Living the St. Louis Metro East Lifestyle with Bryan Vogt

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/where-can-you-get-the-same-mouthwatering-steak-in-two-different-places/

Bryan Vogt here! If you have a hankering for mouthwatering steak you don’t have to go very far Because 1818 Steakhouse has you covered with two great restaurants located in O’Fallon and Edwardsville Illinois! Where you will find the best steaks in the entire St Louis metro east area! Of course, they not only have fabulous steaks such as their Fillet mignon, the Delmonico thick-cut T- bone, or their amazing New York strip! But they also have a wine selection to die for. Interested in just having a cocktail after a long day’s work. You will find no more elegant and relaxing place than their stunning bars. But maybe you want something different from the menu. Like frog legs or their amazing walleye. Whatever you decide to order! Trust me you won’t be disappointed! If you are looking for that special night out with family or that special someone. With a great atmosphere great food and great service then you only thing you have to choose is which one to go to. The 1818 Chophouse in Edwardsville or O’Fallon. I can assure you. Whichever one you pick you will not be disappointed. Speaking of Edwardsville and O’Fallon I have sold countless homes in each. If you, are someone you know is looking to buy or sell. Please have them give me a call! I would love to help them And if you haven’t been. It is a must you give 1818 Chophouse a try. You will love it!  To not miss another episode. Hit the subscribe button and ring that bell! Until the next episode. Make it a great day!

What 3 fascinating facts that you don’t know about O’Fallon Illinois? - https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-3-fascinating-facts-that-you-dont-know-about-ofallon-illinois/

Bryan Vogt here!

What are 3 fascinating facts about O’Fallon Illinois that you don’t know?

#1 O’Fallon Illinois and O’Fallon Missouri are named after the same person! John O’Fallon was considered one of, if not the most riches men in St. Louis in the mid-1800s and was big into railroad building. He was instrumental in bringing railroads to communities. And that’s what he did for O’Fallon Illinois. Which most people agreed to put O’Fallon on the map. John O’Fallon was also known as a great philanthropist, and in 1857 he donated an enormous amount of money at the time of 1 million dollars to form the O’Fallon institute. Which later became Washington University better know and Wash U

#2 The back story behind O’Fallon’s city flag Almost 50 years ago O'Fallon's city flag was designed by Michael Donovan, a freshman at the high school at the time, during a contest held by the O'Fallon Junior Woman's Club to create a city flag. The design, gold on a blue background is the colors of the high school. The pick and shovel represent the coal mines that were so important to O'Fallon's economy for over 100 years. The locomotive represents the railroad to which O'Fallon owes its existence. The planes represent Scott Air Force Base where many in O'Fallon find employment—both military and civil service."

#3 William Franklin Beedle Jr.; was born here! Name not familiar? He was considered a major superstar actor for his generation. With such meg hits as Stalag 17, The Bridge on the River Kwai, The Wild Bunch, and tons of other hits. But he did decide to change his name to William Holden before he started his acting career. I think that was a good call, don’t you!

There are tons of amazing things to know about O’Fallon Illinois! Having sold 100’s of homes here! I can tell you it is an amazing place to live. Especially for the military. If you know of any military looking to buy or sell here. Please have them give me a call! I would love to help them!

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Until the next episode! Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-city-has-an-amazing-historic-main-street/

Bryan Vogt here. If you haven’t had the good fortune of visiting the historic main street of Columbia Illinois, what are you waiting for? The city was founded in 1859 and the Historical Society has done an amazing job of keeping up with a great mix of the new and the old on main street. Main st has everything you could want to see and do! Whether you want to eat, have a beverage or just have a sit and take a break from this crazy world we're in now. The main street in Columbia has you covered.

With Columbia's rich tradition of fine food at great prices! Reifschneider's Grill where they serve up a mean basket of hot chicken wings that you can top off with a frosty beer and not break the bank!

But maybe you are in the mood for some Italian then Joe Barcadi’s is your place. Where you can enjoy one of their specialty dinners such as SHRIMP SCAMPI

8 Large Shrimp sautéed in White Wine, Butter, Lemon, Mushrooms, Onion, and Garlic & served over Linguini. Or maybe you want something completely different than there is the Thai House. An Established corner fixture supplying spiced-to-order Thai dishes & a kids' menu in comfortable surroundings.

