Nicknamed “The Prairie State,” Illinois is a midwestern state distinct for its rich farmlands, verdant forests, scenic rolling hills, and wetlands. In winter, Midwest skiers troop to Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort, the largest ski resort in the state. Its 3,500 feet (1,066 meters) of ski slopes translate to 19 diverse slopes that give skiers wonderful experiences. Snowboarders get a kick out of Farside Terrain Park where a quarter-pipe, 2 halfpipes, and 25 rails, kickers, and jumps are found. The resort’s 20,000 square-feet (1,858 square-meter) Village Ski Center has ski and snowboard equipment rentals, repair, and tuning services for both skiing and snowboarding. Just an easy drive from the ski resort is Galena, a town with historic art centers and children’s museums, picturesque golf clubs, and impressive mansions and hotels with water park. If you’re planning a skiing trip, check out this list of the top ski resorts in Illinois, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to ski slopes and equipment. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena (from USD 119)
With lodgings near the slopes, you will enjoy skiing the magnificent 475-foot (144-meter) vertical drop of Chestnut Mountain Resort.
The pitch may be high, but the resort’s nine lifts–four triple chairs, two conveyor lifts, one surface lift, two quad chairs–make it easy to get back on top. With a diverse array of slopes, the 19 runs ensure a slope for every skier’s level of ability. While those who seek a lengthy ski run will definitely have a blast on the 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) run.
Found just 12.9 kilometers (8 miles) from Downtown Galena and only a few minutes from the Village Ski Center, the property boasts restful rooms, an indoor pool, a mini hot tub, and mini-golf course. You can indulge in cocktails at the bar or relish mouthwatering meals at the on-site restaurant.
Lift ticket prices range from $35- $45, though travelers can also get a whole year, a whole season, or one-time pass tickets at Village Ski Center.
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Address: 8700 West Chestnut Mountain Road PO Box 6328
29.57 km (18.4 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Other accommodations with access to ski slopes in Illinois
2. Best Western Galena Inn & Suites (from USD 99)
You will have a relaxing stay at Best Western Galena Inn & Suites where a sun deck and a hot tub provide a splendid way to unwind. You can take a dip in any of the indoor and outdoor pools or stay in shape at the exceptional fitness center. The rooms are well-equipped, and the baths are as neat as a pin.
Brilliantly located, Chestnut Mountain’s famous ski trails and snowboarding sites are just 12.9 kilometers (8 miles) from the hotel.
Best Western Galena Inn & Suites
Address: 9923 US 20 West
22.24 km (13.9 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
3. Ramada by Wyndham Galena Hotel & Day Spa (from USD 98)
An opulent welcome is in order, with the lounge’s understated elegance: boldly carved French chairs, tufted leather sofas and ottoman, and a massive artwork above the charming fireplace. The guest rooms are comfortable and tasteful, with either a stunningly carved four-poster bed or a stylish iron-framed bed. You will have a laid-back day in a room with a beautiful sitting area beside the fireplace and a deep-soaking tub. You can take a dip in the indoor pool or in the whirlpool.
Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is only a 19 minutes’ drive away while The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens can be reached in just 9 minutes.
Wyndham Garden Galena Hotel & Day Spa
Address: 11383 Highway 20 West
18.21 km (11.4 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
4. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL (from USD 90)
You will delight in the beauty of Galena, as Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is only six minutes from downtown where golf sites, as well as hiking and horseback riding trails abound. Moreover, the exciting Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is only 19 minutes away.
After a day of exploring, you can enjoy a dip in the indoor pool with a 72-feet (22-meter) water slide. The hotel also offers a hot tub with a 12-person capacity, which is an ideal way to unwind and soothe your tired muscles. It boasts a game room with 20 games, plus air hockey; this game room is a favorite among kids and adults. All bedrooms are peaceful, and baths are well-appointed.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL
Address: 11334 Oldenburg Lane
18.58 km (11.6 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
5. Irish Cottage Inn & Suites in Galena (from USD 104)
You will have a luxurious time at Irish Cottage Inn & Suites where patrician impressions emanate from impressively carved furniture, japanned cabinets, elegantly shaped sofas, and authentic Irish hospitality. The Irish and America breakfast buffet served every morning is sumptuous, and the indoor pool and hot tub are great for refreshing dips and soaks. Before the day ends, pamper yourself at Galena Day Spa where you can book a massage, a facial, and other rejuvenating services.
Conveniently located, Galena Golf Club is just a 6 minutes’ drive away while the slopes of Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort are only 16 minutes away.
Irish Cottage Inn & Suites
Address: 9853 US Highway 20
22.43 km (14.0 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
6. Stoney Creek lnn Galena (from USD 83)
Reasonable pricing with good value for money.
