(StatePoint) As Illinois’ BBQ capital, aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro is more than worth it. The small town hosts a barbecue cook-off every September and is perhaps the only town in the country with two Barbecue Hall of Famers.
Start at Pat’s BBQ and Catering at 111 Tower Rock Lane in Murphysboro, a family-owned and operated restaurant and catering service that prides itself on homemade meals and friendly service, where the pulled pork, the beef brisket and the pork steak are the biggest sellers.
At 17th Street BBQ you’ll find a wide variety of smoked meats on the menu, from brisket and sausage to turkey and chicken. Each morsel exudes a rich pork flavor with a hint of applewood smoke -- the preferred wood of 17th Street.
Praise the Lard BBQ Cook-Off
Ranked in the top eight barbecue destinations in the United States by the Travel Channel, Murphysboro has been the home of numerous barbecue teams that compete locally, regionally and nationally in the city’s annual competition, which is the first and only cook-off sanctioned by both the Memphis BBQ Network and the Kansas City Barbecue Society.
Between September 18-20, 2025, the town of Murphysboro, Illinois will transform into a haven for BBQ lovers and pitmasters from all over the world. The Praise the Lard BBQ Cook-Off is not just any barbecue competition, it’s one of the most revered events in the BBQ world, hosted in the “Barbecue Capital of Illinois.” Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ enthusiast or simply looking for a weekend filled with mouthwatering food, lively music and Southern hospitality, this event is sure to captivate you.
Praise the Lard isn’t just for adults; it’s a family-friendly event with activities for kids, live music, and opportunities to learn about the art of BBQ from some of the best in the business. Stroll through the streets of Murphysboro, explore local shops and soak in the small-town charm that makes this event truly special.
From Pit to Pint!
In addition to the BBQ history, experience a booming craft beer movement that is vibrant and exciting. Tour Big Muddy Brewing, and stop in Brews Brothers Tap room and Molly’s Pint. The first Saturday of October each year, attend the Big Muddy Monster Brew Fest for a day of music, craft beers, local folklore and community.
Only 11 miles away is Scratch Brewing in the small town of Ava. It’s worth seeking out, even if it takes some effort. You’ll have to meander along winding country roads, with the occasional small sign letting you know you’re on the right track. This only makes your arrival more enchanting. Fronted by a plush and colorful garden and surrounded by towering trees, the complex of red-roofed buildings feels like a hidden retreat.
The secluded location might seem like a puzzling choice for a brewery in need of customers, but it goes a long way toward explaining the kind of beer Scratch Brewing wants to make. Many of the ingredients used to flavor the beers are foraged from the surrounding property, and the area itself is intoxicatingly gorgeous.
Townsizing in Murphysboro
Murphysboro is a perfect place for the travel trend known as “townsizing.” This means visiting small towns to slow down, engage with local culture, and savor the simple pleasures of the area—without sacrificing fun or adventure.
While in town, explore a variety of shops and the General John A. Logan Museum. Learn about Big Muddy Monster lore, and check out the Big Muddy Monster Sundae Challenge, “Cruise nights” with vintage cars, block parties and festivals!
Travel south on the rolling hills of Hwy. 127, along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Enjoy the distinctive character of several wineries as you explore the scenery of the Shawnee National Forest with a short hike at the Pomona Natural Bridge, or a more in-depth adventure at the Little Grand Canyon area. Plan a visit at www.southernmostillinois.com or by calling 618-833-9928.
