Hotel Royer: Central Illinois
Hotel Royer, formerly known as the Urbana-Lincoln Hotel, was designed by Joseph W. Royer and built in 1924. It's a Tudor Revival style building located at the intersection of Broadway and Green Streets in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. The hotel was initially conceived to address the need for a prominent hotel in the growing city, especially with the presence of the University of Illinois. It's now part of the Lincoln Square Mall and has undergone several ownership and name changes, including a period of closure before being renovated and reopened as Hotel Royer. Hotel Royer is now part of the Tapestry Collection By Hilton with 131 rooms with features that will impress any avid traveler. Other notable establishments nearby include Carle Hospital and Rantoul Family Sports Complex.
Golden Era
During the early 20th century, Hotel Royer became a hub for socialites, business tycoons, and celebrities. The hotel's ballroom was famous for hosting extravagant events and gala dinners, often attended by the city's most influential figures. Its reputation for outstanding service and exquisite cuisine further cemented its status as a premier destination..
Modern Era
Today, Hotel Royer continues to embrace its historical roots while offering modern amenities to its guests. The hotel has seamlessly integrated cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, ensuring a comfortable and eco-friendly stay. It remains a preferred choice for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of history, luxury, and hospitality.
I recently stayed at Hotel Royer for a little staycation to explore this gorgeous landmark establishment. It has so many amazing attributes and benefits! First and foremost, I always say having these types of hotels directly off the interstate is a huge draw to our rural and university communities. It is steps away from University of Illinois campus so would be perfect for football/basketball games or parents visiting their kids at college! People who routinely travel or are just looking for a great family-friendly stay off the interstate will be blown away by Hotel Royer! The hotel offers so many amazing amenities. The Midwest is a huge road trip region and I know people are looking forward to amazing boutique hotels. When traveling across the state of Illinois this is the perfect stopping point when roadtripping!
10 Reasons to Stay at Hotel Royer
1. Historical Features—this hotel has so much history behind it. When I dove deep into the history of Hotel Royer I was blown away by everything that had happened at this historical landmark. I love seeing old buildings getting a second chance at life and Hotel Royer is just that! After doing the beside the scene tour I could spend hours learning about the original woodwork and infrastructure.
2. Safety is so important when I am traveling solo! I have written in previous blog posts about staying at hotels when traveling abroad because I feel like it offers an added layer of protection for female solo travelers. This hotel made me feel very at ease and no concerns with traveling solo.
3. Indoor Pool was so perfect to wind down after a long drive. I grabbed a glass of champagne and went to sit poolside! I can only imagine how nice this pool would be after a long drive with kiddos especially during the winter months so that they can get some energy out.
4. On site Restaurant makes traveling a little bit easier. If traveling with kids or solo, having an on-site restaurant gives you the convenience and luxury of just a quick walk downstairs. The restaurant at Hotel Royer is called the Writer’s Room. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner plus a kids menu option as well!
5. Hotel bar means you catch me relaxing for 2.5 seconds with a glass of bubbles! Nothing screams hotel travel quite like a hotel bar and if the vibes are HIGH the hotel bar is the best!
6. The fitness center was perfect for travel days! They had peloton bikes and treadmills and free weights available. Just enough equipment to squeeze in a workout while traveling!
7. Aesthetics is everything these days, especially with social media. If you have the aesthetics and service to match you bring everything to that table. This hotel does just that!
8. The event space makes any majestic hotel glimmer even more! Whether you are hosting a conference, special events or a wedding this hotel has the space to host you.
9. Location IS EVERYTHING! Hotel Royer is located in central Illinois and about 20 minutes off the interstate. My favorite aspect of the location is it steps from University of Illinois Campus. Location is everything to people who are road tripping.
10. Family Friendly—the Indoor pool plus rooms with large spaces is everything to me when traveling with my son. A room with a pull-out couch!? SIGN ME UP! Meals on site so we don’t have to go far? PERFECT! The large rooms, mini fridge and nespresso machine are just some of the in room ammenities that make traveling with kids a little bit easier.
