Hotels in Saint Elmo

Enchanting Shores: Discover the Allure of Saint Elmo's Hidden Paradise

Nestled on the edge of town, Saint Elmo, Illinois, is a hidden gem perfect for family adventures and sports enthusiasts. Enjoy a day at the local sports facility stadium, where excitement meets community spirit. Unwind at the nearby lake or family-friendly beach, ideal for picnics and relaxation. With its charming small-town vibe and beautiful landscapes, Saint Elmo invites travelers to savor a delightful escape filled with outdoor fun and lasting memories. Whether you're seeking a leisurely day by the water or an energetic game day, Saint Elmo offers a unique blend of leisure and recreation. For the best hotel rates in Saint Elmo and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Saint Elmo

Some of the best places to stay in Saint Elmo are Effingham, Salem and Vandalia. Effingham, Salem, and Vandalia each offer unique attractions for travelers. Effingham is known for its vibrant downtown and convenient amenities, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Salem boasts charming small-town vibes and local parks, while Vandalia is rich in history, featuring landmarks like the Old State Capitol. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to more luxurious options, ensuring a suitable place for every traveler’s preference. All three towns provide comfortable stays for a delightful vacation experience. Here are some of the best hotels in Saint Elmo that our travelers love:

1. EffinghamOpens in a new window: Effingham is a vibrant destination perfect for family trips and outdoor enthusiasts. With attractions like Lake Sara, ideal for romantic getaways and scenic views, and the Effingham Performance Center, which hosts cultural events and entertainment, there's something for everyone. The area also features the modern Effingham County Courthouse, a hub for local business. For accommodations, consider Holiday Inn Effingham, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel catering to business and family travelers, offering multiple meeting rooms and free cribs for children. Ramada by Wyndham EffinghamOpens in a new window provides a 3.0-star experience, allowing pets and featuring conference spaces, making it suitable for both business and pet-friendly vacations. Quality Inn EffinghamOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is also pet-friendly and perfect for family trips, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
2. SalemOpens in a new window: Salem is a charming town known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. Key points of interest include the Salem Fairgrounds and Raccoon Lake Park, which offer ample opportunities for recreation. The One Room School House Memorial adds a touch of cultural history to your visit. For lodging, Drury Inn & Suites Mt. VernonOpens in a new window is a well-rated 3.0-star hotel that accommodates business, family, and pet travelers, featuring a business center and free cribs. Quality Inn & Suites Salem near I-57Opens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, also welcomes pets and emphasizes comfort. For a more upscale option, DoubleTree by Hilton Mt. VernonOpens in a new window offers a 4.0-star experience with business amenities and a focus on corporate guests.
3. VandaliaOpens in a new window: Vandalia is an outdoor lover's paradise, featuring attractions like Carlyle Lake, perfect for romantic outings, and the Greenville Country Club for sports enthusiasts. The historic Vandalia State House offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. In terms of accommodation, Quality Inn & Suites Vandalia near I-70 and Hwy 51Opens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that supports business and family needs, with multiple meeting rooms and a playground for children. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vandalia, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, another 2.5-star option, also caters to business travelers with a variety of amenities, including a business center and free cribs, while being pet-friendly to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests.

Things to do in Saint Elmo for first time

Saint Elmo offers a delightful three-day escape with its stunning landscapes of tranquil lakes and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, along with family-friendly attractions such as fairgrounds and adventure zones, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking fun and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Saint Elmo:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Saint Elmo by visiting the Effingham County Fairgrounds, where you can immerse yourself in local events and festivities. Afterward, head to the Altamont Living Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region. Finally, conclude your day with a visit to the Dr. Charles M. Wright Mansion, a stunning historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the life of the early 20th century.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Ballard Nature Center, where you can enjoy scenic trails and explore the beauty of native plants and wildlife. Next, make your way to the Cross at the Crossroads, an iconic landmark that symbolizes faith and hope in the community. Afterward, relax at Lake Sara, where you can take leisurely walks, go fishing, or simply enjoy the serene views of the water.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Stephen A Forbes State Park, a fantastic spot for hiking and enjoying nature. After some outdoor fun, visit the William Jennings Bryan Boyhood Home and Museum to learn about the life of this influential figure in American history. Finish your day at the One Room School House Memorial, where you can reflect on the educational heritage of the region and appreciate the simplicity of early schooling.

5 tips to find a great Saint Elmo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Saint Elmo are January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For those looking to get a great value for their money, a stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended to fully enjoy the key attractions, such as the picturesque lake and the family-friendly beach. This destination offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore while keeping expenses in check.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Saint Elmo, checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com is a great start. You could find attractive hotel rates as your travel date approaches, offering good availability at competitive prices. To enhance your chances of snagging a deal, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you’re more likely to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on accommodation costs in Saint Elmo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Saint Elmo 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 Saint Elmo

Saint Elmo experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 30.2°F (-1.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.5°F (24.7°C). April is usually the wettest month. May, August, and September are the peak travel months in Saint Elmo, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.