A Historic Stay in Urbana: My Night at the Renovated Hotel Royer
- Olivia Moffitt
- May 16
- 2 min read
If you grew up in Champaign-Urbana, there’s a good chance you remember the Jumer’s Castle Lodge — a whimsical, castle-like hotel in Urbana that stood as one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks.
After years of quiet and renovation, that beloved building has finally reopened its doors as Hotel Royer, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, and it’s everything we hoped for… and more.
As someone who was born and raised in CU, this place holds a little extra magic for me. My great-great-grandfather actually worked at the original Jumer’s as a bellhop — so stepping into the newly restored lobby was more than just a visit; it was personal.
🛏️ A Look Inside Hotel Royer
Hotel Royer officially had its soft opening on April 16, 2025, and walking in feels like stepping into a refreshed version of the past. The castle-inspired architecture still shines, but the inside has been beautifully updated with modern, boutique-style decor, and thoughtful touches throughout the space.
The room we stayed in was cozy, clean, and contemporary—everything you’d want for a weekend getaway or a convenient stay for out-of-town guests, especially with the extra sofa bed in the room. It strikes the perfect balance between character and comfort. And those freshly baked chocolate chip cookies? Chef's kiss!
🍽️ Dinner at The Writers’ Room
Inside the hotel is Urbana’s newest dining destination: The Writer's Room.
For dinner, we tried:
• 🐟 Hibiscus Tuna Tartare
• 🍝 Homemade Seafood Ravioli
• 🍎 Basque Cheesecake with Flamed Apples
Every dish felt intentional, elevated, and worthy of a spot in CU’s ever-growing food scene.
💭 Final Thoughts
Staying at Hotel Royer felt like reconnecting with Urbana in a new way. It’s more than just a place to sleep—it’s a piece of our community’s story being retold for a new generation.
Whether you’re a local looking for a unique weekend escape, hosting family from out of town, or planning a visit to CU, I highly recommend making Hotel Royer part of your plans. The location is walkable to downtown Urbana, it’s packed with charm, and it supports the momentum we’re building for local tourism and revitalization.
And for me, getting to experience a space my own family has roots in… that was truly unforgettable.
Located in the heart of Downtown Urbana, Illinois
Rooms now available for booking!
🔗 Want more local gems like this? Head to agirlaboutcu.com/events for what’s happening this month and stay updated by following @agirlaboutcu on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
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