PHOENIX – (September 13, 2016) – Best Western® Hotels & Resorts announced today the addition of the BW Premier Collection Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center – the 40th property globally to join their rapidly expanding BW Premier Collection® portfolio. The BW Premier Collection is Best Western’s soft brand – consisting of upscale, high-quality independent hotels in key markets that deliver exceptional and unique travel experiences, while retaining their design, name and orientation. BW Premier Collection properties are a fit for discerning travelers seeking a special and unique experience with the benefits of a global hotel brand.
“The BW Premier Collection Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center is a welcome addition to the family,” said Ron Pohl, Senior Vice President of Brand Management for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. “The BW Premier Collection presents a tremendous opportunity for independent hotels to be part of our strong global hotel portfolio and gain access to Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ resources. We’re excited to have this architectural masterpiece onboard.”
Located in Grafton, Illinois, Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center was built by the Civilian Conservations Corps during the Great Depression and opened its doors to the public in 1940. With its transition to the BW Premier Collection, the property will be better equipped to further advance its business, as it gains access to Best Western’s powerful and global infrastructure. Travelers will enjoy benefits from the company’s award-winning loyalty program, Best Western Rewards®, and access to the brand’s valuable partnerships and other initiatives.
The BW Premier Collection Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center features 50-foot vaulted ceilings, a 700-ton stone fireplace, wall of windows overlooking the Illinois River and an outdoor shaded terrace. The property also includes a Lodge Restaurant – known for its fried chicken – and an on-site winery providing guests with award-winning local wines.
In addition, BW Premier Collection Marquette Lodge & Conference Center contains 72 rooms, an indoor heated pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness center, volleyball nets, shuffleboard, a tennis court and life-size chess board. The property also incorporates over 3,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
“It’s an honor for us to be joining the BW Premier Collection,” said Mike Westerfeld, general manager, BW Premier Collection Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center. “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to help us spread the word about our beautiful lodge, which is located near over 8,000 acres of walking trails, river valleys and breathtaking views. As part of Best Western, we can maintain our rustic identity, while gaining access to the company’s worldwide resources and connections.”
Reservations at the BW Premier Collection Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center may be booked by calling the hotel directly at (618) 786-2331 or by calling Best Western’s 24-hour, toll-free reservations number (800)-WESTERN. Reservations are also available from Best Western’s website at bestwestern.com.
