It is awesome. From this parking lot its only a 0.5 miles hike to the waterfall. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress. CAJUN CONNECTION - 237 Photos & 335 Reviews - Yelp Check it out, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). You can also visit the nearby Utica Zoo, home to over 100 species of animals. To boot, proceeds from some of the venerable outposts sudsy lineup benefit local causes. The park also offers guided canoe and kayak trips, which provide a great opportunity to learn about the areas history and ecology. With a variety of trails to choose from and plenty of wildlife to observe, youll be sure to have a great time. All rights reserved. Visitors can take a guided tour of the boat and learn about the history of canal boat travel on the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Whatever your choice, you can roll out of bed and land boot-first on a trail. After hitting up the market, do yourself a favor and stumble over tothe Rock and Soul and peep the shops thoughtfully curated collection of gemstones, rocks, and other shiny, eye-catching items. The trails at Starved Rock provide a great opportunity to experience the beauty of Illinoiss Midwest landscape. American (Traditional) This is a placeholder. As it is one of the most beautiful falls in the park, and the closest to the visitor center, is it heavily trafficked in high season. Theres no better place to live in the Midwest than Naperville, and The Melting Pot has become a worthy restaurant in the citys impressive dining repertoire. If you are looking for a picturesque getaway, then the Rock Formations of Starved Rock State Park in Illinois may be just the thing. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. Matthiessen State Park is located near Starved Rock, Illinois and is one of the most beautiful and diverse natural areas in the Midwest. In addition to the boat tour, the Starved Rock State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Ground-based options include Cedar PointCedar Creek Ranch, where a fleet of horses leads riders on an unforgettable stroll through nature trails traversing 60 acres of forests. " Salads that make you full " 01/13/2022. Meet our Fox River Resort at Sheridan, where kids can splash around our Pirate's Cay Indoor Water Park while you relax on deck with an iced tea and a splash of rum. Before hitting the trails, make sure to download Cornell Universitys freeMerlin Bird ID App, so you can geek out throughout the parks many prime birding destinations and keep a record of your finds for post-trip slideshows (just kidding kinda). Sturdy shoes are also a must, as some of the trails can be rocky and slippery. Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat. THE 10 BEST Restaurants Near Starved Rock State Park - Tripadvisor Freedom. The trail that leads behind the waterfall takes you to Tonty canyon. Buffalo Rock State Park, located just outside of Ottawa, Illinois, is the perfect spot for those looking to explore the great outdoors while horseback riding. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. With its towering sandstone canyons, lush forests and cascading waterfalls, it's no wonder why this state park is one of the most popular natural attractions in the Midwest. Grizzly Jacks Grand Bear Resortwas a great family-friendly place to stay especially with its newly revamped indoor waterpark. 155 Mill Street, N. Utica, IL 61373 (815) 667-5800. Uptown Grill offers a generous sized selection of casual sidewalk seating, alongside a delicious fine dining menu. Its 0.6 miles from the canyon and the hike should take approx. Their production vineyard sits on repurposed corn and soybean fields, which have been in the family for generations. For the primitive set,Kayak Starved Rock Campground provides all the basics: fire pits, picnic tables, grills, and an outstanding view. Richly historicStarved Rock Lodge offers handsome rooms as well as private cabins nestled right inside Starved Rock State Park. Buffalo at Buffalo Rock State Park in Illinois Watch on Once we met the three buffalo, we were ready for our hike. 14.6 km from Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock. If I have one tip to share about this park is that you need to go down the lower dells. If not, the space around is huge so you can still maintain a safe social distance from others. They also offer trolley tours of downtown Utica, live music, river cruises, and guided hikes. By far, its our familys favorite hike. We have live music on weekends! Here, visitors can explore the 18 canyons of the park, which have been formed by the erosion of the sandstone and limestone cliffs over many millennia. The Illinois River offers excellent swimming, so bring your swimsuit. Our recent travels to the area brought us to St. Louis Canyons waterfall and I have to say its our fav! I also enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at the August Hill Winery, where I sampled some delicious local wines. Brittany H. Awesome place, service was great and home-made salad dressings were the best . In the winter some of the falls are open to experienced ice climbers. Visitors to the park can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Lodi Tap House: Located downtown Utica and just a short drive from the Starved Rock State Park, after a long day of adventure, you can grab a table at Lodi and enjoy a tasty meal. 10+ Things to Do Around Starved Rock Area in Illinois Starved Rock State Park was recently voted the number one attraction in Illinois, and its not difficult to see why. The lodge also has a gift shop, which sells souvenirs and locally made items. If you use the out and back river trail that starts at the visitor center you will pass several other beautiful Starved Rock canyons as well as the Illinois Dam. Follow it up with a trip toStarved Rock Hot Glass, a glass blowing studio and shop in Ottawa run by local artist Laura Johnson. The lodge has been in operation since the early 1900s, providing a unique and serene experience for its guests. With a focus on grilled Mexican food, at El Jefe we offer you a diverse menu that includes from traditional seafood to delicious meats with that unique touch that charcoal food has. Stop by the visitor center to check the trail conditions. Located in the heart of Illinois, this small town is brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and . The Visitors Center is the perfect place to get an overview of the park and find out whats available. With over 13 miles of hiking trails and 14 waterfalls, its easy to see why Starved Rock is so popular. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. The lodge offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. Kaskaskia falls are located further along the Starved Rock waterfall trail. Additionally, wear appropriate clothing for the weather and terrain. The American Dream. 0.4 miles from Top of the Rock Restaurant. Start your visit in the downtown area, where you can explore the quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries. The historic Utica Downtown area near Starved Rock is a great place to visit for a unique and unforgettable experience. But if you're looking to have some fun while you're there, you don't have to look far. Sometimes trails are closed because of falling rocks or other hazardous situations. With its stunning views, plenty of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, its a great spot for a picnic or a day of outdoor fun. Cajun Restaurants Near Me. Airbnb Sleeping Bear Dunes: 12 best places to stay, 12 Sleeping Bear Dunes hikes you shouldnt miss, Globetrotters in heart and soul. For more information, visit: tangledrootsbrewingco.com. Campers, glampers, and everyone in between will feel right at home in these parts. Since 1982, Buffalo Wild Wings (or B-Dubs as our friends call us) has been the ultimate place to watch the game, have a cold beer and eat some great food. Overview of the best waterfalls at Starved Rock, Illinois, Tips for visiting Starved Rock State Park. One of the things I loved about visiting Starved Rock was the abundance of outdoor activities in the area. Zip Chicago is located in Marseilles, about 30 miles east of Utica, and features a variety of cable routes with different speeds and heights to help you glide through the forest in style. Skoog's Pub and Grill. Romantic Places Around the Starved Rock Area | Heritage Corridor Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of birds, including warblers, woodpeckers, and hawks. Youll find plenty of fresh options like smoked trout, crab rangoon, truffle fries, pork tenderloin, fish tacos, center cut filet mignon, pan seared yellow fish tuns, and spicy Thai peanut chicken. Best cabin at Starved Rock: Log cabin on 25 acres. The Visitors Center offers a variety of programs and activities that allow visitors to observe and learn about these animals in their natural habitat. Zuka Sushi & Hibachi Restaurant offers authentic and delicious tasting Japanese cuisine in Naperville, IL. The city mouse-oriented company is basically Airbnb for camper vans, connecting folks to spic-and-span, ready-to-rock driveable and towable rigs around the country. " Family visit " 24/03/2023. Starved Rock isn't the only state park in the area worth visiting - at Matthiessen State Park in Peru, you can saunter through a sea of sunflowers - these bright beauties and in full bloom right now! Located across the street from Prairie Fox Books, the independent toy store is a must visit in the area. Pack binoculars and a camera to get the best views of the wildlife. With over 2,000 acres of land to explore, youll have plenty of opportunities to get out and explore the area. The canyon itself is towering and dramatic, and the dual falls flowing into the base are truly unique. In addition to the restaurant and bar, the resort has an indoor waterpark, mini golf, and cave arcade. The falls are at their best in the spring when the snow is melting or in the winter when some of them are completely frozen over. #1 of 5 things to do in Oglesby State Parks Hiking Trails Visit website Call Email Write a review About Known for its magnificent rock formations of St. Peter sandstone, this scenic park offers many hiking and horseback riding trails plus fishing and boating along the banks of the Illinois River. Located just a few minutes from either Matthiessen or Starved Rock, The Rootbeer Stand was exactly what we needed after a morning spent hiking. The tour guide tells stories of the boats past, and of the people who lived and worked on the boat. With its abundance of activities, history, and peace and quiet, it provides a wonderful escape for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway. 2023 Heritage Corridor Destinations. This trail and waterfall are often quieter than the other Starved Rock trails at Starved Rock State Park because they are located on the western side of the park. Located in Illinois, this state park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. Climb the stairs to the top of the rock formation and enjoy the stunning views of the Illinois River. Where you enter the canyon you have to walk a short while in the creek. With an indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, and an open-air bar overlooking the park, there are myriad ways to rest your weary bones after conquering the buttes. Kaskaskia falls are a great visit for those looking for a quieter experience and a bit of peace. From vintage items to handmade crafts, this small town has something for everyone. If you are looking for more great Starved Rock hikes, click here. During my visit to Starved Rock, I made sure to check out the nearby Illinois Waterway Visitor Center. The nostalgia of diners, museums, tourist stops and neon lights are there for you to visit as you make the drive from Chicago to Santa Monica, CA. The park's extensive water