European settlers began arriving in Palatine after the Black Hawk War. Many people believe George Ela, a former soldier who built a log cabin where Deer Grove now stands, was Palatine's first resident. Ela Road, on the western edge of town, is named in his honor. Palatine was officially founded in 1866 by Joel Wood, who surveyed and laid out its streets. One of them is named Wood Street in his memory.
The construction of the short line Palatine, Lake Zurich, and Wauconda Railroad in 1911 connected the village with Wauconda. It boosted local growth until its closure in 1924. The area continued flourishing with the development of Palanois Park, a suburban subdivision, after World War II. As housing became increasingly expensive in downtown Chicago from the 1970s, more people looked to nearby communities such as Palatine for more affordable homes.
Palatine's population growth has been good news for tourists, with improved facilities for locals enhancing the community. New commercial buildings, a passenger train station, and a parking garage have made Palatine a great place for weekend stopovers and extended getaways.
What time of the year should you visit Palatine, IL?
Palatine doesn't experience tourism increases as sharply as Chicago and other larger cities, but it still feels the impact of busy seasons due to its limited choices for accommodations. Book early for travel during festival season and expect to pay a little more for the privilege.
If you want to save some money, travel during April, May, September, or October. Palatine isn't quite as busy during these spring and fall months, which makes accommodations only more affordable. Temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy all the regular attractions here and in Chicago, averaging between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
Unless you have a high tolerance for cold weather, you may not want to visit Palatine during the winter. The days are bitterly cold and the nights can be icy. The relentless winds make the conditions outdoors feel even colder. Even the affordable accommodations and air prices probably many not convince you to visit if you prefer warmer winter vacation destinations.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Palatine, IL:
Palatine, IL: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. rate trends by star rating class in Palatine, IL. Browse these charts to calculate the cheapest time period to book a room in Palatine for any future trips.
Where are the luxury hotels around Palatine, Illinois?
4 Star Average Prices: $131.83
The Palatine area doesn't have hotels as luxurious as Chicago, but travelers who enjoy the finer items in life won't go away disappointed either. Beautiful rooms and first-class facilities ensure these upscale local hotels impress.
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Deer Park, off Interstate 94, features more than 100 stylish guest rooms and suites, all with large LCD televisions, WaterPik showerheads, tea and coffeemakers, and the hotel group's famous Hampton beds. Another TV in the fitness center will help you stay motivated when you're feeling the burn. Soothe your muscles with a swim in the indoor swimming pool. When the sun rises, linger over the free breakfast buffet or grab your complimentary Hampton on the Run Breakfast Bag as you race out the door. The choice is yours at Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Deer Park.
Residence Inn Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall is a recently renovated all-suites hotel. Not only are the suites typically 50 percent larger than hotel rooms, but they're also well-appointed with full kitchens, TVs with premium channels, and plush beds and pullout sofas. The hotel's shopping service helps you prepare meals in your room's kitchen or on the outdoor grills. You don't need to worry about breakfast, with the Residence Inn preparing a lavish free buffet each morning. Evening mixers held three times a week are a fun way to meet fellow travelers. The Residence Inn also has an indoor pool, whirlpool, and fitness center.
What affordable hotels can you find in Palatine, IL?
3 Star Average Prices: $100.78
Palatine's rates for accommodations should please anyone who usually travels to large cities. On the whole, its prices are more affordable than tourist destinations. These hotels offer some of the lowest prices in the Palatine area.
Red Carpet Inn Palatine, formerly the Comfort Inn, prides itself on its bargain room rates. Its rooms are simple, but clean and modern, with large wall-mounted TVs showing premium cable channels, comfortable beds, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Some even have hot tubs. Starting the day is easy with coffee and breakfast both provided free of charge.
Wyndham Garden Schaumburg Chicago Northwest has better facilities, but it is a short drive from Palatine's downtown area. You'll likely feel the drive is worthwhile if you want more from your hotel than a room only. Breakfast isn't free, but it has more gourmet options than Red Carpet Inn, with waffles, meats, and eggs prepared your way to tempt your taste buds. The Entre Bar and Grill also serves American, Indian, and Mexican meals for lunch and dinner. Don't worry about overindulging. The fitness center and outdoor pool, open seasonally, will help you stick to your fitness plan.
