Winter in the Woods Getaway
Step into the magic of winter at Gateway Lodge, where snow-dusted pines, cozy fires, and peaceful woodland views invite relaxation. The Winter in the Woods Getaway is ideal for couples seeking comfort, quiet, and connection in Cook Forest State Park.
The Winter in the Woods Getaway offers three-night stays December 11–14. (Our December 4–7 three-night stay and our two-night stay, December 5–7, are both sold out.) Each package includes breakfast delivered to your Fireside Suite, a Saturday three-course dinner with wine pairings, and live holiday music. These experiences create a memorable woodland retreat, filled with warmth, festive charm, and cozy winter magic.
Cozy Fireside Suites & Slow Mornings
At Gateway Lodge, we designed the Fireside Suites to offer comfort, warmth, and peaceful winter mornings. Each suite features a gas fireplace, fireside seating, jetted tub, small dining table, mini fridge, and king or queen bed. Step outside to your porch or balcony, or enjoy the bathroom with dual sinks, bathtub, shower, toiletries, and hairdryer. Additionally, a handful of suites also include TVs for relaxing after exploring the forest.
Every stay includes freshly baked cookies upon arrival, a breakfast basket delivered between 9:15—9:30 a.m., and an in-room beverage station with organic fair-trade coffee and Tazo teas—perfect for savoring a slow winter morning.
A Culinary Celebration in the Woods
Saturday evening is the highlight of your Winter in the Woods getaway. Enjoy a festive three-course dinner, with each dish thoughtfully prepared by our cooking team and paired with award-winning wines.
STARTER
- Glazed Walnut & Roasted Pear Salad, tossed with Cherries, Cranberries, & Gingered Maple Vinaigrette
CHOOSE YOUR ENTRÉE
- Wood-Grilled 12 oz Grass-Fed Angus Ribeye with Garlicky Roasted Shrimp
- Vegetarian Walnut-Burger Lasagna, layered with Spinach, Red Peppers, Mushrooms, & Three Cheeses
DESSERT
- Warm Bourbon Bread Pudding, topped with House-Made Vanilla Ice Cream
On Thursday and Friday evenings, guests may reserve a table for our Winter Wild Crafter’s Menu, which highlights locally inspired winter fare. However, this menu is not included in the package; instead, it can be added to your stay upon request.
Live Music That Warms the Soul
For the weekend of December 4—7 (sold out), enjoy Sandy and Jerry Rectenwald performing from 5—7 pm and 7:30—9 pm on Saturday, December 6. For the weekend of December 11—14, Michael Leslie performs live on Saturday, December 13, during the same times. Their music fills the lodge with warmth, echoing through the great room and softly glowing interiors, creating a festive and memorable evening.
The Spirit of the Season
Outside, evergreens sparkle with soft lights, their branches dusted in snow. From the outside, the warm glow of the lodge shines through its windows, inviting guests inside. Inside, the lodge is beautifully decorated—garlands along rustic beams, Christmas trees glowing in every corner, and the scent of pine filling the air. Fires crackle in the great room, where a magnificent Christmas tree stands ready for photos and quiet moments by the hearth. Every space feels wrapped in holiday spirit—cozy, timeless, and full of wonder. Guests are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover winter magic.
Additionally, for those looking to explore the season beyond the lodge, check out our article on Cook Forest in Winter: The Ultimate Guide to Snowy Escapes & Local Joys, filled with ideas for outdoor adventures, scenic walks, and local winter experiences.
Package Highlights
- Three-Night Stay (December 11—14 ) in a Fireside Suite
- Breakfast Basket Delivered to Your Suite Each Morning
- Saturday Night Three-Course Dinner with Award-Winning Wine Pairings
- Live Holiday Music During Saturday Dinner