Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center

Michael P

2024-04

The rooms are dated but were clean. The cost of the rooms is high for what you get. The pool is not heated and the hot tube needs some TLC. The sauna didn’t work. The staff at the lodge were very friendly. The location to the trails is great. Dinner at the restaurant was really good.Rooms: Very dated and need a lot of TLC. We had water damage on our ceiling and the room had an odd smell

chris murray

2024-04

Kids had fun. The place is awesome. That being said, a few updates and this place would be perfect. The food is good but could be great. The room was nice but needs some work. The bathrooms are dated. The beds are not the best. Hot tub lining is separated from the concrete. Exterior suffered serious damage in a recent storm that still needs attending to. Great time overall though.Food & drinks: Having coffee available in the lobby would be a great addition as would being able to purchase an adult drink on property after 8pm.

Shiron Hagens

2024-04

We stayed at the lodge on a Sunday to Monday. The grounds were well maintained, the staff was friendly and the room was large and comfortable. We had a couple of meals at the restaurant and everything was really good, including the service.I do wish the game room was updated with working equipment and the hottub was in better shape. But, the beautiful scenery more than made up for it!Food & drinks: Our table ordered the pot roast, pork chops and catfish. Everything was hot, fresh and nicely seasoned. I do wish the mashed potatoes were homemade with better gravy.

Morgan

2024-03

Every summer, for almost 30 years, we gather here for our family reunion for a few days. This past summer was the worst stay we’ve had. We booked a cabin and although they are very cute on the outside, we had wasps coming through a window and bugs all over the webs outside the only door and hair on the bed sheets. If employees aren’t available (I’ve read this excuse on other reviews), hire it out. Guests should not be paying to have a room with bugs, it’s 2024, figure out a pest control system. We didn’t rent a tent, we rented a cabin. We had to switch to the lodge. The front desk employees were consistently unprofessional, it was almost shocking to see the lack of customer service at what used to be such a nice place. There is so much to write, so I’ll hit the highlights. Dinner service could be so much better. Our first night our waitress told us she was quitting because it was so bad. Slow service every single night, we chose the buffet to avoid ordering off the menu. The food is actually pretty good if you don’t mind waiting an hour. The bottom of the hot tub is literally coming up, no maintenance, obviously. No housekeeping, you have to call for towels and toilet paper for a 5 night stay. Nothing makes this lodge special anymore because of the poor upkeep and lack of staff. I no longer want to hear that staffing is bad because of COVID. You aren’t dropping rates because of lack of staff and service, why should I cut your business slack? Pay people a living wage and treat them right, they will work for you. The consumer should not suffer because of bad management. This lodge could be so much better, it has so much potential and it looks like it’s rotting.Also, whoever responds to reviews sounds condescending. There is no real effort to make things right. Just “oh well! That’s just the way things go”. You’re charging people money to stay here - take their complaints seriously and improve. It’s obvious most people harp on the same things, do something so they want to come back. Recommendations from patrons go a long way for your business.

Blessings Bed & Breakfast Gwenn Eyer

2024-02

We just enjoyed a lovely overnight at Pere Marquette Lodge with their Bald Eagle package. As soon as our room was booked, I called my good friend and she and her husband booked the package for the same night. We had a great time at dinner and breakfast, and spent quite some time after dinner talking in front of the fire.Constructed of natural stone and logs, the lodge itself, and the adjacent cottages, are both rustic and beautiful. The recent light snow added to the ambience.Staff encountered at the check-in desk and in the restaurant were very pleasant and accommodating.Our room was very clean and well appointed, with the amenities one would expect. Our room was very quiet. Our friends were in the room directly above us and the elevator is located just off the lobby.You can’t beat the views and when I opened the drapes in the morning, I was thrilled to see that we’ve gotten a little bit more snow overnight! That just added to our stay!We saw two eagles in trees on our drive up the Great River Road to the lodge. (And maybe three more at the edge of an ice float, but I was driving and I wasn’t sure.) There is a nice road up the bluffs where we would probably have seen more, along with deer, but with the recent snow and ice we decided it was too dangerous to try to make that trek.We were there on a school night, so we didn’t see families. The lodge would be a great location for a family getaway, pretty much in every season. They have an indoor pool and offer an assortment of games for your enjoyment. The state park offers trails and overlooks and it looks like there’s even a riding stable.It seems like many of the people we met (also sitting around the fireplace!) were couples doing the same thing we were. We were within two hours of home, and it seemed like many of the others were, as well. It’s a great location for a quick getaway.The reasonably priced package includes lodging with two drinks and two dinners and two breakfasts from a select menu. Our dinner menu included beef, pork, chicken, and fish options. Breakfast options included eggs, pancakes and yogurt with fruit. We were at liberty to order from the regular menu at full price.The lodge is pretty much what one would expect for a state park lodge - rustic and nice. A huge common area with a long wall of windows offers a myriad of seating areas, soda machines, and games including a giant chessboard. It’s comfortable and cozy. It was a little too cold to step out, but patio areas are available off the lobby.We were drawn to the giant stone fireplace. We had been experiencing extreme cold, and the fire was very welcoming. Insider Tip: If the fire goes out, you can go to the front desk to ask them to relight it.We each made some purchases in the gift shop.We had a delightful stay, and I look forward to returning again!

