Things to Do

Fall is officially here, and that means ghost tours are just around the corner! Starved Rock Country's past is packed with bone-chilling tales of terror and unexplained apparitions. Regardless of your belief in the supernatural, here are two great socially distant group tours tha…

As dusk falls, come out and hear about the ghostly tales of the I&M Canal on the haunted boat tour this weekend from October 25-27. This Halloween adventure is filled with legends, mystery and horror. Let their talented tour guides divulge the many secrets, spirits, and scandals …

For hundreds if not thousands of years, many Native American tribes roamed, traded, and made Starved Rock Country their home until the early 1830s when most were forced to migrate westward with increasing pressure from the European settlers. Since 1972, Hungarian-born sculptor Pe…

This Saturday and Sunday, one of only ten airworthy B-17s will be visiting Peru’s Illinois Valley Regional Airport! Here's your chance to take photos, tour and even take a ride in this "flying fortress".The Boeing B-17G, known as “Yankee Lady”, will be visiting the Illinois Valle…

True North knows shopping can, and should, be an adventure. Now this popular destination has just embarked on one of their own, a massive store expansion that will bring you even more amazing vintage and recycled items.If you've been to True North before, the store will feel at o…

Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center's Facebook fans voted for Marketing Director Kathy Casstevens to take a virtual hike to one of the park's most scenic attractions, St. Louis Canyon! Check out this virtual guided tour, where you'll pass Aurora Canyon, Sac Cayon, a beautifu…

We're pleased to announce that trails to more than 18 canyons and overlooks have recently been reopened at Starved Rock State Park! While clean-up from this month's derecho storm is still underway at the nearby Matthiessen State Park and select areas at Starved Rock, guests can o…

With the upcoming string of warm weather, everyone is looking for socially-distant indoor activities that are fun (and safe) for the whole family. Below, we've complied five of our favorite ways to beat the heat, this weekend in Starved Rock Country!See A Movie On The Big Screen:…

Located just a short drive from the gates of Starved Rock State Park, near downtown Utica, you'll find the family-friendly adventure destination known as Starved Rock Entertainment! This all-in-one entertainment center, that features three challenging escape rooms and a multi-lev…

While the recent derecho storm may have temporarily closed the trails at Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, there are plenty more socially distant Summertime adventures to be had in scenic Starved Rock Country! If you're still looking enjoy some quality time in nature, we'…

Looking to host a micro wedding or private party? Check out North Utica's new upscale event space, Co. 614. This open concept renovation boasts beautiful natural lighting, sprawling exposed brick walls, a reclaimed wood bar, elevator access, two restrooms and a picture perfect br…