I joined some friends for a weekend trip to Starved Rock State Park, about 90 minutes southwest of Chicago. We decided to take advantage of a stretch of mild winter weather in Chicago.

The 2,630 acres of land were developed as a vacation area in the late 1800s and acquired by the state of Illinois in 1911 for a state park. Over the years various levels of lodging have been added, along with 13 miles of hiking trails and other points of interest.

We opted for the hotel wing over a cabin or lodge. Over the years I have stayed in each of the three options, and all are quality accommodations, but we went for maximum comfort on this trip. We did decide to rough it a bit, eschewing the guided hike for our own excursion around the park. In the evenings we relaxed by the largest two-sided fireplace in Illinois.

The dining choices include Starved Rock Dining Room, Back Door Lounge and Café. Over the course of the weekend we had delicious meals — or drinks — at all three.

We only strayed from the park for a short trip to August Hill Winery. We tasted several wines while relaxing and checking out some great artwork.

It was a completely relaxing weekend in a beautiful setting. As wonderful as Starved Rock is in the summer, there is something so peaceful about a chilly hike into the wilderness —  of course, sipping beverages by the fireplace and watching some football were also relaxing. The weekend was the perfect blend of nature and creature comforts.

— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist