Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Illinois (Currently Open)
Illinois is more than skyscrapers, rivers, and fast food fame—it’s a land of heritage-rich lodgings and unique escapes. From downtown Chicago’s gilded grand hotels to serene countryside retreats in the Driftless region, this list of 15 iconic hotels and getaways in Illinois highlights places that combine history, luxury, comfort, and location—all currently operating. Whether you’re a curious tourist, a family looking for a special stay, a local planning a weekend getaway, or an enthusiast of historic hotels, you’ll find options that delight.
Here’s a warm invitation: pack your bags, leave the everyday behind, and settle into one of these experiences—each one memorable, each one open for business.
1. The Palmer House – A Hilton Hotel (Chicago)
Situated in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Palmer House has roots reaching back to 1870, making it one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in North America. Wikipedia+2Historic Hotels Worldwide+2
Why it’s iconic
It was the site where the brownie dessert was born during the 1893 World’s Fair. Wikipedia+1
The lobby dazzles with gilded décor, murals, and historic elegance.
It witnessed presidents, literati, and theatre-goers over generations.
Ideal for
A downtown Chicago luxury stay with historic flair.
Visitors who want walk-everywhere access (theatre district, Loop, Magnificent Mile).
Key details
25-story Beaux-Arts style. Wikipedia+1
Located at 17 E Monroe St, Chicago.
Why we love it
Staying at the Palmer House is like sleeping inside a chapter of Chicago’s story—already open and splendid.
2. Deer Path Inn (Lake Forest – North Shore)
Just outside Chicago’s bustle, in Lake Forest, the Deer Path Inn offers an old-world feel in a Tudor-style manor setting. Deer Path Inn+1
Why it’s iconic
Built in 1928–29 on the North Shore and modeled after a 15th-century English manor. Wikipedia+1
Known for personalized service, refined dining (English Room, White Hart Pub), and historic charm.
Ideal for
A romantic weekend escape or upscale stay near Chicago but off the main urban core.
Guests seeking boutique luxury, gardens, and tranquillity.
Key details
Address: 255 E Illinois Rd., Lake Forest, IL 60045. Deer Path Inn
Why we love it
A refined heritage getaway just a train ride from downtown—perfect blend of escape + convenience.
3. Hotel Baker (St. Charles)
In the charming Fox River town of St. Charles, Hotel Baker stands as a historic riverside boutique hotel originally opened in 1928. Hotel Baker
Why it’s iconic
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, known as the “Crown Jewel of the Fox.”
Boutique setting with distinctive stained glass, martini lounge, and river-front appeal.
Ideal for
A weekend getaway away from city traffic, with a historic twist.
Couples or groups seeking both ambiance and local culture.
Key details
Address: 100 West Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174. Hotel Baker
Why we love it
If you’re exploring Illinois riverside towns, this hotel feels like a destination in itself.
4. Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette (Peoria)
Downtown Peoria hosts this grand 1926 hotel, originally known as Hotel Père Marquette—an upscale 1920s design marvel. Wikipedia
Why it’s iconic
Built by architect Horace Trumbauer, inspired by the Waldorf-Astoria.
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Wikipedia
Ideal for
Business travelers or leisure guests wanting classical elegance in central Illinois.
History and architecture buffs exploring beyond Chicago.
Key details
14-story hotel in Peoria, IL.
Why we love it
Shows that iconic stays in Illinois aren’t all in Chicago—they’re spread across the state.
5. InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile (Chicago)
A landmark hotel on the Magnificent Mile, housed in the 1929 Medinah Athletic Club building—a nod to jazz age luxury. Historic Hotels Worldwide+1
Why it’s iconic
Located on Michigan Avenue, combining history and prime shopping/entertainment access.
Architecture and prestige make it more than just accommodation—it’s part of Chicago’s skyline story.
Ideal for
Upscale travelers, nightlife lovers, shopping fans.
Guests wanting iconic hotel stature with city convenience.
Key details
Downtown Chicago, near Lake Michigan & Magnificent Mile.
Why we love it
Luxury meets landmark status—perfect for a glamour-filled Illinois stay.
