Hampsher Hotel

05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day
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05/03/2026

Hampsher Hotel History

The Hampsher Hotel was built in 1915 toward the east end of Krack Street in Forrest Illinois. It was close enough for the traveling salesman who came in on the train to visit clients. People who did not want to stay in the hotels closer to the depot where it would be dustier from coal driven steam engines would take quarters at the Hampsher.

Over the years, things changed. Upon the demise of William Miller, the Forrest Railroad Hotel was bequeathed to the Forrest Historical Society.

Today, the hotel welcomes guests to select from one of the four suites, each containing its own bathroom and sitting area. Upon checking in the guest may wish to check their e-mails from the WiFi, watch a little TV in the media room or select a book from the library. Often, there are fresh baked cookies, soft drinks or popcorn available for the guests to enjoy.

The parlor and dining room can be rented out for private gatherings, be it a bridal or baby shower, a club meeting luncheon, or ladies get together. For a larger gathering (30-45) the Forrest Room is available on the lower level.

The entire facility is handicap accessible with outside ramps and a incline chair elevator.

Railroad enthusiasts will enjoy the train collections and other railroad memorabilia housed in the Depot adjacent to the hotel property. Directly across the street from the hotel, a renewed caboose sits.

The Village of Forrest has a pavilion next to the Hotel that can be reserved for a nominal charge.

Also a recent addition to the area directly adjacent to the hotel and pavilion, is a Train Themed playground that is designed to be accessible and accommodating for special needs children.

03/22/2026

Reserved seats and camping go on sale to the public today at 10am central time for the first 3 major events of the season. Spring Shootout, Triple Down Shootout and Summernationals.

https://fairburyspeedway.showare.com/default.asp

One For The Road and PDC Tickets will go on sale to the public Saturday March 7th at 10am.

Illinois Dirt Shootout, MAXX Daddy Camping and FALS Frenzy will go on sale Saturday April 11th .

If you have any issues or questions, email: [email protected] or call / text: (309) 838-9304

03/22/2026

02/23/2026

Traveling for Spring Break or visiting Family for Easter? Consider a relaxing stay at the Historic Hampsher Hotel. A comfortable inviting place to unwind after your travels or a day of visiting relatives and friends. Maybe consider hosting a family/friends gathering in the Forrest room where you could entertain in comfort and with plenty of room. Let’s us know how we can make your stay or event memorable.

02/05/2026

Well it looks like we are beginning to turn the corner on winter and looking forward to spring.

The Hampsher Hotel is available for an overnight or longer stay as well as a unique venue to host any number of events.

The Forrest Room is a perfect space to host at. It offers a comfortable setting for up to 50 people with private entrance, full kitchen facilities (or have it conveniently catered)restroom and is handicap accessible.

The Hampsher Hotel is conveniently located next to the covered pavilion (available to reserve through the Village of Forrest) and also the new train themed playground. Designed to be enjoyed and accessible to children with disabilities.

We look forward to assisting you in having a memorable stay at the Hotel, or hosting an event. Graduation Party, Baby Shower, Celebration of Life, Family Reunion, Birthday Party, Card Club, Buisness Meeting, Host a Sales Event, Book Club, Quilt Club, Bingo, or any event that could use a reasonably priced conveniently located venue.

Please call for more information and to reserve a date. 815-848-1922

12/19/2025

It’s beginning to look a lot like the Holidays around the Historic Hampsher Hotel. Whether you’re traveling to a favorite destination for the holidays, or visiting locally, please consider a stay at the Hampsher Hotel. The Hotel has the ability to feel familiar and comfortable, even if you’ve never been here before. Our goal is to make your stay seem like a return to a pleasant and enjoyable place.

11/30/2025

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