Rachel Sedlacek

2024-03

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Cat Malin

2024-01

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D.R. Zimmerman

2024-01

This Father's Day became a memorable celebration as I, along with my son and grandson, embarked on a special outing that led us to an enchanting lodge. The atmosphere exuded tranquility, creating an idyllic setting for our day of revelry. Upon entering, we discovered a community fully immersed in the joy of the moment, with people relishing the live music that permeated the air. Adding an intellectual twist to the laid-back ambiance, a captivating chess game was set up at the lodge center, providing an engaging focal point. Naturally, we immortalized these enchanting moments by uploading pictures to capture the essence of the day.Choosing to dine in the lodge's restaurant proved to be a stellar decision. The culinary journey surpassed our expectations, leaving each of us savoring the delightful flavors of our chosen dishes. The undisputed star of the meal was the Settlers pot roast, a culinary masterpiece that tantalized our taste buds. Impressed by the overall experience, the idea of a future overnight stay at this haven is now a contemplation. This locale undeniably stands as a great getaway spot, seamlessly blending relaxation, entertainment, and exceptional culinary delights, making it the perfect destination for commemorating not just Father's Day but any special occasion.

Brenda Flanigan

2024-02

We stayed in Cabin 314 last night. 1 king bd and bunk bed set, all the grandkids ended up in my king bed after hearing an Owl screech! Luckily the bed was big clean and comfy with loads of pillows!We were there for the Eagle festival and had lots of fun in the big clean pool also!

Matt S

2024-01

EDIT: I find it funny that they only reply to good reviews….This place is pretty outdated to be charging what they charge a night. The pool has chipped tile in it and the hot tub was too gross to get into, the liner was coming off and was bubbled up. So minus a star for that.We spent half of our stay replacing the keycards as they kept dying. We went through 12-15 of them not even kidding. Kept in a shirt pocket away from any thing else. The front desk people said they were having problems, and I get that.My issue is I asked to speak to a manger upon checkout, she looked me dead in the eye and said they hadn’t had ANY issues. As she said that a couple came up behind me and complained about them as well. She did comp us $20 off per night. It’s the lack of knowledge about it or the flat out lie that lost a star.Rooms: Rooms could use a bit of an update for the cost per night.Walkability: Some of the sidewalks are a bit tough with a stroller but do able. Wouldn’t suggest for an elderly person with a walker or wheelchair.Food & drinks: Food was phenomenal, the roast was melt in your mouth like I’ve never had before.

Becky Risley

2023-11

This lodge is a beautiful setting and nice accommodations. Friendly staff and clean. However, we attended an event in conjunction to our stay. It was a gourmet German food and wine pairing. The presenter was ill and could not be there, which is understandable. But, there was nobody there to take his place or at least give some information. We had a menu with the name of the food and a paper as to what wine to pair with each course. All the wines tasted the same to us. I also recommend to the event coordinator to post a menu, as each course contained pork (except dessert) and 2 of us could not eat pork for health reasons. The wait staff got permission for us to get food from the buffet, which was nice of them. The bill with gratuity was $67 and had no presentation and couldn't eat the courses. We think we should have been contacted and given the option to cancel our reservation for the event since there was no presentation 😕 I will definately be back to stay at this beautiful lodge, but will never sign up for another event.

Tori Alexander

2023-11

Pier Marquette Lodge-Grafton Charming, historical lodge. Great location for outdoor activities and general relaxation. Walking trails close and Mississippi River right across the street (there is a marina there). Restaurant food was wonderful and staff friendly. Winery bar cozy as was sitting in front of the fire in the main lodge room. Hot tub, pool, and sauna were a treat to use (although the sauna knobs could use a refresh). Has a fitness center too but I did not use. Will definitely go again.

Andrew Smith

2023-11

Enjoyable stay in one of the cabins on the property. Obviously dated but clean. The grounds were good but maintenance could do better. All of the outdoor light fixtures had spider webs and other insects. They obviously had not be wiped in a long time. It would take a team members less then a minute per fixutre to give them a quick cleaning. Granted it is fall so there are plenty of leaves; but the grounds were covered with dead branches that had not been picked up for months.