6. The Drake Hotel (Chicago)
While newer boutique hotels pop up, The Drake holds its place as a storied institution in Chicago hospitality. Tripadvisor+1
Why it’s iconic
Historic, classic luxury hotel near the lakefront and Oak Street Beach.
Famous for its afternoon tea, historic suites, and tradition.
Ideal for
Travelers seeking timeless luxury with a view of Lake Michigan.
Families or couples who appreciate “old-hotel” elegance.
Key details
Address: 140 E Walton Pl., Chicago.
Why we love it
It’s a piece of Chicago’s glamorous past, still operating today.
7. Hilton Chicago (Chicago)
Another downtown gem—Hilton Chicago opened in 1927 and has been serving historic grandeur ever since. 97.9 KICK FM+2Historic Hotels Worldwide+2
Why it’s iconic
Overlooks Grant Park and Lake Michigan; architecture reflects legacy and scale.
Recognized by AFAR as one of Illinois’s best historic hotels. 97.9 KICK FM
Ideal for
Large group stays, conventions, or guests seeking amenities plus heritage.
Key details
Located at 720 S Michigan Ave., Chicago.
Why we love it
Combines historic allure with modern scale. Great for families, events, or luxe city stays.
8. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago (Chicago)
A modern twist on “iconic” in downtown Chicago—a hotel that doubles as a contemporary art experience. Historic Hotels Worldwide
Why it’s iconic
Housed in a 1927 industrial building, but fully transformed into an art-forward boutique hotel.
Combines lodging with gallery spaces—unique among Illinois getaways.
Ideal for
Art lovers, design-driven travelers, couples seeking something different.
Key details
Location: Chicago Loop area.
Why we love it
If you’re looking for a getaway that’s simultaneously hotel and cultural experience, this one fits.
9. The Robey (Chicago – Wicker Park/Bucktown)
For a stylish boutique stay outside the downtown core, The Robey offers city edge with historic architecture. Vogue
Why it’s iconic
The hotel is housed in a historic Art Deco tower (1930s) and mixes modern minimalist design with preserved details.
Situated in a trendy neighborhood, giving a balance of boutique accommodation + local flavor.
Ideal for
Millennials, couples, urban explorers looking for local neighborhood vibe.
Key details
Location: Wicker Park, Chicago.
Why we love it
It offers iconic city stay without the traditional downtown hotel feel—great for exploring more of Chicago’s character.
10. Hotel Galena (Galena)
Turning our attention west: Galena’s Hotel Galena offers a historic hotel experience in a charming small town, perfect for getaway breaks. Enjoy Illinois+1
Why it’s iconic
Located in downtown Galena, within walking distance of historic Main Street.
Combines historic building roots, modern amenities, pet-friendly rooms, family options.
Ideal for
Weekend escapes from the Chicago area, nature lovers, couples, families.
Key details
Address: 324 Spring St., Galena, IL 61036.
Why we love it
Adds geographic balance to the list—away from the city noise, in rolling hills and historic townscape.
11. Hotel Julien Galena (Galena)
Another Galena standout, offering upscale lodging in the heart of Illinois’ scenic northwest.
Why it’s iconic
Boutique hotel with historic charm, walking distance to shops, restaurants and the riverfront.
Marks the “get-away” side of Illinois stays—less urban, more serene.
Ideal for
Escape weekends, couples seeking romantic lodging, small-group retreats.
Why we love it
It shows that Illinois getaways aren’t just city-based—they include countryside luxury too.
12. Stoney Creek Inn Galena (Galena)
Expanding on Galena’s lodging options, Stoney Creek Inn blends rustic vibe with comfort and historic surroundings. Stoney Creek Hotels & Event Centers
Why it’s iconic
Located near downtown; themed accommodations, lodge-style ambiance, pet-friendly.
Practical and stylish for families and groups.
Ideal for
Families, group stays, anyone seeking comfort near nature with historic town access.
Why we love it
Complements the “quiet getaway” category with accessible luxury and heritage charm.
13. Waldorf Astoria Chicago (Chicago Gold Coast)
Luxury, sophistication, and iconic address in Chicago’s Gold Coast district. Condé Nast Traveler
Why it’s iconic
Often ranked among the top hotels in the U.S.; Paris-inspired décor, fireplaces in suites, high-end service.
