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Top 24 Hotels Near The Hornets Rugby Club
635 West Hayes Ave Charleston, IL 61920
Days Inn by Wyndham Charleston
From the moment you leave the lobby of Days Inn by Wyndham Charleston, The Hornets Rugby Club is a quick trip with no stress, simplifying your visit.
Days Inn often routes vending, ice, and a microwave into a quick-stop cluster, covering essentials in one pass before heading upstairs. All guest rooms provide steady water pressure and shelving that stages kits, helping mornings proceed neatly and on time each day. Guest laundry spaces group washers, dryers, and folding shelves with detergent vending, keeping refresh cycles efficient during longer stays.
From market coolers and packaged meals to microwaves, utensils, and Wi-Fi, simple dinners come together quickly indoors.
Unique Suites Hotel
This accessible location keeps The Hornets Rugby Club just a short drive from Unique Suites Hotel, ensuring a simple start.
Guests at Unique Suites Hotel may encounter quick front-desk support, vending access, and complimentary parking for predictable arrival flow. Each guest room often features premium linens, modest seating, and climate control, giving travelers a comfortable overnight routine. Facilities may include coin-operated laundries, vending areas, and compact business corners that allow for simple guest productivity.
A stay may provide Wi-Fi, breakfast service, vending areas, and laundry rooms, sustaining clear and consistent routines in budget hotels.
Hilton Garden Inn Mattoon Il
When visiting the Charleston area, the drive from Hilton Garden Inn Mattoon Il to The Hornets Rugby Club is a direct drive, allowing for a simple return.
Hilton Garden Inn lobbies provide infused water stations, offering refreshing courtesy that helps travelers soften fatigue after long journeys. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh with a touch of comfort and care. Business centers with computer stations, printing access, and reliable Wi-Fi ensure travelers stay productive while away from the office.
Complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, business lounges, Wi-Fi connectivity, and valet service simplify travel and support routines.
Best Western Heartland Inn
In the Charleston region, Best Western Heartland Inn boasts a accessible location, serving as a practical base for visiting The Hornets Rugby Club.
Across gateway cities, Best Western includes multilingual desk support, closing language gaps while directions and dining details finalize. Every guest room places an HDTV with streaming, bedside USB power, and a channel guide, making wind-down easy while devices stay charged. Business hubs include scanners, supplies, and fax services, cutting last-minute errands while confirmations and forms are finalized.
Between breakfast buffets, lobby markets, Wi-Fi, and parking, mornings gain clarity and departures stay punctual even when agendas are packed.
Clarion Pointe Mattoon near University
The hotel's regional location is a strategic choice, serving as a convenient base with The Hornets Rugby Club within driving reach.
During peak windows, Clarion uses clear queue cues and sightlines, turning crowded moments into a steady, predictable counter flow. Every guest room positions a coffee maker near cups and stirrers, easing early starts while itineraries and messages come together. Business corners replace full rooms in compact footprints, combining a PC, printer, and small worktop so essentials still get handled fast.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and a fitness room, both workdays and weekends maintain balance without cross-town stops.
Comfort Suites Mattoon East
The Hornets Rugby Club is a simple commute from Comfort Suites Mattoon East, a plan that ensures travel logistics are never a concern.
At check-in Comfort Suites places coffee or breakfast points near reception so guests find quick refreshment on arrival without detours. Suites add sofa beds and expanded surface space alongside mini-fridges and coffee makers, creating flexible spots for snacks, work, and rest. The lobby mixes sofas, community tables, and charging hubs to form a flexible meet-up zone for device top-ups and quick planning sessions.
For families, larger suites, sofa beds, and breakfast bars reduce meal logistics and help everyone start days fueled and on time.
Super 8 by Wyndham Mattoon
This convenient function as a base is a defining component of Super 8 by Wyndham Mattoon, since it ensures a visit free of traffic concerns.
Super 8 greets travelers with complimentary tea and coffee in its lobbies, giving arrivals small courtesy touches that feel consistent. Guest rooms include flat-screen HDTVs, ergonomic seating, and Wi-Fi, giving guests functional comfort and reliable productivity setups. Business centers furnished with workstations, printers, and Wi-Fi give professionals practical spaces to manage tasks efficiently.
