The Lodge at Mammoth Cave is opening its doors again after a two-year renovation project is nearing completion.

The project includes a newly remodeled lobby, a slightly pitched roof, which will prevent leaks and allow for the proper drainage of water, new energy-efficient windows and increased insulation in the roof and walls.

The renovation began in December 2021 and is funded by the Legacy Restoration Fund established by the Great Americans Outdoor Act, according to information on the National Park Service website.

While there is still some work to be done, the lobby, gift shop and Lantern Café portions are now open to the public.

Molly Schroer, the park’s public information officer, said the lobby has been realigned to enhance functionality and improve visitor experience.

“Before, it was kind of like a maze,” she said. “But now, the lobby is a large open space with high ceilings and different seating areas. We have also added a little nook area with games like tic-tac-toe. It’s a place where families can relax while waiting for a cave tour.”

On display inside the lobby is a stage coach from the early 1900s, which Schroer said was loaned to the lodge by the Mammoth Cave National Park Association.

“It’s a really pretty area,” she said. “It’s a nice place to gather and take a break.”

Schroer said the official grand opening is planned in March after all of the work is complete.

“Right now, we are limited to just a couple of rooms that are open,” she said. “We are now working on getting the sit-down restaurant set up and running. There will also be a new coffee shop in the building that we are hoping to have open by the end of the month.”

The coffee shop will serve Starbucks coffee.

She said the building’s exterior facade has also been updated.

The renovation will blend the hotel structure, which was built in 1965, into the surrounding environment and match the appearance of the current visitor center building, according to the National Park Service website.

Schroer said the renovation project also includes four remodeled ADA-accessible hotel rooms, a conference room and two remodeled restrooms.