28 Best Hotels in the Midwest | Where to Stay

You might think you know all the best hotels in the Midwest, especially If you grew up there. The Midwest boasts some particularly famous travel spots, like Mackinac Island, one of my favorites. Midwest road trips are one of the great getaway ideas a family or friends can think of to strengthen their relationship and one way to unload stress.

The Grand Hotel has a charming 19th-century atmosphere and gorgeous gardens. The island takes me back to a slower time; I could never have imagined otherwise.

But boundless natural beauty, accessible from any corner of the continent, makes the midwestern United States a trove of hotels, resorts, and even treehouses to suit every traveler’s taste.

Lakes of all sizes and miles of forests blanket the spaces between vibrant cities and charming towns.

And there’s no end to the activities, sports, shopping, and dining offered in the Midwest. Festivals are all around. If you travel a lot, you cannot help but experience every festive celebration in every location. Experience the Midwest Festivals, and I am sure every experience is worth the travel.

For your next vacation, think past the famous–sometimes too familiar–Midwest destinations that are often thought of as the best.

To help, we’ve scoured real guest ratings and chosen the best Midwest hotels based on amenities, location, service levels, dining, and reviews. Finally, all the truly best hotels in the Midwest are available in one ultimate guide for your coming up adventure.

Best Hotel for Families

Some of the best hotels in the Midwest are ideal for a special family vacation.

1. The Hotel Iroquois

The Hotel Iroquois sits on a quiet swath of Mackinac Island and is a full-service property with the feel of a small inn. Close to the water with lighthouse views. The hotel has been a family favorite for decades.

Guests say that staff is eager to make stays exceptional and are happy to handle dining reservations and island tours. There are only 45 guest rooms and suites, each elegantly appointed and stocked with upgraded toiletries. Fine dining is available onsite at their Carriage House Restaurant, but the hours will change with the seasons.

Guests rate this family-friendly property a 5 out of 5.

• Free breakfast
• Free high-speed internet
• Beach access
• Full-service concierge and luggage handling

2. Farmstead Inn and Conference Center

Nestled in Indiana Amish country, this delightful Midwest hotel caters to families. The Farmstead Inn and Conference Center offers a complimentary breakfast so that families can get fueled and out the door quickly.

This is important because It’s across the street from the famous Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market. Back at the Farmstead, you’ll find a pool and whirlpool tucked inside a silo. A ping-pong room and space for a friendly basketball game are also available.

Off the property, families can ride bikes or kayak the river. There’s so much to do and explore in this wholesome area. Relax by the fireplace in the three-story atrium. No pets are allowed, but guests loved that there was much to do onsite and in town. Rated 4.5 out of 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Pool
• Free hot breakfast
• Fitness Center

Best Hotels for a Stylish Vacation

If you’re looking for the best hotels in the Midwest that make a statement, these properties will fit you to a T.

3. Publishing House Bed & Breakfast

Found in the fashionable Chicago neighborhood of West Loop, one of the coolest bed and breakfasts in the Midwest is Publishing House Bed & Breakfast. When it was opened in 1909, it was called Free Methodist Publishing House and was an actual publishing house in its former life.

In 2017, the space was converted into an 11-room boutique property. It’s a chic place to stay for those looking for an urban vibe and a fantastic location in the biggest city in the Midwest.

All rooms are en-suite, and guests rave about the gourmet breakfasts. They also love the attention to detail in both accommodations and service. The Publishing House is within walking distance of some of Chicago’s most heralded restaurants, bars, and museums.

Guests rate this seriously stylish B&B a 5 out of 5.

• Free parking on street level
• Free high-speed internet
• Luxurious decor in rooms and common areas
• Gourmet breakfast included in the rate

See Related: Best Day Trips from Chicago

4. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago

Would you ever think one of the coolest hotels in the Midwest would be an actual museum? Located in downtown Chicago, the 21c Museum Hotel allows you to sleep amongst curated art collections.

