Nestled amongst nature, right next door to Mathieson State Park, and a short drive to Starved Rock State Park, enjoy your quiet, clean and relaxing stay! The innkeepers are friendly and accommodating and your room will be spacious and clean. There's remote check-in, and a pre-prepared breakfast for your contactless stay! We love our stays there! read more

This was our second stay at Brightwood Inn and it was just as amazing this time around. We tried out a different room, Vieux Carre, and it was nice having a private balcony to drink coffee in the morning and read in the evening. If you go hiking during your visit, you'll love to come back and soak in the oversized jacuzzi tub and then relax next to the in-room fireplace. We also took advantage of the large selection of games and books during this visit. I can't say enough great things about this place, from the food to the accommodations to the owners themselves. Thank you so much for making Brightwood Inn such a wonderful place to stay. read more

Brightwood Inn was definitely a place I'll return to. Aside from the beautiful property, its a home away from home. I felt safe, comfortable, relaxed, HAPPY! I was looking to get away from daily life and just relax. This was perfect. I stayed in the Savannah room. LOVE IT! My type of decor. You wake up to the sounds of nature. Look out your window and you'll see a variety of colorful birds. The backyard is a romantic, well manicured ambiance with fresh scents of flowers. Across you'll find an arch perfectly centered to watch the sunset. Sharon and Steve (owners) were very accomadating. I found Sharon to be a blessing. Very sweet, friendly and honest. The breakfast was delicious. Theres a bar and game room for some chess, hang out in your room and watch movies. Whatever you do, you'll feel at home. But even better. :-) FYI: If you need good sleep... omg this is it. I was out like a rock. Just saying. read more

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We came to Starved Rock for the first time and decided to stay at the Brightwood Inn. Without any previous B&B experience I didn't really know what to expect. And let me tell you this place did not disappointed us at all. Owners were very nice, room very clean and breakfast they served delicious. Would recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a place to stay around this area. read more

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Extremely cute, quaint inn. You'll feel relaxed as soon as you step in. People are very mindful of noise here and it's pretty clear people are here to enjoy nature and have a pleasant stay. The property is beautiful. Traditional architecture on the house, well decorated. Very kitschy! I really appreciated that. I felt a bit as if I stepped into another time, another life during my stay. Coming from Chicago, you won't have an Inn experience quite like this there. The hosts were pleasant and since this place is a B&B, breakfast is made hot to order promptly at 8:30AM and goes till 9:30AM. There is an allocated dining room space with a few tables for the hungry guests. Breakfast menu changed for each of the two days I stayed. I was happily surprised about that! The menu itself has a few options, but the next day... totally different menu! Before the breakfast entree, you can help yourself to muffins, fruits, granola, and coffee provided in the kitchen room and seat yourself in the dining room. Upon ordering, the food comes out in less than 10 minutes hot! Brightwood Inn also has a kitchen area with various glassware accessible to the guests. (they have bottle openers too hehe). There's a communal fridge where guests can write their room name on them to prevent food theft lol. We went a couple days ago, so October. Very quiet, a lot of sitting space outside but since it's a little chilly I didn't take advantage of that much. But I did sit out there and enjoyed a couple glasses of wine during the still nights and man was it peaceful. The only reason I am giving it a 4/5 is the various signage throughout the Inn advising the guests to be mindful of "X" thing. Whether it is remembering to be lift the toilet flusher after because it sticks. I understand this is important information but it was a little tacky. The bed I stayed in smelled like sweat the first night, figured it would change when housekeeping comes by but it did not. Could have been the mattress. I can only speak for my room "Sequoia". I plan on coming here again if I do an overnight to see the parks. I'd wake up feeling refreshed excited for breakfast! And I hardly ever even eat breakfast :) read more

