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Allyson Lambert

Allyson Lambert is a contributor to Only In Your State whose published work highlights the hidden gems, local flavors, and unique experiences that make each destination worth exploring.

Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Wander Through 20 Acres Of Fragrant Lavender Fields At This Lavender Festival In Southern California

The 123 Farm in Southern California hosts an annual lavender festival featuring fragrant fields, lavender-inspired food, and cultural activities.

by Allyson Lambert
on Jul 5
A horse-drawn carriage carries people through a vibrant lavender field under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Pick Strawberries And Get Lost In A Magical Sunflower Maze At The Carlsbad Strawberry Company In Southern California

Carlsbad Strawberry Company offers seasonal activities like strawberry picking and a sunflower maze, making it a must-visit for family fun.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 8
A cup filled with fresh, ripe strawberries against a background of green strawberry plants.
Stays

Soak In A Hot Tub Surrounded By Natural Beauty At These 5 Cabins In Southern California

Discover five Southern California cabins with hot tubs for a perfect nature getaway.

by Allyson Lambert
on Oct 30
A scenic view from a patio with a hot tub, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Old Zoo In Griffith Park Might Just Be The Most Haunted Park In Southern California

Griffith Park in Los Angeles houses an abandoned zoo that is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of animals that once lived there.

by Allyson Lambert
on Sep 6
A weathered house with graffiti, surrounded by greenery, overlooking a distant city skyline and mountains.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

You’ll Want To Steer Clear Of The 9 Most Dangerous Animals Found In Southern California

Lists the most dangerous animals in Southern California and provides safety tips for potential encounters.

by Allyson Lambert
on Mar 29
A black bear swimming in a calm, reflective water with green plants around.
Experiences
Attractions
Shops & Boutiques

Find More Than 100 Treasures At Goodwill Outlet Center, The Largest Discount Thrift Store In Missouri

by Allyson Lambert
on Jan 14
Exterior of a Goodwill store with a large sign, featuring a brick facade and green awnings under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Photos Of The 2021 Blooms At This Beautiful 50-Acre Flower Farm In Southern California Are Beyond Magical

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch in San Diego County showcases over 50 acres of vibrant flowers each spring, attracting visitors from all over.

by Allyson Lambert
on Jun 4
A vibrant field of colorful flowers in various shades, with palm trees and a building in the background under a blue sky.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

Sip Wine While You Read At This One-Of-A-Kind Bookstore Bar In Southern California

Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena is the largest and oldest bookstore in Southern California, featuring a wine bar and a vast selection of books.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 24
Exterior of Vroman's Bookstore, featuring warm lighting, greenery, and a charming architectural design at dusk.
Nature
Hiking

This Easy, 3.7-Mile Hike In Southern California Leads Past An Old Cabin On Its Way To An Abandoned Mine

Discover the Big Horn Mine Trail in Southern California, an easy hike leading to an abandoned gold mine with historical significance and scenic views.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 18
Abandoned mining structure on a rocky hillside, surrounded by trees and mountains under a blue sky.
Experiences

Grab A Friend And Hop On A Tandem Bicycle For An Unforgettable Day Enjoying The Outdoors In Southern California

Wheel Fun Rentals in Oceanside offers a variety of bikes for rent, making it a great way to explore the Southern California coast.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 17
A blue bicycle stands on the sandy beach with waves gently crashing in the background under a cloudy sky.
Food

Get The Best Sandwiches And Fresh Produce At This Natural Food Market Just Blocks From The Beach In Southern California

Cream of the Crop in Oceanside is a family-owned natural food market offering high-quality produce, fresh juices, and a deli, perfect for picnic supplies.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 14
Sign for "Cream Crop Natural Foods Market" on a building exterior, featuring blue neon letters and green accents.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Pack A Picnic And Head to Cassidy Street Beach For Some Of The Best Ocean Views In Southern California

Cassidy Street Beach in Oceanside is a hidden gem perfect for picnics and scenic walks.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 13
A sandy beach with waves, rocky shore, and colorful houses along the coastline under a blue sky with clouds.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

For A Family-Fun Day Trip, You Can Feed Baby Goats And Ride A Pony At Montebello Barnyard Zoo In Southern California

Montebello Barnyard Zoo in California offers an affordable, interactive petting zoo experience perfect for families and events.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 13
A brown horse stands in a fenced area next to a red barn on a sunny day, with green grass in the foreground.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

People Drive From All Over West Virginia To Try The Famous Beer At Mario’s Fishbowl

Mario’s Fishbowl is a beloved bar and grill known for its large goblets of beer and nostalgic atmosphere, popular among WVU students and locals.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 12
A colorful building with a sign that reads "Beer on Tap" above a brick facade, featuring a whimsical fish design.
Food
Bakeries & Dessert

At Almost 2,000 Feet Long, Oceanside Pier In Southern California Is The Longest Wooden Pier On The West Coast

Oceanside Pier, the longest wooden pier on the west coast, offers stunning views, fishing, and various activities.

by Allyson Lambert
on May 11
A sunset view over a pier lined with palm trees, with people walking along the path and waves in the background.