Hotels in Riverside

Riverside Reverie: Where Nature Dances with Serenity

Nestled just a stone's throw from downtown Chicago, Riverside, Illinois, is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends nature and charm. Designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, this picturesque village boasts serene riverbanks, lush parks, and stunning historic architecture. Stroll along the scenic trails or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the Des Plaines River. Unique attractions include the Riverside Arts Center and the enchanting Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio nearby. Perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, Riverside invites you to escape the hustle and bustle while discovering its quaint beauty and rich heritage. For the best hotel rates in Riverside, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Riverside

Some of the best places to stay in Riverside are Magnificent Mile, The Loop and River North. Riverside, Illinois, offers easy access to vibrant Chicago attractions like the Magnificent Mile, The Loop, and River North. The Magnificent Mile is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring luxury shopping and dining. The Loop is the city’s bustling business hub with cultural landmarks, while River North is known for its art galleries and nightlife. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hotels to upscale options in these areas, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Enjoy your vacation exploring the charm of Riverside and nearby Chicago! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Riverside:

1. Magnificent MileOpens in a new window: Magnificent Mile is a vibrant area known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options. With attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park nearby, it’s perfect for families and city explorers alike. For a luxurious stay, consider Park Hyatt ChicagoOpens in a new window, which caters to adventure and family themes, offering amenities like a business center and activities such as windsurfing and swimming. Alternatively, The Ritz-Carlton, ChicagoOpens in a new window features business and romantic experiences with a spa, indoor pool, and room service, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Lastly, The Peninsula ChicagoOpens in a new window combines luxury and family-friendly services, providing babysitting options and amenities for children.
2. The LoopOpens in a new window: The Loop is the downtown core of Chicago, rich in culture and close to key attractions like Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park. The Langham, ChicagoOpens in a new window is ideal for families and business travelers, featuring a 24-hour business center and a game room for children. Another option, Trump International Hotel & Tower ChicagoOpens in a new window, offers a boutique experience with unique decor and babysitting services. For those seeking luxury, theWit Chicago, a Hilton HotelOpens in a new window provides adventure-themed amenities like rentals and local excursions, ensuring a memorable stay.
3. River NorthOpens in a new window: River North is an artistic neighborhood filled with galleries, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a great spot for both leisure and business travelers. Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent MileOpens in a new window is a stylish boutique hotel with business amenities and child-friendly services, featuring a Beaux Arts design. For pet owners, Level Chicago - River NorthOpens in a new window allows pets and offers a pet-friendly environment in the city center. Lastly, The Godfrey Hotel ChicagoOpens in a new window is perfect for luxury seekers, providing a conference center and easy access to shopping, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Things to do in Riverside for first time

Three days in Riverside offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in its stunning natural landscapes, featuring serene rivers, lush forests, and picturesque parks. Enjoy diverse activities like boating, hiking, and birdwatching while encountering vibrant wildlife, making it a memorable getaway for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Riverside:

• Day 1: Start your adventure on Michigan Avenue, the iconic heart of Chicago known for its stunning architecture and vibrant shopping scene. Take a leisurely stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the city and perhaps grab a coffee at one of the riverside cafes. As you make your way to Millennium Park, don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as The Bean, before enjoying the park’s beautiful gardens and public art installations.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Navy Pier, a bustling hub featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Afterward, head to Water Tower Place, a premier shopping destination where you can browse a variety of stores. Conclude your day back at Millennium Park to experience Cloud Gate and perhaps catch an evening concert or outdoor movie.
• Day 3: Kick off with a morning stroll in Grant Park, often referred to as Chicago’s front yard, where you can enjoy its lush landscapes and public art. Then, make your way to Willis Tower for a thrilling visit to the Skydeck, where you can step out onto the glass ledge for an unforgettable view of the city below. Wrap up your day on State Street, known for its shopping and vibrant atmosphere, where you can enjoy dinner at a local eatery and reflect on your exciting Chicago experience.

5 tips to find a great Riverside hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those traveling on a budget, the most affordable time to visit Riverside is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to take in the main attractions, including the beautiful riverside scenery and natural parks. This destination offers great value for money, making it an ideal spot for budget-friendly travelers eager to explore its outdoor beauty.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Riverside? You could find great hotel discounts by checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Prices for hotels can vary significantly, so comparing room rates is key to finding the best value close to your travel date. To keep up with the latest prices and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch flash sales and exclusive offers that could help you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Riverside.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Riverside. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Riverside

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Riverside, Illinois, United States of America:

• Ole Mexican Foods: A beloved local gem, Ole Mexican Foods offers a vibrant menu filled with authentic Mexican dishes that celebrate traditional flavors while incorporating unique twists. Known for its fresh ingredients and bold spices, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Mexico in Riverside.
• Chef Shangri-La: This iconic eatery is famous for its innovative spin on classic Asian cuisine. With a diverse menu that showcases fresh ingredients and creative combinations, Chef Shangri-La provides diners with a delightful culinary adventure that reflects the multicultural influences of the region.
• The Chew Chew: A charming spot that emphasizes local ingredients, The Chew Chew is known for its inventive comfort food. The menu features dishes that blend traditional American flavors with modern culinary techniques, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Best time to go to Riverside

Riverside experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.0°F (-3.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.3°F (23.5°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Riverside, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.