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We've visited Brightwood since 2001 and have stayed in every room. Our favorites are Vieux Carre and Mallory Square - each has a little balcony. Six of the rooms have wonderful, big whirlpool tubs. The ground are fun to walk as there is always something new to see. We love hiking at nearby Matthison State Park. The Ryan's do a lovely, cooked breakfast. We hate ham and they are great about not serving it when we are guests. All of the rooms are well soundproofed and have irons and ironing boards. The televisions are a bit small but who goes to a romantic inn for the TV.? The fireplace is a nice touch in the winter. The public rooms are comfortable, especially the library where pop and water and cookies are available 24 hours a day. There are several nice little pubs and restaurants in the area as well as a bit of sightseeing and great hiking. At an hour and a half from home, this is a perfect 1-2 night get away spot. read more

Our first bed and breakfast experience. We bought a Groupon to try something different. The building and the room (Mallory) were excellent. The room came with a great Jacuzzi for two, and a cozy balcony with a table and seating for two. If you are the type who doesn't believe in clocks, go elsewhere. Check-in is between 3 pm and 6pm, no earlier allowed and later allowed with permission only. Breakfast is after 8:30 am, if are an early riser (and I am) and like to eat earlier (and I sometimes do) you are out of luck. I would never pay full price for the room, but it was a good value with the Groupon. read more

Brightwood Inn - View from Mallory balcony - Bed & Breakfast Near Me - Oglesby, Illinois

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My husband and I celebrated our 16th anniversary at the Brightwood Inn. We had a great time. The facilities were well manicured and clean. The staff was friendly, welcoming and personable. We stayed in the Aspen suite. It was beautiful! We had the anniversary special. The chocolate covered strawberries were displayed beautifully and were deliciously fresh. The package also included a cake and balloons. Breakfast was great also. Everything was freshly prepared. Fruits, vegetables, and herbs were freshly picked and prepared from their garden. We had such a great time and was so extremely comfortable that we wish at least annually to celebrate all future anniversaries. There is plenty to do in the area. All in all, it was the closest to perfect that we could ask for and more than we expected. I definitely recommend the Brightwood Inn to all couples seeking a nice, private, clean, friendly, romantic setting and place to get a way - this is the place! read more

Cleanliness A Value B Grounds C Hospitality/Friendliness of Hosts D Our first bed and breakfast....disappointed with the experience. Will try again....but not here. Surprised that the owners/operators are in the business....the way they treat their customers! read more

We stayed here two nights and it's great if you're seeking the charm and coziness of a bed and breakfast, but prefer the privacy of a hotel. We stayed in the Vieux Carre room, which is the only room that's on the first floor and is a spacious room with a large jacuzzi, small balcony, and a beautiful view of the prairie. The inn is located a few miles from the entrance of Matthieson State Park, Starved Rock, and "downtown" Utica. It's on the expensive side, and unfortunately we didn't get to sample their food (breakfast is included but dinner is not and by reservation only), but we had a peaceful and enjoyable weekend here. read more

We had a wonderful weekend in the at Brightwood Inn in the Mackinac room! We started off with a very nice gift basket for our stay. Sharon and Kevin feed us some fantastic breakfasts. For Valentine's we were also treated to some homemade chocolate strawberries and handmade truffles. SUPERB! The Mackinac room was very nice. You are able to see the sunrise and sunsets from all of the great windows. The bed and sheets were super comfy and soft. We slept like a baby. Add in some eagle watching and ice waterfalls at Starved Rock, it was a perfect weekend. Thank you Sharon and Kevin for a wonderful weekend. We will definitely be joining you again. read more

Birding is huge in this area. The spring Illinois state bird count took place this week. The gentleman at the Starved Rock Visitor Center finished his count last Saturday. He was disappointed that he only saw 88 species. Brightwood Inn's Sharon knows her birds, too. She pointed out a dozen species that were in the back and side yards and feeding at the feeder outside the dining room window. That was the highlight for the birding couple we were traveling with. The Inn is located next to Matthiessen State Park and a mile from Starved Rock State Park. Some of Mathiessen's best trails are a short walk away. The Turkey Run Room is spacious with lots of light. read more

I am giving this place a 5 star review for several reasons. The people that run this B & B are very flexible to make it work for you. If you need a late check in it is not a problem. The place is cozy to say the least. It's very country cabin and a little rustic. The rooms are perfect. Very comfortable with all you need for a quality and relaxing stay. The free breakfast is amazing. I'm surprised it's free because it is some of the best you can get in any breakfast place let alone a free breakfast at even a fancy hotel. Which doesn't really exist because a fancy hotel will charge you. The people are great and it's beautiful. You can't beat it. I can't wait to return for another getaway. read more