You can also experience Chicago’s famous Michigan Avenue, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the John Hancock Center, the Navy Pier, and many more iconic sites. Not all guest rooms have a downtown view, but guests loved the art gallery and the location. It’s rated a 4 out of a possible 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Fitness center
• Bar/lounge and fine dining restaurant
• Spa/salon

5. Moonrise Hotel

On our list of best hotels in the Midwest is this mid-century-styled gem called the Moonrise Hotel. Located in the Delmar Loop of St. Louis, MO, the Moonrise Hotel is far from shopping and dining.

There’s also fine dining on-site with a lounge serving up craft cocktails. But it’s the design of the hotel that makes it one of the coolest in the Midwest. Contemporary, luxurious, and artistic, this property holds surprises around every corner. Guests love the display cases full of mid-century memorabilia.

Rated 4.5 out of 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Bar/lounge
• Fitness Center
• Pet friendly

6. The Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown

Train enthusiasts will the coolest hotel in the Midwest is the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown, hands down. That’s because guests can actually sleep in a real 1920s Pullman Train Car on original tracks on the second floor of the hotel.

In fact, the entire building is inside a Union Train Station, the country’s first Union Station. Not only is the hotel steeped in train history, but the location in the heart of Indianapolis is also ideal. Some guests didn’t like that the trains could be heard inside rooms. Others were delighted about it. Rated a 4 out of 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Pool and fitness center
• Bar/lounge
• Shuttle service

See Related: Best Things to Do in Warsaw, Indiana

7. Detroit Foundation Hotel

This Midwest hotel is earning some big style points in Detroit. The Detroit Foundation Hotel is just the right mix of luxury and industrial. The old Fire Department headquarters building has been transformed into 100 stylishly appointed guestrooms.

There’s also a renowned restaurant on-site serving chef-forward entrees, craft cocktails, and an interesting selection of beer and wine. Service is attentive, and guests loved the architecture and convenient downtown location. It’s rated a 4.5 out of 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• 24-hour fitness center
• Bar/lounge
• Pet-friendly

Best Hotels for Luxury

The Midwest may conjure up images of country manors or sprawling resorts. But we found the best 5-star hotels in the Midwest region, famous for luxury in accommodations and service.

8. The Peninsula Chicago

The 5-star hotels of the Peninsula brand are known throughout the world for their high levels of personal attention, gorgeous guest rooms, and fine dining. Chicago’s Peninsula is no exception. They offer flexible check-in and check-out times for all guests.

You’ll find exquisite toiletries and many other upgrades in their award-winning guest rooms and suites. Touchless concierge service is also available 24 hours via chat. Guests love the supreme level of hospitality offered by staff throughout the stay. The property is even dog-friendly. Rated a 5 out of 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Salon/Spa
• Pool
• Fitness Center

9. The Gwen

A stay at this Midwest hotel will make you feel like you’re sleeping in the lap of luxury. The Gwen is another downtown Chicago treasure with an amazing Michigan Avenue location.

It’s close to Navy Pier, the House of Blues, and the Chicago Riverwalk. The guest rooms are plush and appointed with luxury linens and bathrobes. Enjoy incredible downtown views from your room. Guests love the excellent service and rate The Gwen a 4.5 out of a possible 5.

• Valet parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Rooftop terrace
• Fitness center

10. The Viceroy Chicago

Another of the best five stars hotels in the Midwest on Chicago’s famed Miracle Mile is the luxury property The Viceroy. Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment steps away from this historic Gold Coast neighborhood hotel.

Experience the magnificent city views while swimming in the rooftop pool or having a cocktail in the lounge. Somerset’s fine dining restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This property is a Chicago visitor favorite, especially for couples, who rate it a 4.5.

