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.
Staying in a vacation rental often implies a kind of luxurious getaway, but sometimes you can get so much more out of staying a little unconventional. Take, for example, this cozy apartment in Teutopolis. Located at the intersection of I-57 and I-70, this small village is teeming with stories about what life was like in the few decades in Illinois after it was made a state. This wooden shoe factory has been converted into a cozy sleeping accommodation you won't forget.
While the quaintness of this Airbnb adds to its charm, rest assured the downstairs space has been upgraded with a modern bathroom and kitchen appliances.
The owners recently set out on a mission to fill this Airbnb with documents and photos that tell the building's story.
The foundation was hand-dug as well. Construction processes have changed a lot since then, but all the work that went into the wooden shoe factory gives it a remarkably personal touch.
I would feel transported back in time inside, but there is outdoor seating in the front and back if you need a change of scenery.
The owners don't recommend this spot for very small children because of the potential dangers of the spiral staircase and loft. For families with slightly older children, biking in this area would be a fun addition to an unforgettable stay!
You can spend the night in all kinds of historic places in Illinois, whether it's an old warehouse or a train depot. Taking a vacation in a wooden shoe shop is an experience that is somewhat hard to come by outside of the Netherlands and Teutopolis, IL. Check out the Airbnb listing for Wooden Shoe Factory to see its availability for your next long weekend or work trip in the area. Would you want to stay in a shoe factory?
Doesn't a getaway to a cozy cabin surrounded by the quiet and solitude of nature sound ideal? If you answered yes, then take a look at these cabins where you can let your stresses melt away as you relax in a beautiful, natural locale. You’ll want to book your cozy cabin getaway in Illinois as soon as possible.
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Affordable Cabins in Illinois
A getaway doesn't have to break the bank. Luckily, there are many affordable options throughout the Land of Lincoln for a budget-friendly vacation. Here are some affordable cabins in IL to consider next time you need some time away.
This cabin is situated in a perfect location. There are a plethora of local activities around the area. Favorites include the Shawnee Forest Wine Trail, which features over one dozen vineyards, and the Shawnee Bluff canopy tour, which is a zipline adventure. Take to the trails at Giant City State Park or take to the wine trail for a glass of red or white then come back home to this affordable cabin in Illinois for some R&R.
2. Moraine View State Park Pet-Friendly Cabin, Ellsworth
This pet-friendly A-frame cabin is surrounded by nature for the ultimate peaceful getaway. Take to the hiking trails in the state forest or a five-minute stroll to the beach to go fishing or swimming. Just 10 minutes away are the towns of Downs and LeRoy where you'll find shopping, restaurants, and more.
Check out one of the best cabin Airbnbs in Illinois at The Little Dipper, a charming A-Frame cabin that won't break the bank. Located in Elizabeth, just a short drive from Galena, this place is perfect for a peaceful getaway. You can enjoy the comfy interiors, go golfing, hike, and even taste some local wines. Whether you're on a romantic trip or just need some me-time, The Little Dipper offers a great balance of comfort and affordability, and it's close to lots of fun things to do.
Luxury Cabins in Illinois
Not all cabins are rustic. In fact, I found some that are downright luxurious. With all the amenities you could ever want, you may never want to leave these luxury cabins in IL.
Surrounded by 18 acres in the woods, the Heptagon Cottage-Timbered Retreat is a hideaway with plenty of space for a large group. So, if you’re planning any reunions, this vacation rental is ideal. Have some fun playing in the game room, relax in the living room, or take a soak in the hot tub, followed by some time in the sauna. You won't want to leave this luxurious cabin with all the conveniences you could ever want!
Romantic Cabins in Illinois
Have some one-on-one time with your significant other at a romantic retreat in the wilderness. Perfect for connecting or reconnecting with someone, your relationship may grow stronger with a quick getaway to one of these romantic cabins in IL.
Situated on Hohman Lake, this quiet lakeside Illinois cabin will give you the peace and solitude you'll need to connect with your significant other. Perhaps you'll grab a bottle of wine from a nearby winery to enjoy at the cabin while looking out at those gorgeous lakeside views.
Amenities: Fully equipped kitchen, free parking on the premises, private hot tub, free in-unit washer and dryer, AC split-type ductless system, bathtub, private patio
Ratings: 4.91 stars
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Stay at one of the top cozy cabins in Illinois with this charming suite, ideal for a romantic anniversary getaway. Relax in the hot tub on the covered patio, watch the sheep and chickens graze, and enjoy the serene countryside just outside Amish country. Located less than two miles east of Arcola and conveniently close to Interstate 57, this tiny house has a full kitchen, a queen bed, and a queen air mattress. With board games, a fire pit, and a small charcoal grill, it's the perfect retreat for romance.
Secluded Cabins in Illinois
We all need to get away for a while, and these cabin rentals in IL are the perfect escape. Get some rest and relaxation in a beautiful private setting.
Located in beautiful Galena on resort property, this lake-view cottage is secluded and provides the ultimate privacy. Enjoy lake views as well as the communal amenities the resort provides. This is one of the best cottage rentals in Illinois, perfect for a weekend getaway.
Enjoy seclusion at this private log cabin located close to Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park. With so much natural beauty surrounding you, you'll feel rested in no time at this secluded cabin.
The Blue View Cabin is a stunning farmhouse with all the modern amenities of home. It's located a stone's throw away from Blue Sky Winery and just a short drive from additional wineries on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. A perfect cabin in the perfect location -- once you check in, you won’t want to check out.
Cabins in Illinois with Hot Tub
What's better than a cabin stay? How about one that comes with its very own hot tub? Your stress will just melt away with a soak in the great outdoors.
This two-bedroom vacation rental with a private hot tub is found near Southern Illinois' Shawnee National Forest and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. You can enjoy some of the most extraordinary scenery as well as peace and quiet with a stay here. This is for adults only, so leave the kids at home! Book your stay at one of the best cabin rentals in Illinois on VRBO.
If you're looking for something different like, say, cabins with hot tubs in Illinois that also happen to be on the water we found this one! Located in East Dubuque, this floating cabin can be rented year-round. Not only that, but it offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River backwaters which you can enjoy right from the private hot tub. This cabin getaway has two bedrooms and sleeps up to six people. You can book your stay at one of the best cabins for rent in Illinois on Vrbo.
Amenities: Kitchen, Wi-Fi, free parking on premises, private hot tub, pet-friendly, 52-inch HDTV, free in-unit washer and dryer, AC split-type ductless system
Hidden Grove is one of the best cabins in Illinois, just 10 minutes south of Bloomington. Enjoy the natural beauty and modern luxury on two private acres. Relax in the covered hot tub under a softly lit pergola, roast marshmallows by the fire pit, and unwind indoors with comfy mattresses and a digital game table. It's the ultimate escape for adventure and relaxation.
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How would you like to book a stay at one of the best cabins in Illinois? Do you have another favorite place you'd like to share? Let me know - I'd love to hear your recommendations!
While these cabins are perfect any time of year, they are especially cozy in the fall. If you love the fall season as much as I do, check out some of the most beautiful fall destinations in Illinois. If you need some inspiration for fun things to do while on vacation, then check out these one-of-a-kind experiences.