Cozy and clean pool and hot tub area, pet-friendly with no pet fee, friendly and helpful staff, convenient location near shopping area.
Great location with easy access to downtown and nearby attractions.
Delicious and varied breakfast options, bar open for breakfast drinks, good quality coffee, and accommodating breakfast staff.
From its wood furnishings to its accents, Stoney Creek lnn gives a homey feel of a ski lodge house. You can enjoy swimming in the heated indoor pool and have a relaxing soak in the hot tub. Each unit has a work desk and a flat-screen TV, and extra linens, free toiletries, and a hair dryer are found in the well-kept bath. After a refreshing sleep, you can relish a hearty breakfast of eggs, pastries, coffee, and fresh juice, which is served daily.
Galena-Jo Daviess County History Museum is only 5 minutes away while Chestnut Mountain Ski Park is just 18 minutes from the hotel.
Stoney Creek lnn Galena
Address: 940 Galena Square Drive
19.75 km (12.3 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
7. Aldrich Guest House in Galena (from USD 200)
Reasonable pricing for luxurious accommodations and delicious breakfasts.
Beautifully decorated rooms with comfortable beds, toiletries, and a central location within walking distance to attractions.
Walking distance to Visitor’s Center, Grant Park, Trolley, Belvedere Mansion, and other attractions in Galena.
Scrumptious and beautifully presented breakfasts, delicious cocktails, and accommodating hosts for special dietary needs.
Aldrich Guest House is filled with classic furnishings that are both sophisticated and warm. Its light-toned interiors are adorned with small but finely detailed metal and wood pieces that convey a celebration of elegance. A shared lounge, where hors d’oeuvres, wine, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and homemade cookies are served, is a pleasant spot to lounge about or read a book. Some rooms include a sitting area.
Best for couples exploring Illinois, Galena Historic District is close by. For a fun activity down the slopes, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is just 15 minutes from the bed and breakfast.
Aldrich Guest House
Address: 900 3rd Street
21.48 km (13.4 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
8. Farmers Guest House in Galena (from USD 190)
A relaxing feel comes from Farmers Guest House’s honest approach in design and subtle elegance. Each cozy room has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels while some have a sitting area and/or a balcony. Throughout the property is a strong Wi-Fi connection. Complimentary bottled water is available for each guest in the fridge in the dining room while the shared lounge displays an air of refinement. Couples have rated the place highly.
The beautiful Galena-Jo Daviess County History Museum is just 2 minutes away while Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is a 15-minute drive from the property.
Farmers Guest House
Address: 334 Spring Street
20.97 km (13.1 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
9. The Steamboat House in Galena (from USD 195)
Beautiful from the outside and delightfully sophisticated inside, The Steamboat has a high regard for elegance and comfort, which is shown in its use of classic European furnishings, decor, and accents. The bedrooms display a level of nobility, from carpet patterns that suggest an antique appeal to its classic sleigh beds. A large TV, strong Wi-Fi connection, and access to the lush garden make the rooms more comfortable. The American breakfast served daily is satisfying.
Both Belvedere Mansion and Galena Historic District are only a stone’s throw away. Moreover, you can ski the amazing slopes or enjoy the scenic lifts at Chestnut Mountain Ski Resor, which is just a 15 minutes’ drive away.
The Steamboat House
Address: 605 S. Prospect Street
21.08 km (13.1 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
10. Galena Inn formerly Victorian Mansion (from USD 174)
Soft tones, ornate furnishings, parquet flooring, and opulent sleigh beds, and classic iron-framed beds make this gorgeous Victorian accommodation a dashing place to spend a vacation. Formerly known as Victorian Mansion, Galena Inn is a wonderfully sophisticated property with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The balcony overlooking the manicured garden is a great place for tea or coffee. Prepare for a fun day’s sightseeing or skiing with an appetizing American breakfast served daily.
Merely a 2-minute walk from Belvedere Mansion and a 12 minutes’ walk from Galena-Jo Daviess County History Museum, the bed and breakfast is a great base from which to explore Galena. The ski lifts of Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort are just a 17-minute drive away.
Galena Inn formerly Victorian Mansion
Address: 301 South High Street
21.04 km (13.1 mi) from National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Ski the slopes of Illinois
Illinois is more than just a treasure trove of scenic farmlands, forests, rolling hills, skyscrapers, and classic architecture. This state is also known for its exciting theme parks and amusement parks and several hiking and trekking spots that will inspire you to cherish the beauty of nature.
Since it is home to the largest ski resort in the region, you will enjoy skiing and snowboarding or simply be amazed by the panoramic views from the lift, so get your winter gear ready, head to the beautiful state, and stay at one of the best ski resorts in Illinois.
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