Illinois Beach Resort, a popular vacation destination located in Zion, Illinois, has been facing rumors of closure for the past few months. The resort, which is situated on the shore of Lake Michigan, has been a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike for its beautiful beachfront and scenic views.
However, recent reports suggest that the resort may be shutting down permanently. So, what is the truth behind these rumors? Let’s take a closer look.
Background
Illinois Beach Resort has been operational since 1920 and has undergone several renovations over the years. The resort features 92 guest rooms with stunning lake views, a restaurant serving delicious cuisine, a fitness center, and event spaces for weddings and corporate events. The resort also offers various recreational activities such as hiking trails, fishing, and boating.
The Rumors
In early 2021, rumors started circulating that Illinois Beach Resort was on the verge of closing down due to financial difficulties. Many guests who had already booked their stays at the resort were left uncertain about their reservations’ fate. These rumors were fueled by reports of staff layoffs and reduced services at the resort.
The Reality
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), which owns and operates Illinois Beach Resort, has confirmed that while the resort’s future is uncertain due to financial constraints caused by COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions on hotel operations since March 2020. The IDNR stated that they are currently exploring options to keep the resort operational in some form.
According to IDNR spokesperson Rachel Torbert: “We are considering all possible options for future operations of Illinois Beach Hotel & Conference Center,” Torbert said in an email response to questions from Lake County News-Sun. “The IDNR is committed to providing outdoor recreation opportunities for all visitors to Illinois.”
The Future
While it is still unclear what the future holds for Illinois Beach Resort, IDNR has assured that they are working diligently to find a solution. The resort’s closure would be a significant loss for the local tourism industry and for those who have enjoyed visiting the resort over the years. However, with the ongoing pandemic and its financial impact, it remains to be seen whether Illinois Beach Resort will continue to operate in its current form or undergo some changes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while rumors of Illinois Beach Resort’s closure have been circulating for some time now, it is important to note that nothing has been confirmed yet. IDNR is exploring all possible options to keep the resort operational in some form.
Until an official announcement is made, guests can still make reservations and enjoy the resort’s beautiful beachfront and amenities. It is crucial that we support our local businesses during these challenging times and hope for a positive outcome for one of Illinois’ most loved resorts.