The Palatine center point is approximately 2 miles northeast of Harper College and 3 miles north of Schaumburg Renaissance Convention Center.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Below are reviews of the city of Palatine, IL from an actual visitor's perspective.
Close to restaurants and shopping.
Very nice town.