Hotels in River Forest

Whispers of Nature: Discover the Enchantment of River Forest

Discover the charm of River Forest, Illinois, a picturesque village that seamlessly blends suburban serenity with rich cultural heritage. Stroll through tree-lined streets adorned with stunning historic architecture, from grand homes to cozy shops. Enjoy the lush landscapes of nearby parks and the tranquil banks of the Des Plaines River, perfect for leisurely walks or picnics. Immerse yourself in local history at the River Forest Historical Society or indulge in gourmet dining at charming eateries. With its small-town allure and vibrant community spirit, River Forest is an enchanting destination for culture seekers and nature lovers alike.

Discover great hotels in River Forest

River Forest, Illinois offers a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy inns to upscale hotels. You’ll find comfortable stays with convenient access to local attractions, parks, and dining options. Whether you're looking for a charming bed and breakfast or more modern facilities, River Forest has a selection to suit your needs. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in River Forest:

1. Carleton of Oak ParkOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star boutique hotel offers a unique vacation experience with its thoughtfully designed decor and artworks that reflect a distinct aesthetic. Ideal for leisure travelers seeking a comfortable stay, the hotel features amenities such as a Conference Space, multiple Meeting Rooms, and a Business Center. The tranquil ambiance and stylish interiors create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for those who appreciate individuality and charm in their accommodations.
2. Harvey House Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window: As a 4.0-star Bed and Breakfast property, Harvey House Bed & Breakfast caters to leisure travelers looking for a delightful stay with excellent dining options such as a complimentary daily breakfast and a Snack Bar. Guests can unwind with entertainment amenities like a DVD Player and Cable Television. The proximity to a nearby Metro Station makes exploring the area convenient, enhancing the overall travel experience with easy access to local attractions and vibrant city life.
3. Travel InnOpens in a new window: This 2.5-star motel offers a cozy and affordable stay, perfect for leisure travelers who value comfort and convenience. With amenities including Cable Television, LED Television, and Premium Television Channels, guests can enjoy relaxing evenings in their rooms. The welcoming atmosphere and inviting decor provide a pleasant environment for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration. It serves as a practical base for experiencing the charm of River Forest and its surroundings.

Top locations to stay in River Forest

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting River Forest, Illinois, are Rosemont, Schiller Park, and Oak Park. Rosemont offers vibrant entertainment options and shopping, Schiller Park is great for shopping and dining, while Oak Park is renowned for its stunning architecture. For first-time visitors, Oak Park is the best choice due to its cultural attractions.

1. RosemontOpens in a new window: Rosemont is a vibrant and lively area, perfect for travelers who love entertainment and sports. Known for its proximity to the Allstate Arena, you can catch a hockey game or a concert while you’re in town. The Rosemont Theatre also offers a great lineup of cultural events and performances. If shopping is on your agenda, the Fashion Outlets of Chicago provides an array of stores where you can snag great deals. With plenty of dining options nearby, Rosemont is a fantastic choice for those looking to blend leisure with excitement.
2. Oak ParkOpens in a new window: Oak Park is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Home to the famous Frank Lloyd Wright homes, this area is a delight for architecture enthusiasts. You can stroll through beautiful neighborhoods and visit the Ernest Hemingway Museum to learn about the literary giant's early life. The vibrant local shops and cozy cafes make it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway, allowing you to soak in the artistic culture while enjoying a leisurely day.
3. Schiller ParkOpens in a new window: Schiller Park is a charming and convenient spot for travelers seeking a quieter experience. With a focus on shopping, you can explore the nearby retail outlets and enjoy the local parks for some fresh air. Its close proximity to public transportation makes it easy to venture into Chicago for more attractions. This area offers a laid-back vibe, making it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed stay while still being near the excitement of the city.

Things to do in River Forest

River Forest charms visitors with its lush forests and serene rivers, ideal for leisurely walks and outdoor picnics. Enjoy friendly basketball games in local parks or explore quaint shops nestled in a picturesque countryside setting. It's a delightful spot for those seeking a blend of nature and small-town warmth.

• Navy PierOpens in a new window – Venture out to Navy Pier, where the vibrant atmosphere buzzes with excitement. Stroll along the jetty, enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan, and explore various attractions, including the Ferris wheel and unique shops. This spot is perfect for families and friends looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the waterfront vibe.
• Michigan AvenueOpens in a new window – Walk down Michigan Avenue, known as the Magnificent Mile, where a blend of modern architecture and historic buildings creates a captivating skyline. Discover a mix of high-end boutiques, lively restaurants, and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal place for shopping, dining, and people-watching.
• Millennium ParkOpens in a new window – Spend some time in Millennium Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Snap a selfie with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, often called The Bean, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and public art installations. It’s a great spot to relax or catch a concert during the summer.
• Grant ParkOpens in a new window – Head over to Grant Park, often referred to as Chicago's front yard. This expansive urban park is perfect for a leisurely walk, featuring lovely landscaped gardens and the stunning Buckingham Fountain. It’s a wonderful venue for events and festivals throughout the year.
• Chicago RiverwalkOpens in a new window – Finally, make your way to the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can stroll along the scenic waterfront. Enjoy a range of dining options, kayak rentals, and beautiful views of the city’s architecture reflected in the water. This lively area is perfect for an afternoon of exploration and relaxation.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in River Forest

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit River Forest is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are lower. To truly appreciate the area's landmarks and cultural attractions, at least a 2 to 3-day stay is recommended. This timeframe allows visitors to explore family-friendly spots, beautiful forests, impressive architecture, and the scenic river, while also enjoying shopping, dining, and the charming small-town atmosphere. With the potential for prices to drop during these months, it's an affordable option for those looking to experience the unique history and culture of River Forest.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to River Forest, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so if prices drop or rooms become available, you’ll be among the first to know for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a River Forest hotel. For those seeking something special, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates to help you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in less central neighborhoods, where you can find a better balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to see. Additionally, consider exploring independent hotels a bit further out, as they can offer a more authentic experience that is usually more likely to be affordable.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and unlock amazing savings on your next stay in River Forest! Enjoy exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. As you progress through the tiers, you'll gain access to exciting perks, including complimentary room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these fantastic benefits—sign up today and start planning your next getaway!

Best time to go to River Forest

River Forest experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.0°F (-3.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.1°F (23.4°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit River Forest are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.