Hotels in Wilmette

Serenity by the Shore: Discover Wilmette's Lakeside Charm

Discover the charming village of Wilmette, Illinois, a delightful lakeside gem just north of Chicago. Known for its picturesque beaches along Lake Michigan, Wilmette invites travelers to unwind on its sandy shores or stroll through the stunning Gillson Park. Marvel at the iconic Bahá'í House of Worship, a serene architectural masterpiece surrounded by lush gardens. With quaint shops, delightful dining options, and easy access to Chicago’s vibrant attractions, Wilmette perfectly blends small-town charm with urban excitement. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this enchanting destination is a must-visit for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Wilmette, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Wilmette

Some of the best places to stay in Wilmette are Magnificent Mile, The Loop and River North. Wilmette, Illinois, offers easy access to vibrant Chicago attractions. The Magnificent Mile is ideal for shopping and dining, while The Loop showcases iconic architecture and cultural venues. River North is known for its art galleries and nightlife. For accommodations, options range from upscale hotels to extended-stay suites with amenities like swimming pools. First-time visitors will find The Loop particularly appealing due to its central location and proximity to major attractions. Enjoy your stay in this charming area! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Wilmette:

1. Magnificent MileOpens in a new window: Magnificent Mile is a vibrant area in Chicago known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The location is perfect for families and city explorers alike, with attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park nearby. For accommodations, consider Park Hyatt ChicagoOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel offering adventure sports, business amenities, and family-friendly services. Another great option is The Ritz-Carlton, ChicagoOpens in a new window, which features romance packages and spa services for a relaxing stay. If you're looking for a blend of business and family amenities, The Peninsula ChicagoOpens in a new window provides a luxurious experience with excellent children’s services.
2. The LoopOpens in a new window: The Loop is Chicago's bustling downtown area, rich with culture and attractions, making it a great choice for families and business travelers. Key points of interest include Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. The Langham, ChicagoOpens in a new window is a top 5.0-star hotel, offering business facilities and child-friendly amenities. Another excellent choice is Trump International Hotel & Tower ChicagoOpens in a new window, a boutique hotel with uniquely designed decor and services for families. For luxury seekers, theWit Chicago, a Hilton HotelOpens in a new window offers adventure sports and business amenities in a stylish setting.
3. River NorthOpens in a new window: River North is a trendy neighborhood in Chicago famous for its art galleries, dining, and nightlife, making it suitable for both families and business travelers. The area is conveniently located near Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent MileOpens in a new window is a charming 4.0-star boutique hotel with business amenities and a unique design. For pet owners, Level Chicago - River NorthOpens in a new window allows pets and is centrally located. If luxury shopping is on your agenda, consider The Godfrey Hotel ChicagoOpens in a new window, which features excellent business facilities and is situated in the shopping district.

Things to do in Wilmette for first time

Wilmette, with its picturesque lakeside setting, offers a perfect three-day getaway for travelers. Enjoy sandy beaches, lush parks, and vibrant forests while engaging in outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and various sports. The charming atmosphere and recreational opportunities make it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Wilmette:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at Millennium Park, where you can enjoy the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as The Bean. After soaking in the park's vibrant atmosphere, take a leisurely stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can admire the city’s stunning architecture and maybe grab a snack at one of the riverside cafes. Conclude your day with a visit to Michigan Avenue, known as the Magnificent Mile, where you can indulge in some shopping or enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants that line this bustling street.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Navy Pier, where you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Afterward, wander over to Grant Park, known for its beautiful gardens and monuments, perfect for a relaxing walk. Wrap up your day on State Street, a historic shopping district, where you can explore local boutiques and enjoy a casual dinner, soaking up the vibrant Chicago energy.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the Willis Tower, where you can ascend to the Skydeck for a panoramic view of the city. Afterward, head to the tranquil Chicago Botanic Garden, where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the diverse gardens. End your day at Adagio Teas, a cozy spot to unwind with a cup of artisanal tea, reflecting on your adventures in Wilmette and the surrounding area.

5 tips to find a great Wilmette hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Wilmette is during January, February, and December when hotel prices are at their lowest. If you're an international traveler, it's best to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure budget-friendly fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the area’s main attractions, such as the beautiful lake and beach. Wilmette offers great value for money, making it an ideal destination for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Wilmette, check out Hotels.com for some great offers. Visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section to uncover discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch the latest prices and save on your stay in Wilmette.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. Thus, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Wilmette.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Wilmette 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 Wilmette

Here are a few popular dining spots in Wilmette, Illinois, United States of America:

• The Original Pancake House: Renowned for its extensive breakfast menu, this beloved establishment offers a creative twist on traditional favorites, featuring an omelet bar that allows diners to customize their meals with a variety of locally sourced ingredients.
• Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: Famous for its deep-dish pizza, this iconic pizzeria showcases the rich culinary tradition of Chicago-style pizza, using fresh, high-quality ingredients that reflect local flavors and a commitment to authenticity.
• Ridgeview Grill: This restaurant presents a delightful menu that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes, allowing guests to experience a unique blend of American cuisine with a local flair that honors the history of Wilmette.

Best time to go to Wilmette

Wilmette experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.5°F (-3.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.0°F (22.8°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Wilmette are April, June, and July, 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.