29 Best Hotels in the Midwest | Where to Stay

“Midwest is Best” – at least that’s what you say if you’ve grown up there. It’s not often folks think to take a vacation to the heart of the United States. However, situated between the beaches of California and the lights of Broadway, the American Midwest offers some of the most spectacular hotels in the country.

Whether it’s the Grand Hotel on the carless community of Mackinac Island, a road trip to one of the Midwest’s world-renowned festivals, or a vacation to Lake Superior, these states are more than “just corn and cows.”

Boundless natural beauty, accessible from any corner of the continent, makes the midwestern 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.

For your next vacation, think past the typical and try the best Midwest destinations. To help, we’ve scoured real guest ratings and chosen the best Midwest hotels based on amenities, location, service levels, dining, and reviews.

TL;DR Best Hotels in the Midwest

• Best Overall: Island House Hotel
• Best for Families: Farmstead Inn
• Best for Couples: Honor & Folly
• Best Resort: American Club
• Best City Hotel: 21c Museum Hotel Chicago
• Best Waterfront Hotel: Park Point Marina Inn

Best Hotels for Families

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

1. Farmstead Inn and Conference Center

Address: 370 S Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565

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

Off the property, families can ride bikes or kayak the Elkhart River. Or, walk across the street to explore the famous Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market. There are even local Amish vendors offering horse-drawn carriage rides around town.

When you’re ready to return from your adventures, the Farmstead Inn has an indoor swimming pool and hot tub tucked inside the hotel “silo.” There’s even a ping-pong room and quarter basketball court for those looking to get some energy out. Or, 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
• Nearby horse drawn carriage rides

2. The Hotel Iroquois

Address: 7485 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

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 shores of Lake Michigan with lighthouse views, Hotel Iroquois has been a Mackinac Island family favorite for decades.

Guests say the Hotel Iroquois staff is eager to make stays exceptional and are happy to handle dining reservations and island tours. Hotel Iroquois offers 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

Looking for a simple way to spend your day on Mackinac Island? Try a Mackinac Island Private Scavenger Hunt.

3. Grand Hotel

Address: 286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

If you’ve ever seen the 1980 cult classic Somewhere In Time, you may recall the Grand Hotel‘s iconic wrap-around porch. At 660 feet, the porch is the largest wrap-around porch in the world. If you are unable to stay overnight, the Grand Hotel charges a $10 admission to spend the day lounging and walking around the porch overling Lake Huron.

The Grand Hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including guest rooms, family suites, signature suites, and cottages.

For the foodie, the Grand Hotel offers 13 dining options. Most interesting, perhaps, is from 6:00 PM onward, the Grand Hotel requests that you wear your finer attire. All for the sake of the “old world” allure of the Grand Hotel is reminiscent of.

Hotel guests will not be bored, with many activities available, including a full-service bar, outdoor pool, miniature golf, two golf courses, and design tours.

• Dining packages available
• Children’s programs
• Historic atmosphere

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.

4. Publishing House Bed & Breakfast

Found in the fashionable West Loop neighborhood of Chicago, one of the coolest bed and breakfasts in the Midwest is Publishing House Bed & Breakfast. When it 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 north shore’s most heralded restaurants, bars, and museums. Sign up for the Favorite Foods Guided Walking Tour so you don’t miss a bite!

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 is included in the rate

See Related: Day Trips from Chicago

5. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago

Address: 55 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611

Would you ever think one of the trendiest hotels in the Midwest would actually be a museum? Located in downtown Chicago, the 21c Museum Hotel Chicago 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 the spacious bedrooms have a downtown view, but guests loved the modern amenities, art gallery, and pristine location. It’s rated a 4 out of a possible 5.

Be sure to use the Go City Explorer Pass to see all the major sites for less.

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

6. Moonrise Hotel

Address: 6177 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112

The mid-century-styled gem, the Moonrise Hotel, is located in the Delmar Loop of St. Louis, MO.

Eclipse’s on-site fine dining restaurant has a lounge serving craft cocktails. Favorite guest amenities include the seasonal Rooftop Garden Bar and the inside/outside lounges.

However, the boutique hotel’s design makes it one of the coolest in the Midwest. Contemporary, luxurious, and artistic, this luxury hotel holds surprises around every corner. Guests love the display cases full of mid-century memorabilia.

Every room comes with a luxury amenity kit. For those looking to treat themselves, there are Whirlpool King Rooms and 10 Walk of Fame suites that include even more deluxe amenities like Aveda bath products, Starbucks coffee, and Serta Enrapture euro top pillow beds.

When you’re ready to explore St. Louis, grab a 75-Minute City Trolley Tour to get a quick overview of Mound City.

Rated 4.5 out of 5.

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

7. The Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown

Address: 123 W Louisiana St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

Train enthusiasts will say the best hotel in the Midwest is the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown. That’s because guests can sleep in an authentic 1920s Pullman Train Car on original tracks on the hotel’s second floor.

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. Other amenities include an indoor swimming pool and fitness room.

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

Be sure to get a 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass to explore the best Indianapolis offers.

