Why you should visit Starved Rock Lodge
Think about unforgettable and wonderful things you've done in your life. Adding a trip to Starved Rock Lodge to your travel list has many advantages. Many visitors say that they never knew this hidden gem existed and had no idea it was so close to the Chicago suburbs.
If you're up for an adventure (and great selfies) book a room or cabin and explore Starved Rock State Park. It's a short hike to see deep canyons and seasonal waterfalls. Then, enjoy outdoor dining with a spectacular view, a relaxing atmosphere with trolley tours, great musical entertainment an indoor pool and much more!
Starved Rock Lodge is nestled in the heart of Starved Rock State Park. There are 69 rooms in the lodge and 21 cabin rooms on the property. The main portion of the Lodge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Because the Lodge & cabins are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, there is always a priority to maintain the historical integrity created by the CCC whenever updates and changes are made. So, when the furniture in the hotel and dining areas was replaced a few years ago, we chose a company famous for repurposing old barn board and century-old hardwoods. Within the past year, the exterior of the Lodge was painted. The paint for this project (a one-of-a-kind color called Starved Rock Tan) was approved by the IL Department of Natural Resources and paid for with private funds. The Lodge's smaller meeting rooms were recently updated and other improvements are planned for 2018. I'm sure the finished look will support our tagline: Starved Rock Lodge … where the past is always present," said Lodge CEO Amy Trimble.
Trolley Tours and guided hikes are the most popular activities offered to guests. New this season, the Eagle 1 river boat will take passengers on a Land & Water Cruise or Dinner & Evening Cruise on the scenic Illinois River. Guided hikes are included on the "Visit a Canyon with a Boat Ride" Tour.
Memorial Day weekend is the annual kickoff of Starved Rock Lodge's Veranda parties where there will be live music (Friday and Saturday nights from 8-11pm) and outdoor dining with an amazing view of the scenic Illinois River Valley below.
"Starved Rock was recently named a "Best of Weddings" award winner by brides and grooms on The Knot and earned the "Couples Choice" Award from Wedding Wire," said Sales Director Jenny Roulston, "Our one-of-a-kind outdoor ceremony site overlooks historic Starved Rock and our indoor event space in the Great Hall and Starved Rock Room is perfect for a dream wedding and reception."
Starved Rock Lodge is also a popular destination for corporate meetings and retreats because pairing the experience of a team building hike or scavenger hunt with a business meeting is a winning combination.
To learn more about all the reasons to visit Starved Rock Lodge check out our website at starvedrocklodge.com or call (800) 868-7625.
• Jenny Roulston is sales director at Starved Rock Lodge.