Hotels in Columbia

Columbia: Where Nature's Masterpieces and Cultural Treasures Unite

Discover Columbia, Illinois, a charming small town that blends rich history with modern allure. Explore the picturesque Main Street, dotted with unique shops and delightful eateries, while the nearby Columbia Bottoms Conservation Area offers beautiful trails and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Experience local festivals that celebrate community spirit and indulge in outdoor adventures, from hiking to biking. Columbia's welcoming atmosphere and close-knit community make it an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers seeking a genuine slice of Midwestern life, perfect for family outings or romantic getaways. For our best hotel rates in Columbia and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Columbia

Columbia, Illinois offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly inns to comfortable mid-range hotels. You'll find welcoming options with essential amenities, making it easy to relax after exploring the area. Whether you're after convenience or a cozy atmosphere, Columbia has suitable choices for every traveler. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Columbia:

1. Four Seasons Hotel St LouisOpens in a new window: Four Seasons Hotel St Louis is a luxurious 5.0-star hotel designed for discerning leisure travelers seeking an exceptional experience. With a focus on comfort and elegance, this property offers an array of amenities including a 24-hour business center, multiple meeting rooms, and a dedicated conference space. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches such as complimentary cribs and engaging children's activities, making it a well-rounded option for families. Positive sentiments highlight the remarkable service, warm hospitality, and delightful gestures, creating a memorable stay that reflects attention to detail and a welcoming atmosphere.
2. The Last Hotel Opens in a new window: The Last Hotel is a stylish 4.5-star hotel ideal for luxury travelers and their pets. This property boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a rooftop pool that offers stunning skyline views, along with a well-appointed restaurant and bar. Guests revel in the friendly service and the combination of a convenient location with comfortable, cozy rooms. With amenities that prioritize a sophisticated experience, this hotel is a favorite among travelers looking for a blend of chic decor and a relaxed vibe. Review feedback emphasizes the outstanding staff and the exciting atmosphere, ensuring a captivating stay.
3. The Westin St. LouisOpens in a new window: The Westin St. Louis is a chic 4.5-star hotel perfect for business travelers and leisure seekers alike. This property features multiple meeting rooms and a fully accessible business center, catering to those who appreciate seamless connectivity during their stay. Its prime location offers easy access to local attractions, enhancing the overall experience for guests. Review highlights reflect on the inviting ambiance, with guests praising the luxurious room upgrades and the attention to cleanliness. The combination of contemporary design, convenient amenities, and exceptional service creates an inviting environment for a sophisticated getaway.

Top locations to stay in Columbia

When visiting Columbia, Illinois, great areas to stay in include Lafayette Square, Shaw, and Soulard. Lafayette Square boasts stunning architecture, while Shaw offers access to beautiful parks and cultural venues. Soulard is known for its vibrant nightlife and historic churches. For first-time visitors, Soulard is best suited, providing a lively atmosphere with diverse entertainment options.

1. Lafayette SquareOpens in a new window: Lafayette Square is a charming and historic neighborhood known for its stunning architecture. Staying here gives you access to beautifully preserved Victorian homes and lush parks, perfect for leisurely strolls. The area is also close to the Missouri Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, where you can immerse yourself in nature. With a vibrant cultural scene, including access to the City Museum, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Lafayette Square's picturesque setting makes it a lovely retreat while still being near the excitement of downtown.
2. ShawOpens in a new window: Shaw is another fantastic choice, especially for nature lovers. This neighborhood is home to the expansive Forest Park, where you can enjoy outdoor activities and visit the St. Louis Zoo and Art Museum. The local cultural attractions, like The Muny Theater, provide a great mix of entertainment options. Shaw’s community feel and green spaces make it a relaxing base for exploring the nearby attractions while enjoying a quieter atmosphere.
3. SoulardOpens in a new window: Soulard boasts a lively and eclectic vibe, making it a fun place to stay. Known for its historic charm, this area offers access to the famous Soulard Farmer's Market, where you can shop for fresh produce and local goods. Soulard is also close to several cultural attractions like the Gateway Arch and the City Museum, ensuring you won’t run out of things to explore. The vibrant streets and unique character of Soulard make it a memorable spot for your stay.

Things to do in Columbia

Colombia is a vibrant gem where you can explore lush jungles, hike stunning mountains, and dive into turquoise waters. Enjoy the lively markets filled with local crafts, savor delicious cuisine at bustling street stalls, and dance to infectious rhythms in colorful towns. There’s something for everyone in this diverse paradise!

• Gateway ArchOpens in a new window – Stand in awe of the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis and a marvel of modern engineering. Take a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the base, where the arch’s stunning curves create a dramatic skyline backdrop.
• Missouri Botanical Gardens and ArboretumOpens in a new window – Stroll through the lush landscapes of the Missouri Botanical Gardens, where vibrant flowers and exotic plants await. Discover themed gardens, tranquil ponds, and the breathtaking Climatron, a geodesic dome housing a rainforest ecosystem. This tranquil oasis is perfect for leisurely walks and picturesque picnic spots.
• Jefferson Barracks Historic ParkOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Jefferson Barracks Historic Park, where you can explore the rich military history of the area. Visit the historic military buildings, enjoy scenic trails, or take a moment to reflect at the veterans’ memorials. It’s a serene place to learn about the past while enjoying the natural beauty.
• Tower Grove ParkOpens in a new window – Experience the charm of Tower Grove Park, a Victorian-style park filled with picturesque pavilions, lush gardens, and winding pathways. Bring a book, have a picnic, or simply relax under the shade of the trees. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.
• Missouri Civil War MuseumOpens in a new window – Delve into the intriguing stories of the Civil War at the Missouri Civil War Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from the era. This museum provides a unique opportunity to understand the complexities of this pivotal period in American history.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Columbia

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Columbia is in January, February, and December, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the city's key landmarks and cultural sites, an ideal stay would be at least 2 to 3 days. This duration allows visitors to experience significant attractions such as the local stadium, historical monuments, and event conference venues, all of which offer great value for money. Keep an eye out for prices, as they may drop during these months, making it an even more affordable getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Columbia, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. This way, if rooms become available or prices drop, you'll be among the first to know and can seize the opportunity for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a Columbia hotel. If you’re seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may be more affordable to help you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. If you're looking for more budget-friendly options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, where you can find a better balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You might also check out independent hotels a bit farther out, as they usually tend to be more affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Columbia. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Columbia

Columbia experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 32.2°F (0.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.6°F (25.9°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Columbia, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.