Our 80-Acre Farm, Lake, Nature Trail, Bonfires, Starry Nights 2 Miles Grafton

Grafton, Illinois
$328 avg/night
Minimum Stay 1 Nights
Bed 2

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Home Private Vacation Home

Property Type

Sleep 6

Max Sleeps

Night 1 nights

Min Stay

Most places you rent for a weekend.
This one has been loved by a family for over 80 years.

Welcome to our 80-acre family farm just outside Grafton, where mornings start with coffee on the porch, afternoons might mean fishing the spring-fed lake or hiking our half-mile nature trail, and evenings end around a bonfire under a sky full of stars. Since 2004, we’ve been opening our family farm to guests, and because this place means so much to our family, we try to make every guestfeel the same thing when they arrive…Like they’re home.

If you’re craving peaceful mornings, wide-open skies, and a place where life slows down for a while, you just might fall in love with the Homestead.

Bring the kids. Bring the dog. Bring the people you love most.
The whole farm is yours to enjoy.

Our cozy 2-bedroom farmhouse guesthouse sits on 80 private acres of our family farm, complete with a spring-fed one-acre fishing lake, a ½-mile nature trail for hiking, and plenty of room to roam.

And when you’re ready for a little river town fun, downtown Grafton is just two miles away with wineries, restaurants, shops, and live music.

The Homestead Hangout

Sometimes the best memories happen when you’re doing absolutely nothing.

Our Homestead Hangout is the perfect place to kick back with ping pong, foosball, and a comfortable couch that’s made for long conversations or afternoon naps.

We also keep a little guest library. Forgot your book Borrow one. Didn’t finish it Take it home. Around here, we believe good stories should travel.

Little Things to Discover

The Homestead has a few special places guests love to explore.

Walk out to Hedge Apple Point and snap a photo with “The Three Sisters.”

At night, grab a flashlight and head to Starry Nights, where the sky opens up in a way city lights never allow.

Before turning in, write a wish on a bead and hang it on the Wishing Tree. You never know.

Around the Homestead
Guests enjoy:
• ½-mile nature trail for hiking
• Spring-fed fishing lake
• Dock & pedal boat
• Bonfire pit
• BBQ grill
• Ping pong & foosball
• Huge covered porch
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Complimentary snacks
• Smart TV
• Free fiber Wi-Fi
• DVD player with 100+ movies

Gatherings, Celebrations & Good Times

Standard nightly rates include up to 12 guests.
Larger groups or events can absolutely be accommodated — just reach out and we’ll help plan your stay.

A Little Bit of History

In 1943, my parents purchased this 80-acre farm, farmhouse, and barn for $2,800. The current home was built in 1944 on the site of the original homestead. The white barn—still standing—is over 100 years old.

Because World War II limited building materials, the home was constructed entirely from reclaimed lumber purchased in Brighton, Illinois. There was no basement originally—my dad dug one by hand using a scoop pulled by mules, and my grandpa hand-hewed a massive white oak beam from the farm. That beam still supports the house today.
At first, there was no electricity, no gas, and no running water. We lived by kerosene lamps, cooked on a wood stove, and used rainwater collected in a cistern (still visible behind the house).

In 1964, a living room addition was added, requiring the hand-poured concrete steps to be moved—using my dad’s old John Deere tractor. Those steps still sit nearby.

In 2003, with help from my family, the Homestead Retreat became one of the first guesthouses in Grafton. A new porch, a sunroom conversion, fresh paint, and a few pillows later—we were ready. Mostly, it’s just as Mom and Dad left it…only now with running water and indoor plumbing!

Turning my childhood home into the Grafton Homestead Retreat has been—and continues to be—a true labor of love.

