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Waterfront Hotel and Marina

ee - (888) 428-0221
Waterfront Hotel and Marina, 3309 North Chapel Hill Road, Johnsburg, IL -(888) 428-0221
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3.6
HOTEL RATING: 
GOOD
3.6 out of 5 (278 Ratings)
14.3 miles McHenry County Fairgrounds
v24 mins driving
BOOK ONLINE OR CALL - (888) 428-0221
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The Spotlight on Waterfront Hotel and Marina

Lakeside Comfort Meets Music Adventure in Johnsburg

Modern meets rustic charm at the Waterfront Hotel and Marina, nestled right on the Fox River with its own private harbor. Located in the scenic town of Johnsburg, Illinois, this laid-back hotel offers serene water views and cozy amenities just a short drive from regional concert venues and attractions like Blarney's Island and Woodstock Square.
Each room is equipped with a flat-screen plasma TV, balcony, microwave, refrigerator, desk, and hairdryer—perfect for winding down after a night of music.

Why Concert-goers love it

Concert fans appreciate the peaceful post-show atmosphere that the lakeside setting brings. It’s a great spot to recharge after a high-energy night. While not in the heart of a major city, it’s close to local live music spots like Blarney’s Island, just 6.8 miles away, and offers a more relaxed, scenic alternative to urban hotels. With a 3:00 PM check-in and 11:00 AM check-out, you’ll have time to rest before heading out or hitting the road.

Who this Hotel is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a laid-back lakefront vibe
  • Solo travelers seeing an artist at a nearby venue
  • Couples turning a concert night into a romantic weekend
  • Fans needing quiet after a big show
  • Budget-conscious music lovers who don’t mind a short drive to venues

Food and Drink Options

While the hotel itself doesn’t offer an on-site restaurant, its rooms feature microwaves and refrigerators for storing late-night snacks. You’ll find several dining spots in Johnsburg and nearby McHenry for pre-show meals or post-concert cravings. Breakfast options are nearby and easy to reach.

Nightlife Options

If you’re craving more music after your main event, Blarney’s Island is a local favorite for lakeside live music and drinks. The area offers a few chill bars and local taverns that keep the night going without overwhelming crowds.

What People Say

Guests love the scenic water views and the easygoing atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the comfortable rooms with balconies, and travelers appreciate the cleanliness and quiet, especially after late nights out. The staff is noted for being friendly and helpful.

Areas for Improvement

This isn’t a full-service hotel, so don't expect an on-site restaurant or 24/7 amenities. It’s also a bit of a drive from larger concert venues, so having a car is helpful. But if you’re looking for a peaceful stay away from the chaos, it’s a great pick.

The Bottom Line

If you're heading to a show near the Chain of Lakes and want a relaxed, scenic place to crash, the Waterfront Hotel and Marina offers a budget-friendly lakeside escape for concert-goers.
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1 room
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2 guests
Amenities View More
j
Free Parking
w
Non Smoking
q
Accessible
y
Free Internet
x
Free Breakfast
u
Swimming Pool
E
Fitness Center
A
Business Center
B
Airport Shuttle
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Pets Allowed
Other Amenities
` Free Parking
` Room Service
` Air Conditioning
` Express Check-In/Check-Out
` Heating
` Fax/photocopying
` Wheelchair accessible
` On-site parking
` 24-hour security
` Accessible parking
` Designated Smoking Area
` Off-Site parking
` Picnic Area
` Sun Deck
` Daily Housekeeping
` Non-Smoking Rooms Available
` Outdoor furniture
` Smoke alarms
` Fire extinguishers
` Guests can opt-out of daily cleaning service
` Staff follow all safety protocols as directed by local authorities
` First aid kit available
` Cashless payment available
` Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines
` Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas
` Contactless check-in/out
` Electronic room key
` Audible alarm
` CCTV security in common areas
` Daily disinfection
` Facilities for disabled guests available
` Lower bathroom sinks available
` Non-smoking property
` Physical/social distancing guidelines
` Protective screen or physical barriers in appropriate areas
` Accessible toilet

Waterfront Hotel and Marina Guest Reviews

Overall Average Score: 
Good (3.6 out of 5)

Write a review

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Lisa Mon, 30 June 2025

Pleasant

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Dan Mon, 30 June 2025

Good place to lay your...

Liked: Good location, nice view of the water if you are fortunate enough to get on that side of the building. As it is summer, and this area seems to be inundated with folks on weekend getaways or summer vacation, the price point of this location fit the bill as a place to sleep at a reasonable cost. The staff was professional and kind, and directed us to a few local dinner options.
Disliked: The water had a sulfur~ish smell to it. Not overpowering, but evident. The A/C worked well, humming right along at a pretty significant decibel level and blocking out any road noise, but when it reached the desired temp and shut down, we woke up thinking something was wrong, lol. Decided to try some earplugs the next night and slept like a baby.

1.5

Poor - 1.5 out of 5

Anonymous Fri, 27 June 2025

I won't go back

Disliked: The bed was like sleeping on a table and the water smells really bad.

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Ronald Mon, 23 June 2025

Good place in a pinch

Liked: Property was very easy to access at all times during the day.
Disliked: Old, a bit run down. Room was small and the A/C sounded like a freight train. Had to sleep with my head down and feet towards the headboard to avoid the A/C noise.

0.5

Poor - 0.5 out of 5

Andrea Mon, 23 June 2025

Very disgusting!!

Liked: Location
Disliked: When we checked in.. we found dried blood on the comforter… and the mattress had bed bug markings… we went to the font desk and said we were NOT staying!! The clerk said we would be refunded… we have not received refund as of yet

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Anonymous Sat, 21 June 2025

Comfortable and inexpensive

Liked: Waterfront
Disliked: Traffic on the bridge

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Claire Mon, 16 June 2025

Pleasant

Liked: Clean
Disliked: Air conditioner didn't work, loud noises all night from cars on the highway

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Phil Mon, 2 June 2025

Exceptional

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Craig Sun, 1 June 2025

ZZzzz

Liked: Where I needed a hotel to be.
Disliked: No food. Some road noise.

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Laura Fri, 23 May 2025

Wonderful view

Liked: Great view of the river, clean quiet room

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Waterfront Hotel and Marina 3309 North Chapel Hill Road, Johnsburg, IL