11 Most Romantic Hotels in Illinois

Illinois might be tucked deep in the heart of the Midwest, but its northeastern corner also touches the gorgeous waters of Lake Michigan. Not only does it have gorgeous state parks and Michelin-starred restaurants, but it’s also home to Abraham Lincoln and a whole lot of history. In fact, it even has a prehistoric world heritage site and a cypress swamp, if you can believe it! The cherry on top is the many options for a romantic hotel in Illinois (IL), which offer the perfect base for a romantic weekend away. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort on the banks of Lake Michigan or Civil War-era mansions-turned-B&Bs, the state has something for all kinds of whims and fancies.

What’s more, they have a ton of romantic touches like indulgent spas, amazing cuisine, and lush landscapes surrounding the place. What could be more romantic? From in-room spa treatments to historical touches and local wineries, there’s plenty of romance at these Illinois digs. To that end, here are the 11 most romantic hotels in Illinois, IL.

The Peninsula Chicago

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The Peninsula is not just the most romantic hotel in Illinois, IL, but also one of the best luxury hotels in Chicago, IL. Rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling hand-painted floral murals that inspire romance, while the cloud-liked beds can be used for all kinds of passionate experimenting. After a long and languorous soak in the deep soaking tubs in the marble bathrooms, wrap yourselves in robes and watch romcoms on the flatscreen TVs. What’s more, the hotel is home to one of Chicago’s most lavish spas and is one of Chicago’s best spa hotels. Try the “Time Together” treatment, a full body massage, and exfoliation for two in a private spa suite. Besides a bevy of award-winning restaurants, the hotel offers one-of-a-kind Chicago experiences, such as helicopter tours and cooking classes.

Beall Mansion An Elegant Bed & Breakfast Inn, Alton

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What makes the Beall Mansion An Elegant Bed & Breakfast Inn in Alton so romantic is that it’s also one of the best in-room jacuzzi hotels in Illinois. Alton on the Mississippi River is about serene landscapes, rich history, and quaint architecture. This B&B perfectly blends modern luxury and old-world elegance and has three kinds of rooms, each with deep soaking tubs with custom bath salts and gorgeous Victorian-style furniture. No matter which room you go for, you also have fireplaces, plush four-poster beds, a 24-hour chocolate bar, and a full menu of in-room spa services. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, enjoy an evening in the music room, and even be treated to a cup of tea before bed. Since hospitality is the hallmark of this B&B, the service here is a point of pride for the hosts and something that hundreds of past guests have testified to.

Goldmoor Inn and Resort, Galena

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The Goldmoor Inn and Resort in Galena is the most romantic hotel in Illinois, IL. The town is particularly great for history-loving couples with many well-preserved 19th-century homes. This estate resort resembles a castle and sits on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Choose from in-house suites, cottages, or private cabins, all of which come with whirlpools and private fireplaces. That said, the bungalow by the water’s edge is incredibly fabulous, with the massive master bedroom featuring a jacuzzi in the room. A fireplace and a window by the dining nook and Chestnut Mountain views make it the perfect place to dig into the breakfast that’s delivered to the room. Even the onsite restaurant serves fine food in an elegant and intimate setting, so don’t miss eating at the B&B.

The room service breakfast and onsite restaurant are worth dining in even if you are not staying at the hotel.

Aldrich Guest House Bed and Breakfast, Galena

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Historic charm meets modern chicness at the Aldrich Guest House Bed and Breakfast in Galena. The 1845-built home has been a bed and breakfast since 1984 and has just five rooms. So, staying here is as intimate as it’s exclusive. What’s more, they all have complimentary Wi-Fi and a private bath with a clawfoot bathtub. Some of the larger rooms even have a separate seating area and a fireplace. Begin your day with a hot breakfast served every morning and enjoy free hors d’oeuvres and wine at 5 pm daily. What’s more, the inn also has a host of optional amenities such as an in-house massage, an in-room breakfast, chocolates, and a bottle of wine or champagne, all for an additional fee.

