Where To Stay For IL Summer 2026 Road Trips, Staycations

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start to summer in Illinois, meaning locals are getting ready to hit the road and start exploring the state and country under the summer sun.

Whether you're planning a staycation in Chicago or want to venture to another part of the state, Airbnb is chock-full of unique accommodations, from dome glamping and grain bin living to luxurious city escapes.

Patch compiled a list of seven memorable options scattered throughout the state.

Floating river cabin with a hot tub

For a special getaway, consider staying on a house that floats on the backwaters of the Mississippi River in East Dubuque. The retro-fitted but modern cabin provides a serene escape, and if water levels cooperate, swimming and boating are options. It's also possible to fish off the deck.

Amenities include a hot tub, a grill, a record player and sound system, board games, a kitchen, a private patio and a kayak.

Modern Chicago guesthouse with pool access

Located in the heart of Andersonville, a bustling, charming neighborhood on Chicago's North Side, this two-story pool house boasts spa-like amenities within the one-bedroom, one-bathroom space. A heated pool, spa-style bath and full kitchen are sure to lead to a cozy and relaxing staycation this summer.

Other amenities include high-speed wifi, in-unit laundry and a grill. Free street parking is available.

Serene lakefront house with private dock

Spending time on the lake doesn't only mean Lake Michigan in northern Illinois. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom house sits on the quaint Nippersink Lake in Fox Lake, within the Chain O' Lakes. Access to a private dock, fit pit, modern kitchen and plenty of outdoor seating are jt a few of the amenities at the house.

Other features include shared beach access, in-unit laundry, a hammock, a kayak, sun loungers, pool noodles and life vests.

Dome glamping in Shawnee National Forest

Self-dubbed one of renters' favorite Airbnb in Illinois, this raised dome in Simpson takes glamping to luxurious levels. In the middle of Shawnee National Forest and minutes from trailheads, the rental features a hot tub, patio furniture and a comfortable fire pit. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom space accommodates up to two guests.

Amenities include portable AC, in-dome laundry, a bathroom with a shower, a two-burner stovetop, a microwave and an air fryer.

Cozy stay in a grain bin

It's not every day vacationers have the option to sleep in a grain bin. This Airbnb on a farm in Shelbyville Township makes a newly constructed grain bin a cozy hideaway. Accommodating up to five guests, the space sits on a family farm with about 20 acres of land dedicated to a pollinator program supporting local bees. One perk of staying here is the chance to visit the sheep and chickens on the property.

Amenities include a kitchenette, a full bathroom, a TV, board games, air conditioning, a fire pit and outdoor furniture.

Charming garden treehouse near Chicago

For those who can't leave the Chicagoland area but want to change up their sleeping arrangements, one Airbnb is offering an "enchanted garden treehouse" experience in Schaumburg. An eco-friendly cedar treehouse is situated above a waterfall and koi pond. The space serves as an oasis amid busy suburban life.

Amenities include a hot tub, a grill, an outdoor shower, a kitchenette, wifi, a TV with streaming services, a hammock and a yurt tent. The space is suited for up to four people.

Luxurious brownstone in the heart of Chicago culinary scene, nightlife

If you're looking for a luxurious getaway to the heart of Chicago's vibrant dining and nightlife scene, this is the place. Accommodating up to 12 people, the rental unit in River North has three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a chef's kitchen just off an expansive dining table and design-forward living room.

Amenities include in-unit laundry, wifi, a safe, an entertainment system and a variety of offerings for the family.