Deer Path Inn - Lake Forest, Illinois

Carmen L.

We had our wedding at Deer Path at Christmastime. We cannot say enough about how special everyone made us feel! The staff did an amazing job of taking care of us and our guests. We can’t wait to come back and celebrate our anniversary!!!

Cameron L.

An exceptional experience from start to finish. The staff, room, and overall ambiance were exactly what my wife and I would've hoped for as we celebrated our tenth anniversary. The turn down service, evening fresh baked cookies and overall hospitality of the staff were some of the simplest but most impactful touches I've experienced from any hotel in which I've ever stayed.

Kris R.

Price vs. Value: A Disappointing Stay at Deer Path Inn

Our stay at the Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest, IL, was based on the promise of luxury and exceptional service—a reputation backed by numerous awards. Unfortunately, our experience didn’t live up to the hype.

When we arrived early, we were informed that our room wasn’t ready, which was fine. We decided to have lunch in the English Room, an opulent yet inviting space. However, the service was anything but welcoming. Our server approached us with visible annoyance, setting the tone for the meal. When I ordered a burger, his only response was a curt, “No burger.” No explanation, no alternative suggestions—just an abrupt denial. My wife ordered the chicken club, which turned out to be toasted Wonder Bread with Sysco chicken masquerading as a high-end dish. Disappointed but hopeful, we remained open-minded about the rest of our stay.

Later, we were informed our room was ready, and our luggage had been delivered. Upon arriving, we found only two of our five bags. I called the front desk, providing a list of the missing items. After three separate trips, they finally located all our belongings.

The room itself was a massive letdown. For $500 a night, we expected much more than a small, bland space with a variety of maintenance issues:
• A cracked sink
• Peeling and frayed carpet
• A nightstand missing handles
• Bathroom door paint peeling and chipped
•. Peeling wallpaper
Hoping to salvage our experience, we explored the hotel and found a cozy sitting room with a beautiful fireplace. Unfortunately, the tables and floor were covered in dirt and crumbs, clearly uncleaned—a theme that persisted throughout our stay.(see pics)

The next day, we attended the much-recommended Christmas Tea. The room was charming, and our server, George, was excellent. However, the tea service itself was underwhelming, with mass-produced sandwiches and baked goods that lacked flavor or flair. The only holiday touches were a candy cane cookie and a chocolate Santa—hardly the festive experience we’d anticipated. Feeling disappointed, we canceled our remaining meals at the hotel and opted to dine in the city instead, which turned out to be the highlight of the trip.

At no point during our stay did we encounter even a semblance of good customer service or luxury. The staff seemed more annoyed by our presence than eager to assist us.

The Deer Path Inn clings to a facade of grandeur, but the reality is a series of missed expectations and mediocrity. It’s the very definition of “lipstick on a pig.”

Emily D.

Walking through the doors of the Deer Path Inn is like walking into magic. It instantly transports you to a calm place that you want to be in for days.
The Garden Room is so gorgeous and whimsical, the staff is incredibly professional. Renee is my favorite! He is so funny and kind and accomodating.... always give him a hug when I see him. He makes you feel like family.
The sitting room has games, a fireplace, etc. It is a beautiful room to sit in and relax for a bit.
Lunch/dinner is reasonably priced, and the drinks are delicious!
Hands down one of our favorite venues to bring out of town guests.

Alicia M. G.

We went for tea and I was not impressed by the whole experience. The valet was necessary since all the parking for blocks is 90 minute. But that is where the valet parks. Scam. Two of us got there early. We were trying to have a cocktail. The hostess, who had a little trouble with English, wouldn’t let us sit early so we walked back up a flight over and down a flight to get to the bar which wasn’t a bar but a restaurant with no where to sit. I asked if they had Crème de Violette. Again, a huge problem with English and he didn’t want to look. We left. Up a flight of stairs again. Sat in the lobby where a couple was making out. Get a room!!! It’s a hotel!! We were seated in a pretty area. The waiter spoke English but the service was slow and we had to ask for water several times before it came. The table with the man at it got service constantly. The food was good and they gave you enough. The shrimp sandwich was uber fishy and the quiche was cold. I think intentionally?!? We lingered as did some others and I heard them being told to leave because dinner was going to start. I wouldn’t go back.

Rosalyn

Some friends took me out for my birthday. First time there. The atmosphere was beautiful. The food was great. Presentation was great. The chocolate cake was enough for 6 people. The waiter was excellent.

celine L.

My family recently had an outstanding experience that showcased exemplary customer service. From the moment we reached out, the team was incredibly responsive and attentive, addressing all my questions with patience and clarity.

What stood out the most was their genuine compassion. They not only provided practical assistance but also took the time to ensure that my loved ones felt valued and respected. The staff went above and beyond to create a warm and welcoming environment, making a potentially stressful situation much easier to navigate.

Their commitment to personalized care truly shone through. We felt reassured knowing that my family is in capable hands, receiving not just care, but also companionship and understanding.

Overall, If you’re looking for a place to stay I highly recommend this hotel!
Michelle and James are the best!!!!

Michael

The renovation is beautiful and staff were nice. The reason for my low review is that I was shocked when Isimply wanted to sit in the only outdoor space to read my book and have lunch and told that I could not. The place was completely empty. As a hotel guest to have no space to enjoy and relax or ability to have lunch outdoors on a beautiful day made staying here not worth it. They prioritize others over their own guests. Hopefully in the future they can focus on their guests having space to relax.