Fall Colors
ARE CALLING YOU TO
By Kathy Casstevens, marketing manager at Starved Rock Lodge
Starved RocK
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t’s easier to say goodbye to summer when you make plans to enjoy the beauty of autumn. Nestled in the middle of Starved Rock State Park is a unique hotel which sits high atop a bluff overlooking the scenic Illinois River. Starved Rock Lodge is more than a day trip. It’s a historic hotel with everything you need for a fall getaway under one roof. The Café opens early and has delicious flavors of ice cream and fudge made at the Lodge. The indoor pool is a favorite for families and multigenerational travelers. Outdoor dining continues into the fall as long as weather permits. The Veranda offers the best view in La Salle County. Just steps away from the trails is the Back Door Lounge, which serves locally made craft beer and music on select Friday nights.
Where We Live
There’s no better way to explore the deep sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls than with a guided hike offered each Saturday and Sunday at Starved Rock State Park. A boxed lunch is included and reservations are required.
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For more information, call 815-220-7386. Book overnight stays, tours and events on the Lodge’s website: www.starvedrocklodge.com.
colorful autumn array disappears. “Autumn on the River” cruises depart every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11 a.m. Ghost Tours are back on select weekend nights in October. Board the trolley and experience a spooky adventure as you travel to local haunts in the area. The ambiance of the historic Great Hall makes a lovely setting for a music tribute show by the Neverly Brothers. Tickets for the “old school cool” show include a hot lunch buffet. A variety of tribute and holiday shows can be booked through the Lodge’s website. The Lodge is accepting reservations for Thanksgiving Buffet on Nov. 25. This year, the Lodge will have a new, whimsical theme for Christmas. The Great Hall and Lodge will be decorated before Thanksgiving and the Main Dining Room will be decorated afterward. Tickets are on sale now for the Lodge’s annual New Year’s Eve Party in the Great Hall. The theme is “Throwback Prom.”
A tasty menu of German food, beer, wine and music will be featured at this year’s Oktoberfest Matinees (Oct. 18, 19 and 20) and Dinner (Oct. 17). German tunes will fill the air with music by the Duseldorfers Band. Tickets are $30 for the buffet only or $45 for the buffet, wine/beer tastings and a souvenir stein. Fall Colors Trolley Tours are offered on Tuesday and Saturday (9:30 and 11 a.m.) during October so leaf lovers can get their fill of fall foliage before the
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