• Valet parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Pool and fitness center
• Bar/lounge

11. Emery, Autograph Collection

One of the newest best hotels in the Midwest can be found in downtown Minneapolis. Elegant, yet practical, the Emery, Autograph Collection offers visitors luxe amenities in the heart of one of the Midwest’s most vibrant cities.

Business and leisure guests appreciate the state-of-the-art fitness equipment and convenient business center. Guilia, the onsite restaurant, serves acclaimed Northern Italian cuisine. A coffee shop is also available for specialty espressos and pastries.

Guests love the fresh interiors with marble throughout and rate it a 4 out of a possible 5.

• Valet parking
• Fitness center
• Restaurant
• Pet friendly

12. Park Hyatt Chicago

This grande dame of a property is one of the most famous five-star hotels in the Midwest, proudly sitting on Michigan Avenue. The Park Hyatt Chicago is the epitome of luxury and sophisticated style. There’s even an on-site private art collection.

The views are amazing whether your room overlooks the city or the water. Enjoy them from your window bench. Their world-class spa and award-winning cuisine will take your stay to another level. There’s also a pool with the same incredible city views. Upon check-in, management is pet friendly and will deliver dog beds and bowls to your room.

• Free high-speed internet 
• Pool and fitness center
• Bar/lounge
• Bike rentals

13. The American Club

If you’re looking for a true 5-star hotel’s Midwest experience, head directly to Kohler, WI, and the world-famous American Club. The American Club carries 5-star and AAA 5-diamond ratings and is considered the standard of service in hospitality. The surrounding Village of Kohler is adorable but it feels like the entire property is attuned to guests’ every want and need.

Service is efficient and friendly. Each uniquely decorated guestroom is rich in fabrics and furnishings. There’s also a superb spa on the premises and championship golf nearby.

• Free parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Fitness center and pool
• Bar/lounge

14. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

One of the best hotels in the Midwest is this stunning property in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel has served guests in charming Grand Rapids since 1913. It’s a recognized historic hotel and has kept its early 1900s details and charm. It’s also conveniently located next to the DeVos Place Convention Center.

Guests enjoy the spa, heated swimming pool, and lovely city views of Grand Rapids. There’s also a sundeck for relaxing. There are two wings of guest rooms: one is modern, and the other is historic.

• Valet parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Spa, pool, and fitness center
• Bar/lounge

15. Fairmont Chicago

A Midwest hotel that’s luxurious and in the heart of Chicago is the uber-deluxe Fairmont Chicago. With views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, this property is the height of style.

The guest rooms are spacious and plush with large marble bathrooms with rain showers and separate tubs. It has an excellent location and is only blocks away from the Magnificent Mile for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Guests rated it a 4 out of 5.

• Free internet
• Fitness center
• Bar/lounge
• Bicycle rentals

Best Hotels for a Romantic Getaway

Romantic hotels’ Midwest style means intimate accommodations and warm, hospitable service.

16. West Baden Springs Hotel

The West Baden Springs Hotel is one of the oldest romantic hotels in the Midwest, as it was built more than a century ago. They have a highly-rated full-service spa for pampering and a 45-hold championship golf course.

The Queen Anne architecture is a work of marvel featuring a giant atrium and 243 generously appointed guest rooms and suites. The property is adjacent to horse stables for guided rides across the expansive grounds.

A trolley is also available for an evening of entertainment and gaming, including a high-stakes card room, at the French Lick Casino. Romance packages are available.

Guests rate this couple’s retreat 5 out of 5.

• Free parking
• Free high speed internet
• Pool and fitness center
• Private balconies

17. The Old Rittenhouse Inn

One of our romantic hotels in the Midwest is a stunning Victorian bed and breakfast. The Old Rittenhouse Inn is in Bayfield, WI, within walking distance of Lake Superior. The property comprises two Victorian homes, a cottage made up of 20 guest rooms, and a fine dining restaurant.