Business centers, Wi-Fi, and free breakfast pair with laundry and parking, ensuring clarity and balance for every traveler daily.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mattoon by IHG
As a practical base, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mattoon by IHG is a central element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
Complimentary hydration setups at Holiday Inn Express lobbies provide coffee or tea, creating simple but consistent courtesy touches. All guest rooms feature plush mattresses, blackout shades, and climate control, supporting consistent and restorative nightly rest. Breakfast areas with hot buffets, cereals, and coffee stations provide day-start clarity, ensuring guests begin mornings with ease.
Complimentary breakfast, business centers, and Wi-Fi connect with fitness rooms and pools, ensuring travel routines stay consistent.
Suite Dreams Motel by Capital O Mattoon I - 57
In Charleston, Suite Dreams Motel by Capital O Mattoon I - 57 serves as a sensible base, placing The Hornets Rugby Club an easy regional drive away.
Arrivals at Suite Dreams Motel by Capital O Mattoon I - 57 may highlight vending machines, modest lobbies, and exterior parking that help ensure practical travel support. Rooms often highlight compact bathrooms, climate control, and cable TV, helping guests sustain straightforward routines while traveling. Public areas may provide modest breakfast spaces, vending access, and modest seating that sustain reliable consistency each day.
Accommodations often include Wi-Fi, exterior parking, vending access, and guest laundry, reinforcing clear balance during overnight visits.
Relax Inn & Suites
Reaching The Hornets Rugby Club from Relax Inn & Suites is a simple commute, a trait that weaves convenience into the fabric of the stay.
Relax Inn & Suites typically includes an easy check-in point, nearby parking stalls, and modest seating focused on utility over formality. Guest rooms may include in-room coffee, curated décor, and plush bedding, providing consistent comfort and convenience for guests. Public areas often highlight breakfast rooms, vending stations, and laundry access that help maintain everyday convenience for visitors.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, guest laundries, modest breakfast, and vending access, maintaining straightforward guest routines.
Motel 6 Mattoon- Il
Guests at Motel 6 Mattoon- Il can count on it as a practical base for the easy regional drive to The Hornets Rugby Club.
Motel 6 designs lobby footprints for clarity over spectacle, letting travelers focus on essentials and reach rooms with less friction. Every guest room features climate control systems, enabling travelers to maintain preferred temperature settings across seasons comfortably. Lobby layouts incorporate device-friendly seating, allowing guests to charge electronics while waiting for rideshares or companions.
Between pets-stay-free policies, truck parking, and free coffee, plus Wi-Fi, properties support flexible routines across long journeys.
Quality Inn & Suites Mattoon South
This convenient function as a base is a defining element for Quality Inn & Suites Mattoon South, because it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
When entering Quality Inn guests typically find vending or market shelves beside reception to secure late-night snacks and bottled drinks quickly. Standard rooms include blackout curtains, supportive mattresses, and quiet HVAC for restorative sleep before early meetings or travel days. Lobby cafés turn out espresso and grab-and-go items quickly, creating an efficient stop before meetings, transit, or early departures from the hotel.
Business centers paired with strong Wi-Fi enable quick uploads, virtual calls, and slideshows so meetings continue without technical delays.
Green Mill Village Hotel & Suites BW Signature Collection
For guests in the Charleston region, Green Mill Village Hotel & Suites BW Signature Collection is a sensible base, a position that makes for an unhurried start to the day.
Arrivals at Green Mill Village Hotel & Suites BW Signature Collection may present a simple reception, self-serve coffee, and accessible parking configured for routine travel. Accommodations often highlight compact layouts, hardwood accents, and rainfall showers, creating a stylish yet straightforward experience. Shared spaces may feature modest lobbies, vending corners, and guest laundries that reinforce a practical approach to budget travel.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, compact breakfast counters, vending machines, and laundry access, supporting daily travel balance reliably.
Quality Inn Arcola
The Hornets Rugby Club is within driving reach from Quality Inn Arcola, a layout that ensures the commute itself is a pleasant one.
Quality Inn arrival seating clusters and charging hubs near the desk let families and companions regroup while keys and room details are prepared. Guest rooms place bedside USB ports, task lamps, and outlets so phones and laptops recharge overnight while keeping routines uninterrupted. Outdoor seating areas and patios offer shaded benches and small tables so guests can hold brief catch-ups or informal reviews without leaving site.
With accessible parking and EV charging where available, ground logistics tie into transit and shuttle options for smoother arrival and departures.
