Illinois, famously known as the “Land of Lincoln” is a historic state situated in the Midwest region of the USA. It hosts attractions such as Ulysses S. Grant Home in Galena, de Immigrant Windmill in Fulton, and Palisades Golf Course in Savanna. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit places such as Shawnee National Forest in Herod and Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby. History buffs can visit Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. Millennium Park is also a great place for family visits.
Illinois runs the gamut of accommodations that offer spectacular views and are near tourist attractions. So, if your next travel bucket list includes resort towns, you’re in luck because here, we rounded up some of the best places for you to discover and explore in Illinois. Keep reading to learn more about the top resort towns in Illinois, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. Galena
Galena, a city in Jo Daviess County, hosts Civil War Reenactments on Bouthillier Street which may pique the interest of history buffs. And for those traveling with their kids, West Street Sculpture Park can draw amazement from this tougher crowd. Additionally, you can visit Thunder Bay Falls about 13 minutes away from Galena Square Drive and Oldenburg Lane. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, make sure to drop by Grant Park.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL
Address: 11334 Oldenburg Lane
175.05 km (108.8 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Stoney Creek lnn Galena
Address: 940 Galena Square Drive
173.5 km (107.9 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The beds were so comfortable and the decorations pristineThe common area space and bedrooms are all spacious providing plenty of room for our groupThe towels were plush and plentiful 8 of us stayedThe owners were wonderful to work withSuch a cute place to stay Plenty of room VERY comfortable bedsCleanliness:
It was so clean and beautifully decoratedThe beds were comfy and everything was very cleanThe decor was also stunning and had everyone complementing itThe space was incredibly cleanHost:
beautiful decor responsive of owners all was perfectThe hosts are very accommodating and answered our questions so quickly I would highly recommend this propertyThe space was absolutely beautiful spotless and very well taken care ofI will say the only downside was there is no stove/oven and the kitchenette area is tinyThird time staying Love the location and amazing loftRead more reviewsLocation:
it's like something out of a magazineThe amenities were perfect and the location had very convenient access to shopping and restaurantsThe location was perfect for hitting up the shops breweries and restaurantsBeautiful loft in a great location with amazing hospitalityWonderful property right downtown Galena
2. Grafton
Located in Jersey County, Grafton features a motley of activities that everyone can enjoy. At Grafton Winery and Brewhaus, you can sample their selection of the choicest spirits and food. Additionally, those looking for some thrill and adventure can go all out at Aries Resort’s Grafton Zipline. Your kids will also love Eagle spotting excursions here. Furthermore, to explore the scenic water beauty of this place, go on a river cruise.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
tv channel selections were very minimal but we didn't come to watch tv lolthe a/c needed turned on earlier that day to give it time to cool offCleanliness:
condo was clean and nicethe place was clean and set up perfectly for t2 couplesthis was a very nice clean condoit was clean easy to find and exactly what we were looking forHost:
the pool area was also very nice and the staff could not have been more helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
it was a great location and very nicethis is definitely a place we will be staying at again for future visits
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
bed were comfortable and sheets were very softplenty of room for everyone to be comfortableCleanliness:
we found the property very cleanthe house was very clean and well stocked with suppliesthe house was very spacious and cleanwe were able to check in early & everything was cleanRead more reviewsHost:
the owners were right up the hill and so responsivethe owners are very kind & easy to talk tothe most accommodating gracious hosts the property was a short 5 minutes to downtown attractionswhen there was something we needed they lent us their own and were immediately responsive
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there’s one bathroom but the rest of the rooms are great sizeCleanliness:
great place to stay clean quite and communication with brandon was greatsuper fun house very cleansuch a great place to stay spacious enough for several people clean and cozythe house was warm and cozy very clean and organizedbrandon's place was clean comfortable and a pleasure to stay atHost:
the host was very responsive and cordialbrandon was a great host definitely recommendwe really enjoyed everything that was provided for guests and very kind hostthe owner provides excellent communication before and during your stay for any questions you may havei really have to commend the owners on having so much to do on-propertyRead more reviewsLocation:
very close to town but feels like you are far awaygreat place to get away from stresslove this house location etcit’s a great location - close to grafton/downtown but feels like a secluded getawaythese guys provide literally everything great hideaway right close to the action
3. Rockford
Rockford, dubbed as the City of Gardens, is so much more than just its gorgeous gardens and parks. It is a thriving arts and culture scene such as Discovery Center Museum and Rockford Art Museum. Here, you may want to dine at Octane RKFD or sample sweets at Chocolat by Daniel. Since it is known for its garden, you should visit Anderson Japanese Gardens or Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens for a refreshing stroll.
Embassy Suites By Hilton Rockford Riverfront
Address: 416 S. Main Street
106.72 km (66.4 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Staybridge Suites Rockford, an IHG Hotel
Address: 633 North Bell School Road
106.85 km (66.4 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we woke up well-rested and energized from the comfortable mattresses and pillowsthe dining room will easily accommodate 12 to the table (there are extra dining chairs if needed)the bedrooms were spacious and the beds were extremely comfortableRead more reviewsHost:
philip was also a great host and made the experience very enjoyable 10/10 would recommend to anyone
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Saint Charles
Saint Charles is the quintessential old-world neighborhood. Its stucco-walled buildings, Pottawatomie Park, and St. Patrick’s Parade all celebrate the rich history of this town. Besides that, you can explore the surrounding wildlife at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. Spend a day bargaining at Kane County Flea Market or sampling delicacies in any of the restaurants or cafes in Downtown Saint Charles such as The Greaceful Ordinary.
