The first Europeans arrived in the Homewood area in the 1830s via the Vincennes Trail, a Native American path that connected Vincennes, Indiana, to the settlement near the Chicago River. The community developed around a grain mill, expanding more once the Illinois Central Railroad arrived. In later years, golfers flocked to visit Homewood's many golf courses.
The city retains that aura of prosperity and growth today, and more than 20,000 people now reside in Homewood. This bustling, diverse community is gaining acclaim for its suburban quality of life, affordability, and easy access to Chicago, traits which have made Homewood especially attractive to young families and commuters. Homewood's tree-lined streets and charming architecture promote neighborly interactions that are a welcome relief from the activity of Chicago city life.
Homewood is easily accessible by car via the Tri-State Tollway — which connects you to Interstate 80, Interstate 94, and Interstate 294 — or via Lincoln Highway or the Bishop Ford Freeway. Amtrak trains also run from Homewood into Chicago Union Station daily, or you can also take the local Metra Electric Line.
All this rail activity makes for excellent entertainment for small children, especially when they observe from the railroad viewing platform on Harwood Avenue at Kroner Avenue in downtown Homewood. Little ones can watch the Amtrak and Metra trains coming and going from an open-air, covered platform that is fully ADA compliant. They will also enjoy seeing a restored Illinois Central locomotive and caboose at Homewood's Railroad Park.
Homewood is also home to more than 32 parks and playgrounds in the area, including Rover's Run Dog Park, the Millennium Park Beach and Splashpad, and Dolphin Lake Park and Clubhouse. From an indoor ice arena to the H-F Racquet and Fitness Club, you can pursue all types of interests in Homewood, such as skating at the Extreme Scene Skate Park, playing at the Patriots Park Frisbee Golf Course, or taking a swim at the Lions Club Park and Pool. Golfers should check out the public clubs at Ravisloe Country Club and Coyote Run.
Homewood makes a convenient and pleasant place to stay during your next visit to the Chicago area. Experience a warm welcome, walkable downtown, and plenty to see and do.
What time of the year is best for visiting Homewood, IL?
Homewood experiences cold winters and receives an average of 26 inches of snow each year. In contrast, summers are warm but not overly hot, with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s. Chilly weather doesn't stop people in Homewood from having a good time. Homewood is a fun-loving community, a fact that is abundantly clear when you consider that the city hosts more than 60 annual outdoor events each year. One of the largest recurring events is the farmers market, which takes place outdoors in warmer months and goes indoors for the winter.
The Homewood Artisan Street Fair in early June showcases an impressive selection of handmade wares you won't want to miss. If you'd like to try making your own treasure, you can visit the Metal Mania workshop and make something using recyclable materials.
Chocolate Fest comes in mid-February in time for Valentine's Day, with baking demos, children's activities, and vendors peddling sweet treats. Rail Fest takes place in mid-May, with train crafts, model trains, and memorabilia. During the festival, families can create their own simple trains using recycled materials in the STEAM studio.
If you love a good parade, you can catch the Memorial Day Parade, Independence Day Parade and Family Fun Fest. One of the city's most anticipated events is Homewood's Block Party, a family-friendly event which takes place each August.
Fall Fest in late September offers pumpkin patches, carriage rides, and seasonal crafts. The holidays begin in earnest in December with the Holiday Lights in Homewood celebration. Next comes Miracle on Martin, with marshmallow roasting, cocoa, and carriage rides, followed by visits to Santa at the Science Center. Welcome the New Year in Homewood at the New Year's Eve Day Celebration. This event invites people of all ages to ring in the new year at the stroke of noon, with the event culminating with a giant balloon drop.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Homewood, IL:
Homewood by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Homewood, IL. You can use these line graphs to calculate the most cost effective months to make a reservation in Homewood for upcoming travels.
Does Homewood have luxury hotel options?
4 Star Average Prices: $129.50
Seeking luxury hotels in Homewood to enjoy during your stay? La Banque Hotel in Homewood is a cosmopolitan, luxury escape in the suburbs. This four-star hotel is located only 2.3 miles from Coyote Run Golf Course and within walking distance of local boutiques and restaurants. This elegant property used to be a bank, a fact you'll note if you get the chance to dine in the former vault at La Voute Bistro and Bar, which specializes in French cuisine. This intimate luxury hotel offers only 18 guest rooms so that you will always receive hands-on attention.
Enjoy 24-hour access to the health club, or head outside with a bike rental on one of Homewood's many bike paths. During your stay in your glamorous guest room, decorated with upscale furnishings, you'll enjoy complimentary wireless internet access, designer toiletries, and a comfortable bathrobe. From safes and desks to refrigerators and flat-screen televisions, these amenities and more are offered here, down to the daily housekeeping. If you need something special, call on La Banque's concierge.
If you're traveling with an electric car, the hotel offers a charging station. Be sure to spend some time soaking up the sunlight in the gorgeous hotel gardens. The gardens make an ideal place to walk your pet.
What are the affordable hotels near Homewood, Illinois?
3 Star Average Prices: $132.33
When you're looking for affordable hotels in Homewood, the Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Harvey / Chicago Southland is 15 minutes from Hollywood Casino. This budget hotel offers many amenities for not a lot of money, including flat-screen televisions, complimentary wireless internet, and daily housekeeping service.
You can dance all night at the Days Inn's own nightclub or sweat it out at the 24-hour fitness center instead. If you'd like a snack to heat in your microwave, visit the gift shop downstairs and stow the leftovers in your own refrigerator for later. Wake up to a complimentary continental breakfast each day during select hours.