Tammy Dodd

2023-10

We stayed here for the fall package. I was a little skeptical booking the room as some reviews were pretty negative. I was not disappointed. Yes, the lodge is a bit outdated but its a rustic lodge. What do you expect. The rooms were more than fine and were clean. The pool was nice. The hottub could use a new liner but it was still decent. The 2 free meals with Fall package were good, and yes, some of the Best fried Chicken! All of the employees were very friendly but just like everywhere these day's, they could use a few more employees. We will stay here again.

James Hayes

2023-11

My wife & I planned a two evening stay as our honeymoon. The room was cozy although the bed had a safety issue with a protruding metal bar that was uncomfortable running into during the night. The location is rather remote from support services but the restaurant served the worst food I have ever eaten. I ordered the Marquette Burger that boasted to be 8 oz with American cheese and fries and stuffed mushrooms for my wife. The burger had no cheese, was burnt to a dry tasteless patty that amounted to maybe half the size claimed to be, the fries were about what you would find at any fast food restaurant, and the stuffed mushrooms were so vile that neither my wife or I could eat them even though we both enjoy stuffed mushrooms. They were slimy with a pasty filling. We opted to remain only for one evening.

M E

2023-12

They are having a small conference at the hotel. I guess guests can't get food unless a part of conference. Servers in restaurant stared at me but would not unlock nor bother to post an opening time. 😒 Bizarre- front desk just they are short staffed. I do not care if they are short staffed. Let guests know when they book and post a sign on restaurant. Don't just sit in the restaurant and stare at people waiting for you to unlock it at posted time of open.

Lewis Fischer

2023-09

We stopped in for lunch at the lodge dining room. The lodge and dining room are beautiful, with a nice quiet atmosphere. The fried chicken was the best we have had in a long time. Joe, our waiter, was patient, friendly and professional. He kept our drinks filled and checked on us several times to see if we were enjoying our meal and if we needed anything. We can't wait to go back and try some other things on the menu.

pinkie gacha

2023-12

Beautiful location and rastic cabin. Love the mountain feeling whilebeing here. Restaraunt is always a treat. We go to the bald eagle restival every year with our kids. Staff is a joy and works so hard to make your stay wonderful. Dont be fooledby haters....always a pleasureand the kids have so much funNearby activities: Love all the things to do and hiking. Festoval is amazingSafety: Feel very safe hereWalkability: Can walk Llthe trails and enjoy the outsoora

Michael Pope

2024-02

We always love ❤️ Pere Marquette! We took our two youngest granddaughters for an afternoon there with face painting and wonderful vendors with great craft products!!!:)Nearby activities: Water park in season!

L Grabb

2023-10

We had a wonderful time staying at Pere Marquette Lodge which is about 5 miles from downtown Grafton, IL. The Pere Marquette State Park is located next to the lodge which is perfect if you’re planning to hike. The rooms are very clean even though the lodge is older. They also have cabins available for rent on the property. We enjoyed the breakfast buffet the next morning in the lodge restaurant. Breakfast starts being served at 8am. We plan to stay here again.Rooms: CleanNearby activities: Hiking, boating, cyclingSafety: Safe place to stay.Walkability: Easy to walk aroundFood & drinks: There is a restaurant on the property

Barbara Hackett

2023-07

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Melanie Holmes

2023-10

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Kristen Guillory

2023-08

First time eating at Pere Marquette since moving down the road from it 2.5 yrs ago and sorry we waited so long! We were there on a Tuesday night in July.Had the fried chicken, which was very good. Came with family-style (basically all you can eat) sides (green beans, mashed potatoes & gravy and slaw) for about $15 each. Jodi was a great server, too!Envisioning drinks by the massive stone fireplace, in comfy chairs this winter and maybe playing a game of giant chess or checkers. What an amazing location!Safety: So secluded, quite, peacefulFood & drinks: Old fashioned family-type menu. Good food. Great fried chicken!Noteworthy details: Pere Marquette park is a beautiful place with walking and horse-riding trails, camping, lodging, views, and is located very near great little towns as well as larger ones.

Debbie Biethman

2023-09

The room stunk like cigarettes! The water pressure was low , we did however ask for a different room and the staff helped out immediately with response and put us in a room that didn't stink. The vending machine wasn't working & no sign that said out of order but they had snacks available for purchase in gift shop. The restaurant was nice and food and service was great!!

