Summer does not officially end until September 21, so why not make the most of this wonderful season? Throughout August, the park is green and lush with foliage, the river cruises are running and there are fun things to do inside, even if it’s hot outside.
There’s a certain joy in eating outdoors on a lovely summer day and when the view is photo worthy, there’s no better place to enjoy a meal than on the Veranda at Starved Rock Lodge. If the heat and humidity of summer are too much, cool off in the historic Main Dining Room (open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner) or relax in the Back Door Lounge. Check out the creative seasonal cocktails on the menu. Guests most frequently order the “Hippy Punch” or the “Watermelon Mojito.” If you like smokey flavors, you’ll love the “Roasted Rita” with Mezcal Tequila. For those with a sweet tooth, the Café is the top destination for Artisan Ice Cream (made at the Lodge) or delicious fudge. Ice cream is also served in the Main Dining Room, on the Veranda and at Trailheads Concessions. Live music on the Veranda is offered every Friday night from 8-11pm on the Veranda. There will also be live music on Saturdays (8/12, 8/26 and 9/2).
An August getaway allows families a perfect opportunity to slow down together before the chaos of the school year begins. Children love riding on the trolley. The one-hour waterfowl cruise (offered on Saturdays & Sundays) includes trolley transportation and a boat ride.
A morning or mid-afternoon swim can be refreshing—regardless of the weather. Our indoor pool complex features a 40×60 lap pool, hot tub, saunas and a gated toddler pool. Right outside the doors you’ll find a quiet patio to read or catch up on email. The sunset cabins are also located here.
For those of you not going back to school a mid-week, mid-to-late August overnight stay offers uncrowded trails and a peacefulness filled with the sounds of nature. An early-morning hike can be very refreshing. The sunrises are beautiful and can best be seen from the seawall at the base of Starved Rock. The Café opens at 6:30am and the Main Dining Room opens at 8am. Sleeping in with the curtains drawn can be restorative in a different way. Land & Water Cruises run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and include lunch. These tours start at 11am with lunch and conclude at 3pm after the river cruise and a tour of our local visitor centers.
Music Tribute Shows are the walk down memory lane you’d enjoy if you’re a fan of Olivia Newton-John, a Vegas Headliner Show by Jonny Bird, classic rock from Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones or the Nashville Connection. All matinee performances include a hot lunch buffet in the ticket price.
Guided hikes are offered on weekends, but guests are free to hike on their own. Smoked Prime Rib is the special every Saturday night in the Main Dining Room and Sunday Brunch is a crowd pleaser. Learn more about all the fun things to do in August at: www.starvedrocklodge.com or call 1-800-868-7625.
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