You will also have several options for accommodation in the area which provide quality amenities while being near famous destinations.
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago/Saint Charles
Address: 2875 Foxfield Road
89.07 km (55.4 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
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Hilton Garden Inn Saint Charles
Address: 4070 East Main Street
90.23 km (56.1 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
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Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the original windows and stained glass are stunning we were very comfortable therethe house was nicely updated with a modern renovation to the bathroomHost:
incredibly gracious host everything was immaculatewonderful that’s wonderful linensi just can’t say enough about the host helping meRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is within walking distance to a great market and small restaurants downtownbeds were comfortable; living room was welcoming location was convenientcomfortable place to base a visit in the western suburbsthe home is exactly as described and was a perfect location for our work
5. Galesburg
Fun and excitement await you in Galesburg. This town is home to 23 city parks. Head to Lake Storey Beach to experience a wide variety of activities, from kayaking to sunbathing. You can also revisit history through Galesburg Railroad Museum with authentic memorabilia, perfect for kids or adults interested in facts about rudimentary steam engines. Moreover, your kids will love Discovery Depot Children’s Museum.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Galesburg, an IHG Hotel
Address: 2160 East Main Street
121.54 km (75.6 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Fairfield Inn & Suites Galesburg
Address: 901 W Carl Sandburg Dr
124.27 km (77.3 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there is no tv so we enjoyed an unplugged weekendCleanliness:
the space was clean tidy and has lots of cool local history on the wallsextremely clean very nice play to stay i highly recommendmy stay was great the place was super cool and cleangreat host great apartment very clean and conveniently located right downtown near local shops and restaurantsthe place is a great location very clean and carla is awesomeHost:
the hosts are cheerful helpful and responsivethe host thought of everything to make us comfortablegreat apartment and great host highly recommendcarla was great the apartment was amazing and she was so attentiveRead more reviewsLocation:
great location that makes it easy to walk anywhere downtownthis is a great location and a cute little apartmenti appreciate the location and walkabilitygreat location it gives you the ability to walk around downtown & see the siteslove the location qnd love this building
6. Savanna
Hailed as the number one “Best Small Town for Adventure” by USA Today, Savanna offers a variety of activities. Savanna Train Car Museum is a must-see for kids and adults alike. Meanwhile, if you’re into golfing, you can visit the 9-hole golf course in Palisades Golf Course. After an exciting day of activities, head to Marquette Park for a peaceful walk along Mississippi River. You can even rent a kayak or canoe here to explore the waters.
Savanna Inn & Suites
Address: 101 Valley View Drive
129.72 km (80.6 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable bed living room chairs for tv viewing and well-equipped kitchena charming cozy cottage getawaysunshine cafe had great breakfastthe beds were quite comfortableCleanliness:
cute cottage clean parking is on streetsuper clean and super cutevery clean and nice locationwhat a cute place to stay very clean great communication nice touches & great spacesuper cute and clean place to stayHost:
kathy is a great host very accommodating and responsivekathy and her husband were very friendly so were the neighborsRead more reviewsLocation:
we could walk to the grocery store and all over downtown very easilynice walk to a good grocery store dollar general and downtown restaurantscute little home with a nice locationgreat stay good location for going to mississippi palisadeskathy's house was perfect for our stay in a great location
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
very comfortable bed nicely decorated well stocked bonus extras in the kitchen and bathroom and friendly hosts
7. Fulton
Located on the east bank of Mississippi River, Fulton is a city in Whiteside County that takes pride in its Dutch heritage. From the famous de Immigrant Windmill to Dutch Days Festival celebrated in May, travelers will have a glimpse of Fulton’s rich history. Visit Andresen Nature Center with your little ones to see the interesting display of local flora and fauna. Additionally, Heritage Canyon is the place to be if you want to relax in nature.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
queen bed was comfortableRead more reviewsLocation:
great location quiet and easy commute to clinton
8. Lincolnshire
Experience the charm of the village of Lincolnshire located in Vernon Township. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the number of golf courses here such as Par-King Skill Golf, a wonderland-themed mini golf course, and the more challenging Crane’s Landing Golf Club at Marriott Lincolnshire Resort. You can also explore the many entertainment options of City Park. Don’t forget to catch a show thrilling show at Marriott Theatre and Food Truck Fridays in summer.
Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
Address: 10 Marriott Dr
130.83 km (81.3 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
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Hampton Inn & Suites Lincolnshire
Address: 1400 Milwaukee Avenue
129.54 km (80.5 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
9. Ottawa
This gorgeous city is known for being in the middle of everywhere. If you’re planning a trip to this quaint community, make sure to drop by Shakers Lounge to watch a game with great food, admire the art at Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, or try horse riding at Catlin Park. While here, take the kids to Allen Park and be amazed at the beautiful sculptures and the water views.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa, an IHG Hotel
Address: 2850 Columbus Street
12.96 km (8.1 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
Hampton Inn Ottawa - Starved Rock Area
Address: 4115 Holiday Lane
13.33 km (8.3 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house was perfect for a weekend getaway comfortable bed cozy couch and an amazing shower headRead more reviewsHost:
the host responded in a timely manor to any questions i had which was much appreciated
Indulge in all that the spectacular state of Illinois has to offer
Celebrate Illinois’ rich history and marvel at its diverse landscape. But don’t forget to add these first-class accommodations in Illinois to your travel bucket list.
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