Welcome Home,
Shirley & Patricia
Family Owners & Hosts

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  • Feature Features
  • Map Map
  • School District Availability
  • Review Review

Feature Features

  • PETS

    2 Total (up To 20 Lbs Per Pet) Pet Friendly Service Animals Exempt From Fees Welcoming Dogs Only
  • DINING

    Dining Table
  • SAFETY

    Carbon Monoxide Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Carbon Monoxide Detector On The Property) Fire Extinguisher First Aid Kit Smoke Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Smoke Detector On The Property)
  • BEDROOM

    2 Bedrooms Bed Sheets Provided
  • KITCHEN

    Coffee/tea Maker Cookware/dishes/utensils Electric Kettle Microwave Oven Paper Towels Refrigerator Stovetop Toaster
  • PARKING

    Onsite Parking Wheelchair-accessible Parking And Van Parking Available
  • INTERNET

    Free WiFi, With Speed Of 25+ Mbps
  • OUTDOORS

    Barbecue Grill Firepit Garden Outdoor Furniture Patio
  • BATHROOMS

    1 Bathroom Bathtub Or Shower Hair Dryer Shampoo Soap Toilet Paper Towels Provided
  • THINGS TO DO

    Cycling Nearby Fishing Nearby Hiking Nearby Hiking/biking Trails Nearby Horse Riding Nearby Rock Climbing Nearby Swimming Nearby Water Skiing Nearby Wildlife And Game Walks Nearby
  • ENTERTAINMENT

    Arcade/game Room Books DVD Player Foosball Table Games Stereo Table Tennis Video Library Smart TV
  • LIVING SPACES

    Living Room Wood Stove
  • CLIMATE CONTROL

    Air Conditioning Heating
  • FAMILY FRIENDLY

    Children's Books Children's Dinnerware Children's Games Children's Toys
  • LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS

    In A Rural Location Near A Hospital
  • SERVICES AND CONVENIENCES

    Iron/ironing Board Phone
  • SUITABILITY/ACCESSIBILITY

    15 On-site Accessible Parking Spaces Designated Smoking Areas If You Have Requests For Specific Accessibility Needs, Please Contact The Property Using The Information On The Reservation Confirmation Received After Booking. No Elevators Wheelchair Accessible Wheelchair-accessible Parking Wheelchair-accessible Van Parking

CheckIn Check-in : 03:00 PM CheckOut Check-out : 11:00 AM
No Wheelchair No smoking No pets Children allowed
Occupancy Max occupancy : 6

Map Map

School District Availability

Review Review

  • David

    Submitted Feb 28, 2023

    Stayed Feb 24, 2023

    I enjoyed this place it had this quiet old family home . I do photography so walking around the house was fun seeing all the different birds and wildlife I spotted a fox and his den. I was mainly there to photograph eagles along the Mississippi River so it was close enough to get there . I will definitely try and come back again A

  • Tracy

    Submitted Sep 12, 2022

    Stayed Sep 10, 2022

    What wonderful property! We just had a short visit to the property but everything was wonderful! We will definitely stay at the farmhouse again and spend more time enjoying all the amenities it has to offer!

  • Stephanie L.

    Submitted Jun 11, 2026

    Stayed Jun 8, 2026

    The house was just as described. It was the perfect peaceful little getaway. We enjoyed ping pong and foosball in the hangout, fishing on the lake and just the quietness of the front porch. It’s close to town but far enough to have have the city noise. Great place!

  • Shana R.

    Submitted Jun 7, 2026

    Stayed Jun 5, 2026

    We had a lovely weekend stay at The Homestead. Just a quick escape from STL with our young teens and dog in tow. Loved hanging in the game room playing ping pong & bags with campfire outside. Days spent hiking, fishing and hanging by the pond. Will definitely visit again!

  • Ben T.

    Submitted May 31, 2026

    Stayed May 29, 2026

    Great place to relax and unwind! Will definitely be back!

  • Rex P.

    Submitted May 23, 2026

    Stayed May 18, 2026

    Great place to get away and unwind.

  • Tina C.

    Submitted Apr 4, 2026

    Stayed Mar 31, 2026

    This is a gem. We needed a few days away from home and this was perfect. There are many things to do at the property for all ages, hiking, scavenger hunt, exploring the creek, a fire pit, many DVDS and books, a well stocked pond for fishing. The towns around have many things to do Also, we especially liked the tour of the lock and dam. We would give a ten if we could!

  • Amber O.

    Submitted Mar 21, 2026

    Stayed Mar 15, 2026

    The property is amazing! Soo much to see around every corner! The hosts truly thought of everything.

  • Randy/Bev H.

    Submitted Feb 19, 2026

    Stayed Feb 6, 2026

    Beautiful & relaxing setting

  • Brendan S.