Of course, that’s not to forget all the specialty shops Columbia has to offer while strolling down the main street. If you haven’t been to downtown Columbia recently then you need to do yourself a favor and see it for yourself!

Speaking of Columbia. I have sold tons of houses in this amazing community and if you know someone who is looking to buy or sell here. I would love to help them. Have them give me a call today!

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Until the next episode. Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/what-is-the-fascinating-back-story-behind-the-naming-of-the-stan-musial-bridge/

Bryan Vogt here. It is the third-largest cable-stayed bridge in the United States. It is truly a modern marvel that can be seen for miles and miles away! And even though it is spectacular to look at any time of the day. I believe at night is when it looks the most breathtaking! Of course, I am talking about the Stan Musial Bridge

However, how got it’s name is another story since it was being funded by Illinois and Missouri both states had to agree on the name. When the bridge was first proposed. The veterans of foreign wars asked it to be named the Veterans Memorial bridge. Since The Martin Luther King Bridge was originally called "Veterans Memorial Bridge" until it was renamed in 1968 following the assassination of the national civil rights leader Both states agreed that would be part of the name, but they did not agree on what the first name of the bridge would be.

Missouri proposed it be named the Ronald Reagan bridge. Some proposed it to be the Women Veterans Memorial bridge. As completion neared in the art of comprise it was even proposed to be named “Jerry F. Costello–William Lacy 'Bill' Clay Sr. Veterans Memorial Bridge", for two prominent state politicians. Now that would have been a mouth full.

But as completion neared fate and sorrow came into play when Stan the Man Musial passed away at the ripe old age of 93. Not only considered the best player the St Louis Cardinals ever had. But considered by most and one of the best who ever played the game. And to honor not only him as a player but as a person, both states agreed that it should be named the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial bride.

And for years now and decades to come it will be a direct route for people from Missouri to head directly to cities such as Edwardsville and O’Fallon where I have helped countless people buy and sell their homes. And if you know anyone who is looking to take advantage of this crazy market? I would love to help them.

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Until next time! Make it a great day

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/your-search-is-over-for-the-perfect-wedding-venue-view-on/

https://www.siue.edu/gardens/

Bryan Vogt here! Because of the log jam, the shutdown has had on all the wedding venues. It is no secret that many couples are scrambling to find that perfect location for their wedding and often sadly are having to settle for second best, until now! If you are looking for that one-of-a-kind wedding location, then look no further than the Gardens at SIU Edwardsville located inside the campus grounds itself! And to be more specific. The address is 6 Arboretum Ln,

Whether you are planning a small intimate wedding with close friends and family. Or a blowout wedding with anyone and everyone! The Gardens has you covered! They can accommodate up to 500 guests and cater the whole event! And the setting is absolutely breathtaking! Don’t be surprised to see whitetail deer roaming the grounds or beautiful butterflies in all their beauty and abundance thru out the Gardens on your special day!

Of course, the Gardens isn’t just for special events. You and your family can enjoy all that nature has to offer here! From its amazing turtle pond where you will see more turtles than you ever thought existed! To the amazing walking trail where you stand a great chance of seeing wildlife, up close and personal like you have never seen before! Or even a shooting fountain from the beautiful lake on the grounds! If you love nature, then the Gardens is the place for you!

And if you are looking for someplace to go for a scenic bike ride and see the Gardens from a totally different perspective. Then the Mountain bike trail is for you. The trail is almost 8 miles long with paved and unpaved trails. Where you will take a winding path thru nature and see amazing sites along with a healthy dose of exercise.

These are just a few of the countless incredible things that Edwardsville has to offer. If you are looking to buy or sell in the Edwardsville area. Please reach out to me today! I would love to help! Also, I put a link down below for more information about all the Gardens have to offer!

