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

The best neighborhoods to stay in Niles, Illinois, are Downtown Niles and near the Niles Public Library, both offering easy access to local charm and amenities. For a quiet, residential feel with proximity to nature, consider staying near Creekside Park. The area is family-friendly and close to walking trails and the North Branch of the Chicago River.

Hotels like Hyatt House Niles and Hilton Garden Inn Niles are located in central zones with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking—ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. These properties also serve as hubs for exploring nearby attractions such as Niles Historical Society Museum and Niles Arts & Culture Center.

In Niles, Illinois, one unique cultural experience is visiting the Niles Historical Society Museum, which showcases artifacts from the town’s railroad past and early 20th-century life. It’s housed in a restored 1890s building and offers guided tours highlighting the town’s role in regional transportation history.

Another highlight is the annual Niles Festival, held every summer, featuring live music, craft vendors, food trucks, and art installations along Main Street. This community-driven event reflects Niles’ strong local identity.

Don’t miss the Old Town Walking Tour, which takes you through historic homes and storefronts showcasing Victorian and Georgian architecture. You’ll also find the Niles Railroad Depot Site, a preserved railway landmark now serving as a public park with seasonal train displays—perfect for history buffs and families alike.

For families traveling with children, Hilton Garden Inn Niles stands out with spacious family rooms, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a dedicated indoor play area. Located just steps from Westside Park and Niles Public Library, it offers safe, outdoor space for kids to explore.

Alternatively, Niles Inn Bed & Breakfast provides larger suites with kitchenettes—ideal for families wanting to cook meals or stay longer. The property sits on a quiet street near the North Branch Trail, perfect for biking or strolling with toddlers.

Both hotels offer free Wi-Fi, parking, and child-friendly amenities like cribs and high chairs. The surrounding area is highly walkable and includes playgrounds and community events—making it an excellent base for family-oriented travel in Niles.

Public transportation in Niles, Illinois, is modest but functional. The primary option is Niles Transit buses, which connect key locations like the Niles Public Library, City Hall, and Westside Park. While there’s no rail line within the city, Metra bus service links Niles to Chicago’s Union Station via transfer points.

For direct access to downtown Chicago, take a Metra train from the Barrington station (about 15 minutes away), which runs frequently throughout the day. Some hotels, like Hyatt House Niles, offer shuttle services to nearby train stops.

However, most visitors find that driving is more convenient, especially given Niles’ proximity to I-90 highway—just a 30-minute drive to downtown Chicago. Using apps like Google Maps or Transit helps track real-time schedules, particularly during peak hours or holidays.

Top landmarks in Niles, Illinois, include the Niles City Hall, a striking example of Neoclassical architecture with a copper dome; the Old Town Historic District, home to over 60 well-preserved 19th- and early 20th-century buildings ideal for photography and walking tours;

The Niles Railroad Depot Site, once a vital stop on the Chicago-Bloomington rail line, now serves as a memorial park hosting vintage train exhibitions.

Also worth visiting is the North Branch Trail, a scenic greenway along the North Branch of the Chicago River, perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The Niles Public Library is another cultural gem, featuring a children’s reading room and rotating exhibits on local authors and history.

Together, these sites reflect Niles’ rich heritage and small-town charm.

Must-try foods in Niles, Illinois, include the classic American breakfast at Niles Diner, featuring eggs, bacon, and homemade pancakes. For Italian flair, visit Old Town Italian Ristorante, known for its handmade pasta and traditional marinara sauce.

During the annual Niles Festival, don’t miss the grilled meats, smoked beef sandwiches, and local favorites like caramel apple ice cream. Many vendors use seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms.

If you’re staying at Niles Inn Bed & Breakfast, be sure to try their signature country-style breakfast with fresh jam, blueberry muffins, and locally roasted coffee.

Additionally, visit the Niles Farmers Market every Saturday for organic produce, raw honey, artisan bread, and handcrafted goods—perfect for a picnic or meal prep.