Budget Host Inn Greenup
From Budget Host Inn Greenup, The Hornets Rugby Club is within driving reach, a detail that makes for a well-planned trip.
Budget Host Inn Greenup often provides an uncomplicated desk experience, on-site parking, and a compact lobby aimed at keeping wait times low. Rooms typically provide blackout curtains, climate control, and plush bedding, maintaining both rest and privacy for travelers overnight. Facilities typically include compact business centers, vending access, and laundry rooms that offer functional spaces for routines.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, guest laundry, and parking, reflecting the functional style of budget accommodations.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Casey
For a trip to the area, Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Casey's location as a practical base is a key part of its appeal to travelers.
In the lobby at Days Inn, TV volume stays modest and lighting soft so conversations remain comfortable while background channels play. Guest rooms keep a mini-fridge for drinks and leftovers, maintaining budgets while evenings stay flexible after nearby dining. Vending corridors cluster cold drinks, snacks, and a microwave along the main path, covering late arrivals without a drive for basics.
At many locations, pet-friendly rooms, outdoor space, and Wi-Fi link with a small market so walks, returns, and snacks stay uncomplicated.
Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover
The benefit of using Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover as a convenient base makes it into a great anchor point before the main experience.
At Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover, arrivals may feature efficient reception, vending options, and close parking that favor practical guest routines. Each guest room may feature ergonomic seating, Wi-Fi, and compact desks, ensuring balance between productivity and relaxation needs. Shared spaces may present breakfast areas, vending machines, and modest lobbies that emphasize reliable convenience for travelers.
A stay often includes Wi-Fi, vending corners, laundry facilities, and breakfast areas, helping maintain practical clarity each day.
Holiday Inn Express Tuscola by IHG
Within the region, Holiday Inn Express Tuscola by IHG serves as a convenient base, keeping The Hornets Rugby Club within driving reach.
Lobby seating areas in Holiday Inn Express include long communal desks and lounge chairs, offering guests both comfort and utility. Suites include sofa beds, additional TVs, and larger layouts, creating flexible accommodations that suit families and group travel. Fitness centers equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, and weights let travelers maintain personal wellness routines while on the road.
Connectivity with free Wi-Fi, pet policies, and breakfast service combines with laundry and parking, easing family and group stays.
Super 8 by Wyndham Tuscola
For a trip to the area, Super 8 by Wyndham Tuscola's location as a convenient base is a foundational aspect of its appeal.
Lobby areas at Super 8 are bright and uncluttered, providing orientation clarity and predictable first impressions for every guest. Each guest room emphasizes plush bedding, blackout drapes, and quiet HVAC systems, creating environments that support restorative rest. Vending machines located in lobbies stock snacks and drinks, ensuring convenience for travelers at all hours of the day or night.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast service, and vending setups combine with pools and parking, supporting clarity and convenience across stays.
Baymont by Wyndham Tuscola
This convenient location relative to The Hornets Rugby Club helps Baymont by Wyndham Tuscola guests become oriented and comfortable with the area's layout.
Many Baymont lobbies keep a coffee station in the common area, letting arrivals pause for a cup while room assignments complete. Every guest room groups microwave, fridge, and coffee together, enabling casual meals and first cups without leaving the floor. Entry vestibules pair automatic doors with weather mats, keeping roll-ins smooth and thresholds tidy during busier arrival windows.
With guest laundry, detergent vending, and folding space plus Wi-Fi and a quiet nook, cycles fit neatly around calls and meals.
Gateway Inn
From the moment you check in at Gateway Inn, The Hornets Rugby Club is an easy regional drive for a simple start.
Guests at Gateway Inn may encounter a no-nonsense front desk, modest lobby chairs, and parking access for stress-reduced arrivals. Guest rooms often highlight tasteful décor, hardwood finishes, and in-room coffee, helping guests settle into a polished daily routine. Public areas often include vending access, compact breakfast corners, and laundry facilities that maintain consistency for guest needs.
Accommodations may provide Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and laundry rooms, sustaining straightforward travel routines daily.
Relax Inn
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Relax Inn guests options in how they plan their regional travel.
Relax Inn typically offers quick desk service, self-serve beverages, and on-site parking so guests can settle in with minimal delay. Accommodations may include plush bedding, climate control, and streaming access, offering both comfort and entertainment for visitors. Facilities may feature modest lobbies, breakfast rooms, and vending machines that create practical points of connection during stays.