I stayed here with my baby on a mini getaway and the host/hostess were awesome. Beautiful grounds, cute rooms, good food, and all the essentials of Home. We accidentally left my baby's favorite toy behind and the owners mailed it to us. Very accommodating and sweet. We will be back for sure! read more

I needed a getaway from everyday life .... I found this cute B&B on groupon and gave it a shot ... It was worth it ! Very cute place , so peaceful , reminded me of my grandmas land in Europe . Owners are very kind and welcoming ... Best part of breakfast was banana bread my son even asked for the recipe - he loved it ! The owner told him he will be glad to email us the recipe... Very kind ! We will be back my mom loved our pictures and she wants to go visit ... read more

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This was our first stay at Brightwood Inn but definitely not our last. Everything about this place was perfect from Sharon being the most accommodating hostess to the plush cloud like blanket on the bed! Oh and the breakfast panini, I have no words to describe how delicious it was. Even my husband, the mater hater, loved it! Thank you for a most perfect getaway, we can't wait to visit again!! read more

I wanted to visit the state parks but have a nice place to go to at the end of the day and unwind and this place was just that. It was a wonderful place for us to relax and enjoy ourselves. The breakfast was delicious and the owners were very welcoming. We stayed in the Turkey Run room and it had everything we needed. It was not as fancy as the other rooms but it was cozy and I felt at home. The location is great. It's just a few minutes away from both state parks and not far from restaurants and other attractions. I would stay here again on our next visit. My suggestion to anyone staying here is to bring a bottle of wine and and some snacks, sit on the back porch and just enjoy the yard, the sunset and the many beautiful birds flying around. read more

Brightwood Inn - Bed & Breakfast Near Me - Oglesby, Illinois

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Great little place to sleep by Starved Rock. Very quiet, clean and relaxing. About 2 miles from hiking, canoe trips, little shops, food and fun. Great place! read more

My grandmother wanted to go hiking and fishing and doesn't care to stay in hotels, so I had to find the perfect place and I did! The Brightwood Inn is well maintained and I love how its away from the road and the scenery is gorgeous. We stood in the Savannah room which is on the first floor and it is cozy and has great big windows with an awesome view. A full day of hiking and then fishing was exhausting so when we returned we sat on the porch and watched the stars and then lightening show. I couldn't have felt more at home and safe. We had also got a great night of rest. During our drive home, I received an email stating that I forgot a pair of my pants! Well Sharon was nice enough to ship them to me right away! I had a wonderful time and experience, I look forward to returning and exploring some more hiking trails, followed with a comfortable night of rest. read more

We had never previously tried a B&B, well we LOVED it! From the moment we walked in we felt welcomed, and at home, the room was amazing and our warm chicken soup and bread were waiting in the room. Cozy fireplace and nice big whirl pool tub, made the room just perfect! The owners were super friendly great to talk too! They served breakfast both mornings, nice home cooked traditional fare. We have already booked our weekend for next year! Highly recommended!! read more

We were scheduled to stay in the Mallory Square Room but since there was no one who booked the Aspen Suite during our two night stay, the owners upgraded us at no charge. We loved the Aspen Suite it had more than enough room for the two of us. Private Balcony was nice. The owners Sharon & Kevin were wonderful. Very helpful, sweet. Wonderful breakfast included as well. Very Clean! Loved the features of this property; water available, soft drinks available, fridge, cookies, games, DVD's etc. If you go to this area a restaurant that is a must is: Casa Mia in Naplate (Ottawa). Their Filet Mignon amongst everything else was perfect. We live in Chicago, so we have great steaks, but this was one of the best steaks I've ever had. There are only three things that I would add/change to this Inn (but it wouldn't stop me from going back) is a swimming pool, more comfy couch in Aspen Room & the Wi-Fi in the Aspen Suite did not work very well. I know why do you want Wi-Fi when your staying at a beautiful Inn? The answer is so you can find things to do in the area since some items we have planned prior to our drive out did not pan out. read more

