Hotels in Crete

Crete Unveiled: Nature’s Masterpiece and Cultural Treasure

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Illinois, Crete is a charming small town that offers a delightful escape into nature and community spirit. Just a short drive from bustling Chicago, this hidden gem boasts access to beautiful parks, including nearby Indiana Dunes National Park, where visitors can explore sandy shores and scenic trails. Enjoy leisurely walks through Crete's lush green spaces, indulge in local dining, or immerse yourself in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this tight-knit community. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a cultural experience, Crete is a delightful off-the-beaten-path destination waiting to be discovered. For the best hotel rates in Crete and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Crete

Some of the best places to stay in Crete are The Loop, River North and South Loop. Crete, Illinois, offers unique spots like The Loop, River North, and South Loop, each perfect for travelers. The Loop is ideal for first-time visitors, showcasing vibrant city life and attractions. River North boasts a lively art scene and dining options, while South Loop features cultural landmarks. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to affordable options, ensuring something for every budget. Whether you seek upscale suites or cozy motels, you’ll find suitable options throughout these areas for a memorable stay. Here are some of the best hotels in Crete that our travelers love:

1. The LoopOpens in a new window: The Loop is the vibrant heart of Chicago, known for its iconic architecture and bustling city atmosphere. It offers easy access to attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, making it a family-friendly destination. For a luxurious stay, consider The Langham, ChicagoOpens in a new window, which caters to both business and family travelers with amenities like a 24-hour business center and arcade game room for kids. Another option, Trump International Hotel & Tower ChicagoOpens in a new window, features unique decor and offers babysitting services, making it perfect for families. If you're seeking adventure, theWit Chicago, a Hilton HotelOpens in a new window provides various recreational activities and business facilities.
2. River NorthOpens in a new window: River North is renowned for its art galleries, dining, and nightlife, plus it’s close to major attractions like Michigan Avenue and the Navy Pier. Families and business travelers alike will appreciate The Peninsula ChicagoOpens in a new window, which offers babysitting services and child-friendly amenities. Park Hyatt ChicagoOpens in a new window is ideal for those looking for adventure, with options for windsurfing and swimming nearby. For a boutique experience, Waldorf Astoria ChicagoOpens in a new window features unique decor and excellent facilities for both business and family needs.
3. South LoopOpens in a new window: The South Loop is an excellent area for both business and leisure travelers, situated near key venues like McCormick Place and vibrant shopping districts. Marriott Marquis ChicagoOpens in a new window is perfect for beach lovers, providing direct beach access along with business amenities. For shopping enthusiasts, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago Opens in a new window offers convenient access to the shopping district and great family amenities. Lastly, The Wheeler MansionOpens in a new window features stylish design and a variety of child-friendly services, which makes it a fantastic choice for families visiting the area.

Things to do in Crete for first time

Crete offers a captivating blend of stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and sea diving, while also exploring vibrant shopping centers and recreational areas, ensuring a diverse and memorable experience. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Crete:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the Shrine of the Christ's Passion, where you can explore the beautiful outdoor religious art displays and experience the serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to the South Shore Arts - Crown Point Branch, where you can immerse yourself in local art and culture, enjoying exhibits that showcase regional artists. Conclude your day at the Lake County Fairgrounds, where you might catch a local event or fair, soaking up the festive vibe and perhaps tasting some classic fair food.
• Day 2: Begin your day with a refreshing walk or bike ride in Centennial Park, where the greenery and pathways provide a perfect setting for outdoor activities. Next, visit the South Holland Village Hall, which offers insights into local governance and community services. Wrap up your day at the Harvey Public Library, a wonderful place to unwind with a good book or participate in one of their events, immersing yourself in the local literary culture.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Cedar Lake Beach, where you can relax by the water, enjoy a swim, or take in the scenic views of the lake. Following that, make your way to Hoosier Prairie, a stunning nature preserve perfect for hiking and birdwatching, allowing you to connect with the local flora and fauna. Finish your day at the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, where you can stroll among impressive outdoor sculptures, appreciating the blend of nature and art in this tranquil setting.

5 tips to find a great Crete hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Crete is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's best to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure cheaper fares. To truly experience the main attractions, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Crete offers great value for money with its stunning attractions, including national parks and picturesque lakes, making it a fantastic destination for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Crete, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. You could compare room rates and choose options that allow you to pay at the hotel, providing flexibility. To stay informed about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications for flash sales and special last-minute promotions. This way, you're more likely to snag a great deal for your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on hotel expenses in Crete.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, finding a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Crete and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Crete

Crete 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 73.9°F (23.3°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Crete are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.