Ideal for
Honeymooners, special-occasion travel, upscale jet-set stays in Illinois.
Why we love it
It’s the “luxury flagship” of Illinois hotels—full service, full luxury.
14. Four Seasons Chicago (Chicago)
Another high-end option on Michigan Avenue, blending modern luxury with iconic setting. Four Seasons
Why it’s iconic
Located on the Magnificent Mile with lake and skyline views.
Re-imagined luxury; hotel’s design and location bring high accessibility + prestige.
Ideal for
Travelers wanting premium amenities, spa, shopping and premium views.
Why we love it
For the “luxury stay in Illinois” category, this ticks the boxes.
15. Inns & Resorts of Illinois Escapes (Summary Option)
While the above fourteen are concrete properties, the broader category of resorts and historic inns across Illinois (including places like Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena territory) round out the top experiences for getaways.
Why mention it
Because not all iconic stays are urban hotels; some are resort-getaways in scenic Illinois landscapes, adding breadth to the kind of lodging you can choose.
They reflect the variation: luxury city hotel, boutique regional inn, countryside retreat.
Ideal for
Guests who want outdoor activity, spa time, scenic landscapes—coupled with lodging that has character.
Why we love it
This helps complete the list across geographies—so wherever you go in Illinois, you’ll find something iconic.
How to Choose Your Ideal Illinois Stay
Identify your travel mood
City luxury & landmark history? → Palmer House, Waldorf Astoria, Four Seasons.
Boutique charm near Chicago, less urban pace? → Deer Path Inn, Hotel Baker.
Small-town weekend escape? → Galena hotels (Hotel Galena, Hotel Julien, Stoney Creek Inn).
Regional historic hotel in central Illinois? → Peoria Marriott Père Marquette.
Factor who you’re traveling with
Families? Choose places with suites, adjoining rooms, kids’ amenities (e.g., Hotel Galena).
Couples/romantic? Boutique or luxury stays like Waldorf Astoria, Deer Path Inn.
Business or groups? Hotels with large meeting spaces and amenities (Hilton Chicago).
Consider what you want to experience
Want lake views and shopping? Choose Michigan Avenue hotels.
Want heritage architecture and quieter ambiance? Choose North Shore or Galena stays.
Want historic grandeur and central Illinois convenience? Peoria.
Booking hints
Check historic hotels for renovation periods—most above are fully operating now.
If visiting with any outdoor plans (Galena territory) consider lodging with local experience packages.
For city stays, book early in popular seasons (holiday lights, festival weekends).
Search-friendly phrases
When you search “iconic hotel Illinois,” “historic hotel Chicago,” “luxury getaway Illinois countryside,” or “boutique hotel North Shore Illinois,” these properties align well and will pop on top in travel queries.
Why This List Matters for You
Evergreen content: Hotels tend to stay open year-round (outside major renovations), so “currently open” status is stable.
Searchable & relevant: Keywords like “top iconic hotels in Illinois,” “luxury hotel Chicago,” “historic getaway Illinois” map directly to this list.
Geographically balanced: City centers (Chicago), near cities (Lake Forest/St. Charles), and rural/regional escapes (Galena, Peoria)—covering various travel styles.
Rich detail: For each hotel we highlight history, signature features, ideal traveler profile—so you can pick what fits you.
Actionable: This is more than a list—it invites you to explore, pick stays, plan travels.
Conclusion
From the gilded opulence of downtown Chicago landmarks to historic inns tucked away in charming Illinois small towns, the Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Illinois (Currently Open) offer something unforgettable for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re drawn to luxury, heritage, boutique charm, or scenic escape—Illinois has you covered.
Summary & Call to Action:
Choose your favourite stay from this list, pick the date, and book it. Make one of these hotels your next getaway—urban or rural. Explore the history, soak up the atmosphere, and treat yourself to something iconic. Then share your experience, invite others, and revel in the excellence of staying somewhere genuinely memorable in Illinois. Your next unforgettable stay awaits—book it now.