Eagle Watching at Starved Rock State Park

You don’t have to travel north to see these majestic birds of prey. Thousands of eagles migrate south from Canada during the winter and Illinois is one of the homes of the greatest population of wintering bald eagles. The Starved Rock Lodge in Utica offers a “Bald Eagle Trolley Tour” in January and February on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Viewing birds from the Veranda at the Starved Rock Lodge is good as well. Dress warmly though. This great viewing spot is right outside the doors of the Great Room. If you’d like some exercise, take a hike on one of the trails at the Starved Rock State Park. One trail begins right at the Veranda. For a birds eye view, hike to the top of the Rock. Another popular event is "Eagle Watch Weekend" with activites both at the Starved Rock Lodge and the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center.

CITY: Oglesby

The Amazing Race – Starved Rock Style

Fans of reality television are probably familiar with the format of the Amazing Race, but Starved Rock Lodge has taken that format and given it their own touch by integrating the historic charm of Starved Rock State Park, Lodge and the surrounding area. The Amazing Race – Starved Rock Lodge Style will be run on select Sundays from May through September. Choose from May 26, June 2 or 23, July 7 or 21, Aug. 4 or 25, and Sept. 1 or 15 as a race date. Advance reservations are required for the race, and an overnight stay package is also available. Racers should contact the activities department at 815-220-7386 to book a team’s place in the race!

CITY: Oglesby

Pre-War Festival

Downtown Pontiac will step back into time with heritage craft demonstrators, Civil War reenactors, old-time cars, trucks and cycles. The combined festival will be great fun for all ages. Break out your vintage clothing and become part of the excitement.

CITY: Pontiac

Heritage Tractor Adventure

Save the date! A four day adventure tractor drive combining vintage tractors and displays with a historic ride along the Illinois and Michigan Canal Corridor, Max Armstrong (Famous agriculture reporter), entertainment, great food, and camaraderie. Stops in Streator, Ottawa, Sheridan, Pontiac, and Toluca. Whether a spectator or a participant, everyone in your family will enjoy this family-oriented event.

CITY: Streator

Bald Eagle Trolley Tours

In January and February ride the trolley from Starved Rock Lodge to the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center for bald eagle viewing and an educational program. Includes lunch during the week and brunch on Sunday in the Main Dining Room.

CITY: Utica

Waterfall and Canyons Tour

Mondays at 11:00a.m., Saturdays 9:00 and 11:00a.m. Experience the fun of outdoor adventure at Starved Rock State Park with a guided walk to 3 spectacular waterfalls and canyons. We will plan to visit French, St. Louis and Ottawa Canyons. The tour will also include your selection from our Special Lunch Menu and a relaxing historical trolley ride. $31.00 adult, $26.00 children. For reservations, please call 815-220-7386.

CITY: Utica