(ST. MARY, MISSOURI) — When you hear that you can stay in a castle, you might think of European countries like Ireland, Italy, Germany or France. Well I’m here to tell you there’s a beautiful castle in Southeast Missouri (Ste. Genevieve County) – near the Illinois border. Twin Turret Farm & Castle is a stunningContinue reading “Explore a Magical Castle in Missouri!”
Tag Archives: Hiking
7 places to add to your Southern Illinois itinerary
(CARBONDALE, ILLINOIS) — For the second year in a row, my wife Rachel and I made a mid-October trip down to Southern Illinois for a kids-free getaway. We’re very blessed and grateful to be able to spend quality time like this together, especially on our anniversary (October 16), but additionally thankful for the support theContinue reading “7 places to add to your Southern Illinois itinerary”
11 things to add to your Champaign-Urbana travel planner!
(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!”
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!”
8 things to do when visiting Southern Illinois
(MAKANDA, ILLINOIS) — Let’s be honest. There are two major things people think of when they think of Illinois. They both start with the letter C. 1: Chicago 2: Corn fields I’m a Midwesterner through and through. I grew up in St. Louis, lived my college years in Springfield, MO – and have been inContinue reading “8 things to do when visiting Southern Illinois”
Enjoy Estes Park: Where to eat/drink, stay & play!
(ESTES PARK, CO) — It was basically four years to the day since I had been in one of my favorite places in the United States. Estes Park, Colorado. The Colorado mountain town was the beginning of an August 2024 family trip, etching more fond memories in a town we visited multiple times growing up.Continue reading “Enjoy Estes Park: Where to eat/drink, stay & play!”
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”
Escape to the only beachfront hotel in Illinois
(Zion, Illinois) — I asked my Facebook followers what the first word they thought of when they hear “Illinois.” Some negative remarks said “high taxes,” “corruption” and “pot holes.” The positive statements said “family,” “home” and “corn.” Well, just like corn, I believe in growing where you’re planted. I’m a Missouri boy, born and raised,Continue reading “Escape to the only beachfront hotel in Illinois”
Matt Sheehan Official 