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

For first-time visitors, staying in the downtown River Grove area is ideal. It offers easy access to local attractions like the River Grove Historical Society Museum and nearby Forest Park, a scenic green space perfect for walking and biking.

The Holiday Inn Express River Grove is a top-rated choice, offering free breakfast, modern rooms, and proximity to major highways leading into Chicago. Another excellent option is the Staybridge Suites Chicago - River Grove, which features full kitchenettes and spacious suites—ideal for families or extended stays.

Local dining highlights include Mama's Italian Kitchen, known for authentic homemade pasta and family-style meals. The area blends suburban comfort with urban convenience, making it a smart base for exploring both Chicago and surrounding suburbs.

River Grove is just about 25 minutes by car from downtown Chicago via I-290. For public transit, the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line at the River Grove train station offers direct service to Chicago Union Station in approximately 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for business travelers and tourists.

Hotels like Holiday Inn Express River Grove provide convenient access to the station and often offer free parking. Some properties also arrange shuttle services to nearby rail stops, enhancing mobility. With reliable transit and short travel time, River Grove serves as a practical and affordable gateway to the city’s top attractions, including Millennium Park and The Magnificent Mile.

In River Grove, one must visit the River Grove Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s rich heritage, particularly its German and Polish immigrant roots from the late 19th to early 20th century. Exhibits include vintage tools, photographs, and personal artifacts.

Each summer, the community hosts the River Grove Summer Festival, featuring live music, local food vendors, craft stalls, and family-friendly activities that highlight multicultural traditions.

Nature lovers can explore Forest Park, a scenic green space with walking trails and picnic areas. Guided nature walks occasionally take place, offering insights into native flora and wildlife.

Religious culture enthusiasts should visit Our Lady of Lourdes Church, a striking Gothic-style church with beautiful stained-glass windows and a peaceful atmosphere, central to the town’s spiritual life.

Yes, River Grove offers several family-friendly hotels. The Staybridge Suites Chicago - River Grove stands out with fully equipped suites featuring separate bedrooms, kitchenettes, and laundry facilities—perfect for longer stays with kids.

Many hotels provide complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, and safe play areas. Nearby, Forest Park and the River Grove Community Center feature playgrounds, picnic spots, and seasonal children’s programs.

Family-friendly dining options like Mama's Italian Kitchen serve kid-sized meals and have spacious seating. With easy access to attractions such as Disneyland and the Chicago Zoological Park (within 40 minutes), River Grove is an ideal base for family vacations.

The best neighborhood to stay in River Grove is Downtown River Grove. It’s home to top-rated hotels like Holiday Inn Express River Grove and Staybridge Suites, all within walking distance of the Metra train station, community center, and local shops.

This area offers excellent access to Forest Park, a peaceful green space with trails and picnic areas. With grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies nearby, daily needs are easily met.

For a quieter experience, consider areas near Illinois State University, though some streets may be less accessible. Overall, downtown River Grove combines safety, convenience, and connectivity—making it ideal for business travelers and tourists alike.

Yes, many hotels in River Grove provide free breakfast. The Holiday Inn Express River Grove serves a hot and cold breakfast daily, including cereal, eggs, bread, and beverages—perfect for guests heading to downtown Chicago.

Staybridge Suites Chicago - River Grove offers a more extensive buffet with fresh fruit, yogurt, pancakes, and a kitchenette for self-prep meals. This is especially helpful for longer stays.

While some budget accommodations don’t include breakfast, nearby options like Starbucks and 7-Eleven offer affordable quick bites. Free breakfast is a valuable perk, saving time and money—always check hotel policies when HopeGoo to optimize your trip.