Hotel prices listed below are the lowest available for Saturday night, August 1, verified in late May 2026. These prices are a guideline for what rooms cost and have not been guaranteed.
The Lake Forest Metra train station for the Union Pacific-North (UP-N) line is a 5-minute walk from the Gorton Center.
Saturday train schedules are available on pages 4 - 5 of the Metra UP-N timetable.
The Forester Hotel in Lake Forest is fully booked for July 31 and August 1.
These options were selected for convenience, comfort, and train or venue access.
Lake Forest, IL
4.7 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$620/night
A historic, award-winning boutique hotel in a 15th-century English manor style. The premier option — and the most convenient: a short walk to the Gorton Center and also walking distance to the Lake Forest UP-North Metra station. Likely to sell out. Early booking recommended.
601 N Milwaukee Ave, Wheeling, IL
4.3 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$200/night
A full-service Marriott/Westin property with spacious rooms, the brand's famous 'Heavenly Bed,' and a complimentary shuttle service within a 5-mile radius. Reviews highlight professional, accommodating staff and well-maintained convention facilities. The standout angle for this event: Saranello's and Spears are literally on the same block — attendees could walk to the Friday mixer and walk back.
Mettawa, IL
4.4 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$160/night
Contemporary lodging with an indoor pool and fitness center. The closest mid-range option to the venue. Best for drivers; non-drivers can reach it via a quick rideshare from the Lake Forest Metra station.
Highland Park, IL
4.3 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$160/night
Well-reviewed Marriott with a nice outdoor courtyard and fire pit.
Northbrook/Glencoe border
4.1 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$180/night
A reliable, full-service 4-star property with excellent amenities. Located very close to both the Braeside and Glencoe UP-North Metra stations — a solid option for attendees who want to use the train.
Bannockburn, IL
4.2 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$160/night
Straightforward and comfortable — includes free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking. Roughly an 8-minute rideshare from the Highland Park UP-North Metra station.
Deerfield, IL
4.1 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$130/night
A clean, upscale full-service hotel at an unusually strong value for the area. Features a casual American bistro and lounge. A short rideshare connects to nearby UP-North Metra stations.
Lake Bluff, IL
4.0 ⭐ (Google Maps)
$90/night
Family-run motel under new ownership with improving reviews. Basic but clean. The only budget option with direct UP-North Metra access — located in Lake Bluff, the next stop north of Lake Forest, making it a practical choice for attendees who don't drive.
