Find hotels in Lake Forest, IL from $61

Top reasons to visit Lake Forest

• Scenic Outdoor Activities: Enjoy beautiful beaches, urban parks, and nature preserves along Lake Michigan, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit Lake Forest College to experience local culture and history in a charming setting.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Engage in a variety of activities that cater to families, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Vibrant Neighborhoods: Explore picturesque parks and lively local shops that offer a unique community atmosphere.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Choose from cozy motels to well-equipped hotels, welcoming pets and embracing inclusivity.

Find great hotels near Lake Forest

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Lake Forest, Illinois, designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're looking for a cozy motel or a well-equipped hotel, you'll find options that welcome pets and embrace an LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy the charm of Lake Forest while benefiting from convenient amenities tailored to your needs. Experience a relaxing stay in this picturesque area, making it the perfect base for your vacation adventures.

• Motel 6 Prospect Heights, IL: A budget-friendly option, Motel 6 Prospect Heights offers an inviting atmosphere for travelers seeking affordable lodging without compromising comfort. With a guest rating of 8.2, this property is 11 miles from Lake Forest and is ideal for pet owners, allowing furry friends to stay with you at no extra charge. Guests appreciate the straightforward amenities, including free Wi-Fi and on-site parking, making it a convenient choice for both short and extended stays.
• Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG: This 3-star hotel, rated 8.6 by guests, is perfect for business travelers looking for a blend of professionalism and comfort. Situated 17 miles from Lake Forest, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston features modern meeting facilities, a business center, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Guests can unwind at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a workout at the fitness center, making it an excellent choice for those traveling for work while still wanting to relax.
• Red Roof Inn Chicago-O'Hare Airport/ Arlington Hts: Another budget-friendly accommodation, the Red Roof Inn is a fantastic choice for pet-friendly travelers. Located 17 miles from Lake Forest, this hotel welcomes pets, making it easy for you to travel with your furry companion. With a range of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and comfortable rooms, guests rated this hotel highly for its excellent service and convenient location near the airport. It’s a solid choice for both leisure and business travelers.

Where to stay in Lake Forest

Lake Forest, Illinois, is a charming city perfect for outdoor and family-themed vacations. Explore the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan and visit Lake Forest College for a taste of local culture. With friendly people and a welcoming atmosphere, you can enjoy family-friendly activities and romantic spots. Don't miss top picks like the picturesque parks and vibrant neighborhoods that make Lake Forest a delightful destination for any traveler.

• Chicago: As one of the largest cities in the United States, Chicago offers a vibrant metropolitan experience. Located a short drive from Lake Forest, the city is a hub for art, culture, and entertainment. Visitors flock to Chicago for its iconic skyline, world-class museums, and diverse dining options. The summer months from July to September see a peak in travelers, drawn to the city's outdoor festivals and events. Key attractions include the Magnificent Mile for shopping, Millennium Park for outdoor concerts, and the historic Wrigley Field for sports enthusiasts. Chicago’s urban parks and waterfront areas provide ample opportunities for recreation, making it a must-visit during your stay.
• Lake Bluff: Nestled just a mile from Lake Forest, Lake Bluff is a picturesque city known for its scenic beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. This charming area is particularly popular in the spring and summer, with visitors enjoying its outdoor spaces and beach access. The local recreation areas offer hiking and biking trails, while the nearby lake provides a serene setting for relaxation and water activities. Whether you're exploring the historic downtown or enjoying a day at the beach, Lake Bluff promises a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of nature, making it an ideal stop on your vacation.
• Highwood: Located about four miles from Lake Forest, Highwood is a vibrant city known for its lively community and scenic surroundings. The city attracts visitors year-round, especially in the spring and summer when outdoor activities abound. Highwood features a mix of shopping experiences and educational venues, making it ideal for family outings. Its proximity to urban parks and lakes offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Don't miss the chance to enjoy local events and festivals that highlight Highwood's cultural diversity and community spirit, ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors.

Things to do near Lake Forest

Lake Forest, Illinois, offers a delightful mix of outdoor and family-friendly activities perfect for a city-themed vacation. Explore local attractions, enjoy live music, and visit a vibrant flea market. The area boasts beautiful recreational spaces and a shopping center that cater to all tastes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment.

Shopping

In Lake Forest, explore boutiques like The Lake Forest Shop for upscale fashion and unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Gurnee Mills Mall, about 10 miles away, for an extensive selection of brand-name outlets and dining options.

Recreation

Experience luxury at Chevy Chase Country Club, where you can indulge in golf and relax in the serene clubhouse. At Ravinia Green Country Club, enjoy exquisite dining and scenic views. Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club offers wellness amenities and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for rejuvenation.

Adventure

Explore the scenic trails at the Lake Forest Open Lands for hiking and wildlife spotting. For a thrilling experience, try paddleboarding on Lake Michigan, where you can enjoy the beautiful shoreline and the refreshing breeze. Don't miss the chance to experience the thrill of zip-lining at the nearby adventure park.

Nightlife

Lake Forest offers a charming nightlife with cozy spots like the popular Lake Forest Park District, perfect for outdoor events. For a lively evening, check out the local bars and restaurants along Western Avenue, where you can enjoy good food and drinks in a friendly atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Forest

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Lake Forest are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Lake Forest is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Lake Forest is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Lake Forest with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Lake Forest

Lake Forest, Illinois, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, offering a blend of beach, urban parks, and nature preserves. Visitors can enjoy various attractions that cater to those seeking a city experience combined with nature. Whether you’re looking to relax by the beach, explore scenic parks, or hike through pristine reserves, Lake Forest provides a delightful escape for travelers of all ages.

• Forest Park Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day at Forest Park Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, and experience the laid-back beach atmosphere. The beautiful sandy shores and surrounding scenery make it a perfect spot for families and friends to unwind.
• Six Flags Great America: Thrill-seekers will love Six Flags Great America, located just 9 miles from Lake Forest. With exhilarating rides, entertaining shows, and a variety of attractions, this theme park promises a fun-filled day for the entire family.
• Chicago Botanic Garden: A short 8-mile drive leads you to the Chicago Botanic Garden, a stunning oasis featuring diverse plant collections and picturesque landscapes. Ideal for romantic strolls or family outings, this garden offers a serene escape into nature.

Best time to go to Lake Forest

The best time to visit Lake Forest is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	25.9°F (-3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	32.0°F (0.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Lake Forest

When planning your trip to Lake Forest, Illinois, you have several airport options. Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is 20 miles away and offers convenient access to hotels like the 4.5-star Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel and the 4-star Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago, both located 2 miles from the airport. Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is 48 miles away, with nearby accommodations such as the 4.5-star Pfister Hotel. Additionally, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is 33 miles from Lake Forest, featuring luxurious stays like the 5-star Langham, Chicago. Each airport provides various transportation services to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.