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Adventuring Ellisons 

We just got a new tent, the Browning Big Horn 2 Room, and we love it! Very spacious, room to stand, and a lot of ventilation

Browning Big Horn 2 Room Tent Review 

Illinois State

Join us on a short, rainy hike on the observation trail in Garden of the Gods at Shawnee National Forest. This is a shorter hike at about .5 miles and we thought it was a fairly easy, a great hike if you’re looking for some awesome views! 

Hiking in Shawnee National Forest - Gardens of the Gods, Observation Trail 

Mattoon, IL

Have you ever had Burger King? Not the chain, but the original location that has no affiliation to the big brand. They have great prices and even better burgers! 

Visiting The Original Burger King in Mattoon, Illinois 

Join us for a camping trip in Southern Illinois, at Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest. Shawnee is such a beautiful area, we cannot wait to explore it more! 

Camping in Shawnee National Forest - Southern Illinois 

We hiked the Alum Cave Trail back in March. Enjoy the sound of the rushing creek and the beautiful views at the top! 

Hiking the Alum Cave Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park 

Saint Charles, IL

This is one of our favorite spots for an affordable and delicious lunch! 

Exploring St. Charles, Illinois - Lunch At Wahlburgers 

Crystal Lake, IL

It was love at first bite for us when we first came here a few years back! Antigua is our go to for Mexican food in the Crystal Lake area! 

Exploring Crystal Lake, Illinois - Antigua Mexican Grill

Galena, IL

This is your one stop shop to add some flavor to your meals! Sauces, dressings, salsa and more! They have so many unique flavors to try. 

Exploring Galena, Illinois - The Galena Canning Company 

Mchenry, IL

We agree that this deli is pretty Epic! They’ve got some crazy combinations that make for the best sandwiches! If you visit be sure to bring some change to play some pinball after your meal! 

Exploring Mchenry, Illinois - Epic Deli

Chicago, IL

Have you ever had a Chicago style hot dog or Italian beef? These are must haves if you’re visiting Chicago! With over 60 locations you can also enjoy Portillo’s in California, Arizona and Florida now! If you don’t have a location nearby you can also have a Chicago style themed dinner delivered right to your door. 

Portillo’s - A Chicago Area Must Have

We visited the Great American Popcorn Shop and enjoyed some of the best popcorn we’ve ever had! There are so many unique flavors, with seasonal and new ones coming out frequently! 

Exploring Galena, Illinois - The Great American Popcorn Shop

Durty Gurt’s is the place to be if you’re looking for a great burger! While exploring Galena we decided to stop in and we’re so glad we did! 

Exploring Galena, Illinois - Durty Gurt’s Burger Joynt 

Chum’s shrimp shack has so many delicious options! We loved the Chun Sandwich and Shrimp Quesadillas. An awesome option new restaurant for the St. Charles area! 

Exploring St. Charles, Illinois - Chum’s Shrimp Shack - New Restaurant! 

Gatlinburg, TN

Are you brave enough to walk the Gatlinburg Skybridge? The views from the top are amazing! In our opinion this is one of the most unique experiences in Gatlinburg, and absolutely worth checking out! 

Exploring Gatlinburg - Skylift Park 

Chicago is a beautiful place to be around Christmas time! There are so many festive activities, and the decorations are beautiful! #holidayjoy

Christmas in Chicago - Christkindlmarket Market, Macy’s and Millennium Park 

Join us in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Christkindlmarket! Located at Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville and free to get in, this is the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season! #holidayjoy

Visiting Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza in Chicago 

It’s Halloween year round at Ghoulish Mortals! Visit them to check out amazing art, sculptures, jewelry and so much more! They also host many events or allow you to host your own themed party. 

Exploring St. Charles, Illinois - Ghoulish Mortals 

Geneva, IL

Harvey’s Tales is a welcoming bookstore in the town of Geneva, Illinois and they have something for any book lover! We can’t wait to come back in the summer to get coffee and read in their outdoor seating area! 

Exploring Geneva, Illinois - Harvey’s Tales

The Peaceful Parlor is a boutique filled with local artisan made items, organic teas, toys and more! We had a great experience shopping here and highly recommend you check it out! 

Exploring Geneva, Illinois - Peaceful Parlor 

Have you heard of a pizza pot pie? Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder have perfected it! They only take cash (atm available) and they get busy quick, so make sure to make a reservation!