Lake Forest's iconic Deer Path Inn ranked No. 1 ‘Best Resort Hotel' in Midwest

The No. 1 best resort hotel in the Midwest is tucked away in a north Chicago suburb, according to a new report from Travel + Leisure magazine.

The Deer Path Inn, in Lake Forest, earned the No. 1 on Travel + Leisure’s “Best Resorts in the Midwest” list for 2026, editors announced July 7. The ranking come as part of the outlet’s annual “World’s Best Awards,” based on more than 660,000 votes from readers.

“T+L readers continue to search for hotels and experiences that draw them in—those with a rich backstory, entrancing interiors, and an authentic sense of place,” the release said.

As part of the awards, readers were asked to weigh in on their favorite properties across the globe, ranging from hotels resorts, islands, cruise ship, spas and more. In total, more than 207,000 readers evaluated more than 10,000 total properties for their hospitality and service, interior, dining amenities and more.

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The 2026 award marks the eighth time the nearly 100-year-old English-style boutique hotel in the north suburbs has claimed the No. 1 spot on the list.

“From the moment you step through the manor house doors and spot the wellies lining the wall, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to an English countryside estate,” the hotel’s winning entry read. “The showstopping afternoon tea service, developed in collaboration with a British Master of Tea, presents savory and sweet delights on tiered plates alongside single estate teas—a transportive tradition not to be missed.”

Editors also touted the hotel’s “understated luxury,” “elegant ambiance” and attention to personal service. The spot is well-loved by locals, who can often be found at the Deer Path Inn enjoying morning coffee, or enjoying dinner or lunch at The Bar, The White House Pub or hotel’s newest restuarant, The Brasserie.

“Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards are based on reader voting—and Deer Path Inn’s repeated claim of the top spot speaks to its exceptional hospitality and sophisticated English innkeeping in the Midwest,” the hotel said.

The Deer Path Inn is located at 255 E. Illinois Rd. in Lake Forest.