Ogle County’s Gem is Open Again

White Pines Lodge is once more open and providing the great meals, live entertainment and cozy accommodations that have made it a beloved destination for decades. Now operating under the management of Starved Rock Hospitality, White Pines Lodge is once again pleasing visitors to Mt. Morris, Ill., and bringing back many White Pines traditions.

Located less than two hours from Chicago and nestled in a clearing deep in the forest of White Pines State Park, this massive log lodge was built in the 1930s. White Pines is home to a restaurant known for its delicious home-style cuisine, generous portions and friendly staff. 

Guests can enjoy delicious homemade dishes for breakfast, lunch or dinner in this treasured landmark. Whether you’re stopping by for a family outing, a wedding reception, a business retreat, a Christmas party or an intimate night out for two, the restaurant prides itself on ensuring every guest has an experience to remember.

The Pines Dinner Theater is a live theater experience that has been providing musical and comedic entertainment for over 30 years. Adjacent to the landmark restaurant is a charming and rustic gift shop filled with nostalgic flavors and precious mementos.

Authentic, cozy log cabins provide overnight lodging just a stone’s throw from the lodge. Natural beauty abounds with miles of hiking trails that crisscross over bubbling streams and along moss-covered limestone bluffs. This hidden gem is ideal for romantic escapes, family outings, corporate retreats, weddings and weekend getaways from Chicago. Be sure to visit at Christmastime, when you can take a horse-drawn wagon ride, visit with Santa, buy a freshly cut Christmas tree and enjoy “Scrooge the Comedy.” ❚

White Pines Lodge is located at 6712 W. Pines Road, Mt. Morris, Ill., (815) 655-2400, visitwhitepines.com.