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Until the next episode! Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/how-did-the-largest-ketchup-bottle-come-to-be/

Bryan Vogt here. It stands almost 17 stories high. Has a base diameter of 28 ft and an 8ft cap. If you guessed the Brooks ketchup bottle in beautiful Collinsville Illinois, you would be right! It is recognized the world over as an excellent example of 20th-century roadside Americana, the World's Largest Catsup Bottle regularly garners national attention and attracts visitors and tourists every day.

But even though it bears the name of Brooks Ketchup. They weren’t the ones that came up with the idea. Long after the Brooks brothers sold it. Is when the idea came up to make a 100,000-water tower into a ketchup bottle. First, there was a ketchup-making company next to the water tower until they moved to Indiana in 1960. However before that, in 1947 it was decided the plant need a new fire protection system, and some genius in marketing came with the idea of making it a ketchup bottle. In 1949 it was built but then decades later after the company had left it came under disrepair. In 1993 the ‘Brooks company offered to deed over the water tower to the city. But because of the cost of the repairs, the city declined.

And that could have been the end of the story accept some local citizens started a preservation group and took it nationwide. And in 1995 after raising 10’s thousands of dollars. The brooks ketchup bottle was saved.

So generations of people all over the country can see the world largest ketchup bottle in Collinsville Illinois

And speaking of Collinsville I have sold countless homes here and in fact, listing another one this week. If you know someone looking to cash in and take advantage of this amazing market. Maybe you? Have them contact me today and I would love to help them while we're at the top of the market!

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Until the next episode Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/where-in-belleville-is-the-go-to-place-that-people-flock-to/

Bryan Vogt here. Where can you not only have a great night out with fabulous food and a great atmosphere? Tavern on the main located in downtown Belleville is where people flock night after night! And for good reason!

They have an incredible staff that makes you feel welcome right when you walk into the door. Of course, if you would prefer eating outside and take in the sights and sounds of downtown Belleville, they can accommodate that too! By the way, if you haven’t been to downtown Belleville lately. Shame on you! It puts the Landing to shame!

But I digress. Tavern on Main has amazing food such as their 8oz hand-cut filet, their they’re made from scratch meatloaf, Asian tenderloin skewer, their lump crab cakes with Tasso cream sauce, or their surf n turf with a 6oz filet with your choice of shrimp or scallops. And much much more! Such as their amazing mahi-mahi dish! But remember to be sure to leave room for their amazing desserts Such as Their New York Cheesecake which is to die for!

Of course, as the name suggest Tavern! They not only serve amazing food but incredible drinks from their ice bar. That’s right there one of a kind ice bar. So, you can always keep your specialty drink as cold as you like!

And when I say specialty drinks I am talking from a to z! Such as when it's cider season and you can enjoy a delish apple cider sangria, a hot spiked cider shot, or just a hot spiked cider drink.

Whether you’re wanting a great meal or enjoying cocktails with family and friends. Tavern on the main has you covered!

And if you or someone you know, wanting to live in any of the amazing lofts downtown Belleville has to offer. Please give me a call today and I will be glad to help you!

And remember to hit the subscribe button and ring that bell to not miss another episode!

Until the next episode. Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/where-are-3-amazing-parks-no-one-knows-about/

Bryan Vogt here! 

We have tons of amazing parks in the area! It is one of the biggest benefits of living in the metro-east! However, I wanted to highlight some incredible parks that you may not know about. Even though some of them you have driven right past!

#1 Horner Recreational Park in Lebanon Illinois. Is just one mile north of historic downtown Lebanon. But if you don’t know about it you probably haven’t been there. Because it sits on an old country road call Widicus. The 58-acre park has amazing old growth trees and a 5-acre fishing lake that will surely delight the young and old! It does also offer tennis courts, ball diamonds, a playground area, and a beautiful walking trail. But it is the beauty and peacefulness of the lakes that most find the best part of the park.

#2 Rocks Spring Rotary Park in O’Fallon Illinois Even though it is located off 3rd street in O’Fallon unless you’re a dog lover like I am. You may not know anything about this park. Unless maybe you had your bridal shower or wedding there. The setting is amazing, and most people feel it is the best dog park in the area. There always seem to be toys for the dogs. Plenty of Poop bags for fido. Also, buckets for a waterspout to keep your pet well hydrated on those hot summer days. Whether you have a dog or not this a park you want to check out!

#3 Centennial Park in Swansea Illinois. It is located by one of the busiest highways in area 161. But I am willing to bet thousands upon thousands of people have driven by it and never know what they’re missing! Not let me warn you this park doesn’t have a tennis court, ball fields or even a playground. But If you love nature, and who doesn’t, then this park is a must for you and your family. It has deer, foxes, raccoons, and birds of every feather, forgive the pun, inside the park. And if you are looking for peace and tranquility then this is your park. The walking paths have been carved right into nature so get the experience of being in the deep woods while being next to everything. This is a park you must experience to believe!

And if your looking to live by these are any other parks in the area. Please give me a call today! I would love to help you!

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Until the next episode. Make it a great day!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/where-can-you-see-amazing-fireworks-this-4th-of-july-2/

Bryan Vogt here. 

The 4th of July may be one of my favorite holidays of the year. With backyard BBQs with friends and family. Long camping or canoe trips. And my favorite thing. Fireworks! And if you are looking for amazing firework displays then O’Fallon Illinois has you covered!

This year as in the past they will be at the O’Fallon sports complex. And as in the past, I know they will be spectacular! However, they will be held this Saturday the 3rd starting around 8;30. Now parking is going to be at a premium as you can see on the map so get there early! But here’s the great news. By getting there early you will be able to take in one of the best parks in the entire St. Louis metro east area before the show.

With over 200 acres filled with wetlands, beautiful wild flowerer, walking trails you and your family can take in nature at its finest. Of course, you can also see the countless soccer field and baseball diamonds the park has to offer. Not to mention the playground area for the kids and the beautiful waterfalls close by where young and old can play.

But here is a huge tip to make sure you have the best seats in the house. Are you ready? Start calling up all your friends or make new ones really fast that live near the park. So, you can not only take in the incredible fireworks display. But maybe if you’re lucky they will do the grilling for you too! Of course, you might have to supply the meat. But hey that’s only fair!

Having sold countless homes in O’Fallon. Living by an amazing park that has so much to offer for families can add that much value to your home. If you know anyone looking to live by any of the amazing parks O’Fallon has to offer. Then have them give me a call today. I would love to help them! And if you are looking to see an amazing fireworks display with your family and friends. Then come out July 3rd to the O’Fallon Sports complex and celebrate our independence in style! But get there early!

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Until the next episode! Have an amazing and safe 4th of July!

View the Video version of this Episode at: https://www.bryanvogt.com/living-the-st-louis-metro-east-lifestyle/what-city-has-amazing-nightlife-in-the-metro-east/

Bryan Vogt here! If you are looking for the absolute best in nightlife, and who isn’t now after the long shutdown. Then downtown O’Fallon Illinois has you covered! In just a two-block area they have been able to pack practically anything and everything you ever could want to have for an amazing night out.

Looking for mouth-watering pizza then Check out peels downtown. They constantly rate as one of the best pizzerias in the entire metro-east! Looking for an amazing sports bar with great burgers and BBQ then walk on down to Shooters and grab a bite to eat and watch a Cardinal or Blues game while you're there! Looking for live music then Hemmingway’s Zen Garden is a must for you. Or maybe you are just looking to wet your whistle! Then go to Mandy’s where they boast the coldest beer in town. But maybe you’re wanting to cool yourself off with some delicious ice cream. Then just around the corner is I scream you scream!

But of course, that is just the beginning. If you are looking for cold drinks and amazing wings, then the 1st Lounge is your place. Looking for a fun neighborhood bar that not only can you get in a game of pool, but they also have drink specials practically every night of the week. Then the Outdoor Lounge is the place for you! Not to mention The Depot Bar and grill and all it has to offer!

Having sold 100’s of homes in O’Fallon and knowing it like the back of my hand. If you’re looking to sell and take advantage of this crazy market. Call me and we will get you top dollar! And if you are looking for a fun night out. You can’t go wrong with downtown O’Fallon.

To not miss another episode then hit the subscribe button and ring that bell.

Until the next episode. Make it a great day!