    Submitted Feb 5, 2026

    Stayed Jan 24, 2026

    The hosts were great at communicating and very understanding when asking questions. Space was great as well!

  • Amber P.

    Submitted Feb 3, 2026

    Stayed Dec 30, 2025

    This house was perfect for our needs, we came down to visit family for the holidays. The kitchen and bathroom were both well stocked with the necessities and were very pleased to find a fan in one of the bedroom closets as we are fan sleepers and forgot ours. The dogs ejoyed walking the trails with us and our son loved the swing in the woods. We hope to be able to visit again sometime in the summer!

  • Susan M.

    Submitted Nov 23, 2025

    Stayed Nov 21, 2025

    The property was amazing! The house gave me warm memories of my grandparents. Bed was extremely comfortable, we slept great. Definitely want to come back!

  • Charlotte W.

    Submitted Oct 28, 2025

    Stayed Oct 25, 2025

    We totally enjoyed the farm home experience inside and outside when it wasn't raining lol.

  • Jessica M.

    Submitted Oct 24, 2025

    Stayed Oct 22, 2025

    We came here looking for a relaxing getaway. That’s exactly what we got! We had family come visit and we caught so many fish, walked the trail and hung out on the porch! The house is so cozy and every person said they loved it. The house is a homey feel like visiting your grandmas house as a kid. I loved the old oven and we made some delicious breakfast. They even had snacks and everything needed for waffles/pancakes. If you enjoy fishing like me and my wife then this is the place for you! We had bite after bite and caught several fish! We will most definitely be bake and are already trying to figure out a time to book our next trip here!!

  • Mike T.

    Submitted Oct 18, 2025

    Stayed Oct 13, 2025

    This charming farmhouse is so inviting and a quiet respite away from the noise of the world where you can slow down and relax. We spent most of our time on the lovely front porch enjoying the large variety of birds on the farm and the sounds of the local roosters crowing. Nearby are great hiking spots, two impressive museums, The Lewis and Clark Historic Site and The National Great Rivers Museum, and you can stand at the confluence of the Mississippi River and The Missouri River! Patricia is very responsive, but we had really had no issues during our stay. We hope to return next year!

  • Randy F.

    Submitted Oct 13, 2025

    Stayed Oct 11, 2025

    Our stay was perfect ! Everyone had a great time and it all was fantastic !! I will for sure would like to stay again . Thank you so much , Randy Force

  • Rhonda S.

    Submitted Oct 10, 2025

    Stayed Oct 7, 2025

    We really enjoyed the peaceful setting and the convenience to many locations nearby. The garage hangout was fun. We were a little put off by the smell upon entering the house. Like it hadn't been thoroughly cleaned or updated for a long time. Windows were open to air it out. It could use a good cleaning and a few updates. The refrigerator and oven are very outdated and the oven needs to be cleaned desperately. All the windowsills should be vacuumed out and screens replaced. The bed was very comfortable and there are many things there to fill your time. Books, games and walks to name a few. Overall, if you come prepared to stay here, it's a good choice. It's safe, convenient and the owners are very friendly.

  • JD B.

    Submitted Sep 28, 2025

    Stayed Sep 25, 2025

    We loved our stay here!! It offers so much and is a perfect location! The owners are great and answered every question and responded instantly! Highly recommend and we will for sure be back for our next trip to Grafton!

  • Joran C.

    Submitted Sep 25, 2025

    Stayed Sep 13, 2025

    Great communication!

  • Evan R.

    Submitted Sep 24, 2025

    Stayed Sep 11, 2025

    There were lots of nice thoughtful touches to the place, and we enjoyed the beautiful property too. They even put up a birthday banner for my wife (can't speak to whether they'll always do that one, but it was very sweet)

  • Elizabeth R.

    Submitted Sep 20, 2025

    Stayed Sep 16, 2025

    Beautiful homestead with lovely accommodations from the hostesses. We had such a peaceful time staying here with our 2-year-old daughter and 2 dogs before our son arrives in December. Thank you for the delightful experience!

  • Jack R.

    Submitted Aug 18, 2025

    Stayed Aug 15, 2025

    This place is fantastic. If you're looking for cozy, look no further. Im not going to give anything away but you just have to see the charm and beauty for yourself. The Homestead is incredible and the owners were extremely responsive, inviting and just great to communicate with. We will be back. This place is the bees knees. Dont forget the honey. Ps. Open your heart and youll always find your way home.

