Hotels in Sterling

Unveiling Sterling: A Hidden Gem of Countryside Charm and Cultural Heritage

Nestled in the serene countryside of New York, Sterling offers a charming escape for those seeking a taste of small-town life. This hidden gem is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring lush forests and tranquil lakes that invite hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Just a short drive away, explore the historic charm of Seneca Falls, or venture into the scenic trails of Sterling Forest. With friendly locals and a relaxed pace, Sterling is perfect for romantic getaways or family adventures, where nature's beauty meets a welcoming community. Discover the allure of this off-the-beaten-path destination! For the best hotel rates in Sterling, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Sterling

Some of the best places to stay in Sterling are Skaneateles, Auburn and Oswego. Sterling, NY, offers easy access to charming nearby towns like Skaneateles, Auburn, and Oswego. Skaneateles is ideal for first-time visitors with its picturesque lake and boutique shopping. Auburn boasts rich history and cultural sites, while Oswego offers beautiful waterfront views and outdoor activities. Accommodation options range from cozy inns to luxury hotels, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect stay. The general hotel scene in these areas is welcoming, with various amenities to enhance your vacation experience. Here are some of the best hotels in Sterling that our travelers love:

1. SkaneatelesOpens in a new window: Skaneateles is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Known for its scenic beauty, Skaneateles Lake offers romantic views and beach activities. The area also features attractions like Syracuse University and the New York State Fairgrounds. For accommodations, consider Mirbeau Inn and SpaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel with a full spa and pool services ideal for relaxation. Alternatively, The Bond 1835Opens in a new window, also a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast, provides adventure sports and family-friendly amenities, including pet-friendly options. Another option is 2W LakeOpens in a new window, a cozy 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast with direct beach access and adventure activities such as hiking and windsurfing.
2. AuburnOpens in a new window: Auburn is an outdoor lover's paradise, featuring Owasco Lake and the Fingerlakes Mall for family entertainment. This city offers various recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for a family getaway. 10 Fitch Luxurious Romantic InnOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast that includes free breakfast and activities like kayaking and golfing. For business travelers, John Joseph InnOpens in a new window offers multiple meeting rooms and pet-friendly accommodations. Inn at Taughannock FallsOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star hotel, features on-site dining and opportunities for hiking, making it a great choice for leisure and business.
3. OswegoOpens in a new window: Oswego is perfect for those seeking a mix of culture and adventure, with highlights like the State University of New York-Oswego and Fort Ontario State Historic Site. This area is ideal for sports enthusiasts, particularly motor racing at Oswego Speedway. Home2 Suites by Hilton OswegoOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that welcomes pets, making it a great choice for travelers with furry companions. For a more business-oriented stay, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oswego, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window offers comprehensive business amenities and a spa for relaxation. Lastly, All Seasons Inn CorpOpens in a new window is a cozy inn with free Wi-Fi and parking, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

Things to do in Sterling for first time

Sterling offers a delightful escape into the countryside, where travelers can enjoy serene lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills. With opportunities for camping, hiking, and vibrant festivals featuring live music, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and lively culture of this charming small town. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Sterling:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Little Sodus Bay, where you can enjoy the peaceful waters and stunning views. After soaking in the natural beauty, make your way to Fairpoint Marina. Here, you can watch the boats come in and out, or even rent a kayak for a bit of on-water fun. Conclude your day at Port Bay, known for its lovely sunsets and tranquil atmosphere—perfect for unwinding after an exciting day.
• Day 2: Start your exploration at Fort Ontario State Historic Site, where you can delve into the rich history of the area and take in the scenic views from the fort's vantage point. Next, head to Wright's Landing Marina, ideal for a leisurely stroll along the water. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Richardson-Bates House Museum, where you can learn about local history and admire the beautiful architecture.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Chimney Bluffs State Park, where you can hike along the stunning trails and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and the unique bluffs. After your hike, make your way to Sodus Bay for some relaxation and perhaps a picnic by the water. End your day at Sodus Point Beach Park, where you can unwind on the sandy shores and enjoy a beautiful sunset to cap off your trip.

5 tips to find a great Sterling hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit Sterling are January, February, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For those on a budget, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the charm of the countryside and the quaint small-town atmosphere. This makes Sterling a great value-for-money destination for travelers looking to explore its main attractions without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Sterling, checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com could be your best bet. Here, you may discover competitive prices and special offers on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of finding cheaper hotel options, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you could find out about flash sales and exclusive promotions that might help you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may increase your chances of saving on hotel expenses in Sterling.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Sterling 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.

Best time to go to Sterling

Sterling experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.4°F (-3.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.3°F (21.3°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Sterling are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.