Hotels in Downs

Serenity Awaits: Explore the Hidden Wonders of The Downs

Nestled in the charming Bloomington-Normal area, Downs, Illinois, offers a delightful blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. Surrounded by lush landscapes and serene lakes, this quaint residential gem is perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape. Explore the nearby parks, including the expansive state parks, where hiking and wildlife watching abound. Enjoy community events at local stadiums, or simply stroll through the picturesque streets. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to urban amenities, Downs invites travelers to unwind and connect with nature in a uniquely captivating setting. For the best hotel rates in Downs, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Downs

Some of the best places to stay in Downs are Bloomington, Normal and Clinton. Bloomington, Normal, and Clinton offer vibrant experiences for travelers. Bloomington is known for its cultural attractions and lively downtown, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Normal features a college-town vibe with parks and local dining, while Clinton boasts a charming small-town atmosphere. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to cozy inns and pet-friendly options, ensuring a variety of choices for every traveler. Each location provides access to comfortable stays, whether you're looking for apartments or traditional hotel settings. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Downs:

1. BloomingtonOpens in a new window: Bloomington is an excellent destination for travelers interested in culture and family entertainment. It offers proximity to notable attractions like Illinois State University and Redbird Arena, making it a vibrant hub for educational and sporting events. For accommodations, consider DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel BloomingtonOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to business and family travelers, featuring a business center and pet-friendly policies. Parke Regency Hotel & Conf Ctr, BW Signature CollectionOpens in a new window is another solid choice, boasting a casino and amenities for families, including an arcade room. Lastly, Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham BloomingtonOpens in a new window is a comfortable 3.0-star option, ideal for business travelers with its dedicated meeting spaces.
2. NormalOpens in a new window: Normal is a charming place that balances culture and city life, with easy access to attractions like Illinois Wesleyan University and Redbird Arena. The city center location makes it convenient for exploring. Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference CenterOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that offers a mix of business amenities and adventure activities nearby, perfect for those seeking both work and play. Hyatt Place Bloomington/NormalOpens in a new window is also a great option, featuring pet-friendly policies and business facilities, while Courtyard Bloomington NormalOpens in a new window provides essential business amenities for corporate travelers.
3. ClintonOpens in a new window: Clinton is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions like Weldon Springs State Park and Clinton Lake State Recreation Area nearby. It offers a scenic backdrop for adventure and relaxation. Homewood Suites by Hilton DecaturForsythOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel catering to business and pet travelers, with essential amenities like a business center. Residence Inn Decatur ForsythOpens in a new window complements this with additional business facilities and pet-friendly policies. Lastly, Holiday Inn & Suites Decatur-Forsyth, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window appeals to families, offering a game room for kids while providing necessary business amenities.

Things to do in Downs for first time

A three-day visit to Downs offers a perfect blend of stunning national parks, serene lakes, and lush forests. Travelers can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and diving while exploring the area's diverse recreational areas and shopping centers. Consider requesting virtual tours to enhance your experience! Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Downs:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Beecher Playland, a delightful spot perfect for families, where you can enjoy various playground equipment and recreational activities. Afterward, head over to Angler's Lake Conservation Area, where you can immerse yourself in nature with a leisurely hike around the lake, spotting local wildlife along the way. Conclude your day at the Prairie Aviation Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on aviation history and perhaps catch a glimpse of some vintage aircraft.
• Day 2: Begin your day in the beautiful Moraine View State Park, an ideal location for hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying a picnic surrounded by stunning scenery. Next, visit the historic David Davis Mansion, where you can tour the elegant home and learn about its rich history and architecture. Cap off your day at the Kenneth L. Schroeder Wildlife Sanctuary, a serene place to unwind and observe a variety of local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, where you can take part in outdoor activities such as fishing or hiking along the scenic trails. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Spring Lake, perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying the picturesque views of the water. Finally, wrap up your visit at the Mansfield Public Library, where you can delve into local literature or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere before heading home.

5 tips to find a great Downs hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Downs is during July, November, and December, when hotel rates drop significantly. For a great value for money experience, it's best to plan a stay of at least 2-3 days to fully explore the key attractions. In Downs, you can enjoy the beautiful national park and the serene lake, making it a perfect destination for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Downs, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. Here, you may discover discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you can stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you're more likely to uncover great opportunities without missing out on potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may increase your chances of saving on hotel expenses in Downs.
4. Consider your location: When booking through Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you intend to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Downs. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

Best time to go to Downs

Downs experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.1°F (-3.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.8°F (23.2°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Downs are May to July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.