Tara Danielle

2023-08

Definitely a hidden gem from St. Louis folks, I've heard a lot about this place but had never visited until recently for a wedding. They had buffet style breakfast which was pretty decent for me, the only thing that didn't taste good per se was the eggs. The wedding in the conference room was perfect. The pool was just a little dirty especially along the edges, my kids are used to playing in creeks so it didn't bother us much but I could definitely see it bothering others. The wait staff for brunch was excellent! We had no problems in that regard. Honestly the customer service was on par. Our cabin had a pretty bold smell of dead mouse, which is in a way out of their control, it's in the woods and mice live there, they have traps set out so it appears they are attempting to address the mouse problem. I'd just recommend staying in the actual lodge and not the cabins, the staff was quick to offer solutions and change our accomodations which I greatly appreciated. This is a Beautiful location, the prices just don't quite match the quality. We will likely be back over the fall, the scenery is all there, the quaint rustic cabin feel, loved the games in addition! I wish the cabin worked out for us though, we try to stay away from others mostly because we have 2 little kids who can be loud but also need some serious quiet time to fall asleep. Between the mouse problem, cigarette buds everywhere, and moldy shower walls, it just did not live up to the price. I'd love to see them put more effort into the cabins, bring them back to life a little. Again, something customer service was quick to address, but I really wanted to love them!Rooms: Cabins need updated or at least cleaned better and some more pest control. Moldy walls above the shower with cracking paint, mouse decomp smell, and cigarette buds outside were the items noted. Honestly cabins in great location, close enough to main lodge, easy little walk. The cabins were very quiet which we loved! Appreciated having a mini fridge, a microwave could be a nice addition.Nearby activities: Scenic drive, horseback riding, hiking, playground down the road by campground, pool, hot tub, sauna, games.Walkability: The campus itself is very walkable. There is also a bike trail that goes all the way to Grafton and then even to Alton I believe.

Shane

2023-05

The lodge was very pretty, rustic and quaint. Unfortunately, the weekend we visited the restaurant only offered the buffet. It was not very good and I was disappointed. Apparently, when they are low staffed, they can only do buffet in the restaurant, which I understand, but it took away from experience.I really wanted to do enjoy the big fireplace, the chess set and the open lodge in the evening. This is not really the fault of the hotel, but there were a large number of children - who were running around screaming, yelling and treating the he place like a giant playground. Riding scooters around on the ramps and across the floor, climbing on the luggage carts and running down the halls. Probably 20+ children with adults. I’m not certain why people feel this is acceptable…and I wish the staff could or would enforce quiet hours and a peaceful environment.I will note that the lodge furniture/cushions are made of cheap plastic - not especially comfortable and seemed out of place.It definitely took away from the ambiance of the hotel. At one point I turned to my boyfriend and said “I feel like I’m at the great wolf lodge.” Again not really the fault of the hotel, but just something that I noticed that was not addressed by staff or the parents. It detracted from what I thought would be a lovely quiet January weekend.

Al Allen

2023-05

We drove to the lodge for lunch today arriving at 2 pm.The lodge is a beautiful place but I must say something about lunch.My wife and I decided to stop for lunch because we hadn't beenthere for a couple of years but we remembered that the lodge was noted for their Fried Chicken.The staff was great and the lodge was very clean. The only complaint I have is with the kitchen .We both ordered Fried Chicken, two piece white family style.I'm sure the chicken was cooked for the noon rush, it was very dry, very tough and slightly warm. The vegetable was cold and the rolls were stale. the only thing that was as it should be was the mashed potatoes and slaw. I would give the kitchen at most 2 stars.Monday 3/6/23

Michael Thomas

2023-09

It's unfortunate, but we were regrettably unable give a review other than being denied to view the room prior to renting. We were traveling and decided to stay at the Marquette since we've heard such great things about it. Yet the young lady at the registration desk claimed that the lodge doesn't grant tours of their rooms which wasn't the question. We just wanted to see the room prior to handling over our credit card. Although the young lady never said anything derogatory, I had the distinct impression of prejudice based on her mannerism and her greeting. We also noticed absolutely no minorities amongst the quests or workers. Note, we've traveled extensively since our retirement and was never denied the opportunity to view our potential rooms before. Forgot to mention that she also added that if a customer wants to view the room, he or she would have to go on line. Although we're somewhat computer savvy, many senior citizens traveling are not. We decided to go somewhere else.

Ross

2024-03

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Melissa Eversole

2023-09

Food is fantastic. The lodge smells like there's a mold problem. We saw active roof leaks with containers placed under them to try and catch the water. Room was surface clean, but I dropped something that went kind of behind a chair and I noticed a lot of dirt behind that chair. Not sure if it has been moved since it was put there. Surprisingly the mattresses were very comfy. Beautiful setting.