In 1855, the Illinois Central Railroad placed tracks within a few miles of what was then called West Urbana. The name was later changed to Champaign, which comes from the county of the same name in Ohio. Bob Dylan and Carl Perkins wrote and performed a song titled “Champaign, Illinois,” in 1969. The area also earned the number-five spot on a 2013 national list of cities that offer a healthy work-life balance.
When should you visit Champaign, Illinois?
The climate in Champaign includes cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. During the warmer months, the average high temperatures are in the 80s, while the average low during the winter season is between 18 and 25 degrees. The area receives about 23 inches of snowfall per year, on average. If you don't mind the cold, visiting during the winter may save you some money on hotel prices, although you won't be able to explore some of the outdoor attractions. Spring and fall are more ideal seasons to visit Champaign, both in terms of climate and hotel prices.
Since Champaign has two college campuses within its limits, commencement and graduation ceremonies can impact hotel prices. These typically take place in May and December. If you're not coming to the city for one of these events, you may want to time your visit so it doesn't overlap with a ceremony.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Champaign, IL:
Champaign, IL: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Champaign, IL. Browse these illustrations to evaluate the least expensive seasons to make a reservation in Champaign throughout the year.
What are the luxury hotels options in Champaign, Illinois?
For an upscale stay in the area, book a room at I Hotel & Conference Center, located near the Krannert Art Museum. This four-star property features Art Deco styling, a spa offering massages, concierge services, complimentary wireless internet access, and a 24-hour business center. Each individually decorated guestroom has an LED TV with digital programming, a refrigerator, a pillowtop bed with Egyptian cotton sheets and a down comforter, designer toiletries, an iPod docking station, and a shower with a rainfall showerhead. You can also dine in at the American restaurant, serving tasty fare and cocktails. A complimentary continental breakfast is available daily.
Another appealing hotel is the Hilton Garden Inn Champaign / Urbana. It was recently renovated and features an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, and a business center. The property has a restaurant serving American menu options and drinks. Cooked-to-order breakfasts are available for an additional fee. Within the rooms, amenities include microwaves, refrigerators, 32-inch flat-screen TVs with cable programming, phones with free local calls, separate workspaces, and private laptop-compatible safes.
Hyatt Place Champaign Urbana provides a high-end experience for guests. This hotel is close to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus. Each spacious guest room features a 42-inch flat-screen TV with satellite programming, a sofa bed, a refrigerator, an MP3 docking station, a pillowtop bed with premium bedding, designer toiletries, and free wireless internet access. On the property, you'll have access to a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, a complimentary shuttle offering service in a 5-mile radius, and a business center. You're also welcome to dine at the restaurant or coffee shop.
What are some affordable hotel options near Champaign, IL?
3 Star Average Prices: $89.09
For a budget-friendly stay, book a room at America's Best Value Inn Champaign. It's less than 2 miles from Parkland College and within a 15-minute drive of the State Farm Center. Amenities include assistance with local tours and attraction tickets, free wireless internet access in the common areas and guest rooms, and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel serves a free continental breakfast each morning, while fresh tea and coffee are available in the lobby. In each of the 40 guest rooms of this cozy property, you'll find a microwave, a refrigerator, complimentary toiletries, a tea and coffee maker, a separate workspace, and a phone with free local calls.
Days Inn by Wyndham Champaign / Urbana is another affordable option, located on Bloomington Road. This hotel has a private garden, a fitness center, complimentary daily newspapers in the lobby, a business center, staff members that speak multiple languages, and free on-site self-parking. Relax in your room, which will come equipped with a microwave, a refrigerator, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, free Wi-Fi, and a separate workspace. A complimentary continental breakfast is available daily, and the property has a restaurant serving Thai cuisine.
Enjoy a cost-effective stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Champaign. On-property amenities include a convenience store with snacks and drinks, a fitness center, a TV in the lobby, an indoor swimming pool, and complimentary wireless internet access. All the rooms include complimentary toiletries, refrigerators, TVs with cable programming, desks, and complimentary newspapers. You can also enjoy the breakfast buffet each morning, which includes eggs, assorted meat, cereal, yogurt, bread, fresh fruit, juice, and coffee.