8. Detroit Foundation Hotel

Address: 250 W Larned St, Detroit, MI 48226

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

Looking for something out of the ordinary to do in Detroit? Get spooked on the Detroit: Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour.

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.

9. The Peninsula Chicago

Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611

The Peninsula brand’s five-star resort hotels are known worldwide for their high levels of personal attention, gorgeous guest rooms, and fine dining. The Peninsula Chicago is no exception. The hotel spa and indoor swimming pool both boast stunning floor-to-ceiling windows.

Exquisite toiletries and many other upgrades in their award-winning guest rooms and suites. There are four on-site dining options, or enjoy in-room service with fresh-baked breakfast treats in the morning.

Touchless concierge service is also available 24 hours via chat. Plus, they offer flexible check-in and check-out times for all guests.

Guests love the supreme level of hospitality offered by staff throughout the stay. The property is even dog-friendly.

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

10. The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago

Address: 521 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611

A stay at this Midwest hotel will make you feel like you’re sleeping in the lap of luxury. The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago is another downtown Chicago treasure with a fantastic 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 the average nightly rate at The Gwen.

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

11. The Viceroy Chicago

Address: 1118 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610

Another five-star resort on Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile is the Viceroy Chicago. 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 sipping 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.

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

12. Emery, Autograph Collection

Address: 215 S 4th St, Minneapolis, MN 55401

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

13. Park Hyatt Chicago

Address: 800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

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 an indoor swimming 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

14. The American Club

Address: 419 Highland Dr, Kohler, WI 53044

“FOUR!” – Golf course lovers rejoice.

If you want a proper 5-star golf resort experience, head directly to Kohler, WI, and the world-famous American Club. The American Club Resort hotel carries 5-star and AAA 5-diamond ratings and is considered the standard of service in the golf resort industry. American Club Resort hotel guests are only a short twenty-minute drive to Elkhart Lake.

Service at the hotel itself is efficient and friendly. Each uniquely decorated guestroom is rich in fabrics and furnishings.

Resort guests can access the famed Kohler waters spa and tennis courts on-site, as well as three golf courses nearby. If you love golf courses, the American Club is the golf resort for you.

• Free parking
• Free high-speed internet
• Fitness center and pool
• Near Elkhart Lake
• Bar/lounge
• Easy access to golf courses

15. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

Address: 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

One of the best hotels in the Midwest is this stunning property in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton 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.

Outdoor swimming is available at Lake Michigan, but for a more local experience, consider the hour-long drive to Gull Lake. Gull Lake has locals, beach houses, and charming lake-side snack shacks.

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

16. Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park

Address: 200 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

A Midwest hotel that’s luxurious and in the heart of Chicago is the uber-deluxe Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park. 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, rain showers, and separate tubs. It has an excellent location and is only blocks from the Mag Mile for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

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

Best Hotels for a Romantic Getaway

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

17. West Baden Springs Hotel

Address: 8538 W Baden Ave, West Baden Springs, IN 47469

Built over a century ago, the West Baden Springs Hotel is one of the oldest romantic hotels in the Midwest. 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 stables for guided horseback riding tours across the expansive grounds.

A trolley is also available for an evening of entertainment and gaming at the French Lick Casino, including a high-stakes card room. 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
• On-site horseback riding

18. The Old Rittenhouse Inn

Address: 301 Rittenhouse Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814

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 Lake Superior 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. Additionally, some guests have reported seeing the northern lights from this Lake Superior haven.

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
• Walk to Lake Superior

19. Island House Hotel

Address: 6966 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

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. Scenic rides on bicycles are the way to see the island.

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

20. Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown

Address: 1380 E 6th St, Cleveland, OH 44114

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

21. Honor and Folly

Address: 2132 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

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 those 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.

22. Treehouse at Hope Glen Farm, Cottage Grove, Minnesota

Address: 10276 East Point Douglas Rd. S. Cottage Grove, MN 66016

Of the tree house hotels of the Midwest, the Treehouse Luxury Stay 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, with amazing views, 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 VRBO, guests rated it highly at 4.9 out of 5.

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

23. The Mohicans

Address: 23164 Vess Rd, Glenmont, OH 44628

This complex of tree house hotels in the Midwest is in northeastern 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

24. Treehouse and Jacuzzi Bath House

Address: 22648 State Highway 112, Cassville, MO 65625

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– 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, smoker, and 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

25. Enchanted Garden Treehouse

Address: Schaumburg, Illinois, United States (exact address available upon booking)

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, Minnesota | Places to Stay

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.

26. Lake Shore Resort

Address: 2885 Lakeshore Drive, Saugatuck, MI 49453

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

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 many 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

27. Park Point Marina Inn

Address: 1033 Minnesota Ave, Duluth, MN 55802

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

28. Grand Harbor Resort

Address: 350 Bell St, Dubuque, IA 52001

The Midwest Grand Harbor Resort in Dubuque, IA, made our best hotels in the Midwest list due to its fantastic indoor water park and city views. The 25,000-square-foot water park includes a lazy river, waterspouts, rope ladders, a hot tub, and an activity pool.

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.

29. Lora Hotel

Address: 402 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082

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 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 surprised 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
• Things to Do in Duluth, Minnesota