Hotels in Lancaster

Elevate Your Spirit: Discover the Hidden Charms of Lancaster's Hills

Nestled in the rolling hills of central Ohio, Lancaster is a charming destination that blends rich history with vibrant culture. Explore the picturesque downtown, filled with unique shops, art galleries, and delightful eateries. Wander through the scenic landscapes of the Hocking Hills nearby, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. Don’t miss the famous Fairfield County Fair and the stunning architecture of the historic Ohio Glass Museum. With its warm community spirit and captivating heritage, Lancaster invites travelers to experience a slice of Ohio’s heartland, making it a delightful stop for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path getaway. For the best hotel rates in Lancaster, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Lancaster

Some of the best places to stay in Lancaster are Downtown Columbus, University District and Easton. Lancaster, Ohio, offers easy access to vibrant nearby destinations. Downtown Columbus is bustling with shops, dining, and nightlife, making it ideal for first-time visitors. The University District boasts a lively atmosphere with cultural attractions and events. Easton is a premier shopping and entertainment hub. Accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly hotels to upscale suites, providing unmatched hospitality. Whether you seek a cozy guest room or a spacious suite, you'll find excellent options for a memorable stay in Lancaster and beyond. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Lancaster:

1. Downtown ColumbusOpens in a new window: Downtown Columbus is a vibrant area perfect for travelers interested in culture, business, and sports. It’s home to notable landmarks such as Ohio State University, the Greater Columbus Convention Center, and Ohio Stadium. For accommodations, consider Hotel LeVeque, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel catering to business travelers and pet owners, featuring multiple meeting rooms and a business center. The Westin Great Southern ColumbusOpens in a new window is another excellent option, offering a 4.0-star experience with convenient business amenities and a pet-friendly policy. Lastly, The Plaza Hotel Columbus at Capital SquareOpens in a new window also boasts a 4.0-star rating with family-friendly services and a strong focus on business needs.
2. University DistrictOpens in a new window: The University District is rich in cultural attractions and ideal for visitors exploring Ohio State University and the nearby Greater Columbus Convention Center. AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus DublinOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, combines city convenience with business-friendly features and pet accommodations. DoubleTree by Hilton Columbus DublinOpens in a new window offers a chic 4.0-star experience focused on business amenities, while The Blackwell Inn and Pfahl Conference CenterOpens in a new window provides a family-friendly atmosphere with additional services for children and pet-friendly policies.
3. EastonOpens in a new window: Easton is a lively area perfect for families, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options, notably at Easton Town Center. Hilton Columbus at EastonOpens in a new window stands out as a 4.0-star hotel prioritizing business travelers and pet owners with essential amenities. Embassy Suites by Hilton ColumbusOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, caters to families with its city-center location and child-friendly services. Lastly, DoubleTree by Hilton Columbus - WorthingtonOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star option, also pet-friendly, with comprehensive business facilities to accommodate corporate guests and leisure travelers alike.

What to do in Lancaster

Three days in Lancaster offer an ideal mix of outdoor adventure and vibrant community spirit. Travelers can explore hilly landscapes dotted with lush forests, serene lakes, and scenic parks while enjoying activities like biking, hiking, and rollerskating, alongside lively festivals and sports events that showcase local talent. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Lancaster:

• Day 1: Kick off your adventure in Lancaster with a visit to Hocking Hills State Park, where the stunning natural beauty and hiking trails await. Start your exploration at Old Man's Cave, a breathtaking site featuring deep gorges and towering cliffs. After soaking in the scenery, make your way to Cantwell Cliffs, known for its rugged rock formations and serene atmosphere. This combination of iconic locations will give you a taste of Ohio's rich outdoor offerings and set the tone for an exciting getaway.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Wahkeena Nature Preserve, a peaceful spot perfect for hiking and enjoying nature's tranquility. Afterward, return to Cantwell Cliffs to explore any areas you may have missed. Finally, head to Rockbridge State Nature Preserve, where you can marvel at the impressive natural rock bridge formation and take in the stunning landscapes that surround it. This day is designed to immerse you in the picturesque scenery of the region.
• Day 3: Your final day starts at Lake Logan State Park, where you can enjoy a relaxing morning by the water, perfect for fishing or picnicking. Next, visit the Rock House at Hocking Hills State Park, a unique, cave-like structure that offers intriguing geological features and breathtaking views. Conclude your adventure at Bremen Park, a lovely local park where you can unwind and reflect on your trip while enjoying the peaceful surroundings and perhaps a leisurely stroll along the walking paths.

5 tips to find a great Lancaster hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Lancaster is during January, November, and December when hotel rates drop significantly. For international travelers, booking your flight at least one month in advance can help you secure budget-friendly fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the area’s main attractions, which include its scenic hills and charming historical sites. This approach ensures you enjoy a great value for money while exploring all that Lancaster has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Lancaster, you might uncover fantastic hotel rates by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. By doing so, you could find discounted accommodations that fit your travel needs. To make sure you stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to spot great opportunities to save on your stay in Lancaster.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Lancaster.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Lancaster is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations a bit farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving or public transit to explore the area while likely saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Lancaster and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Lancaster

Here are some famous dishes in Lancaster, Ohio, United States of America:

• Burgers: Lancaster is home to some fantastic burger joints that showcase locally sourced ingredients. The classic American burger is often elevated with unique toppings, such as locally produced cheeses and house-made sauces. Many places offer customizable options, allowing you to personalize your meal with a variety of toppings and sides, making each visit a unique experience.
• Fried Chicken: This beloved dish takes center stage in Lancaster, where you can find variations that reflect the region’s culinary roots. Fried chicken is often prepared using traditional methods, with a crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender meat inside. Diners can enjoy it as part of a family-style meal, emphasizing community and sharing, or as a quick to-go option that captures the essence of comfort food.

Best time to go to Lancaster

Lancaster experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 28.8°F (-1.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.8°F (23.2°C). April tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Lancaster are June, July, and 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 sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.