This community of about 20,000 people has played host to history as the terminus of the “Frisco Line” railroad and the starting point of the famed American highway, Route 66. If you want to experience the highlights of Rolla's past, take the Historic Walking Tour of Rolla marked by 37 signs. Along the way, you can stop to tour the memorabilia housed within the famous Frisco Engine 1501 caboose, the “Blue Bonnet Special,” located at Schuman Park.
At the same time, the premiere research university, the Missouri University of Science and Technology, places this community on the cutting edge. This spirit of forward thinking has led Rolla to create an impressive network of pedestrian and bike-friendly paths.
If a taste of middle America is what you're after, be sure to drop into Rolla's Downtown Farmers Market, taking place every Saturday from May through October. Stay for the homemade goodies and the "play-in," an informal jam session for local musicians. You can't miss the home-style cooking at local Rolla restaurants, including Colton's Steakhouse and Grill and the Sirloin Stockade, plus a variety of ethnic foods and barbecue.
You can also outfit yourself in authentic Western wear at the quirky hardware store and Western-wear outfitter known as Family Center. Be sure to stop by the Stonehenge replica on North Bishop Highway before you head out of town. Whether you're stopping into Rolla on your way to St. Louis or coming for the trout fishing and outdoor fun, you're sure to enjoy your stay.
When should you visit Rolla, MO?
Rolla, Missouri enjoys a varied climate throughout the year, with warm summers averaging in the upper 80s and winters averaging in the mid-40s. Sunny days outweigh rain and snow, so there's plenty of time to enjoy the trout fishing, hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation of Rolla, Missouri year-round.
However, if you're planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, your best bet is to visit from spring through fall. That way, you can take advantage of Rolla's impressive park system, boasting over 304 acres and 10 miles of walking trails. Whatever your interest, there's space for you in Rolla to pursue it, including ball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer and football fields, sand volleyball courts, 19 playgrounds, batting cages, and even a skate park.
The outdoor SplashZone waterpark lures families from all over the region with its lazy river, sand play area, and water slides. If you're looking to host a family reunion or an informal party, you can reserve a pavilion at Ber Juan, Buehler, Green Acres Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and several other area parks. In the winter months, head over to the town's impressive indoor fitness complex.
One of the biggest events to take over Rolla each year is St. Patrick's Day, referred to locally as “St. Pat's.” The “daze,” or days, ahead of St. Pat's are full of energetic student and alumni activities, especially during the week before St. Pat's Saturday. The festivities can get quite rowdy: Come for the green shots and stay for the fun, from the St. Pat's court nominations to the painting of Pine Street. If you plan to travel to Rolla, Missouri, during this time, book your hotel as soon as possible, as the city's population can swell to double or triple its usual size and hotels book early.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Rolla, MO:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average rate trends by star rating class in Rolla, MO. Analyze these charts to determine the most cost effective seasons to stay in Rolla for any future trips.
Where are the top luxury hotels in Rolla, MO?
4 Star Average Prices: $99.00
The Hampton Inn in Rolla has been handsomely furnished in high-end style. You won't believe the rate you will pay at this Rolla hotel versus the luxury you will no doubt experience during your stay.
The Hampton Inn exudes elegance from the lobby through to the guest rooms. The lobby is outfitted in dark wood and rich carpeting, drawing the eye up to chandeliers fitted with dramatic white drum shades. Curvaceous bolstered seating, upholstered in metallic cloth, invite guests to an intimate seating area. Guests may venture downstairs at any time for complimentary hot beverages, with choice of hot tea, coffee, or even hot chocolate.
Meanwhile, the Hampton Inn's guest rooms are an oasis of calm, from the solid-white textured bedding to the jetted spa tubs in select rooms. You can escape to the on-site fitness center for a rejuvenating workout or settle into the outdoor pool for a refreshing dip. Upon waking, guests may indulge in a hot, complimentary breakfast downstairs. The elegant seating area with its pub-height seating and café tables channels a restaurant vibe that invites guests to linger.
What are the most affordable hotels in Rolla, Missouri?
3 Star Average Prices: $95.25
A stay at the Super 8 by Wyndham Rolla will delight you in every way, and not simply because of the hotel's affordable rates. The Super 8's attention to detail extends even to parking, as veterans receive priority parking at this property. The surprises continue, as guests can expect a complimentary daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and an indoor pool. Guests at the Super 8 can also request accessible room options such as sit-in bathtubs. The cable programming, complimentary toiletries, and in-room hairdryers add to the convenience and comfort you'll discover at the Super 8 by Wyndham Rolla.
For even more competitive rates, head to the Econo Lodge Rolla. Guest rooms offer conveniences such as in-room coffee makers, complimentary wireless internet service, and free local phone calls. If you plan to stay for a while, the laundry facilities will come in handy, and you can stock some light meals and snacks in the in-room minifridge to heat in your own microwave. Daily free breakfast adds to the value you'll find at the Econo Lodge Rolla.