nature, where you might spot some local wildlife. Conclude your day at Cayuga Lake State Park, where you can take in stunning views of the lake, enjoy a picnic, or hike along scenic trails as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Start your day at Seneca Lake State Park, a perfect spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery. Afterward, visit the historic Rose Hill Mansion, where you can delve into the rich history of the area and admire the architecture. Wrap up the day at the Seneca Lake Sprayground, a fun place to cool off, especially if you're traveling with family!
• Day 3: Begin at the picturesque Cayuga Lake, where you can take a leisurely walk along the waterfront or rent a boat for some fun on the water. Next, explore South Main Street, known for its charming shops and local eateries, perfect for grabbing lunch or a coffee. Finish your itinerary at the Women's Rights National Historical Park, where you can learn about the important history of the women's suffrage movement and its impact on society.

5 tips to find a great Waterloo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Waterloo is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure more affordable rates. An ideal stay of at least 2-3 days allows you to fully explore the area's main attractions, such as the picturesque lake and beautiful waterfalls. This makes Waterloo a great value for money destination for those looking to enjoy a memorable getaway on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Waterloo, Hotels.com is a fantastic resource. You could find discounted hotel rates by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections. Make sure to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you’re more likely to snag a fantastic deal and enjoy your stay in Waterloo without breaking the bank.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, having flexible travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Waterloo.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Waterloo is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area, which is likely to be more affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Waterloo 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 Waterloo

Waterloo experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 24.8°F (-4.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.9°F (21.6°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Waterloo are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.