(CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, ILLINOIS) — We enjoyed a beautiful Labor Day weekend visiting new places, seeing amazing sights and experiencing wonderful things. The weather was absolutely perfect, so that was a huge plus! The general area we visited is commonly referred to as Champaign-Urbana, the home of the University of Illinois. But in our journey, we adventuredContinue reading “11 things to add to your Champaign-Urbana travel planner!”
Tag Archives: Barbecue
Illinois BBQ Blog: Stringtown BBQ!
(WASHBURN, ILLINOIS) — From years of driving the Peoria to Starved Rock State Park route, to multiple followers highly recommending it, I finally made my way to Stringtown BBQ. The peaceful 45-minute drive to Washburn, Illinois is one of my favorite drives. It’s the scenic route, driving alongside the Illinois River paired with seeing herdsContinue reading “Illinois BBQ Blog: Stringtown BBQ!”
The Ultimate Phoenix/Scottsdale Travel Guide!
(ARIZONA, USA) — We experienced a few “firsts” in our February 2025 trip to Arizona. First time traveling as a family of four. It was my first time ever visiting Arizona, and it was also Mattie’s first time flying in a plane. We managed to do so much during our 5-night stay, everything mostly* basedContinue reading “The Ultimate Phoenix/Scottsdale Travel Guide!”
STL Barbecue Blog | Expat BBQ
(St. Louis, MO) — St. Louis is known for its world-famous barbecue. There’s a reason “St. Louis Style Ribs” are on BBQ menus around the world. Now, you can experience flavors from around the world in St. Louis! Introducing Expat BBQ, by Niche Food Group. Located in the City Foundry STL, Expat features three storiesContinue reading “STL Barbecue Blog | Expat BBQ”
BBQ blog in Sarasota, Florida: Brick’s Smoked Meats!
(SARASOTA, FL.) — In the span of just a few minutes, I gained two new “favorites” just like that! 1: BBQ brisket 2: Fried okra On our recent trip to beautiful Sarasota, Florida, I came across Brick’s Smoked Meats on Main Street. Located right downtown, Brick’s aesthetic is modern Western, with a beautiful indoor diningContinue reading “BBQ blog in Sarasota, Florida: Brick’s Smoked Meats!”
Great places to eat near Starved Rock
(LASALLE COUNTY, Ill.) — While Starved Rock State Park and Starved Rock Lodge are a huge part of what makes LaSalle County such an attractive place to visit, there are many fantastic food and drink options nearby to round out a fantastic getaway. During our stay to Starved Rock (read the full article here!), weContinue reading “Great places to eat near Starved Rock”
Starved Rock: Where Peace and Adventure Meet
(OGLESBY, Ill.) — There’s a reason Starved Rock State Park and Lodge are consistently ranked as a top Illinois destination. Many reasons, in fact. The beautiful scenery of nature trails, canyons and waterfalls intertwined with the relaxing ambience of the lodge makes a perfect getaway for anyone. On Friday, we arrived to Starved Rock LodgeContinue reading “Starved Rock: Where Peace and Adventure Meet”
Illinois BBQ Blog: Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern!
(PEORIA, Ill.) — There’a a reason Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern was voted “Best ribs in Peoria area” this year. Meaty, tender, fall of the bone delicious, and full of flavor. With crispy fries, pickle chips, and cornbread to go with your ribs, you’re set! The two sauces available are a sweet red and a Carolina-style,Continue reading “Illinois BBQ Blog: Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern!”
Why 2023 was the best year of my life
(PEORIA, Ill.) — There’s no better feeling than equilibrium. Life flows up and down, in and out, but when you are fully aware of who you are and are joyful with how your life is going, you retain a sense of peace. The constant joy in my life is my wife and my son, handsContinue reading “Why 2023 was the best year of my life”
7 BBQ restaurants to visit in Illinois!
(ILLINOIS, USA) — When thinking about barbecue, your mind might go right to Texas, St. Louis, Kansas City, or Memphis. While all of these places have AMAZING BBQ to enjoy, let’s go through six BBQ restaurants in Illinois I visited this year that you should try, too! Most are located in Central Illinois, but oneContinue reading “7 BBQ restaurants to visit in Illinois!”
Matt Sheehan Official 