Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association

10/08/2026

IHLA is proud to announce Janko Hospitality as the 2026 recipient of the Workforce Impact Award.

Janko Hospitality has made a meaningful impact on the hospitality workforce through its commitment to developing talent, creating opportunities and investing in the people who make our industry stronger.

Congratulations to the entire Janko Hospitality team on this well-deserved recognition. We’re proud to celebrate your work and the difference you continue to make across the hospitality industry.

10/07/2026

For the 10th consecutive year, Chicago has been named the Best Big City in the U.S. by readers of Condé Nast Traveler.

At IHLA, we know firsthand part of what makes Chicago such a special destination. Every day, hotel teams across the city provide the warmth and hospitality that welcome visitors from around the world and help make their Chicago experience memorable.

Congratulations to Choose Chicago and the entire tourism and hospitality community on this incredible milestone.

Chicago has been named Condé Nast Traveler's Best Big City in the country for the 10th year.

10/06/2026

Last year’s Stars of the Industry winners started with a nomination.

Behind every award was someone who took the time to recognize an outstanding colleague and say, “This person deserves to be celebrated.”

Tomorrow is the deadline to submit nominations for the 2026 Stars of the Industry Awards. If someone on your team deserves recognition, nominate them today.

Who will we be celebrating this year?

Nominations close tomorrow, October 7. Don’t miss your chance to recognize a Star.

https://stars.illinoishotels.org/index.cfm

10/06/2026

Today, IHLA is celebrating a very special milestone: Dave Miller’s 25th anniversary with IHLA!

As IHLA’s Director of Operations, Dave has been an integral part of the organization for the past 25 years. His experience, dedication and behind-the-scenes expertise have helped keep IHLA moving forward and supported countless programs, events and initiatives over the years.

Thank you, Dave, for 25 years of dedication to IHLA and our members. We’re lucky to have you on the team!

09/29/2026

Congratulations to the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago and Park Hyatt Chicago on earning their first MICHELIN Key for 2026.

Their recognition adds to an impressive group of nine Chicago hotels recognized by the MICHELIN Guide, highlighting the exceptional hospitality and guest experiences found throughout the city.

This prestigious recognition celebrates thoughtful service, distinctive character and the talented teams behind these Chicago icons.

We’re proud to celebrate this achievement and the hospitality professionals who continue to put Chicago’s world-class hotel industry in the spotlight.

Here’s to the teams at both properties and this well-deserved recognition.

https://www.timeout.com/chicago/news/two-chicago-hotels-earned-new-michelin-key-designation-for-2026-092326

The city now has nine standout hotels

09/29/2026

Meet the next generation of hospitality professionals!

The IHLA HYP (Hospitality Young Professionals) community is bringing together hospitality professionals and HACE (Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement) students for an evening of networking, conversation and connection on Monday, October 5.

This FREE networking reception is an opportunity to meet students exploring careers in hospitality, share your experiences, and connect with emerging talent who are interested in building their careers in the industry.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, share your career journey or connect with future hospitality professionals, we’d love to see you there.

Space is limited — reserve your spot today!

https://www.illinoishotels.org/events/ihla-hyp-and-hace-networking-reception

09/23/2026

Curious who you’ll get to connect with at Beyond the Stay: IHLA’s second annual Conference & Showcase?

Take a look at the 48 vendors who will be on the Showcase floor, ready to connect, share solutions and showcase what they offer to the hospitality industry.

From laundry services and restoration to procurement partners and more, there’s a lot to explore. Be sure to make time to walk the Showcase floor and connect with the partners supporting Illinois hospitality.

09/23/2026

You asked, we listened — the Stars of the Industry nomination deadline is extended!

You now have until October 7 to recognize the people who make your property shine through the 2026 Stars of the Industry Awards.

IHLA member hotels can submit unlimited nominations at no cost, so don’t wait — nominate the all-stars who make your team exceptional!



https://stars.illinoishotels.org/index.cfm

09/22/2026

Congratulations to IHLA Board Member Peter Simoncelli, General Manager of The The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, on being named General Manager of the Year across Marriott’s luxury hotels in the United States and Canada as part of the company’s Hospitality Excellence Awards.

With more than 30 years of hospitality experience and deep roots in Chicago, Peter has built his career around a people-first approach to leadership. His recognition highlights his commitment to operational excellence, team culture and exceptional guest experiences.

We are proud to have Peter’s experience and leadership represented on the IHLA Board and congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.

Peter Simoncelli of The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, is honored as General Manager of the Year by Marriott, showcasing exceptional leadership and guest experiences.

09/11/2026

Looking for new ways to improve operations and increase revenue?

Join hotel owners, operators, and industry leaders at The Hospitality Show, November 2–4 in Miami Beach, to discover innovative solutions, practical strategies, and the latest technologies designed to help hotels operate more efficiently and drive revenue.

As a valued member of IHLA, receive 10% off any pass with promo code ILHLA. AHLA members receive an additional $100 off All Access Passes and $50 off Expo Passes.

Register today at: thehospitalityshow.com