Hotels in Mendota

Whispers of Serenity: Explore Mendota's Charming Countryside and Timeless Faith

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Mendota is a charming small town that offers a delightful blend of countryside tranquility and cultural richness. With its picturesque churches and vibrant community spirit, visitors can explore historic landmarks and enjoy local events. Nature lovers will appreciate nearby Matthiessen State Park and the stunning landscapes of Starved Rock State Park, both perfect for hiking and picnicking. The serene waters of Lake Mendota provide a peaceful backdrop for fishing and kayaking. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mendota's warm hospitality and scenic beauty make it a hidden gem worth discovering. For the best hotel rates in Mendota and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Mendota

Some of the best places to stay in Mendota are Ottawa, Peru and Rochelle. Ottawa, Peru, and Rochelle each offer unique attractions for travelers. Ottawa is known for its scenic riverside, historic downtown, and vibrant arts scene, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Peru boasts outdoor activities and local dining, while Rochelle features charming small-town vibes. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly motels to mid-range inns, ensuring comfort and convenience for all travelers. Each destination provides a welcoming atmosphere, making them great choices for your Mendota trip. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Mendota:

1. OttawaOpens in a new window: Ottawa is a fantastic place for outdoor enthusiasts, offering proximity to attractions like Starved Rock State Park and Grand Bear Falls Indoor Water Park. The area is perfect for adventure seekers and families alike, with beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities. For accommodations, consider Quality Inn Ottawa near Starved Rock State ParkOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel catering to business travelers with amenities like a meeting room. Another option is Hampton Inn Ottawa (Starved Rock Area)Opens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, which welcomes pets and features a business center, conference space, and a meeting room. Lastly, Holiday Inn Express and Suites OttawaOpens in a new window provides various sports and recreation activities, making it ideal for active travelers.
2. PeruOpens in a new window: Peru is ideal for nature lovers, with access to both Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park. This charming area offers a mix of adventure and family-friendly activities. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Peru Starved Rock State ParkOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is pet-friendly and equipped with multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Another option is Fairfield Inn & Suites PeruOpens in a new window, which focuses on business travelers, offering accessible business amenities. Lastly, Hampton Inn & Suites PeruOpens in a new window combines business and family themes, providing children’s amenities alongside a business center and meeting room.
3. RochelleOpens in a new window: Rochelle is a culturally rich destination featuring attractions like Northern Illinois University and the Rochelle Railroad Park. This area is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts. For a comfortable stay, check out Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford RiverfrontOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers a fully equipped business center. Radisson Hotel and Conference Center RockfordOpens in a new window is another great choice, catering to families with amenities like free cribs and 24-hour business services. Lastly, Home2 Suites by Hilton DekalbOpens in a new window also welcomes pets and features multiple meeting rooms, making it suitable for both business and leisure travelers.

What to do in Mendota

Three days in Mendota offer a delightful escape to charming countryside landscapes, where travelers can enjoy serene lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills. Engage in outdoor activities like hiking and boating, and don't miss the stunning sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky during your stay. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Mendota:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Starved Rock State Park, where you can hike through stunning canyons and enjoy breathtaking views of the Illinois River. After immersing yourself in nature, head to Matthiessen State Park. Here, explore the beautiful trails and cascading waterfalls that make this park a hidden gem. Conclude your day at the LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area and its early inhabitants through fascinating exhibits.
• Day 2: Begin your day with a visit to the elegant Hegeler Carus Mansion, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. After touring the mansion, head to Buffalo Rock State Park, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Illinois River and experience the park's diverse wildlife. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Baker Park, enjoying the serene atmosphere and perhaps having a picnic amidst the lush greenery.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Muddy Creek, a picturesque spot perfect for a peaceful walk or a bit of birdwatching. Next, make your way to Washington Square Park, where you can unwind among the trees and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere. Wrap up your itinerary with a visit to the Appellate Court, where you can appreciate the architecture and perhaps learn about the judicial process in Illinois.

5 tips to find a great Mendota hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For budget-conscious travelers, January, November, and December are the most affordable months to visit Mendota, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. To truly experience the area’s charm, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. This allows you to explore the town's notable attractions, including its historic churches and picturesque countryside, ensuring you get great value for your money on your trip.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Mendota, Hotels.com is a great place to start. By checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, you could find enticing discounts on nearby accommodations as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of scoring the best prices, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for flash sales and special promotions. This way, you’re more likely to catch the latest offers and enjoy good availability at competitive rates for Mendota hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Mendota.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable rates, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, finding a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Mendota and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Mendota

Mendota experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 22.8°F (-5.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.9°F (22.7°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Mendota are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.