Many rooms have working fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Breakfast is included in the rate. The garden and pergola will make picturesque wedding venues. If you like Victorian style, The Old Rittenhouse Inn will charm. Some guests were surprised the rooms didn’t have TVs. Otherwise, it’s rated a 4.5 out of 5.

• Free high speed internet
• Restaurant
• Free parking
• Breakfast included

18. Island House Hotel

Of the coolest hotels in the Midwest, this one is also one of the most romantic. The historic Island House Hotel is on beautiful, fun-packed Mackinac Island.

Enjoy panoramic Lake Michigan views, meals in the hotel garden, and walks downtown. Bikes are available to rent from the hotel, which is the only one within the borders of Mackinac Island State Park.

Or you can rock on the porch and watch the boats in the harbor. The hotel is quiet and cozy–perfect for a romantic getaway. Guests recommend upgrading to a room with lake views but love the ambiance, location, and service. It rates a 4.5 out of a possible 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Pool
• Bar/lounge and restaurant
• Baggage handling

19. Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown

Romantic hotels in the Midwest can also be conveniently located and delightfully accessible. The Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown is in the historic Board of Education building.

It’s completely renovated but retains its 1930s splendor, complete with original Cora Holden murals. Couples love its downtown location, making it walkable to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

It’s close to FirstEnergy Stadium for Browns games and Progressive Field for Indians baseball. It’s a lively location. Guests rated service, accessibility, and other factors an impressive 4.5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Pool and fitness center
• Free breakfast
• Valet parking

20. Honor and Folly

One of our romantic hotels Midwest choices is the small inn called Honor & Folly. It’s quirky, charming, and conveniently located in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood.

The guest apartment is set above a coffee shop and bar, so visitors can get to know the neighborhood from the people who live and work there.

Corktown is a walkable community of great shops and restaurants. Guests can also explore downtown, only a 15-minute walk from the inn.

The accommodation includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, and a balcony. Guests will have the entire space, decorated by local designers, to themselves during their visit. On Airbnb, Honor & Folly is rated a 4.9.

• Wifi included
• Stocked kitchen
• Washer
• Hair dryer and other essentials

See Related: Best Restaurants in Minneapolis

Best Hotels for a Tree House Experience

The unusual style of tree house hotels in the Midwest region is a natural option because of the ample forestland. Check out these fun accommodations.

21. Cottage Grove, Minnesota, Treehouse

Of the tree house hotels of the Midwest, this one is definitely not a platform wedged in a tree branch in your childhood backyard. “A luxury 7 room suite with four outdoor decks, two fireplaces, a 2-person Jacuzzi, and a tower. Situated on a historic farm and next to a 500-acre park.”

Although the accommodations are high up in a tree, where the views are amazing, the tree’s location is ideal. You’re close to parks, museums, excellent dining, and the beach.

It’s not a great option for families, but couples and solo travelers will love the setting and deluxe appointments. On Airbnb, guests rated it highly at 5 out of 5.

• Jacuzzi tub
• Fireplace
• Free high-speed internet
• Kitchen

22. The Mohicans

This complex of tree house hotels in the Midwest is located in Ohio. The Mohicans are real tree houses in the center of Mohican Country. The charming tree houses have kitchenettes with refrigerators and charcoal grills. You’ll also find flat-screen TVs and indoor toilets.

Showers are outside. But you have a deck to enjoy the views of the rolling hills of the scenic Mohican Valley. Guests enjoy hiking, fishing, and dining on their private decks. They rate it at 4.5.

• Free parking
• Kitchenette
• Refrigerator
• Private decks

23. Treehouse and Jacuzzi Bath House

Treehouse hotels in the Midwest are super fun for couples. The Treehouse and Jacuzzi Bath House in Cassville, MO, is a prime example. The tiny house connected to the bath house via a bridge sits across seven trees on ten acres and is a slice of heavenly solitude and comfort. The location is great too. The accommodations are only minutes from Roaring River State Park and the Mark Twain National Forest.