  • Lisa S.

    Submitted Aug 5, 2025

    Stayed Aug 2, 2025

    My husband had a mild stroke in April and is experiencing memory issues so I put together a surprise 75th Birthday party. Brothers, sisters, a nephew, kids and grandkids traveled from as far as California, North Carolina, Georgia, Kansas City and many from Michigan to celebrate and share memories.While the venue has room for 6 to overnight the place was perfect for our day time celebrations and evening cornhole competitions and stories by the fire. Peaceful atmosphere and shear beauty of the property was met with the perfect weekend weather that made our stay wonderful. Many memories were shared and many more were made. Kids and family loved the game room and hanging outside. Fire side stories at night and a little music and it was a weekend to always remember. Thank you for giving us the chance to make a 75th birthday a memory of a lifetime.Jack, Lisa, Falon, Sabrina, Jeremy, Jason, Harlow, Finn, Elizabeth, Todd, Carol, Dave, Barb, Dave, Mike, Randy and Pattie.

  • Chris K.

    Submitted Jul 21, 2025

    Stayed Jul 17, 2025

    Our family had a real nice time. We enjoyed the hike, bonfire, paddle boats and hanging in the garage. You have a beautiful piece of property. Conveniently close to the downtown area where we enjoyed a few different restaurants and shops.

  • Misty S.

    Submitted Jul 21, 2025

    Stayed Jun 16, 2025

    I loved this stay it's something so different every detail was covered and really enjoyed the trails and all the thought behind them.

  • Mary M.

    Submitted Jul 14, 2025

    Stayed Jul 11, 2025

    What a wonderful place to introduce my grandchildren to the fun of country living! Grown-ups had a lot of fun in the game room! Overall a great experience!

  • Steven B.

    Submitted Jun 12, 2025

    Stayed Jun 11, 2025

    Could not have asked for a nicer place

  • Wesley O.

    Submitted May 21, 2025

    Stayed May 16, 2025

    What a down home feel. We loved this place. Very comfortable and peaceful.

  • Ben T.

    Submitted May 15, 2025

    Stayed May 10, 2025

    From start to finish this was one of the best trips we have taken for a quick weekend getaway to unwind! The property and accommodations were fantastic, and we will definitely be back!

  • Matt G.

    Submitted Mar 4, 2025

    Stayed Feb 27, 2025

    Awesome property to stay at, we didn't have time to explore around but there is a lot of fun stuff to do. We forgot a baby monitor camera and realized it when we were halfway home (3.5 hours) and Patricia mailed it to us the next day! 100% would recommend

  • Pat Z.

    Submitted Feb 12, 2025

    Stayed Feb 7, 2025

    Its like coming home.

  • Kevin P.

    Submitted Nov 29, 2024

    Stayed Nov 24, 2024

    From the get go the property felt angelic and peaceful. With the Loud World this is exactly what a person needs to find their Peace and Joy! Thank you ladies!!

  • Tracy A.

    Submitted Nov 27, 2024

    Stayed Nov 22, 2024

    My family and I loved the Homestead. A wonderful country home. Very nice amenities both inside and out. Very clean and beautifully decorated. The owner was very accommodating! We enjoyed all the Homestead had to offer.

  • Jennifer f.

    Submitted Oct 27, 2024

    Stayed Oct 20, 2024

    We had a nice time and the property is exactly as listed. The property is beautiful and the house had everything we needed.

  • Christine W.

    Submitted Oct 1, 2024

    Stayed Sep 28, 2024

    The Homestead is a one of a kind experience. Patricia and Shirley are extremely accommodating! They go the extra mile to share their families’ experiences with you. From hiking to fishing, there are surprises around every corner.The game room also adds a perfect touch. You won’t be disappointed! We highly recommend this property!!

  • Lisa T.

    Submitted Sep 28, 2024

    Stayed Sep 23, 2024

    What an amazing place for a rest and reset. The nature trail was perfect along with a place to do some star gazing. We enjoy sitting on the dock and the front porch provided great comfy sitting. I would definitely atay again.

Your dates are Available!

Total

Includes taxes and fees
$328+
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