Crestwood(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Clarendon Hills, top choices for families include Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chicago - Clarendon Hills, offering spacious family rooms, free breakfast, indoor pool, and proximity to Chicago Downtown (just 20 minutes away). The hotel is located near Crestwood Park and Northern Illinois University, ideal for children’s activities. Its secure neighborhood and pet-friendly policy make it a favorite among parents. Many guests appreciate the complimentary shuttle service to nearby shopping centers and easy access to major highways.

• Key Features: Family suites, free breakfast, indoor pool, safe suburban location.
• Why Stay Here? Combines comfort, convenience, and child-friendly amenities for stress-free family travel.

The best area for sightseeing and local charm in Clarendon Hills is the downtown historic district, especially around Crestwood Municipal Building and the Public Library. This walkable zone features well-preserved early 20th-century architecture, cozy cafés like Old Oak Coffee Shop, and small art galleries showcasing local talent. It’s also within easy reach of Crestwood Park and NIU campus, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration. Staying here offers an authentic taste of suburban Illinois life with a touch of nostalgia and community spirit.

• Must-Visit Spots: Municipal Building, Public Library, Old Oak Coffee Shop.
• Local Vibe: Historic charm, community events, quiet tree-lined streets.

To experience authentic American small-town culture in Clarendon Hills, stay at a boutique inn like The Old Town Inn or Clarendon Hills Heritage House, both housed in restored turn-of-the-century buildings. These accommodations preserve original woodwork, vintage furnishings, and classic American design. During summer, the town hosts the Small Town Festival, featuring craft fairs, classic car shows, and live folk music. Guests can enjoy homemade bread at Crestwood Bakery or attend poetry readings at The Grille, a beloved local café. The slow-paced lifestyle, strong community ties, and local pride define the true essence of this charming suburb.

• Cultural Highlights: Historic buildings, community festivals, local artisans, live performances.

While staying in Clarendon Hills, must-try local foods include the Crestwood BBQ Sandwich from Smoke & Oak BBQ, made with slow-smoked beef and house-made sauce. Another highlight is the Honey Walnut Muffin from Old Oak Bakery, known for its rich texture and natural sweetness. For a full American meal, visit The Grille near NIU campus, which serves hearty steak dinners and homemade mashed potatoes. Many hotels offer breakfast baskets with these regional treats—perfect for a morning start. Don’t miss the chance to savor these locally loved flavors during your stay.

• Top Picks: BBQ sandwich, honey walnut muffin, classic steak dinner.
• Best Experience: Breakfast in-room with local ingredients.

Yes, Clarendon Hills offers several business-friendly hotels. Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago - Clarendon Hills provides high-speed Wi-Fi, a business center, meeting rooms, and express check-in/check-out. Located just 25 minutes from Chicago Union Station, it’s ideal for professionals commuting to downtown. The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center and free parking. Nearby, tech firms and consulting offices line Silicon Drive, making it a strategic hub. Choose a room with a desk and ergonomic chair for productive work sessions. Perfect for efficient, comfortable business trips.

• Business Perks: High-speed internet, meeting space, fast check-in, central location.
• Ideal For: Executives, consultants, remote workers.

For couples seeking romance, The Willow Tree Cottage is a standout choice—a secluded, garden-facing cottage with a fireplace, private terrace, and starlit rooftop deck. The hotel offers customized candlelit dinners and guided evening walks through Crestwood Park. Nearby, Crestwood Theatre hosts intimate jazz nights and indie plays, perfect for shared experiences. Some rooms feature spa baths and aromatherapy systems. Due to limited availability, HopeGoo ahead is essential. The peaceful setting, personalized touches, and attention to detail make it ideal for honeymoons or anniversary getaways.

• Romantic Elements: Private garden, fireplace, rooftop deck, custom dinner.
• Best For: Honeymoons, anniversaries, quiet escapes.

Hotels in Clarendon Hills are well-connected to Downtown Chicago via the Metra Union Pacific North Line, with trains departing from Clarendon Hills Station (a 5-minute walk from hotels like Holiday Inn Express). The ride takes about 25 minutes to Chicago Union Station. Alternatively, many hotels offer free shuttles to I-294 Expressway for drivers. For public transit, take a bus to Elmhurst Transit Center, then transfer to the Blue Line (approx. 35 minutes). Most hotels provide transit maps and recommend downloading the Transit App for real-time updates. Seamless access makes day trips effortless.

• Transport Options: Metra train, shuttle service, highway access, bus + rail transfer.

Currently, most Clarendon Hills hotels such as Hampton Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express do not offer on-site childcare. However, they can assist guests in arranging certified local babysitters through trusted providers like KidsFirst Care, available by request up to 72 hours in advance. Some hotels provide kid-friendly amenities: play kits, baby cribs, and high chairs. For longer stays, consider renting a vacation home with a dedicated caretaker option. Always confirm availability and rates early to ensure a worry-free family trip.

• Alternatives: Local babysitting agencies, family suites, in-room kids’ supplies.

Hiking enthusiasts should stay at Green Trails Lodge, located right next to the Crestwood Trail System—an 8+ km network of paths winding through oak forests, streams, and wetlands. The lodge offers hiking maps, rental gear (including trekking poles), and daily guided nature walks. Nearby, the NIU Nature Research Center hosts birdwatching and plant identification workshops. Rooms with balconies or patios let you enjoy forest views and morning birdsong. The peaceful, low-traffic environment makes it perfect for immersive outdoor experiences. Ideal for those seeking solitude and connection with nature.

• Trail Highlights: Forest paths, waterfalls, wildlife spotting, guided tours.
• Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, weekend adventurers.

Yes, several hotels in Clarendon Hills embrace sustainability. Hampton Inn & Suites runs a "Green Room Initiative" using energy-efficient lighting, recyclable toiletries, and plastic-free bottled water. They also have solar-powered hot water systems and rainwater harvesting for landscaping. The Willow Tree Cottage uses locally sourced organic breakfast ingredients and supports a community compost program. Guests can opt out of daily towel changes to reduce waste. These eco-conscious practices help lower environmental impact while enhancing guest experience. Look for hotels with green certifications when HopeGoo.

• Sustainability Features: Solar energy, zero plastic, composting, energy-saving tech.
• Eco-Advantage: Reduced carbon footprint, local sourcing, guest participation.