This city is one of the oldest in Illinois and is home to some interesting history that dates back to America's frontier days. In fact, the region where Edwardsville now stands was once a major stopping point for frontiersman on their journey west. In 1805, Thomas Kirkpatrick erected one of the first homes built here and was joined by dozens of other settlers over the next few decades. Kirkpatrick's cabin eventually became the seat of justice for early Madison County. One of the first industrial factories built in the area opened its doors in roughly 1890.
Many of the attractions in the area celebrate Edwardsville's history as a frontier town and key stop along the Mississippi River. If you want to explore some of this heritage, go to the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site. Here you can learn more about the trailblazing push west and see a replica of the boat that Lewis and Clark used on their expedition.
When are the best times to visit Edwardsville, IL?
Since Edwardsville is a small city, you can visit any time of year and avoid large crowds while you explore the local museums and attractions. If you want to venture out and see nearby St. Louis, however, you'll have to be mindful of peak travel times and local festivals that may affect traffic and your itinerary.
June, July, and August are the hottest months in this region, with temperatures exceeding 85 degrees. This is a bit warm, which is partly why late April through early July are considered the best months to visit. If you book a room and flight early enough, you can take advantage of low prices during this time.
Though the summer months can get really hot, this is also a peak time for festivals in nearby St. Louis. Saint Louis Brewers Guild festival is in June and is a fantastic event to attend if you're interested in the local beer industry and its history. Back in Edwardsville, you can take a dip in the Edwardsville Glen Carbon Community Pool or visit Tower Lake to cool off.
April and May are excellent months to plan a visit if you want to spend some time outdoors. Edwardsville is nearby the Mississippi River and horseshoe lake, and if you make the drive to St. Louis, you can attend Spring Art Fair at Queeny Park, St. Louis Storytelling Festival, and Spring to Dance Festival. You'll also avoid the peak tourist influx, which is from late May through Early August.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Edwardsville, IL:
Edwardsville, IL: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Edwardsville, IL. Browse these illustrations to determine the best months to book in Edwardsville throughout the year.
Where are the luxury hotels near Edwardsville, IL?
4 Star Average Prices: $129.00
You'll have to travel to downtown St. Louis if you want to stay in a 4- or 5-star hotel. Within sight of The Gateway Arch you'll find options like Lumière Place Casino & Hotels and The Westin St. Louis.
If you'd prefer a stay closer to Edwardsville, you'll find some 3-star accommodations where you can treat yourself. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Edwardsville is close to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is one of the highest rated hotels in the area. Rooms and suites are available, and you can workout at the on-site gym. A complimentary breakfast buffet and Wi-Fi are also included. If you upgrade to a suite, you'll enjoy a wet bar, kitchen dining area, and a living room with a pullout bed.
You'll find another luxury pick right next door: Country Hearth Inn & Suites - Edwardsville / St. Louis. This hotel is easily identifiable by its unique brick exterior, and inside you'll find a business center, free Wi-Fi, and a minifridge, microwave, and flat-screen TV in your room. All accommodations have a kitchen. In addition to the free morning breakfast, you can pick up evening snacks and coffee downstairs in the lobby whenever you're craving some caffeine.
What affordable hotel options are around Edwardsville, IL?
3 Star Average Prices: $110.31
If your priority for a hotel room is to secure the lowest rates possible, you'll find dozens of high-rated choices in Edwardsville and the suburbs of St. Louis. One of the closest to downtown Edwardsville is Motel 6 Troy II. This is a pet-friendly establishment, but the amenities are sparse. There's free Wi-Fi and TVs, but only upgraded rooms have microwaves and minifridges. The hotel has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool, and guests can use the airport shuttle service.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites is a budget option southeast of downtown Edwardsville near the Mississippi River. Each room has mini-fridges, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, and TVs. If you upgrade your accommodations, you get a whirlpool tub. This spot is pet-friendly and also has a fitness center and prepares free breakfast every morning.
You'll find several other affordable choices closer to East St. Louis. Days Inn Collinsville, for example, is a 2-star hotel that's about halfway between St. Louis and Edwardsville at the intersection of Interstate 255 and Interstate 55. Here you'll find simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and free breakfasts every morning. All rooms have a kitchen, and there's a hot tub and an indoor heated pool. Splash City Family Waterpark is within walking distance of this hotel.
