The 10 Very Best Places to Stay In All Of Illinois
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published May 26, 2017
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
There are thousands of places to stay when you visit or travel throughout the great state of Illinois, and we’ve narrowed down some of the best overnight experiences you can find. From luxury hotels to glamorous campgrounds, there’s something for everyone.
Keep scrolling to discover your next Illinois destination.
Built in 1927, this building was once a home for business women. It was changed to a hotel in 1989 and is named for Margaret O'Leary, the first female resident of Evanston. Today you can enjoy French pastries, vintage decor, and maybe even a ghostly visit from Miss O'Leary. The hotel is located at 1566 Oak Ave. in Evanston. More info and directions here.
The penthouse floor of this 1927 building has been owned by the likes of Al Capone's bother and Hugh Hefner. It still features the original, historic entrance and is best known for its elegant ball room, upscale bars, and lounge areas. This hotel is located at 163 E Walton Pl. in Chicago. More info and directions here.
One of the best places to stay in Illinois can be found in the Shawnee National Forest. Each glamping experience includes a firepit, grill, an indoor kitchen and bathroom, as well as your choice between several cabins or treehouses. It is located at 34A RR 2 in Karbers Ridge. More info and directions here.
Though it began as a saloon in 1884, the building was revived as a hotel in 1990. It is best known for the ghost that haunts its halls. Watch out for Abigail as you traverse the staircase and upstairs areas where a little girl may or may not be playing. It is located at 217 E Main St. in Grafton. More info and directions here.
This incredible stay allows you to set up your tent right on the beach. Glamping experiences include a pre-made campfire so you can enjoy the Illinois River without worries. Swimming, boating, and fishing will fill your days. This campground is located at 801 Kayak Morris Rd. in Morris. More info and directions here.
The perfect combination of privacy and luxury await at this stunning, historical estate. Discover how the wealthy lived in the early 1900s surrounded by vintage decor and classic furnishings. You'll enjoy an upscale breakfast each morning as well. The hotel is located at 701 E Taylor St. in Bloomington. More info and directions here.
Central Illinois is home to the most unique getaway in the state. It features 12 different themed rooms, each with its own Jacuzzi, huge shower, and king bed. Themes include space, ocean, Rome, and Hawaii, to name a few, and guests may also enjoy the 24-hour pool, sauna, hot tub, and game room. It is located at 100 Sunrise Ct. in Clinton. More info and directions here.
Take a camping trip like no other among 37 acres of Illinois forests and meadows. This glamping experience provides everything you need (other than towels), including WiFi, so you'll have just about everything you need. It is located at 3719 Suydam Rd. in Earlville. More info and directions here.
Located near Six Flags Great America, this lovely lake is great for swimming, boating, and nearby hiking. You can camp near the lake, swim in the outdoor pool, and enjoy the various play areas. The lake is so named because it is shaped like a fish and the beach is located at 32223 US-12 in Volo. More info and directions here.
With 1,600 rooms, this hotel is the second largest in the city as well as one of the oldest. It was built in 1875 and features a formal staircase and classic detailing. Though it is a pricey stay, you can walk through for free at 17 E Monroe St. in Chicago. More info and directions here.
