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April Dray

April Dray is the Ohio staff writer for Only In Your State and a lifelong Ohioan with a B.S. in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in Ohio newspaper reporting, she brings real editorial credibility to her coverage of the Buckeye State's hidden gems, local restaurants, and overlooked destinations. When she's not on deadline, she's out in the field hunting for Ohio's next great story.

Trips & Routes

The Lighthouse Road Trip On The Ohio Coast That’s Dreamily Beautiful

Discover a scenic lighthouse road trip along the shores of Lake Erie in Ohio.

by April Dray
on Jul 25
Map highlighting a road trip route along Ohio's lighthouses, featuring key locations and a blue path.
Trips & Routes

Take A Thrilling Road Trip To The 9 Most Abandoned Places In Ohio

Explore nine abandoned and eerie locations in Ohio on a road trip spanning just under 9.5 hours.

by April Dray
on Mar 1
Ruins of a stone building surrounded by bare trees and overgrown vegetation, with a brick chimney still standing.
State Pride
Fun Facts

Not Many People Realize That These 13 Things Are Actually Illegal In Ohio

Discover 13 bizarre and unusual laws still in effect in various cities across Ohio.

by April Dray
on Feb 24
A close-up of a wooden mouse trap with a yellow bait holder and metal spring mechanism.
State Pride
Meet the Locals

15 Funny Words And Phrases That People From Ohio Say

Ohioans have unique slang and phrases that distinguish them from others.

by April Dray
on May 14
aerial shot of the ohio state football stadium with empty seats
Nature
Waterfalls

This Moderate, 2-Mile Trail Leads To Dundee Falls, One Of Ohio’s Most Underrated Waterfalls

Dundee Falls in Ohio is a hidden gem waterfall hike that offers a scenic and less crowded experience.

by April Dray
on Jul 13
A serene waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks in a lush green setting.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

This Ohio Cabin Hiding In Hocking Hills Has A Heated Waterfall Swimming Hole

The Cliffs at Hocking Hills is a luxury cabin in Ohio featuring a heated waterfall swimming hole and unique amenities.

by April Dray
on Jul 7
A serene outdoor scene featuring a waterfall, a pond, and a deck with string lights surrounded by lush greenery.
Nature
Waterfalls

The Hike In Ohio That Takes You To Not One, But TWO Insanely Beautiful Waterfalls

Cascade Park in Ohio offers a scenic 1.2-mile loop trail featuring two impressive waterfalls.

by April Dray
on Jul 11
A serene waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs into a calm pool, surrounded by lush greenery.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 10 Swimming Spots Have The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Ohio

Discover the top 10 swimming beaches in Ohio, known for their clear, pristine waters and family-friendly environments.

by April Dray
on Jul 31
Silhouette of a lifeguard chair against a vibrant sunset over the ocean.
Experiences

Visit These 7 Creepy Ghost Towns In Ohio At Your Own Risk

Explore seven eerie ghost towns in Ohio, each with its own creepy history and abandoned charm.

by April Dray
on Jul 4
Two white houses at a road intersection, with power lines and a bridge in the background under a clear blue sky.
Food

Visit The 18 Very Best Restaurants In Ohio For Unforgettable Meals

Discover 18 of the best restaurants in Ohio, each offering unique cuisine and atmospheres.

by April Dray
on Feb 23
Exterior of a brick building with a sign for "Syd's the Sandwich" and black awnings, located on a city street.