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

The ideal neighborhood for staying in Summit, Illinois, is the downtown area near the Summit Municipal Building and Kelly Park, offering easy access to local amenities, dining, and green spaces. This central location ensures convenience for exploring nearby attractions like the Summit Historical Society Museum and walking trails along the DuPage River. For a more upscale experience, consider staying near Crestwood Avenue, where quiet streets and tree-lined homes provide a peaceful retreat while remaining close to shopping centers like The Shops at Summit.

Families often prefer areas with proximity to public schools and parks, as Summit is known for its strong community vibe and excellent safety ratings. Staying in these neighborhoods also means shorter commute times to Chicago’s Loop, making it perfect for weekend getaways or business trips.

Visitors to Summit, Illinois, can enjoy several unique cultural experiences rooted in small-town charm and history. The annual Summit Heritage Week features vintage car shows, antique fairs, and guided walking tours through historic homes built in the early 1900s, offering a vivid glimpse into the town’s past. The Summit Historical Society Museum provides free admission and houses rare artifacts, photographs, and documents tracing the evolution of Summit from an agricultural village to a modern suburban community.

Another highlight is Blackwood Garden, a beloved public space hosting seasonal events such as spring flower festivals and outdoor concerts. On Saturdays, the Summit Farmers Market brings together local vendors selling organic produce, handmade goods, and artisan coffee—perfect for experiencing authentic community life. These activities reflect Summit’s strong emphasis on heritage, sustainability, and neighborly connection.

Summit, Illinois, lies approximately 20 miles (32 km) west of Chicago, making it a convenient suburb within the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Major highways like IL-83 and I-290 provide quick access to downtown Chicago, with a drive time of about 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic.

The Summit Station on the Metra BNSF Line offers frequent commuter rail service to Chicago Union Station, taking roughly 30 minutes—ideal for daily commuters or weekend visits. Additionally, the town has reliable local bus routes and bike-friendly roads promoting eco-friendly travel. With its strategic location between urban amenities and suburban tranquility, Summit blends accessibility with a peaceful lifestyle, appealing to both residents and tourists alike.

The safest and most tourist-friendly area in Summit, Illinois, is the downtown district, particularly around the Summit Municipal Building and Kelly Park. This neighborhood boasts excellent safety records, well-maintained streets, and walkable access to local restaurants, boutique shops, and cultural landmarks such as the Summit Historical Society Museum and Blackwood Garden.

Accommodations here, including The Summit Hotel & Spa, offer high-security standards, 24/7 front desk service, and proximity to public transit. The area hosts regular community events and is popular among families and solo travelers alike. With its blend of historic charm, green spaces, and vibrant local culture, staying in this district ensures both comfort and authentic engagement with Summit’s welcoming community spirit.

Yes, many hotels in Summit, Illinois, provide complimentary breakfast, especially mid-to-upper-tier business and family-friendly properties. The Summit Hotel & Spa offers a continental breakfast buffet each morning from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, featuring fresh pastries, jams, yogurt, fruit juices, and coffee to suit diverse tastes.

Similarly, Holiday Inn Summit - Chicago Area includes a hot breakfast with items like scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and toasted bread, along with beverages. These meals are typically served in a relaxed dining area and are ideal for guests planning early-day sightseeing or commuting. While some budget-friendly guesthouses may not include breakfast, they often offer package deals with meal add-ons. Overall, breakfast inclusion is standard across most Summit hotels, reflecting their commitment to enhancing guest satisfaction—particularly beneficial for early risers and business travelers.

Must-visit attractions in Summit, Illinois, include:

• Kelly Park: A spacious green space with playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas—perfect for families and outdoor lovers.
• Summit Historical Society Museum: Features exhibits on the town’s 19th-century roots, vintage photos, and local artifacts; admission is free.
• Blackwood Garden: A scenic public garden that hosts seasonal events like spring flower festivals and summer concerts.
• Summit Municipal Building: An architecturally charming structure with public art installations and historical murals—ideal for photos.
• Summit Farmers Market: Open every Saturday morning, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and local coffee—great for experiencing community life.

These sites are centrally located and easily accessible by foot or bike, allowing visitors to explore Summit’s rich heritage and vibrant neighborhood charm in a single day.