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

In Des Plaines, IL, the top family-friendly hotel is Holiday Inn & Suites Des Plaines, located just steps from downtown and near major attractions like the Des Plaines Mall and Illinois State University Chicago Campus. This hotel features spacious rooms with bunk beds, a seasonal indoor pool, and a dedicated kids’ play area. Families enjoy complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to nearby parks such as Des Plaines River Trail, perfect for outdoor adventures. The hotel also offers pet-friendly options and a convenient location within 15 minutes of O’Hare International Airport, making it ideal for both short trips and extended stays. With its safety-conscious environment and family-oriented amenities, this property ensures comfort and fun for all ages.

Pro tip: Book early during school breaks and holiday weekends to secure availability.

The most convenient hotel district in Des Plaines, IL is the downtown core along Central Avenue and Route 63. This area combines proximity to major highways—such as I-90 and I-290—with easy access to O’Hare International Airport (15 minutes away), making it ideal for business travelers and visitors alike. Hotels here, including Hilton Garden Inn Des Plaines and Days Inn by Wyndham, offer modern amenities like free breakfast, fitness centers, and high-speed internet. The neighborhood is also walkable to local dining, shopping at the Des Plaines Mall, and the scenic Des Plaines River Trail. With strong security, well-lit streets, and reliable public transit links, this district balances urban convenience with suburban tranquility—perfect for both leisure and work-related stays.

Visitors to Des Plaines, IL should explore the Des Plaines Historical Museum, housed in a restored 19th-century train depot. It showcases artifacts from the city’s industrial past, including vintage railroad equipment, old maps, and community photographs that trace its evolution from farmland to a bustling suburb. Each summer, the museum hosts the Old Town Festival, featuring live music, craft vendors, local food trucks, and historic reenactments—offering an authentic taste of small-town charm. For nature lovers, the Des Plaines River Trail provides a peaceful walking and biking path through native woodlands and wetlands, often spotted with deer and migratory birds. These experiences reflect the town’s deep-rooted identity, blending history, community spirit, and natural beauty in a way few suburbs can match.

For road-trippers visiting Des Plaines, IL, the best choice is Days Inn by Wyndham Des Plaines, located directly off Route 63 and just 12 miles from O’Hare International Airport. This hotel offers free parking, 24-hour front desk service, and a complimentary breakfast buffet—ideal for long drives. Rooms feature large windows, comfortable beds, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring a restful stop. Nearby, you’ll find gas stations, fast-food chains, and convenience stores, making refueling and quick meals effortless. The hotel is also close to Des Plaines River Trail, where drivers can stretch their legs or take a scenic bike ride after a long journey. With its highway accessibility and no-frills reliability, this property is a top pick for budget-savvy travelers on the move.

Business travelers seeking premium accommodations in Des Plaines, IL should consider Hilton Garden Inn Des Plaines, which offers fully equipped meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center, and high-speed internet throughout the property. Located near I-90 and just 15 minutes from O’Hare Airport, it’s a strategic hub for regional conferences and client meetings. Executive suites come with ergonomic desks, noise-reducing walls, and smart TVs for virtual presentations. The hotel also provides on-site coffee bar services and late-night room service, supporting tight schedules. Guests appreciate the proximity to Illinois State University Chicago Campus and corporate offices in the North Shore. With a focus on productivity and comfort, this hotel delivers a seamless blend of professional facilities and quiet retreats—perfect for those balancing work and wellness.

Couples visiting Des Plaines, IL will love staying at Wyndham Garden Des Plaines, which offers themed “Romance Rooms” with plush king beds, mood lighting, bathrobes, and private balconies overlooking the garden courtyard. The hotel arranges customized welcome gifts—such as champagne, chocolates, and rose petals—enhancing intimacy. Guests can enjoy a sunset stroll along the Des Plaines River Trail, a scenic path lined with trees and soft lighting, perfect for quiet conversation. For a special evening, book a private dinner package through the hotel’s concierge, complete with candlelit tables and live piano music. The hotel’s tranquil ambiance, combined with thoughtful touches and nearby green spaces, creates an idyllic escape from daily life—ideal for anniversaries, honeymoons, or weekend getaways.

Tourists visiting Des Plaines, IL must sample Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, a regional staple served at local favorites like The Pizzeria at Des Plaines and Pizzeria Uno-inspired spots. Known for its thick crust, generous cheese layer, and chunky tomato sauce, this hearty dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Pair it with a locally brewed craft beer from Brewery 887, offering bold flavors like IPA and sour ale. For healthier options, visit Green Leaf Café, serving organic salads, grain bowls, and cold-pressed juices sourced from nearby farms. During summer, don’t miss the Des Plaines Food Fest, where vendors serve everything from gourmet tacos to artisanal ice cream. These culinary highlights not only satisfy hunger but also connect visitors to the city’s vibrant local culture and pride in homegrown flavors.

Travelers with pets will appreciate Holiday Inn & Suites Des Plaines and Days Inn by Wyndham Des Plaines, both offering pet-friendly accommodations in Des Plaines, IL. These hotels permit dogs and cats with a $25 per night fee and no weight restrictions. Amenities include pet waste bags, designated walking areas, and in-room cleaning services. The properties are located near the Des Plaines River Trail, providing safe, scenic routes for walks and outdoor bonding. Both hotels feature accessible entrances, elevators, and quiet zones, ensuring a stress-free stay for furry companions. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons, especially around holidays and school breaks. With pet-friendly policies and nearby green spaces, these hotels make traveling with animals simple, safe, and enjoyable—ideal for families and solo pet owners alike.

Nighttime in Des Plaines, IL comes alive with events like the Des Plaines River Trail Night Walk, where illuminated pathways invite strolls under the stars, perfect for couples or solo reflection. The Old Town Festival Nights (summer months) feature live music, pop-up art installations, and food stalls open until late. Local bars such as The Tap Room host jazz nights and trivia events, drawing crowds seeking casual entertainment. For a more serene experience, guests can enjoy a rooftop cocktail at Hilton Garden Inn Des Plaines, where city lights shimmer in the distance. Seasonal highlights include the Des Plaines Lights Festival, transforming Main Street into a glowing wonderland with interactive displays. Whether you prefer lively social scenes or quiet moments, the city offers diverse after-dark options tailored to every traveler’s mood.

Photography enthusiasts visiting Des Plaines, IL should head to the Des Plaines River Trail, especially during golden hour when sunlight filters through trees and reflects off the water—ideal for landscape and portrait shots. The historic Main Street buildings, with their vintage brick facades and ironwork signs, offer rich texture and color contrasts perfect for street photography. Capture the skyline view from the I-90 overpass, where the Chicago skyline appears in the distance framed by autumn foliage. Don’t miss the Des Plaines Lights Festival, where entire blocks are transformed into dazzling light sculptures—great for wide-angle and long-exposure shots. Early morning fog over the river or winter snowfall on cobblestone paths adds dramatic flair. Bring a tripod, use manual settings, and explore different angles to document the quiet beauty and hidden details of this suburban gem.