2 Star Average Prices: $64.61
What hotels in Palatine, IL have the best discounts?
Choose hotel group accommodations in Palatine and you may pay less than you think. The following hotels and some others discount their regular rates for selected travelers.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Arlington Heights have special rates for AAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, large traveling groups, and federal and state government employees. Its vibrant rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffeemakers to help you get moving in the morning. If you need a microwave or mini-fridge, simply ask the helpful service staff. Sticking to your fitness regimen is easy, with several healthy options on the free Daybreak buffet and a small on-site gym.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Schaumburg Woodfield also discounts rates for the same groups and travel agents, too. Every one of the hotel's suites has two rooms, so it's a fantastic choice for families. Kids love the indoor pool, while the hot tub is always a big hit with grownups. Embassy Suites treats guests with a complimentary 4-mile shuttle service, free made-to-order breakfasts each morning, and free alcoholic beverages and snacks served at the evening reception each night. While several eateries are close by, the hotel's New Orleans–themed LaFitte's restaurant is ideal for nights you'd prefer staying in.
Where are the most valuable hotels in Palatine, Illinois?
Your dollar will go farther at the following Palatine hotels. While their rates aren't always the lowest in the local area, their complimentary benefits and great facilities keep guests smiling.
Holiday Inn Express Chicago-Palatine/North Arlington Heights ensures guests experience real value, with its Express Start breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee, and your pick of pillows. The hotel's rooms are tastefully decorated with calming, muted colors. Little luxurious touches such as the pillow-top beds with triple linen bedding, waterfall showerheads, and TVs with premium cable channels will help you feel at home. The indoor pool is heated for year-round swimming fun. If you prefer a more intense workout, visit the on-site fitness center.
Courtyard Chicago Arlington Heights/North is a contemporary, full-featured hotel on North Wilke Road in Arlington Heights. The hotel doesn't add extra charges for services such as Wi-Fi, parking, and newspapers. It also has its own indoor pool and a fitness center that never closes. The on-site restaurant, The Bistro, has tempting a la carte breakfast and dinner options. While you'll pay extra for these options, guests insist the morning meals are tastier than the average complimentary buffet. You'll find plush beds, separate baths and showers, and flat-screen TVs with premium channels in all guest accommodations, whether you choose a standard room or suite.
What festivals should you check out while in Palatine, IL?
Residents and visitors come together every year at Palatine's festivals. These exciting events are the highlights of the village's social calendar.
St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church hosts Greek Fest in late June. The three-day event attracts at least 15,000 revelers celebrating everything Greek. Authentic Greek food vendors serve grilled octopus, herbed chicken, and other Mediterranean delicacies while traditional dancers show off their moves. You'll also find plenty of music, children's games, and a Plaka Greek marketplace.
The Fourth of July is a time for celebrations in many American cities, and Palatine is no different. The village's holiday celebrations, called Hometown Fest, actually last for six days. Key events include the parade, starring local personalities, business representatives, firefighters, policemen and women, a fireworks display, a business expo and craft fair, and the Hometown Toss competition. July 4 is Family Day, a free family-friendly event with bouncy houses, arts and crafts workshops, face painting, and the water balloon toss.
Food vendors line the streets of Downtown Palatine every August for the annual Street Fest festival. It's a family-friendly event, with live musicians and games ensuring young and old have an amazing time. Some of the festival's dishes may be a little too inventive for little ones, but the kids' zone will put smiles on their faces.
While Palatine may not seem like the natural choice for people heading to the Chicago metro area, this friendly village is endearing. Use this community as your base for exploring Chicago, but don't forget to discover the great festivals and attractions that make this village an appealing destination in its own right.
FAQs about hotels in Palatine
Verified reviews of the city of Palatine
Below are reviews of the city of Palatine, IL from an actual visitor's perspective.
"I grew up in Palatine so I loved it"
Score
4.0 / 5
Michael D., from 08-May-2026
"Close to Restaurants & Shopping"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to restaurants and shopping.
Tara L., from 26-Mar-2024
"Very Nice Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
Very nice town.
Richard C., from 08-Jan-2024
The average traveler rating of the city of Palatine, IL shown above is
4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews