When you’re staring down a five-hour drive, it’s fair to ask yourself one important question: Is this actually going to be worth it? Spoiler alert: Absolutely. The Midwest Travel Network Conference took me to McHenry County, Illinois, for a few days filled with adventures, learning, laughter, and some pretty amazing people.
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Home Base: Crystal Lake Holiday Inn
I stayed at the Crystal Lake Holiday Inn, and I have to give a shoutout to the employees there. Every interaction was friendly, helpful, and welcoming. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a stay enjoyable, and they definitely did.
And then….there was the geocache I found nearby. The cache name? “Hotel, Motel…” If you know, you know (am I showing my age?). 😂
Small Shops, Big Finds
Before the conference officially started, we explored some local businesses.
One of my favorites was Blink Supply. I found some fun items, but what really made me smile was discovering the owner has family in Chelsea, Michigan. Because apparently no matter where I travel, Chelsea Michigan follows me.
I loved the store and bought a Spot the Cock book – like where’s Waldo but…a cock. Also loved the t-shirts got one for my hubs and he loved it. Sometimes you see something and think, “Yep, these are my people.” That was one of those moments.
And I loved that there was a river walk near the shopping where I could relax and see nature.
Quarry Quest at Three Oaks Recreation
Next up was Three Oaks Recreation Area. They offer boating, kayak rentals, swimming, hiking, food, drinks, and plenty of ways to spend the day outdoors. Me? I mostly relaxed with blogger friends and enjoyed the scenery.
And let’s talk about the frozen custard from Julie Ann’s food truck. Because that frozen custard deserves its own paragraph. It was delicious and exactly what I needed while hanging out and enjoying the afternoon.
Prairie Awakening at Soulful Prairies
My favorite experience of the entire trip! Not even a close competition. Prairie Awakening at Soulful Prairies made the country hillbilly side of me come out in full force.
I got to spend time with horses, watch them roll around in the grass, pet them, and simply enjoy being present with these incredible animals. Everything from goats, to horses, to pigs and donkeys. There was something peaceful and grounding about the entire experience.
As a photographer, I was in heaven. I absolutely love the photos I captured there, and honestly, I could have stayed all day. Give me horses, open spaces, and a camera (even if it’s my phone), and I’m a happy woman.
The Conference Itself
The conference sessions took place at the Dole Mansion and the Woodstock Opera House. I learned a lot. Travel blogging is constantly changing, and I walked away with ideas, inspiration, and things I can actually use. And the people were amazing.
Then came one of the more unexpected moments of the conference. A woman informed me that I needed to wear a hotdog hamburger hat on my head. And I did. Honestly, considering some of the things I’ve done, this doesn’t seem completely out of character.
One of my favorite activities was the conference bingo card game. Not only did I complete the entire card, but every person I approached was kind, welcoming, and willing to help. And somehow, amidst all the bingo fun, I won a workshop ticket. So that’s exciting, and I’m already looking forward to it.
Other Highlights
I got to meet the mayor, eat pizza from Uncle Jerry’s Pizza Company, and listen to a really good band. Not a bad deal for a conference weekend.
I also experienced speed networking for the first time. Surprisingly, I loved it. It was fun meeting so many people in a short amount of time and hearing about their businesses, and how we can work together.
Groundhogs and Woodstock
The conference also gave us a chance to explore Woodstock, IL. Groundhogs were everywhere. From statues to artwork and references throughout town, the community fully embraces its connection to the movie.
And I loved it.
Even better, I got to meet up with a groundhog at the Woodstock Opera House. Definitely not something I had on my conference bingo card.
And then Veronica and I went to prison. Well…a former prison. That sounds way worse than it actually was, but it certainly makes for a more interesting story.
The Best Part
The activities were great. The conference sessions were valuable. The horses were amazing. The frozen custard was delicious. But honestly, one of the biggest takeaways from the entire trip was the people. The people who put up with my true self. The sarcastic, random, horse-loving, geocaching, photography-obsessed, occasionally weird version of me. They didn’t just tolerate it—they embraced it. No filters required. And that made the conference even more worthwhile.
Even better, five of us from Michigan are planning to stay in touch, and I’m excited to see where those friendships go.
Final Verdict
Was the five-hour drive worth it? 100%.
Would I attend the Midwest Travel Network Conference again? Yep.
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I am a spirited Country/Hillbilly/Ghetto/City girl blogger from Chelsea, MI who thrives on adventure, creativity and exploring the world through the lens of my camera (even if it’s my phone). When I’m not chasing sunsets and amazing views, I spend time with my heart dog Maizie. If travel, creativity and a dash of blunt honesty (with the occasional F-bomb) sparks your curiosity, you are in the right place. ~ Stressie Flavis