Lemont was originally called Keepataw, after a local Potawatomi chief, then Athens, and Palmyra. In 1850, the village changed its name again to Lemont, the French word for “the mountain.”
The Potawatomi originally lived in the area around Lemont. They had a simple way of life, but this existence was changed forever once French traders arrived during the 18th century. European settlers moved in, and by 1836, Lemont was officially established.
While the area has moved with the times, its historic district remains largely unchanged. This charming district is one of the key attractions for visitors today to Lemont.
What time of year is best to visit Lemont, IL?
September and October are the best times to visit Lemont. The weather is still pleasantly warm during the day, with top temperatures in the 60s and 70s, as the winter chill hasn't yet set in. Remember that the temperature can drop sharply at night, so bring a coat for evening outings. You also won't need to compete with other travelers for the best accommodation rates. You'll find plenty to see and do during these fall months, especially in nearby Chicago. It hosts the Chicago Jazz Festival, Hyde Park Jazz Festival, and Oktoberfest celebrations in October, as well as the Chicago International Film Festival and Bank of America Chicago Marathon every October.
Lemont is prone to strong winds and tornadoes during spring and summer. While a major tornado hasn't troubled the area since March 1991, your risks can be minimized by traveling outside tornado season.
While the winds usually drop in winter, the temperatures are bitterly cold. If you can brave the icy weather, you will find hotel rates are their lowest after New Year's Day.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lemont, IL:
Lemont, IL: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Lemont, IL. Browse these line graphs to evaluate the best dates to book a room in Lemont for your upcoming travels.
What are the Lemont, IL luxury hotels?
4 Star Average Prices: $130.16
True luxury is limited close to Lemont. If you are craving a little opulence, it's worth driving to nearby Oak Brook. The following high-end hotels appeal to travelers with discerning tastes.
The Drake Hotel Oak Brook was originally built in 1962 as a companion to the Drake Hotel on Michigan Avenue. However, it failed to thrive and soon closed. After being unused for many years, independent operators restored the hotel to its former glory. You'll love the elegant guest rooms, which look fit for royalty, and the enormous dining room, which serves gourmet meals for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The Drake's event space is also ideal for weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.
Le Meridien Chicago - Oakbrook Center is a more contemporary alternative, located steps from the popular Oakbrook Center shopping mall. Its 172 rooms and suites have a tasteful, yet cutting-edge aesthetic guests love. For true luxury, book the presidential suite. With a table for business meetings, private bedroom, powder room in the parlor, and an all-marble bathroom, you'll have plenty of space to spread out. Le Meridien has private spa suites for relaxing treatments and an acclaimed on-site restaurant, El Tapeo Modern Spanish Kitchen. The free bike programs provide a great way to explore the local area.
What options are in Lemont, IL for the most affordable hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $130.18
Hotels around Lemont are typically cheaper than you'll find in Chicago. However, if you forgo the frills, you'll find you can save more money by selecting one of the following local hotels.
Super 8 Romeoville Bolingbrook is a comfortable budget hotel conveniently located in nearby Romeoville, close to Interstate 55 and Interstate 355. Its modern rooms feature eye-catching travel prints on the walls, free Wi-Fi, and TVs with premium cable channels including HBO. Enjoy your free eight-item SuperStart breakfast, featuring waffles and cereals, then take the free shuttle bus into Lemont or Chicago. This Super 8 hotel also has a computer and laundry facilities for guest use.
Ramada Bolingbrook is usually slightly more expensive than the Super 8, but it's worth paying a small premium for its extra features. Its indoor pool is a big hit with visiting kids and adults, and its small fitness center has all the equipment you need to supercharge your workout. Its guest rooms are spacious, with armchairs for watching TV, microwaves, fridges, and a work desk for catching up on paperwork. The pastries and pancakes make the free continental breakfast worth waking up for.
