Hotels in Champaign

Uncover the Vibrant Spirit of Champaign: Where Innovation Meets Nature

Discover the charm of Champaign, Illinois, where vibrant university life meets rich cultural experiences. Stroll through the lively downtown, brimming with eclectic shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options that celebrate local flavors. Enjoy the lush parks and scenic trails of Champaign County, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t miss the University of Illinois, home to stunning architecture and engaging museums. With its welcoming atmosphere and a blend of innovation and tradition, Champaign is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a unique slice of Midwestern life, making it an ideal destination for exploration and relaxation.

Discover great hotels in Champaign

Champaign, Illinois offers a range of hotel accommodations from cozy inns to comfortable hotels. Visitors can find well-appointed rooms at various price points, ensuring a pleasant stay. The area features a mix of chain hotels and charming local options, making it easy to find the perfect place near Urbana or the city center. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Champaign:

1. Hampton Inn Champaign/UrbanaOpens in a new window: Hampton Inn Champaign/Urbana is a welcoming 2.5-star hotel that offers a comfortable stay for travelers seeking a vibrant vacation experience. The property features amenities tailored for business travel, ensuring a seamless journey. Guests appreciate the LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere, creating a sense of community and openness. The hotel’s design fosters a relaxed environment, allowing travelers to recharge and connect with others. With convenient express check-in and thoughtfully curated experiences, Hampton Inn Champaign/Urbana stands out as an excellent choice for those looking to blend leisure with a touch of business sophistication.
2. Wyndham Garden Conference Center Champaign/UrbanaOpens in a new window: Wyndham Garden Conference Center Champaign/Urbana is a stylish 3.0-star hotel perfect for travelers who appreciate a refined vacation experience. This property is LGBTQIA welcoming and focuses on creating a distinctive atmosphere for leisure travelers. Highlighted by a contemporary design, Wyndham Garden Conference Center Champaign/Urbana offers an array of amenities that elevate your stay, including easy access to local attractions and a comfortable lounge area for relaxation. Guests rave about the hotel's inviting ambiance, which encourages socializing and enjoyment, making it an ideal spot for those seeking comfort and quality during their travels.
3. AmericInn by Wyndham Urbana/Champaign University AreaOpens in a new window: AmericInn by Wyndham Urbana/Champaign University Area is an inviting 2.0-star hotel that caters to leisure travelers who prioritize a pet-friendly experience. This property allows some pets onsite, creating a welcoming environment for animal lovers. The hotel features essential amenities that ensure comfort, with a focus on providing a relaxed atmosphere. The positive sentiments from visitors emphasize the ease of travel with pets and the friendly reception. With its unique offerings, AmericInn by Wyndham Urbana/Champaign University Area stands out as a cozy getaway for those traveling with furry companions while enjoying their stay in Champaign.

Top locations to stay in Champaign

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Champaign, Illinois, are Urbana, Savoy, and Thomasboro. Urbana is vibrant with its university atmosphere and cultural attractions. Savoy is family-friendly with excellent parks and community activities. Thomasboro offers a quaint, small-town feel with local charm. For first-time visitors, Urbana is the best choice due to its proximity to downtown Champaign and diverse amenities.

1. UrbanaOpens in a new window: Urbana is a vibrant city with a lively atmosphere, making it a fantastic place to stay. Known for its cultural attractions, you can explore unique galleries and theaters that host a variety of performances throughout the year. The city is also home to charming parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Don’t miss the local shops and boutiques, offering a taste of the area’s creativity and flair. With a rich mix of arts and community events, Urbana provides a welcoming environment for both relaxation and exploration.
2. SavoyOpens in a new window: Savoy is an excellent choice for families and those seeking a friendly community vibe. The area boasts a variety of family-friendly attractions, such as parks with playgrounds and recreational facilities. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the local retail options, including unique stores and convenient shopping centers. Savoy’s relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to unwind after a day of exploring, with plenty of casual dining spots to enjoy. It’s a great base for discovering the surrounding areas while having a comfortable place to return to.
3. ThomasboroOpens in a new window: Thomasboro offers a quaint and peaceful retreat for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. This small town is perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace and the charm of a close-knit community. While it may not have the extensive attractions of larger cities, you can enjoy local parks and outdoor activities that highlight the natural beauty of the area. Thomasboro provides a unique opportunity to experience the warmth of small-town life while being a short drive away from the action in nearby cities.

Things to do in Champaign

Champaign offers a vibrant mix of lush parks, scenic lakes, and inviting forests, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy lively performances, catch local sports events, and explore eclectic shops. Whether you’re hiking, boating, or soaking in live music, this destination promises a delightful experience for everyone.

• Hessel ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic in Hessel Park, a beautiful urban park that offers lush greenery and scenic walking paths. It's a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and soak in the natural beauty of the area, making it a great retreat for both locals and visitors.
• Krannert Center for the Performing ArtsOpens in a new window – Dive into the vibrant cultural scene at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. This cultural hub hosts a variety of performances, from theater and dance to music concerts. Check out the schedule to catch a show and experience the artistic flair of Champaign.
• Alma MaterOpens in a new window – Snap a photo with the iconic Alma Mater statue, a symbol of pride for the University of Illinois. This beloved landmark represents the university's spirit and heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the campus.
• Kaufman LakeOpens in a new window – Spend a tranquil afternoon at Kaufman Lake, where you can fish, kayak, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The lake provides a serene escape and is a wonderful place to connect with nature while taking in the sights and sounds of the water.
• The Virginia TheatreOpens in a new window – Step into The Virginia Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that showcases films and live performances. With its historic charm and impressive architecture, catching a show here is an experience you won't want to miss.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Champaign

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit Champaign are January, July, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those on a budget, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully experience the city's significant landmarks, cultural venues, and historical sites. During your visit, you can explore the university, enjoy performances at the theater, catch live music events, and indulge in local dining and shopping. Additionally, don't miss the chance to experience the city's sports scene and family-friendly attractions, all offering great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Champaign, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications for updates on flash sales and special promotions, so you won't miss potential savings. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool within the app allows travelers to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you stay informed about available rates. By using these resources, you're more likely to find the best hotel deals for your spontaneous getaway to Champaign.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a Champaign hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Champaign's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit farther out that remains well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even some lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often excellent value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Champaign

Champaign experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 27.1°F (-2.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.1°F (23.4°C). April tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Champaign are May, August, and October, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.