resources make it ideal for a variety of water-based activities. #1 of 64 Restaurants in Ottawa. In the summer months, the flow is reduced to a fraction of what can be seen in the spring but it is strange for this waterfall to dry up completely as most other waterfalls in the park do. We stopped at Starved Rock while driving through across the state but looks like well need to make a return trip to do everything else. The state park is popular for a good reason, but if youd like to stay awhile and venture out a bit youll find plenty of things to do and places to eat in the Starved Rock area. Here, the chefs focus on fresh products from local farmers and producers in every meal. Starved Rock State Park is the first left after the river. This vast park is home to some of the most spectacular rock formations in the Midwest, offering breathtaking views of the Illinois River Valley. View otheplaceswegos profile on Facebook, Ultimate Summer Bucket List of Things to Do in the Chicago Suburbs, 9 Reasons to Visit Saugatuck Michigan with the Family, The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary from Chicago to Florida, First Timers Guide (and Tips) to Enjoy Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin, Our Favorite Places to Go Strawberry Picking Near Chicago, Parks WE Go: SEBA Park and Panton Mill Splash Pad in South Elgin, 8 Reasons to go to a Chicago Dogs Baseball Game with the Family, What to expect on your Day Out With Thomas. Dine in one of the many restaurants, ranging from classic Italian to modern fusion. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful afternoon of fishing or canoeing, or simply relax by the river. The exhibits were well-curated and gave me a deeper appreciation for the region. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then Starved Rock State Park may be just the place for you. Where are the waterfalls at Starved Rock? Both airports are about 1.5 hours away from Starved Rock. Whether youre looking to try a new sushi platter or a classic beef burger topped with fresh ingredients, this Ottawa eatery has something for everyone on the menu! Wolf Creek State Park also offers plenty of activities for those who are looking for a more active experience. Enjoy contemporary cuisine made from local and seasonal ingredients from the Southwest and tantalizing cocktails, blended drinks and a curated wine list. Whether you are a hiker, birdwatcher, geology enthusiast, or fisherman, there is something for everyone in this gorgeous state park. more. They can be accessed easily regardless of the season and have a breathtaking view. Cant find parking at Starved Rock or Matthiessen State Park? All in all, there's no shortage of things to do near Starved Rock! Tip: We parked at the secret parking lot for St. Louis Canyon. THE BEST 10 "Restaurants" in Tempe, AZ - Yelp Looking for something a bit more artisanal? Whether youre looking to explore the areas natural wonders or take a guided tour of the canal boat, a visit to the park is sure to be a memorable experience. The museum also houses a variety of artifacts, from Native American pottery to vintage photographs. You can read our complete privacy policy here. We've got all the info to unlock your next trip right here. " 07/02/2023 Cuisines: Steakhouse, American, Bar Skoog's Pub & Grill #4 of 16 Restaurants in Utica 184 reviews 155 Mill St 1.9 miles from Starved Rock State Park " Don't miss this place ! You can go hiking, camping, bird watching, swimming, and more. Utica is home to a vibrant cultural scene, with music, art and theatre performances throughout the year. Best bed and breakfast in Starved Rock: Brightwood Inn. Planning a trip to Starved Rock? Across Mill Street,Lodi Tap keeps it real with craft beers, excellent burgers, and enormous Bavarian pretzels. If you want to climb the icefall you will need to register at the visitor center first. Ottowa Canyon is about the same size in depth and in height as the French canyon. The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Co.: Located near Starved Rock State Park in downtown Ottawa, you can dine comfortably at The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Company. For more information, visit: burgerandsushihouse.com. Starved Rock State Park Opening hours. There are also plenty of picnic areas and campgrounds throughout the park, making it the perfect place for a family outing. Order Online. This bridge was damaged in 2018 and is closed since then, it is unclear if it will ever reopen. The park has a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. If youre looking for a great way to spend your weekend, consider taking a hike at Starved Rock State Park near Utica, Illinois. The area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and white-tailed deer. So if youre looking for things to do near Starved Rock, the Starved Rock Visitors Center is a great place to start. Visitors can take a tour of the park, which will take you through a variety of scenic trails and offer a chance to view some of the parks many waterfalls. Spend the day getting up close and personal with the zoo's inhabitants, from playful monkeys to majestic tigers. 10-15 minutes. As one of Starved Rocks big waterfalls, it draws attention. We also offer a "home kitchen" menu boasting a variety of "platter-style" recipes passed down through our chefs' families homemade dishes, common when families had more time to spend in the kitchen. best Southern Illinois State Parks, click here. From there its only half a mile to the waterfall. (Unfortunately, during our visit the area was roped off and couldnt get close enough.) One of my favorite activities was visiting the nearby Matthiessen State Park. Hiking shoes, hiking poles, and ice cleats if you visit in winter. They are a real demonstration of nature at work. Whether youre looking for a historical experience, an active adventure, or just a place to relax, Starved Rock Lodge is the perfect destination.