Stillwater was originally part of the first 1889 Oklahoma Land Run when unassigned lands were opened for settlement and were included in the new Oklahoma Territory. Stillwater's city charter was adopted that same year. By the time Oklahoma achieved statehood, the downtown area consisted of more than 50 buildings, which included churches, banks, hotels, grocery stores, and department stores.
Today, Stillwater boasts a diverse economy with industries related to printing, aerospace, biotechnology, publishing, agribusiness, and optoelectronics. It is also home to the world's largest student union and is considered to be America's friendliest college town. No matter your reasons for visiting Stillwater, it is important you find the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this unique city has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Stillwater, OK
Stillwater is located in Tornado Alley, and it has a humid subtropical climate that sees record temperatures reaching more than 110 degrees during the summer. The average high in July and August settles at a more comfortable 93 degrees, but it is still hot, and the humidity can be quite unbearable. Due to this, you may want to avoid visiting Stillwater during the summer months.
In addition, tornado season stretches from late March through August, and nearby Oklahoma City experiences more tornado strikes than any other U.S. city. While hotel rates will be affordable and you won't have to worry about college-aged crowds during the summer months, be sure to have some kind of tornado plan in mind in case the worst-case situation happens.
Fall is a popular time to visit Stillwater thanks to the influx of college students moving back into the dorms. Hotels tend to fill up quickly with parents and family members helping students move in, so check Oklahoma State University's schedule before making reservations. With that said, there is nothing quite like a collegiate football game, so if you like sports, you are better off beating the crowds and booking a room in advance. Average highs in the fall range from 61 to 85 degrees, making this an ideal season for sightseeing.
Wintertime temperatures are chilly but bearable with January highs averaging around 49 degrees. While the city only gets about 10 inches of snow each year, it is still a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and come prepared with appropriate winter clothing. Hotel rates are also at their lowest during the winter months, save for holiday seasons, which gives visitors a great chance to explore indoor attractions.
Despite being the start of tornado season, spring is a great time to visit Stillwater. Classes are in session for both college and public school students, resulting in fewer wait times at area attractions. Since the more oppressive summer heat hasn't set in, experiencing the area's outdoor recreations is much more pleasant. You can also find great hotel rates and special discounts in the early spring.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Stillwater, OK:
Stillwater, OK: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Stillwater, OK. Browse these line graphs to determine the cheapest time to book in Stillwater for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Stillwater, OK
4 Star Average Prices: $123.80
If you're looking for something a little more upscale, Stillwater offers a few options. Hampton Inn & Suites Stillwater is a classic hotel close to Boomer Lake Park and Oklahoma State University. Its modern guest rooms include custom-designed beds, free Wi-Fi, work desks, coffeemakers, and flat-screen televisions. Suites add whirlpool tubs or separate living areas. Guests can also take advantage of the free hot breakfast, weekday breakfast bags to go, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a business center, an on-site convenience store, and free parking.
The Atherton Hotel at Oklahoma State University is directly linked to the school's famed Student Union. This unexpected boutique hotel features an on-site American steakhouse, a gym, and elegant guest rooms with free Wi-Fi. The accommodation showcases original artwork by some of the state's finest artists, and it boasts an updated Georgian décor and old-world hospitality that makes it one of the best historic hotels in the country, let alone Oklahoma.
Residence Inn Stillwater is a great option for an extended stay. Located 7 miles from the Payne County Expo Center, this accommodation features warmly decorated rooms ranging from studios to two-bedroom suites. All rooms and suites are equipped with full kitchens, pullout sofa beds, work desks, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen televisions with premium cable channels. Suites also add separate living areas, some with fireplaces.
The Residence Inn Stillwater offers free parking, a complimentary hot breakfast, evening socials with refreshments, and a convenient grocery delivery service. Other guest amenities include a sports court and fitness center, an indoor pool, a 24-hour convenience store, a business center, and a coin-operated laundry facility.
Affordable Hotel Options in Stillwater, OK
3 Star Average Prices: $121.76
Finding an affordable hotel in Stillwater is easier than you might think. Motel 6 is an unpretentious budget property located just 2 miles from the university's Botanic Garden. Rooms are casual and feature televisions with expanded cable and paid Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy free morning coffee, free parking, a coin laundry facility, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Kids under 17 also stay free with an adult family member.
Located just four minutes from Oklahoma State University, Days Inn Stillwater is a two-story, roadside property offering rooms with en suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, televisions, and kitchenettes. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, free parking for buses and RVs, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
Wyndham Garden Stillwater is situated less than 2 miles from the Gardiner Art Gallery and offers traditional guest rooms with free Wi-Fi internet access, flat-screen televisions, microwaves, work desks, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. Both parking and continental breakfast are free, and there is an on-site bar and grill restaurant and lounge. Guests can also use the exercise room, sauna, business center, and meeting rooms.