Gorgeous grounds and amazingly well built, beautiful decor. But... the bed was hard, the CD player did not work, the jacuzzi tub controls were run by an improvised switch, original switch taped over, plus someone does not know how to use the edger when vacuuming. John was great but Jo - scary lady. Please do not refer to her as a hostess, we heard another couple grant her with that title and then heard her complaining about it later. In all dealings she was brusque and cold, very unwelcoming. Thank goodness for John, he saved the experience for us with his conversation, his fabulous garden, and his cooking. As far as the rooms being soundproof - no, they are not. We overheard another couple stating that the shower-noises in another room was their alarm clock while they were there. Thank you John, Jo - please stay in the office. read more

My hubby and I stayed in the Sequoia room for two nights back in October. I really, really wanted to like this place. We were so disappointed. First off, I used a Groupon. I should have known better when i called to make the reservation. She is definitely not happy about Groupon customers. When we arrived, we were told that the fireplace was not working in our room. No offer to replace our room with one of the many other empty rooms and a working fireplace. I had even offered to pay the difference in our Groupon and one of the other rooms and was told no. She would rather let them sit empty. Then when we got the tour and were told that breakfast the next morning would be scrambled eggs and bacon "because sometimes you just need to take it easy"! Two reasons that I like to go to a B&B - a nice room with a fireplace and a fancy breakfast the next morning. I could have gotten no fireplace and scrambled eggs and bacon at home for free. I like to use a Groupon to try a new place and then if I like it I will go back without a Groupon. Definitely will not be doing that here. read more

My husband and I cannot wait to come back next year. This was our first time staying at a bed and breakfast and we couldn't be happier with our stay there. The entire inn gave off a cozy, home away from home feel and offered plenty to do indoors during the rain. I loved the floor to ceiling bookshelves they had, and my husband couldn't get enough of the recliner in our room (Seqoiua). The breakfast was absolutely delicious and the owners were very nice and accommodating if we needed anything. I will recommend Brightwood Inn to anyone who is staying near Starved Rock. read more

We came for our honeymoon and it was perfect. The Starved Rock hiking trails were wonderful and Brightwood Inn gave us a quiet and loving atmosphere for sleep and breakfast. Thank you, Sharon and Kevin, for providing a much needed break from our Chicago lifestyle and greeting us with sincerity and warmth. Everything in the kitchen and hallways are labeled and you can see the care that they put in to the place. We will definitely be back. read more

We had a truly lovely stay, on the third floor aspen suite. Don't miss breakfast, it's excellent.

We rented out the entire inn for a family weekend. The inn keepers Sharon and Kevin were very accommodating and eager for us to have a great nite. The rooms were spacious and clean. The outdoor seating on the front and back porch was perfect for a summer evening of relaxing. Breakfast the next morning was delicious. I would highly recommend Brightwood as a great place for groups to stay and enjoy being together for an evening or weekend. read more

Really enjoyed my stay at Brightwood Inn. Comfortable bed, very clean room and extremely friendly staff. I highly recommend walking in the meditation maze at the back of the house in the morning or in early evening. Kevin's breakfast is simple yet delicious! Can't wait to go back to the near by state parks and staying here again. read more

Celebrated my birthday with my sweetheart here and enjoyed everything. Chocolate covered strawberries and flowers to greet us in a larger then imagined room along with a relaxing jacuzzi tub that you couldn't get me out of. Breakfast was delicious just wish they gave you a bit more in the entree size and the older lady waitressing was more welcoming. I'm a waitress so I may just be picky but when it's early in the morning and your hungry the last thing I want to deal with is a off putting waitress. Other then that the bed was comfortable and the overall grounds are beautiful. Another successful, relaxing birthday in the books! read more

This is was a perfect b&b for a perfect getaway. We came to wander starved Rock and were initially just a bit put off by weather. But it didn't matter -- the room was sumptuous and a great getaway. Breakfasts were just perfection, making this five stars for sure! read more

