The Illinois Beach Hotel in Zion, which is the only hotel located on Lake Michigan in the state, announced that the beachfront destination has reopened following renovations.
The hotel, offering overnight accommodations, onsite dining, event space and a gift shop, reopened for business on Friday.
General Manager Holly Cir, who was named to the position in January, said she sees great potential for the beachfront destination.
“In addition to being under new management, our unique property is in the process of ecosystem and habitat restoration,” Cir said.
Abby Farrell, Area Manager of Operations/Illinois and General Manager of Starved Rock Lodge, assisted with the reopening.
“Our dedication to creating an inviting and enriching experience for the community continues, and we look forward to welcoming guests with open arms and warm hospitality,” Farrell said.
The hotel said one of its best features is its proximity to the beach and Lake Michigan.
The hotel has 92 rooms, many with lakefront views. The updated hotel features rooms with a beachy feel, Serta mattresses, new televisions, refrigerators and microwaves, coffee makers and hairdryers.
The Illinois Beach Hotel is located within Illinois Beach State Park near Zion.
It represents the last remaining undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline in Illinois.
Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, said Illinois Beach State Park is one of the most unique and scenic sites in Illinois’ collection of state parks.
“Illinois Beach is truly one of a kind, with beautiful beaches, lakefront views, rare plant and animal life, diverse recreational opportunities, and a wonderful hotel and restaurant on site,” Finnie said.
“I encourage everyone to plan an unforgettable trip to Illinois Beach and Lake County this season,” she said.
Nolan’s, the onsite restaurant, will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 4-8 p.m. Breakfast will be available to overnight guests.
Outdoor seating will be available seasonally at Nolan’s as well as on the Pavilion, which is located on the east side of the property overlooking Lake Michigan.
The hotel will also be accepting reservations for outdoor weddings with receptions in the Grand Ballroom. Reservations will also be accepted for special events such as Quinceaneras, corporate gatherings, Mitzvahs, graduation parties and more.
The primary event space can accommodate up to 200 guests. A variety of catering options and bar packages are available.
“We’ve made waves in the pool,” Farrell said. “The biggest goal we have ahead of us is restoration of the hotel’s indoor pool. We continue to work closely with the State of Illinois to bring this project to completion and look forward to welcoming the community back to the pool complex once complete.”