A visit may offer Wi-Fi, guest laundry, compact breakfast spaces, and parking, giving travelers reliable support during budget stays.
Super 8 by Wyndham Marshall
From Super 8 by Wyndham Marshall, The Hornets Rugby Club is a simple commute, a choice that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Super 8 breakfast areas visible from reception help travelers start mornings smoothly, creating routines that remain dependable daily. All guest rooms provide coffee stations, microwaves, and mini-fridges, delivering daily convenience for travelers across properties. Breakfast setups offering coffee, cereals, and pastries create predictable routines that help travelers begin days with clarity.
Pet-friendly rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi pair with parking and laundry, ensuring dependable routines for family travelers.
Hampton Inn Paris
For a trip to the area, Hampton Inn Paris's location as a practical base is an essential aspect of its appeal.
Lobby sofa clusters at Hampton Inn create regrouping areas, giving families comfortable zones to pause before heading to guest rooms. Every guest room contains microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting travelers prepare snacks and drinks with everyday ease. Fitness studios with rowing machines, free weights, and cardio options let travelers maintain routines, sustaining energy through trips.
Complimentary breakfast, laundry facilities, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi maintain dependable convenience for longer visits.
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The Hornets Rugby Club Local Area Guide
Welcome to The Hornets Rugby Club, a premier destination for rugby enthusiasts in Charleston, Illinois. This guide is designed to help visiting teams, players, families, and supporters navigate the local area, understand game day logistics, and make the most of their time in Charleston. From finding the best spots to regroup between matches to discovering nearby dining and attractions, we've got your visit covered. Prepare for a seamless experience with practical advice on arrival, facilities, and local amenities to ensure your rugby trip is a success.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – The Hornets Rugby Club (Charleston, IL)
The Hornets Rugby Club is situated in Charleston, Illinois, a vibrant community nestled in the heart of the state. The club is conveniently located at 635 West Hayes Ave, easily accessible via major roadways. The nearest significant airport is Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) in Springfield, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away, while the University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) near Champaign is closer, about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive. Main access to Charleston is typically via IL-16, which connects to larger state highways. Parking at the club is generally ample and dedicated to players, families, and spectators, though arrive early on match days to secure the best spots. Rideshare services are available in Charleston, though availability may be reduced during peak event times. For those driving in, utilizing IL-16 and then following local signage to West Hayes Ave will lead you directly to the club. Smart arrival tactics involve checking local event schedules to gauge crowd sizes and planning to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before kick-off to allow for parking, finding your team's area, and settling in before the games begin.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near The Hornets Rugby Club
Charleston offers a range of lodging options, with most hotels clustered around the downtown area and near Eastern Illinois University. These are typically a short drive, about 5-10 minutes, from The Hornets Rugby Club. While a few options might be within a 20-30 minute walk, most visiting teams and families opt for short drives for convenience, especially when carrying gear or needing to return to accommodations between matches. Many groups find that hotels nearer to the university campus provide a good balance of amenities and proximity. Demand for lodging can spike around major tournaments or key league matches, so booking well in advance is highly recommended. When searching for accommodation, utilizing map filters to see proximity to the club and considering areas with easy access to IL-16 can simplify your planning. Flexible dates can also sometimes yield better rates, especially if your team's schedule allows for arrival on a Friday or departure on a Sunday outside of peak tournament hours.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) is about a 45-minute drive to the club.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for parking and team setup on match days.
- Downtown Charleston offers walkable dining and shops for downtime activities.
- The Doudna Fine Arts Center on EIU campus provides indoor cultural options.
