Des Plaines, IL

Travel Guide

A city skyline with a prominent skyscraper and a river in the foreground.
A paved path through a wooded area with trees and dry grass.
A modern building with a curved glass facade and a colorful ceiling.
A calm lake with a picnic table and a person sitting at it, surrounded by greenery and trees.
A snowy landscape with trees displaying autumn colors.

Where to stay in Des Plaines

Find the best Des Plaines areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Des Plaines
Learn more about Des Plaines
Outdoor wooden tables and chairs with a view of the sea.

Oakton

The restaurants and shopping are a few reasons travelers visit Oakton. Though there aren't many top sights in the neighborhood, you can visit Lake Park and Allstate Arena, a few notable attractions nearby.

Downtown Des Plaines

Downtown Des Plaines might not have many top sights, but Lake Park and Allstate Arena are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Norma

Norma is well-liked for its restaurants and shopping. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Lake Park and Allstate Arena are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Congress Plaza Hotel

Congress Plaza Hotel

3.5 out of 5
520 South Michigan Avenue Chicago IL
$115 nightly
The price is $136 total per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
$136 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Chicago. Enjoy 2 restaurants, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8/10 Very Good! (10,269 reviews)
"Nice"

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

Congress Plaza Hotel
The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast

The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast

4 out of 5
1301 N State Pkwy Chicago IL
$152 nightly
The price is $181 total per night from Sep 30 to Oct 1
$181 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Chicago. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and valet parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast
Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago

Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago

4 out of 5
One Superior Place Chicago IL
Stay at this aparthotel in Chicago. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (888 reviews)
"We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Kasa- check in instructions were clear and hassle free. The unit was spacious and clean, with a terrific view. Highly recommended!"

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

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Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago
See all 4,894 properties in Des Plaines
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
King Bed Non-Smoking

King Bed Non-Smoking

Chicago IL
Stay at this apartment in Des Plaines. Enjoy cable/satellite TV service and air conditioning. Popular attractions Allstate Arena and Lake Park are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (288 reviews)
Room was on the smaller side but had everything needed for work. WiFi was reliab ...
"Room was on the smaller side but had everything needed for work. WiFi was reliable and fast, which helped me get my tasks done without interruption. Housekeeping was attentive too, keeping the space tidy each day."

Reviewed on Jun 12, 2026

King Bed Non-Smoking
Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago

Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago

4 out of 5
One Superior Place Chicago IL
Stay at this aparthotel in Chicago. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (888 reviews)
"We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Kasa- check in instructions were clear and hassle free. The unit was spacious and clean, with a terrific view. Highly recommended!"

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago
Sentral Michigan Avenue

Sentral Michigan Avenue

4 out of 5
808 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVENUE Chicago IL
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Chicago. Enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, valet parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,300 reviews)
"great location & amenities on site. Docked stars for cleanliness."

Reviewed on Sep 3, 2026

Sentral Michigan Avenue
See all properties in Des Plaines
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Des Plaines attractions

Rivers Casino

8.0/10 (559 reviews)
Why not roll the dice with a visit to Rivers Casino during your travels in Des Plaines? Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
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Things to do

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

$27
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Chicago: Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket

Chicago: Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket

$47
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Chicago: Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket
Flyover in Chicago

Flyover in Chicago

$28
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Flyover in Chicago
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

$41
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
cruise ship sailing past navy pier in chicago

City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise

$158
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago

$26
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago
See all activities in Des Plaines

Frequently asked questions

Is Des Plaines worth visiting?
Des Plaines is worth visiting for its diverse dining scene, where travelers can enjoy a range of Asian and Latin American cuisine, from flavorful stir-fries and sushi to tacos and empanadas. It also offers practical transit access via train, making it easy to explore the area.
When is the best time to visit Des Plaines?
The best time to visit Des Plaines is from May through September, when the weather is generally pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good bet, offering a cooler, potentially snowy, experience.
What is Des Plaines known for?
Des Plaines is known for its inviting green spaces, including Lake Park, Apache Park, and Arndt Park, which offer travelers places for recreation. The city also features a strong Asian food culture, providing diverse dining options for visitors.
What is a good itinerary length for Des Plaines?
A good itinerary length for Des Plaines is one to two days to enjoy its parks, such as Lake Park and Apache Park. An extended stay of three to four days lets travelers explore all the parks, like Arndt Park, and savor the local dining scene, which includes Asian, Latin American, and Italian cuisine.
How do you get around Des Plaines?
Des Plaines offers train service for travelers to get around. You can access the area via stations like Des Plaines Station and Des Plaines Cumberland Station. For other destinations or more flexibility, rideshare services are also available.
What are the top things to do in and around Des Plaines?
In Des Plaines, travelers can enjoy outdoor spaces and a local driving range:

  • Stroll through Lake Park.
  • Explore Apache Park.
  • Relax at Arndt Park.
  • Practice your swing at Harry H. Semrow Driving Range.

How do I plan a trip to Des Plaines?
To plan your trip to Des Plaines, search for places to stay on Expedia and book flights in advance. You can explore nature spots like Lake Park, Apache Park, and Arndt Park. Consider public transit via train, or rent a car for more flexibility. For outdoor activities, always have indoor backup plans for weather changes.
What cuisines can you find in Des Plaines?
In Des Plaines you can find Eastern European cuisine, with dishes like pierogi, borscht, and goulash. Travelers can also enjoy Asian options such as Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and Korean food. Other available cuisines include Latin American, Italian, Mediterranean, and North American dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Des Plaines?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Des Plaines by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Des Plaines with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Des Plaines trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Des Plaines?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Des Plaines can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Des Plaines trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Des Plaines trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Des Plaines trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Des Plaines trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Des Plaines?
If it's your first trip to Des Plaines, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Des Plaines hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Des Plaines hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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