The city grew after WWII, becoming a center for Del Monte canned vegetables and Swift Meat Packing. Today Rochelle is known by its nickname “the Hub City.” It received this code name thanks to its convenient location at the intersection of several major transportation routes. Two historically essential highways used to pass Rochelle: Lincoln Highway - the first transcontinental road, and US-51 - one of the first roads to fully connect the north and the south of the country. Today Rochelle is crossed by interstates 39 and 88 instead. In addition, two significant rail lines intersect inside the city: the Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF Railway mainline. On a map, all of these routes look like spokes of an old wagon wheel meeting at the "hub," thus the nickname.
Speaking of trains, Rochelle is a very popular spot for train watching. Anywhere from 80 to 120 trains pass through the city each day. This attraction draws people from all over the country. At some point, the number of people coming to watch reached its peak and in 1995 the city built a park just for train watching. The park is accessible and has various amenities for comfortable viewing and photography.
The Best Season to Visit Rochelle, IL
If you're looking for some tips on when to plan your trip, here are a few ideas:
Summer is the best time to visit when temperatures are warm, and the city comes to life with festivals and events. You'll easily find yourself entertainment, whether you're interested in music, art, food, or history.
Winters, on the other hand, are freezing and windy, so it's not as comfortable outside during this season. If you're planning your visit for this time of the year, it'd be better to spend your time shopping or warming up in the many cafes and restaurants the city has to offer.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Rochelle, IL:
Rochelle by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Rochelle, IL. You can use these charts to determine the least expensive seasons to book a room in Rochelle for your upcoming travels.
Luxurious Hotels in Rochelle, IL
Rochelle, IL is home to a variety of 4.5-star hotels that will make your stay feel like a million bucks. Our selection of top-rated hotels provides guests with premium amenities and luxurious accommodations. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a business trip, our hotels are sure to provide you with a relaxing and comfortable stay. Book your perfect hotel on our site and enjoy a worry-free vacation!
Affordable places to stay in Rochelle, IL
3 Star Average Prices: $111.74
Our selection of affordable hotels and motels will help you find a place to rest your head after a long day of sightseeing without breaking the bank. We will speed up your research for the best places to stay in Rochelle and make your booking process stress-free.
2 Star Average Prices: $121.54
Hotel Discounts in Rochelle, IL
We offer discounts on a variety of hotels in the area, so you can find the perfect place to stay for your trip. There are several hotels within walking distance of the city center, as well as a few options just outside of town. You can find some fantastic deals on rooms, and most of the hotels offer complimentary breakfast and WiFi. So be sure to come back while planning your trip and create your perfect vacation on your terms.
Other places to visit in Rochelle, IL
Artists Garden
It is not your typical artistic shop with canvases, paints, etc. Artist Garden offers a bunch of unique experiences with art. You can buy a painting created entirely from recycled materials, attend an art class to learn more about yourself, or even hunt for chic vintage items, including furniture.
All Things New & Used
This antique shop is another grand place to shop for unusual, pre-loved things. You'll be able to find some special decor items to bring back with you, or just walk around and window shop for beautiful furniture, imagining your perfect home.
Colonial Flowers
This flower shop has been with Rochelle for over 50 years. And it is not “just” a flower shop; it's a whole experience. Before you enter, you'll be welcomed with a peculiar front window design that Naomi Baldwin (the owner) and her team updates every month to keep you coming back. And on the inside, you'll be mesmerized by stunning flower arrangements, of course, and will be treated to some chocolate while you're looking around.
Cypress House
Another great spot to look for souvenirs or presents with comfort is Cypress House. Grab a cup of coffee from the espresso bar at the front to start your journey and go seek some treasures. It is a great place to be both in the winter and summer, as Cypress annually hosts indoor Cabin Fever Markets and Outdoor Markets.
Kennay Farms Distilling
As we started about beverages, you can't leave without visiting Kennay Farms Distillery. It is a sixth-generation family business. Kennay provides crafted spirits created with local grains. All operations are executed by the members of Kennay Family. Another interesting feature worth mentioning about the distillery is its logo. The “Kennay Lady” was created to honor all the hard-working, inspiring women in the agricultural and spirits industries. The sketch for this logo was made by Dusty Horner - a Rochelle native and a long-time friend of the family. He was a lead sculptor for Disney's Classic collectible line and also worked as an artist for DreamWorks.
FAQs about hotels in Rochelle
How much does a cheap hotel in Rochelle cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Rochelle can be as cheap as $121.54 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Rochelle cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Rochelle has been $111.74 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Recent traveler reviews of Rochelle, IL
Below are reviews of the city of Rochelle, IL from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Near Story Book Gardens"
Score
5.0 / 5
Story Book Gardens was amazing!
Laura L., from 25-Aug-2024
"Great Chinese Buffet"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great! We ate at the Chinese buffet.
Mike F., from 13-Mar-2024
"Petro discounts for truck drivers!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Petro discounts for truck drivers!
Tina S., from 06-Nov-2023
"Nice peaceful little town."
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice peaceful little town.
Ed W., from 06-Aug-2023
"Calvary Lighthouse Church"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel is in proximity to Calvary Lighthouse Church.
James M., from 21-Jan-2023
"Nice"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice
Rory P., from 18-Sep-2022
The average traveler rating of the city of Rochelle, IL shown above is
4.8 out of 5 based on 6 reviews