Hotels in Salem

Salem: Where History Dances with Nature's Splendor

Nestled in the heart of southern Illinois, Salem is a charming small town that offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. Stroll through its picturesque downtown, where quaint shops and local eateries invite you to explore. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the nearby Lake Salem, perfect for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Rich in historical significance, Salem features the historic Salem Depot and vibrant community events. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or a spot to immerse yourself in local culture, Salem promises an authentic slice of Midwestern charm that’s off the beaten path yet full of heart.

Discover great hotels in Salem

Salem, Illinois offers a range of hotel accommodations, from cozy family-friendly options to comfortable guest rooms. Many hotels feature amenities like pools and welcoming atmospheres, making them great for families and solo travelers alike. Enjoy your stay in this charming town! These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Salem:

1. Best Western Plus Centralia Hotel & SuitesOpens in a new window: This 2.5-star hotel caters primarily to business travelers seeking a comfortable and practical stay. With amenities like a well-appointed Business Center and multiple Meeting Rooms, it provides an efficient setting for corporate needs. The hotel is pet-friendly and features family-oriented services, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. Positive sentiments highlight its convenient location and reliable services, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing a hassle-free experience.
2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mount Vernon by IHGOpens in a new window: This 2.5-star hotel is designed for business travelers and offers a welcoming environment for the LGBTQIA community. With a 24-hour Business Center and Meeting Room, it supports professional engagements while ensuring guests feel valued and included. The ambiance is characterized by modern design and thoughtful amenities, garnering positive reviews for its commitment to creating a comfortable and inclusive experience for travelers focused on their work and networking opportunities.
3. DoubleTree by Hilton Mt. VernonOpens in a new window: As a 4.0-star hotel, this property provides an upscale experience tailored for business travelers looking for a refined stay. The hotel features an accessible Business Center and Meeting Rooms that facilitate seamless corporate activities. Guests praise the architectural design and sophisticated atmosphere, which enhances both productivity and relaxation during visits. This hotel stands out for its dedication to delivering a high-quality journey, ensuring travelers enjoy a blend of comfort and elegance.

Top locations to stay in Salem

Some of the best areas to stay near Salem, Illinois, are Centralia, Kinmundy, and Patoka. Centralia is known for its vibrant festivals, Kinmundy offers charming local points of interest, and Patoka boasts scenic attractions. For first-time visitors, Centralia is the best choice, providing a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities to explore.

1. CentraliaOpens in a new window: Centralia is a vibrant community known for its lively festivals throughout the year, making it an exciting place to stay for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture. With events celebrating everything from seasonal harvests to arts and crafts, there's always something happening. The town is also home to beautiful parks and recreational areas, perfect for enjoying a sunny day outdoors. You’ll find a range of local shops and boutiques, allowing for unique shopping experiences that showcase the charm of small-town America.
2. KinmundyOpens in a new window: Kinmundy offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community feel, making it a great spot for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. The town is known for its friendly locals and annual events that bring people together, providing a chance to experience true Midwestern hospitality. Explore the local parks for a leisurely afternoon or take a stroll through the charming downtown area, where you'll find a few local shops and cafes to enjoy.
3. PatokaOpens in a new window: Nestled in a serene setting, Patoka is ideal for travelers looking to unwind and enjoy nature. This small town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors. The community also hosts seasonal events that reflect the local culture and traditions, providing a glimpse into the lifestyle of its residents. While shopping options may be limited, the town's welcoming atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a delightful stop on your journey.

Things to do in Salem

Salem is a charming destination where you can enjoy lively music scenes, delightful local shops, and scenic strolls along picturesque waterfronts. Whether you’re dancing the night away, picking up unique souvenirs, or exploring scenic trails, Salem offers a vibrant mix of experiences that make it a must-visit spot!

• Raccoon Lake ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a day outdoors at Raccoon Lake Park, where you can unwind by the water or engage in various recreational activities. This park is ideal for picnics, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the scenic trails. Kids can run around in the playground, while nature enthusiasts can appreciate the surrounding flora and fauna. Bring a book, relax on the shore, or pack a lunch to savor in the fresh air.
• Stephen A Forbes State ParkOpens in a new window – Venture to Stephen A Forbes State Park for a true escape into nature. This expansive park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and birdwatching, making it perfect for those who love the great outdoors. Explore the diverse landscapes, from wooded areas to open fields, and keep an eye out for local wildlife. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or a day hike, this state park provides a peaceful setting to connect with nature.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Salem

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Salem is during January, February, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the city's key landmarks, history, and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 1 to 2 days is recommended. This timeframe allows visitors to enjoy budget-friendly dining options, shopping, live music, and relaxing excursions, all while experiencing great value for their money. Additionally, travelers may find that prices could drop during these months, making it an even more appealing time to visit.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To find last-minute deals to Salem, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find out about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your stay. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a handy comparison tool available in the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best hotel deal for your budget. Stay informed, and enjoy a budget-friendly getaway in Salem!
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Salem. If you're looking for a unique experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher than usual, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, which could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with higher prices. For more affordable options, you might want to consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, finding a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You could also look into independent hotels a bit further out, which are usually more likely to be affordable and can offer a more genuine experience.
5. Become a Member: Join now for free and start booking your next stay in Salem! Enjoy exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. As a member, you’ll have the opportunity to advance through tiers and unlock fantastic perks, including complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these amazing benefits—sign up today!

Best time to go to Salem

Salem experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 31.3°F (-0.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.2°F (25.1°C). April tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Salem are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.