A smiling person with curly hair stands in front of papers on a wall, wearing a scarf and a sweater.

Benjamin Clancy

Benjamin Clancy is the Illinois and Indiana writer for Only In Your State, a doctoral candidate in Communication at UNC Chapel Hill, and a poet who has attended the Vermont Studio Center residency. Based in Chicago, Benjamin covers the Midwest with academic rigor, creative depth, and genuine local familiarity — bringing an unusually literary and thoughtful perspective to travel writing about a region too often overlooked.

Experiences
Events

Bumper Cars On Ice Is Coming To Illinois And It Looks Like Loads Of Fun

Jack Frost Winter Village in Chicago offers unique holiday activities including ice bumper cars and a Christmas tree farm.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Nov 17
Two women enjoy bumper cars on an ice rink, surrounded by festive lights and other skaters in the background.
Experiences
Events

Watch The Indiana Countryside Whirl By On This Unforgettable Christmas Train

Experience an unforgettable holiday season with a festive train ride on the Nickel Plate Express in Indiana.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Nov 2
Santa Claus waves beside a decorated train on a gravel track, surrounded by trees and holiday lights.
Experiences
Activities

Tackle The Massively Popular Snow Tubing Hill At Villa Olivia In Illinois This Year

Villa Olivia in Illinois offers thrilling snow tubing experiences, making it a popular winter destination.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Mar 2
A snowy hill with several people sledding down on inflatable tubes, surrounded by trees and a cloudy sky.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

These 4 Winter Pop-Up Bars In Illinois Are Sure To Elevate Your Spirits This Season

Discover four festive pop-up bars in Illinois perfect for celebrating the holiday season with friends and family.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Nov 30
A festive room decorated with colorful lights, nutcrackers, candy canes, and a Christmas tree.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Twinkliest Town In Illinois Will Make Your Holiday Season Merry And Bright

Galena, Illinois transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas with unique events and beautiful decorations.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Nov 3
Luminaria bags with "Galena" and a snowflake design illuminate a snowy outdoor scene at night.
Experiences
Events
Festivals

Drive Through Millions Of Lights At Shipshewana’s Lights Of Joy In Indiana This Holiday

Shipshewana Lights of Joy in Indiana offers a dazzling drive-through Christmas light display perfect for family enjoyment.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Nov 4
A colorful tunnel of lights with red, blue, and green hues, illuminating a night scene with car light trails.