Both areas offer excellent hiking and fishing. The kitchenette is stocked, and there’s a grill and smoker or campfire ring for outdoor cooking. On Airbnb, guests rated the Treehouse and Jacuzzi Bath House a 5 out of 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Television with streaming capability 
• Equipped kitchenette with coffee and breakfast items
• Games and DVDs

24. Enchanted Garden Treehouse

The Enchanted Garden is one of the most conveniently located tree house hotels in the Midwest as it’s only a half-hour from Chicago in Schaumburg, IL.

It’s fully equipped for couples or solo travelers and leisure or business. The cedar tree house sits above a backyard oasis. Relax to the sounds of the waterfall, stargaze, grill, or enjoy an evening around the fire table.

A fireplace, TV, plush robes, and a feather comforter are available to make your stay as cozy and enjoyable as possible.

The Enchanted Garden Treehouse is rated a 4.9 on Airbnb.

• Wifi included
• Indoor fireplace
• Whirlpool tub
• Smart TV

See Related: Best Hotels in Minneapolis

Best Hotels for a Resort Experience

Many of the best hotels in the Midwest are resorts. That’s because there’s so much to do and endless natural beauty.

25. Lake Shore Resort

Sitting on the shores of spectacular Lake Michigan in Saugatuck, MI, one of the best hotels on our list is the family-friendly Lake Shore Resort.

Anywhere you plant your feet, you’ll have beautiful water views. And it’s all three miles from the heart of vibrant downtown Saugatuck. Guests enjoy biking, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and stargazing at Lake Shore. There’s also great dining and fun firepits.

In Saugatuck, shop boutiques and galleries or dine at any number of fantastic restaurants. It’s a peaceful place to relax and connect with family.

Guests love the views and all the outdoor activities. It’s rated a 4.5 out of 5.

• Free parking
• Free internet
• Pool and bike rentals
• Complimentary breakfast

26. Park Point Marina Inn

One of the coolest hotels in the Midwest is this lovely waterfront resort in scenic Duluth, MN. The Park Point Marina Inn is a place where you can relax and watch boats enter and leave the harbor. Or enjoy a drink in the Harbor Cove Lounge.

There’s plenty to do for the whole family, from swimming in the indoor pool or taking the complimentary shuttle to Canal Park.

It’s also convenient to the beach, harbor, and championship golf. Guests love the service and location. It’s rated a 4.5.

• Free parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Pool and fitness center
• Free hot breakfast buffet

27. Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark

The Midwest Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark in Dubuque, IA, made our best hotels in the Midwest list due to its fantastic water and city views.

The suites have enormous windows, whirlpool tubs, and fireplaces. There’s a 25,000-square-foot waterpark with pools and slides.

It’s also within walking distance of the Mississippi Riverwalk and other entertainment. The property has seen a lot of traffic, but overall guests were satisfied and rated it 3.5 out of 5.

• Free parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Pool and fitness center
• Game room

Best Hotel for Getting Away From it All

The best hotels in the Midwest are perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

28. Lora Hotel

Minnesota’s Lora Hotel is an award-winning Midwest hotel sitting on the banks of the St. Croix River. The property offers its own Signature Amenities designed to relax and recharge guests. A great night’s sleep is practically guaranteed with pillows from their special pillow menu.

Management is also extremely pet friendly and many guests do bring them along. Dog beds and bowls are even available upon check-in.

But best of all, the entire property feels like a retreat from the busyness of life. The hotel itself is in a renovated old stone building. Most guests found that aspect charming, but others were taken by surprise by the lack of outlets and other limitations.

Overall, it’s rated a 4 out of a possible 5.

• Free high-speed internet
• Fitness center
• Bar/lounge
• Dog friendly

Related Resources

• Best Time to Go to Mackinac Island
• Best Midwest Festivals Worth Traveling To
• Best Road Trips in the Midwest
• Best Things to do in Duluth, Minnesota