- Regroup at the club's pavilion or find nearby cafes for team meals.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan your arrival to allow ample time for parking and finding your designated team area. Many teams opt to arrive 45 minutes to an hour before their first match to allow players to get settled, unpack gear, and begin their warm-ups. The club typically designates specific areas for each team, so know your team's assigned zone. Once parked, head directly to your area to establish a basecamp for the day. Warm-up routines can begin on the fields or designated open spaces around the fields, ensuring players are ready for kick-off without disrupting ongoing games. Team coordinators should confirm any specific check-in procedures with club officials upon arrival.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between matches, it's essential to have a strategy for regrouping and refueling. The Hornets Rugby Club often features a central pavilion or open areas suitable for team gatherings, picnics, and relaxation. Utilize these spaces to ensure your squad stays hydrated and energized. Packed lunches and coolers are common for tournament days, so having a designated spot to keep them organized is key. If games allow, a quick trip to a nearby cafe or restaurant can provide a change of scenery and a more substantial meal. Players and families should coordinate meet-up times and locations to maximize downtime before the next fixture. Remember to check the match schedule for any significant gaps that might allow for a more extensive break or a short outing.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As the final whistle blows, begin your departure process by gathering all team gear and personal belongings promptly. Ensure all designated team areas are left clean and tidy. If post-match social activities are planned at the club or a nearby venue, confirm the arrangements and meeting times. For those heading back to hotels, consider potential traffic congestion leaving the club grounds, especially after larger tournaments. Allow extra time for the drive back to the airport or your next destination, factoring in potential traffic on state routes during peak travel times. A post-game team debrief or celebratory meal can be organized at a local restaurant to cap off the day.
Things to Do Near The Hornets Rugby Club
Walkable
The Hornets Rugby Club Fields
The main draw for any visitor is, of course, the rugby pitches themselves. These well-maintained fields are the heart of the club's activities, hosting matches, training sessions, and various rugby events throughout the year. Spectators can find viewing areas around the perimeter, offering good sightlines of the action. The club often has a dedicated pavilion or designated gathering spaces near the fields, providing shade and a central point for teams and families to congregate. Depending on the event, casual concessions or food vendors might be present, offering snacks and refreshments during game days. This is the primary location for soaking in the rugby atmosphere and supporting your team.
635 West Hayes Ave · On siteCharleston Area Paths
Explore the local pathways that wind through the residential areas surrounding The Hornets Rugby Club. These paths offer a pleasant way to stretch your legs before or after matches, providing a peaceful environment away from the immediate sports action. They are ideal for a light stroll, a quick jog, or for families to let younger children burn off some energy in a safe, open space. While not a formal attraction, these pathways are part of the local fabric, connecting neighborhoods and offering a glimpse into the community. They provide a simple, accessible way to enjoy the outdoors and get a feel for the local surroundings at your own pace.
West Hayes Ave · 0.2 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Eastern Illinois University Campus
Just a short drive from the rugby club, the campus of Eastern Illinois University offers a hub of activity and amenities. Visitors can explore the university's grounds, visit the Doudna Fine Arts Center for performances or exhibitions, or utilize campus recreational facilities if open to the public. The university setting provides a youthful energy and is often home to various sporting events and cultural activities throughout the year. It's a great place for a walk, to grab a coffee at a campus cafe, or to simply experience a different facet of Charleston's community life. The campus offers ample parking, which can be a convenient option if you're looking for a different environment to relax or meet up.
600 Lincoln Ave · 1.5 miDowntown Charleston
The heart of Charleston, its downtown square, is a lively area brimming with local shops, restaurants, and historic architecture. It's a perfect spot for spectators or players to unwind, grab a meal, or do some light shopping between matches or after the day's events conclude. You'll find a variety of casual eateries, cafes, and pubs that cater to diverse tastes. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it an ideal place for teams to gather for a post-game meal or for families to explore. Local events or farmers' markets may also be happening on weekends, adding to the vibrant community feel.
Courthouse Square · 2.1 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity of the club and campus, the greater Charleston area offers more opportunities for exploration. Consider visiting nearby state parks for outdoor recreation or exploring other towns in the region for a different perspective on central Illinois life. The area is rich in agricultural landscapes and small-town charm, providing a genuine slice of Midwestern life.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near The Hornets Rugby Club
Inside & Adjacent
Club Concessions
During match days and organized events, The Hornets Rugby Club often operates on-site concessions. These typically offer a selection of classic stadium fare designed to provide quick and convenient refreshments. Expect items like hot dogs, burgers, snacks, and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day. It’s the most direct option for grabbing a bite without leaving the venue, perfect for parents watching games or players needing a quick refuel. Availability and menu can vary based on the event size and schedule, so check for announcements on game days.
635 West Hayes Ave · On siteOn-Campus Cafes (EIU)
The Eastern Illinois University campus, a short drive away, hosts several cafes and dining halls that are often open to the public. These spots offer a convenient and affordable way to grab a coffee, a quick lunch, or a snack. Options can range from grab-and-go stations to more formal cafeteria-style dining. It’s a good alternative for a change of pace from the club or for those looking for lighter fare. These cafes provide a relaxed atmosphere, suitable for a brief team regroup or a casual family break.
