The Winona center point is about the area of Bunnell House and the area of Winona State University.
With the warmest climate on average in all of Minnesota, Winona offers great weather any time of year. Hot summer days in June through August are perfect for hiking, boating, or swimming, while mid- to late September is the best time to view the gorgeous leaves as they change color for fall. Due to popularity and increased tourism, hotel rates are higher during this time and there is a risk of hotel rooms filling up quickly. It's best to book in advance to secure the best room rate possible.
Winter is a great time to visit for both low hotel rates and the great winter activities Winona has to offer, such as film festivals and winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Be sure to pack warm clothes; even though temperatures may be mild on average, it's possible to for it to get bitterly cold. In springtime, rates are lower and you'll be treated to the lovely views of budding plants and trees, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists.
Taking advantage of discounts can ease the stress on your pocketbook and leave you with more spending money to do fun things, so it's important to try and find the best deals. AAA discounts can be found at Days Inn where they claim the "Best Value Under the Sun." Days Inn offers clean and comfortable accommodation at a great value. With free continental breakfast, Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and spacious parking with outdoor outlets for RVs and trucks, Days Inn is an excellent option for the low-budget traveler. Pet-friendly and accommodating for groups, this hotel even has an indoor pool and nearby restaurant for late-night eats. For golfers or equestrian enthusiasts, there are nearby golf courses and stables.
Senior citizens can take advantage of great discounts as well. Saving up to 30 percent on their booking, Holiday Inn Express Winona is sure to appeal. With multiple indoor pools and a complimentary buffet breakfast, Holiday Inn Express is an excellent choice for those looking for for a luxurious stay with plenty of high-quality amenities. Free Wi-Fi, a plethora of outlets, and plush bedding are the least of what this hotel has to offer. Whether you're looking for a quiet stay with family, an office away from home, or a large group event, this hotel has it all. A well-equipped fitness center makes the Holiday Inn Express appeal even to the most physically active of guests.
Near local restaurants and attractions, the Super 8 by Wyndham is an excellent value for accommodation in Winona. Enjoy a free breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, and a refrigerator, microwave, coffee/tea maker, and flatscreen TV in every room, all while having access to round-the-clock reception and a well-stocked business center. The hotel also includes an outdoor picnic area, complete with grills for cooking out on a nice summer night.
Easily one of Minnesota's most iconic landmarks, Sugar Loaf bluff is an interesting geological formation rich with history. Originally the shape of a dome, Sugar Loaf was heavily quarried for its limestone after a 19th-century fire resulted in a city ordinance that decreed all sidewalks needed to be made from stone. This 85-foot-tall pinnacle of rock residing on a 400-foot bluff is a popular destination for hiking and climbing.
Canoeing and kayaking is a popular activity in Winona due to its proximity to the river, lakes, and even a few islands. It's easy to rent the vessel of your choice, and there are many outfitters to choose from. Rent a canoe and take the whole family on a gentle trip on Lake Winona, or rent a kayak for a boating adventure on one of Winona's many scenic kayak and canoe trails.
If you're a beer connoisseur or just a lover of craft beer, Island City Brewing is a definite spot to check out. Located near the river, the brewery offers a good selection of locally crafted beers and flights for a cheap price. While there isn't food available on site, the establishment does offer a large variety of games, making it a nice place to spend an evening — even with kids.
Don't let the name fool you, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum is more than nautical paintings and carved driftwood. Housing paintings by true artistic geniuses, this museum is more than worth the price of entry. With accommodating and knowledgeable staff, the museum even offers a fun art bingo to enjoy with kids and adults alike.
A must see in Winona is the Garvin Heights overlook. Just a brief hike up stairs or drive up a steep paved road, the lookout at the top of the bluffs offers a fantastic view of the whole city and beyond. The prairie restoration project offers a chance to see some great wildlife and be immersed in nature just a short distance from town.
If you have an interest in stained glass, Winona is known as the stained glass capital of the United States, with more than six stained glass shops with works that can be found all across the globe. Enjoy a stained glass tour or explore on your own with a self-guided map. Many churches in Winona proudly display local works, so a visit to a few of these is sure to tickle your fancy.
Exploring quaint Winona is a pleasant time for any type of enthusiast. You'll find delicious food, museums of all kinds, gorgeous artworks, and plenty of options to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly rural hotel or a fancy hotel in the heart of the city, you're sure to find the perfect place to suit your budget and needs. Just be sure to book a long enough stay to tick everything off your itinerary.
Below are reviews of the city of Winona, MN from an actual visitor's perspective.
Loved the feel of Winona!
Very pretty area.
Was just staying in Winona for a wedding in Galesville, WI on Saturday.
The river views are beautiful, cute historical district.
Went to St Mary's University here. City is beautiful and very quiet.
CST!
River view!
Staff was friendly and the room was clean. Beautiful and clean.
We were there for a college visit for WSU. It's easy to get around, the lakes and parks are lovely and there are plenty of places to eat.
Easy to find eating places and WSU campus for graduation.
Scenic views of the bluffs and the river. A quaint small town feel with small business owners and interesting old buildings.
Quaint, easy to get around.
I am originally from the city of Winona...grew up there. Love it!
Clean!
100%!
Good shopping, restaurants and antiquing.
Beautiful hotel and friendly staff.
The room was very clean and comfortable.
Beautiful
Love the college and the Mississippi River scenery.
Love walking around the lakes and enjoy the many restaurant options!
Winona was a wonderful city!!! We had a yummy dinner by the Mississippi, & then went to listen to live music at the Island City Brewing Company nearby. The people we came in contact with in the city were very warm & welcoming.
I have two children that go to school at WSU so we will be taking frequent trips to Winona from Milwaukee - the area is beautiful and we love the feel of the college town.
Friendly, welcoming, relaxing!
It's beautiful with the bluffs and water (frozen now).
Hotel is great location! We had our meals at the parks where they could play at a beach and enjoy being on the river bank. Many partook in wine tasting, golfing, rock climbing, biking, and restaurants. The whole group did a river cruise for an hour and a half. A great city that is easy to find your way around.