Hotels in Gurnee

Thrills and Tranquility: Discover Gurnee's Adventure Oasis

Gurnee, Illinois, is a thrilling family-friendly destination that promises unforgettable adventures. Home to the iconic Six Flags Great America, visitors can experience exhilarating rides and captivating entertainment. Just a splash away, the adjacent Hurricane Harbor waterpark offers a refreshing escape with its wave pools and lazy rivers. Beyond the excitement, Gurnee features charming parks and scenic trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With a vibrant dining scene and convenient access to nearby Lake Michigan, Gurnee is the ultimate playground for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Dive into the fun and make lasting memories in this delightful Midwestern gem! For the best hotel rates in Gurnee 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 Gurnee

Some of the best places to stay in Gurnee are Uptown, Rogers Park and Irving Park. Gurnee, Illinois, is a fantastic vacation spot, especially for families, thanks to attractions like Six Flags Great America. For first-time visitors, Uptown offers vibrant nightlife and dining options. Rogers Park features a laid-back atmosphere with beautiful parks, while Irving Park is known for its cultural diversity. Accommodations in these areas vary, with options ranging from cozy motels to family-friendly hotels, many featuring pools and convenient amenities. Gurnee’s hotels cater to different budgets, making it an accessible destination. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Gurnee:

1. UptownOpens in a new window: Uptown is a vibrant area perfect for families and business travelers alike. It is known for its proximity to major attractions like Wrigley Field, Michigan Avenue, and Navy Pier, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the city. For accommodations, Waldorf Astoria ChicagoOpens in a new window offers a boutique experience with business amenities and family-friendly services. Another option is Four Seasons Hotel ChicagoOpens in a new window, which provides adventure sports and recreation activities, perfect for active families. For a romantic getaway, consider The Ritz-Carlton, ChicagoOpens in a new window, featuring spa and pool services along with special romance packages.
2. Rogers ParkOpens in a new window: Rogers Park is a family-friendly area that boasts cultural attractions like Wrigley Field and Northwestern University. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a great choice for travelers with pets. Hyatt House Chicago/EvanstonOpens in a new window is a solid 3.5-star option, providing business amenities and pet-friendly accommodations. For a more upscale experience, Graduate by Hilton EvanstonOpens in a new window allows pets and offers a cozy atmosphere, while Hilton Orrington / EvanstonOpens in a new window features direct beach access and adventure sports, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
3. Irving ParkOpens in a new window: Irving Park is an excellent location for sports enthusiasts, with Wrigley Field nearby. The area benefits from its city accessibility and offers a variety of lodging options. Harvey House Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a charming bed and breakfast offering free breakfast and entertainment options, ideal for a cozy stay. For business travelers, DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago Midway AirportOpens in a new window provides essential amenities, while DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago - AlsipOpens in a new window offers family-friendly services in a shopping district, making it a convenient choice for those looking to shop and explore.

Things to do in Gurnee for first time

A three-day trip to Gurnee offers a vibrant mix of thrilling theme parks and relaxing water parks, set against a backdrop of lush forests and serene lakes. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, alongside shopping, live music, and entertainment that promise fun for all ages. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Gurnee:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Illinois Beach State Park, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Michigan and explore its sandy shores. After soaking in the scenic beauty, head to the North Dunes Nature Preserve, a serene spot perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife. Conclude your day at the Zion-Benton Public Library, where you can relax and perhaps pick up a book or two about the local area to enrich your visit.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Waukegan Harbor, a picturesque location where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront. Following that, visit the Urban Edge Gallery to appreciate local artwork and perhaps meet some talented artists. As the day winds down, make your way to North Beach, a great spot to unwind, swim, or enjoy a picnic while watching the sunset over the lake.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to the Lake County Fairgrounds, where you might catch a local event or fair, immersing yourself in the community spirit. Next, head over to the Waukegan BMX Track for some thrilling bike racing action, whether you're a participant or a spectator. Wrap up your day in MainStreet Libertyville, where you can explore charming shops, delightful eateries, and perhaps catch some live music or local events that showcase the vibrant community.

5 tips to find a great Gurnee hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit Gurnee on a budget, the best months to go are January, February, and December, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure more affordable rates. A stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for discovering the area's main attractions, such as the theme park and water park, which offer great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Gurnee, consider exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. Here, you could find special rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about the latest prices and flash sales, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch exclusive last-minute promotions and compare room rates effectively, ensuring you make the most of your travel budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Gurnee.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Gurnee is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or taxi to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Gurnee. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Gurnee

Here are some must-try dishes in Gurnee, Illinois, United States of America:

• Deep Dish Pizza: A Chicago classic, deep dish pizza features a thick, buttery crust that is layered with cheese, toppings, and a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for sharing and is often enjoyed during gatherings with friends and family, making it a staple in the local dining scene.
• Chicago-Style Hot Dog: A true Chicago icon, this hot dog is served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, chopped onions, neon green relish, tomato slices, a pickle spear, and sport peppers, all while avoiding ketchup. It’s a quick and flavorful bite that reflects the city’s vibrant street food culture.
• Italian Beef Sandwich: Originating from Chicago, this sandwich features thinly sliced roast beef, simmered in a savory broth, served on an Italian roll. Often topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers, it embodies the innovative spirit of local cuisine, making it a must-try for visitors.

Best time to go to Gurnee

Gurnee experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 23.7°F (-4.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). April is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Gurnee, June to August 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, May, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.