Eastern Illinois University · 1.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Coalition
Coalition is a popular spot located conveniently near EIU and a short drive from the rugby club, offering a modern American menu with craft cocktails. It's known for its comfortable atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for teams looking to gather for a meal after games or for families seeking a good dining experience. The menu often features burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more substantial entrees. Their selection of drinks, including local beers and signature cocktails, adds to its appeal as a spot for socializing and celebrating a day of competition.
701 Lincoln Ave · 2.0 miThe Dirty Spoon Cafe
The Dirty Spoon Cafe is a beloved local establishment known for its hearty, homestyle cooking and friendly service. Located a short drive from the club, it’s a perfect place for teams and families to enjoy classic comfort food. The menu typically includes breakfast favorites, burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials that appeal to a wide range of appetites. Its casual and welcoming environment makes it an ideal spot for refueling after a physically demanding day of rugby, offering generous portions and a taste of local hospitality.
510 Monroe Ave · 2.3 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Marco's Restaurant & Lounge
Marco's Restaurant & Lounge offers a more refined dining experience with a diverse menu that often includes Italian-inspired dishes, seafood, and steaks. Situated near the university, it's a great option for those looking for a slightly more upscale meal to celebrate a successful match or tournament. The ambiance is typically more formal than casual eateries, providing a pleasant setting for dinners and special occasions. Their wine list and attentive service make it a popular choice for groups seeking a quality dining experience after a day of sports.
620 Lincoln Ave · 1.8 miOutback Steakhouse
While a chain, Outback Steakhouse provides a reliable option for groups seeking a familiar menu with a consistent quality, especially for larger teams. Located a short drive from the rugby club, it offers a range of steaks, seafood, and Australian-themed dishes in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. It’s a good choice when coordinating meals for many people due to its capacity and standard menu. The energetic environment and value make it a practical selection for post-game celebrations or team dinners.
1700 E Lincoln Ave · 2.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on IL-16 can get busy during EIU's academic year or major events, so factor that into your travel time.
- Weekends in Charleston, especially during fall, are energized by EIU sports, so book accommodations and dinner reservations early.
- Many local establishments offer lunch specials during the week, a good option for visiting coaches or support staff.
- Be aware that "small town" pace applies; services might close earlier than in larger cities, especially on Sundays.
- Community events are frequent; check local listings for festivals or gatherings that might impact parking or traffic near the club.
Weather & Seasons at The Hornets Rugby Club
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures, often dipping below freezing, with potential for snow and ice. Dress in multiple warm layers, including hats, gloves, and waterproof outerwear. Matches might proceed in chilly conditions, so robust warm-ups and post-game recovery are vital; carry blankets for the sidelines.
- Spring & early summer: Temperatures are generally pleasant, ranging from cool to mild, ideal for outdoor activities. Light jackets or long-sleeved shirts are usually sufficient for mornings and evenings, while t-shirts work well during the day. Rain showers are common, so pack a light, waterproof jacket and be prepared for potentially damp field conditions.
- Mid-summer: Charleston experiences warm to hot and humid weather, with daytime highs frequently in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Ample hydration is critical for players and spectators; ensure access to water and sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible during breaks.
- Fall season: The fall offers crisp, cool air with comfortable temperatures, making it a prime season for rugby. Long sleeves, light sweaters, or jackets are generally suitable. The changing leaves add a beautiful backdrop, but be prepared for cooler evenings and occasional chilly winds, especially later in the season.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur in any season, sometimes leading to muddy field conditions, so waterproof footwear is advisable. Snowfall is most common in winter and can impact travel and outdoor play; check local advisories and club communications for game status during inclement weather. Adequate rain gear and warm, water-resistant clothing are recommended for players and fans alike.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Local rugby clubs and visiting teams
- Neighborhood: West Charleston residential area
- Nearest airport: University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI)
- Parking: Dedicated club lots, often ample
- Walkable district: Limited directly around the club; downtown is a short drive
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Major supermarkets in downtown Charleston
- Pharmacy: Local pharmacies available downtown
- Urgent care: Carle Physician Group or local clinics
- Downtime: Downtown Charleston shops, EIU campus facilities
- Pro tip: Confirm specific team amenities and spectator seating with club organizers prior to arrival.