The Steamboat House, Galena

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The Steamboat House in Galena is a gorgeously romantic hotel in Illinois, IL. This 1855-built Gothic Revival mansion-turned-inn has just five Victorian guest rooms and suites. So, staying here makes for as intimate an experience as exclusive. Choose from five rooms, all of which have floral furnishings, comfy beds, fireplaces, and luxe bathrooms with clawfoot bathtubs. When you want to spend time outside your room, head to the billiard room with comfy couches lining the sides. Or, you could read books in the library, sip coffee or wine on the screened gazebo or wrap-around porch, and soak in overlooking the beautifully landscaped grounds. Besides special packages that include tours and tastings, the inn also serves a three-course breakfast, complimentary hot beverages, and complimentary wine tastings as well.

Chestnut Street Inn, Sheffield

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The Chestnut Street Inn in Sheffield is one of the top B&Bs in the state for foodie couples. This place is perfect for couples who enjoy gourmet meals since the menus are made with locally-sourced ingredients and inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. This 1854-built historic home-turned-inn has three rooms and a suite, and the suite is not only spacious but also has a deep soaking bathtub in the luxe bathroom. But, all rooms have signature bath products, bathrobes, Wi-Fi, and flatscreen TVs.

During the day, dig into a breakfast of hotcakes, cheese, egg souffle, Spanish omelets, vegetable frittatas, and more. You can also watch a movie in the DVD library, read a book by the fireplace, indulge in a cooking class, or drink wine or coffee on the patio. The best bit? They also serve beer, wine, and chocolates.

Blessings on State Bed and Breakfast, Jacksonville

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The Blessings on State Bed and Breakfast in Jacksonville is the most romantic hotel in Illinois, IL. This peaceful retreat sits in a 120-year-old mansion with original craftsmanship details and modern luxuries too. What’s more, there are just two suites here, the Tranquility and the Serenity on State suites. Both have deep soaking clawfoot bathtubs, plush beds, bespoke bath products, and mod-cons such as flatscreen TVs and soft bathrobes. You can enjoy a complete breakfast every morning and grab a complimentary beverage or a snack at any time. After a day of indulging in activities such as fishing, cycling, and exploring, you can relax in the common lounge or in the garden with your significant other.

Market Street Bed and Breakfast, Taylorville

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If you’re looking for a romantic budget hotel, then why not choose Market Street Bed and Breakfast in Taylorville? This gorgeous inn has eight rooms in the main house and two suites in the carriage house. If you want some extra space, the carriage house suites are amazing, with cloud-like beds, fireplaces, and luxe bathrooms with clawfoot bathtubs. What’s more, the suites also have off-street parking, so if you have your own car or a rental, they’re perfect. Every morning, breakfast is served with bacon, toast, and egg dishes. No matter how you spend the day, don’t miss social hour in the evening with fruit, cheese, and complimentary beverages. Finally, the inn also offers specials and a romance package for scrapbookers and quilters.

Farmer’s Guest House, Galena

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The Farmer’s Guest House in Galena is the most romantic hotel in Illinois, IL. You can choose from many king and queen rooms and suites. But, couples will love the discrete “Annie’s Cottage” just down the street. The two-storeyed cottage opens to a cozy living room and even has a huge jacuzzi for two people in one corner of the room and soft bathrobes. Your morning begins with a delicious country breakfast whipped up by Susan Steffan, who’s famed as an award-winning “Breakfast Diva.” In fact, the inn also has a private spa where you can indulge in couple’s massages and even “wine time” each evening.

Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast, Galena

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The luxurious Cloran Mansion Bed and Breakfast is yet another romantic love nest in Galena. All rooms and suites have flatscreen TVs, fireplaces, mini-fridges, and DVD players, but some even have whirlpool tubs and fine plush robes. If you do make it out of your love nest, stroll through the well-maintained and lush gardens. Begin your day on a high note with a complimentary breakfast of a signature entrée like French Toast or Belgian waffles, seasoned potatoes, bread, farm-fresh meats, juice, coffee, tea, made-to-order eggs, and fresh fruit. When the weather is cold, retreat to the onsite library with DVDs, games, magazines, books, and even popcorn, cookies, tea, and coffee.

Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel, Springfield

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The Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel in Springfield is the most romantic hotel in Illinois, IL. The rooms and suites at this turn-of-the-century inn combine historic decor with modern comforts such as Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, and private baths with bespoke bath products. With just 13 rooms, staying here feels very intimate and exclusive. The suite is especially amazing since it boasts a huge jacuzzi tub for two in a separate space where you can enjoy a languorous soak with your beloved by your side. Your day begins with gourmet coffee or tea and made-to-order breakfast and ends with a turndown service with a nightcap of wine. Couples can even customize their stay with romantic packages with fruit, cheese, a special turndown service, champagne, and flowers.

Most Romantic Restaurants in Illinois

• Geja’s Cafe, Chicago: Since 1965, Geja’s Cafe in Chicago has been dishing out delicious Belgian chocolate fondue with wine and creamy cheese in an intimate setting. This unforgettable dining experience also features classic music and live Flamenco in a cozy, candle-lit dining room. Guess that? You can order flowers for your dates too! 
• Dancing Marlin, Frankfort: Seafood lovers will love Dancing Marlin, which is a joy-filled, purely nautical-themed restaurant. Dig into American-style tapas and entrees such as shrimp and grits, crab-stuffed peppers, or seared Ahi tuna. Wash your meal down with one of 8 handcrafted cocktails or 18 different wines.

Most Romantic Bars in Illinois

• Koi Asian Bistro, Bourbonnais: If your idea of a romantic evening is an exotic meal with drinks, then Koi Asian Bistro is sure to delight you. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails at the sleek illuminated bar while indulging in sushi rolls and an array of Cantonese and Thai cuisines.
• Molly’s Kitchen and Bar, Mount Carrol: This place is yet another amazing place with a glorious menu of food all locally sourced and made from scratch. Grab a cocktail made from freshly squeezed juices and the finest spirits before digging into the savory potpie and the shrimp Etouffee.

Romantic Things To Do in Illinois

• Chicago 1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise: There’s no better way to end a romantic day in Chicago than on the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan. Set sail onboard this romantic and serene cruise where you can watch the sun slowly set behind the glass-and-steel skyline of the city with your beloved by your side. Toast your experience with a handcrafted cocktail, ice-cold beer, or a glass of wine.

Romantic Areas To Stay in Illinois

For those visiting the Prairie State, your Illinois holiday is all about gorgeous natural landscapes, stunning architecture, and rich history. So, which are the most romantic towns and cities to visit in the state? We begin with Crystal Lake, which straddles the line between a big town and a small city. This place is all about outdoor fun, sports, entertainment, and shopping. Next, we have the Windy City of Chicago, which is the epicenter of romantic fun in the state. Think sun, sand, and the waters of Lake Michigan in the summer and a vibrant arts and culture scene in winter. And, of course, it boasts a fabulous craft beer and foodie scene. Hardly three hours away from Chicago lies Galena, which is a whole new world. This charming, historic, and quaint place has some fabulous bed and breakfasts. 

Couples who love historical places will appreciate the state capital Springfield. It’s home to Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, and even the Abe Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Plus, it also has architectural marvels such as the Frank Lloyd Wright-built 1902 Dana-Thomas house, one of his first Prairie-style houses. Fans of the “Old West” will love the Amish community of Arthur, which is all about local festivals, horses, and buggies! Mount Carroll is all about Victorian homes and architecture, while Peoria is a mixed bag of lush landscapes and outdoor activities. Finally, there’s the Dutch heritage town of Fulton, where you’ll see windmills throughout the countryside.