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.

Illinois, nicknamed The Prairie State, is an incredibly unique place in the United States and the perfect Midwestern jaunt for anyone looking to kick back and relax. Many people flock to Chicago, Illinois, thinking that this is all there is to do, but Illinois has so much more to offer! Sure, exploring downtown Chicago is an experience unlike anything else, but some of the best hotels in Illinois are outside of the city altogether. Illinois is a gem of a state, with access to the beaches of Lake Michigan but also the mountains at places like Garden of the Gods. But the question on everyone’s mind – what are the nicest hotels in Illinois from the shoreline to the mountains? We’ve compiled some of the best unique hotels to stay in Illinois and the most beautiful hotels in Illinois, and some might just surprise you.

Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Illinois

There is an abundance of beautiful hotels in Illinois worth exploring, from a boutique hotel in downtown Chicago to an unexpected gem in Northbrook. When traveling, sometimes choosing a unique hotel can make the entire experience. Ditch the boring old hotels and check-in to these one-of-a-kind places.

Best Hotel Pools in Illinois

For some people, finding the right hotel with a pool on vacation can make or break the experience. The good news is, you don’t have to book a luxury hotel in Chicago in order to have an incredible pool experience. Illinois has some truly unique pools to enjoy, including a rooftop pool near Chicago Magnificent Mile that is unlike anything you’ve experienced.

Best Luxury Hotels in Illinois

Ahh, luxury hotels. Some of the top hotels in Illinois are dripping in luxury, which really elevates any vacation getaway. The thing about luxury hotels is that they have all the basics like free wifi and a fitness center, but they also provide luxurious accommodation experiences with luxury services that you won’t find just anywhere.

Related Stories

This English Manor-Inspired Historic Hotel In Illinois Is A Hidden Gem Perfect For A Getaway

This English Manor-Inspired Historic Hotel In Illinois Is A Hidden Gem Perfect For A Getaway

These Unforgettable Hotels Are Perfect For A Weekend Getaway To Chicago, Illinois

These Unforgettable Hotels Are Perfect For A Weekend Getaway To Chicago, Illinois

Escape From The City To This Peaceful Getaway With An Apiary, Theater, And Award-Winning Restaurant

Escape From The City To This Peaceful Getaway With An Apiary, Theater, And Award-Winning Restaurant

Best Boutique Hotels in Illinois

If you’re the type of traveler who prefers the more intimate boutique hotels, then you’re heading to the right state! Some of the best-rated hotels in Illinois are boutique, which indicates that they may be smaller than most but typically extremely stylish and fashionable. For anyone who prefers a more personalized service in trendy neighborhoods but still maintains luxury amenities, boutique Illinois hotels are for you.

Best Resorts in Illinois

Looking for the ultimate getaway in Illinois? Why not try a resort experience? What makes resorts so special is that they usually involve everything you need all in one place. Plus, they make for perfect vacations when you want to bring the whole family. While Illinois doesn’t really have beach resorts to choose from, that doesn’t mean that The Prairie State doesn’t have an impressive selection of resorts to choose from. Here are two of our favorite Illinois resorts that are great for couples as well as family vacations.

Whether you’re exploring Illinois for the very first time or you’re an avid Illinois traveler, these are some of the best hotels to consider for your vacation. Each of the 12 hotels in Illinois listed above has been highly ranked, offering something unique for each vacationer. Have you ever stayed at any of these hotels before? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Also, if you want to keep exploring more unique places in the state, check out these one-of-a-kind hotels with water views in Illinois.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Hotels In Illinois

What are the best hotels for couples in Illinois?

The best hotels for couples in Illinois include:

  • Illinois Beach Hotel
  • Oak Brook Hills Resort
  • Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
  • Anthony Acres Resort
  • Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
  • Cedar Hill River Resort

These resorts are perfect for a couple's getaway in Illinois. Each of these hotel getaways offers something unique: cabins in Shawnee National Forest or a Hilton Chicago hotel with tons of romantic amenities.

What are the best kid-friendly hotels for families in Illinois?

The best kid-friendly hotels in Illinois perfect for families include:

  • Colona Scott Family Park - 5775 Poppy Garden Rd. in Colona
  • Harpole's Heartland Lodge - 10236 393rd St. in Nebo
  • Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort - 2643 IL Route 178 in Utica
  • Wildlife Prairie Park - 3826 N Taylor Rd. in Hanna City
  • Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - 1405 Lakeview Hts. in Pittsfield
  • Six Flags Great America - 1 Great America Pkwy. in Gurnee
  • Four Seasons Hotel - 120 E Delaware Pl. in Chicago

Another great option for family-friendly getaways in Illinois includes various camping resorts! Spending time in nature is the perfect way to reconnect with family. 

What are some historic hotels in Illinois?

Some of the best historic hotels in Illinois include:

  • Rose Hotel in Elizabethtown
  • The Palmer House in Chicago
  • Congress Plaza in Chicago
  • Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest
  • McClure Guesthouse in Only
  • Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover in Case

These hotels each offer a unique trip back in time. For instance, the Congress Plaza Hotel is over 100 years old and a truly timeless experience. Meanwhile, Deer Path Inn looks like it’s straight out of a Shakespeare novel.

Explore Illinois