A wonderful quaint country home with all the amenities you expect from a hotel, not a b&b! Had a wonderful time and definitely check out the states parks nearby :) read more

Very pretty scenery. No noise whatsoever. Extremely relaxing. It's like you're at home. Highly recommend the aspen suite. Definitely worth the drive and money. read more

Very unwelcoming & grumpy! We arrived on Friday for our 3 year anniversary weekend. We were not greeted with "Welcome, nice to meet you, nor Hello, Welcome to our B&B". We didn't receive a warm welcome at all. What we did receive was a "briefing" that the a/c-heat was turned totally off and to open the windows if we were hot, asked if we have any food allergies, told & pointed to where our room was located (not walked up and showed to our room) and lastly how did we want to pay? The owner was very cold and we felt like we were intruding in their home. Breakfast was good and but small for the $210 a night charge. The B&B was clean and comfortable but if you are looking to feel welcomed don't bother. read more

We visited the Brightwood inn for our 17 year wedding anniversary. It was OK, but I don't think it's worth the price, even if you get a deal through Living Social. A bit overpriced if you ask me for what you get. Also, it needs a little updating and cleaning. The room was ok, but there were stains on the carpet and the grout in the shower was yellow and nasty. Even the whirlpool tub jets were yellowed and nasty looking. When we got back from our dinner at about 7:30/8:00 there were still dirty dishes in the dining room and there was pizza and salad on the stairs. Just kind of nasty. The bed however was very comfy and this place gives you a nice homey feel. However, I would rather have stayed at the Starved Rock Lodge and had all the amenities such as an indoor pool, people to clean the rooms and public areas and had the trails right there instead of being in the middle of nowhere. Brightwood Inn however is very serene and relaxing and does offer a different type of experience. read more

This was the best bed and breakfast we have ever stayed in! We stayed in one of the lower priced rooms and it was HUGE, beautiful, and clean! The owners are super friendly, and the food... oh. my. goodness. The blueberry scones were addicting!! We would definitely stay again. Around sunset, take a walk behind to the huge wildflower maze. So, so gorgeous!! read more

My family gathered here over Thanksgiving for a mini-reunion and loved it! The inn was cozy and rustic but still had all of the amenities of a hotel (hair dryer, extra toiletries, noise machine). The in-room fireplaces were amazing. We felt well taken care of, and Sharon is incredibly welcoming and friendly! The sodas in the fridge, selection of movies/books, and delicious breakfast choices were wonderful touches. read more

I was looking for a space to get away for a quiet and relaxing time. Brightwood Inn was perfect for my needs! The owners are very friendly and accommodating. The room was larger than expected, but was also very cozy and comfortable. The bed was super comfortable and the tub was great. I will definitely return and would recommend to anyone looking for a nice and relaxing B&B stay. read more

This place has potential. It's a beautiful old building with a great front porch and nice views. I liked our Door County room and the room was very clean and comfortable. I was a little disappointed with the grounds. The landscape in the front was overgrown. I think the backyard could have more flowers. The breakfast was just ok. My boyfriend's casserole was quite small and his toast was not toasted. I will try somewhere else next time. read more

for our visit to starved rock park, i wanted to stay in a nice place where there would be no kids around. on brightwood inn's website, they specifically said children under (12?) find us extremely boring. hilarious and totally what i wanted. nice, quiet, and relaxing, and our room was less expensive than the lodge that is in starved rock park itself. and there was a great hot breakfast with eggs and ham or sausage, fruit, yogurt, baked goods, juice and coffee! the room itself wasn't overly nice, we just got a basic room with shower and bed. the tv is in a weird position...i know you don't go to a nice country inn for the tv, but i got my fix of HGTV and food channels here since we don't have cable at home. the owners weren't overly friendly but still very welcoming and pleasant. i'd stay here again if i wanted to go hiking at starved rock. read more

This was me and my wife's first time staying at a B&B and Sharon and Kevin have set the bar very high. Beautiful and quiet room with matching surroundings. Breakfast was delicious and very thoughtful. Sharon helped point us in the direction of some of the beautiful places in the area. I could talk to her all day! It is highly recommended and we will definitely be back. read more