Hotels in Downers Grove

Downers Grove: Where Nature Meets Nostalgia in a Hidden Gem

Nestled just 22 miles from downtown Chicago, Downers Grove, Illinois, is a charming suburban oasis that perfectly blends small-town charm with urban convenience. Stroll through its picturesque parks, like the expansive Lyman Woods, or explore the vibrant downtown area filled with unique shops and delectable eateries. History buffs will appreciate the historic architecture, while families can enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Downers Grove Museum. With a calendar full of community events and festivals, Downers Grove is an inviting destination that offers a delightful escape for visitors seeking a taste of Midwestern hospitality and culture. For the best hotel rates in Downers Grove and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Downers Grove

Some of the best places to stay in Downers Grove are Magnificent Mile, The Loop and River North. Downers Grove offers easy access to the vibrant areas of the Magnificent Mile, The Loop, and River North. The Magnificent Mile is perfect for first-time visitors, boasting shopping and dining galore. The Loop is ideal for business travelers with its proximity to corporate offices and cultural attractions. River North is known for its art scene and nightlife. Accommodations in these areas range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Downers Grove:

1. Magnificent MileOpens in a new window: The Magnificent Mile is a prime destination for travelers seeking a vibrant urban experience in Chicago. Known for its bustling atmosphere, this area is packed with shopping, dining, and iconic attractions like Navy Pier and Millennium Park. It offers a blend of family-friendly activities and a lively city vibe. Notable hotels include Park Hyatt ChicagoOpens in a new window, perfect for adventure and business travelers with amenities like meeting rooms and kids' activities. The Ritz-Carlton, ChicagoOpens in a new window caters to couples with romantic packages, spa services, and a central location. The Peninsula ChicagoOpens in a new window is ideal for families and business guests, providing various amenities for children and business travelers alike.
2. The LoopOpens in a new window: The Loop is the heart of Chicago's financial district, making it an excellent choice for business travelers while still offering family-friendly attractions. With easy access to Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, it's well-connected for sightseeing. The Langham, ChicagoOpens in a new window features essential business amenities and child-friendly options, while Trump International Hotel & Tower ChicagoOpens in a new window boasts a unique boutique experience with childcare services. theWit Chicago, a Hilton HotelOpens in a new window combines luxury and adventure, perfect for those looking to explore the city.
3. River NorthOpens in a new window: River North is a bustling area known for its vibrant art scene and proximity to downtown Chicago attractions. It is ideal for travelers interested in culture, dining, and nightlife. The hotels here include Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent MileOpens in a new window, offering business-focused amenities and unique decor, and Level Chicago - River NorthOpens in a new window, which is pet-friendly and situated in the city center. The Godfrey Hotel ChicagoOpens in a new window caters to luxury seekers with excellent business facilities and is located in a prime shopping district.

Things to do in Downers Grove for first time

Three days in Downers Grove offers a delightful mix of shopping, live music, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy scenic biking trails, vibrant dance scenes, and various outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and fun in a charming suburban atmosphere. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Downers Grove:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Downers Grove at the beautiful Morton Arboretum, where you can immerse yourself in nature and explore over 1,700 acres of trees and plant collections. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic trails, and don’t miss the stunning views from the Visitor Center. Afterward, head to the Belmont Prairie Nature Preserve, known for its rich biodiversity and native Illinois prairie landscape. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and enjoying the serene environment. Conclude your day by visiting the Four Columns at Morton Arboretum, a striking sculpture that offers a perfect backdrop for memorable photos as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Travel to Chicago and start your day on the iconic Michigan Avenue, where you can shop at famous stores and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Next, take a leisurely walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can admire the stunning architecture lining the river and perhaps stop for a coffee at one of the many riverside cafés. As the afternoon rolls in, head to Millennium Park, where you can relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens and snap a selfie with the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as The Bean.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Navy Pier, where you can enjoy attractions, shops, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Ferris wheel for breathtaking sights of the city skyline. Next, visit the historic Mayslake Peabody Mansion, where you can explore the beautiful architecture and serene grounds. Finish your day at Grant Park, known as “Chicago’s front yard,” where you can stroll through the lush gardens, visit the Art Institute of Chicago, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that makes this park a local favorite.

5 tips to find a great Downers Grove hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Downers Grove is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers, it’s advisable to book flights at least three months in advance to secure the best deals. To truly experience the area’s highlights, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Key attractions in Downers Grove include parks, sports facilities, and an arboretum, all offering great value for money. This charming destination is perfect for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Downers Grove, you might want to check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. There, you could find attractive discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. Comparing prices can help you spot the latest offers and good availability. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, making it easier for you to seize any potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Downers Grove.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and nearby attractions in Downers Grove usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trains, buses, cars, or bikes to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Downers Grove and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Downers Grove

Here are a few must-try restaurants in Downers Grove, Illinois, United States of America:

• Culver's: A beloved fast-casual chain known for its ButterBurgers and fresh frozen custard, Culver's emphasizes quality and local sourcing, providing a classic Midwestern dining experience with a focus on comfort food and community favorites.
• Beggars Pizza: Celebrated for its authentic Chicago-style deep dish, Beggars Pizza combines rich, local ingredients with traditional recipes, making it a must-visit for those craving a slice of the Windy City’s culinary heritage, all served in a welcoming atmosphere.
• Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse - Chicago: This upscale steakhouse offers a unique dining experience with its traditional Brazilian churrasco, featuring a variety of expertly seasoned meats served tableside, showcasing a blend of flavors that reflects both Brazilian and local culinary traditions.

Best time to go to Downers Grove

Downers Grove experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 23.9°F (-4.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.3°F (23.5°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Downers Grove are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, 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.