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Lauren Baker

Lauren Baker 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
National & State Parks

Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Alabama

by Lauren Baker
on Mar 27
A serene sunset over a calm waterway, with silhouettes of trees and a heron standing in the foreground.
Nature
National & State Parks

Your Ultimate Guide to State Parks in Southern California

Whether you want to pitch a tent, rent a cabin with a view, or go for a hike, these are some of the best state parks in Southern California to enjoy.

by Lauren Baker
on Jul 11
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Nature
National & State Parks

Your Ultimate Guide to State Parks in Ohio

The state of Ohio is home to more than 70 amazing state parks. Here are 16 of the best to visit any time of year.

by Lauren Baker
on Jul 18
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Stays
Vacation Rentals

15 Last-Minute Romantic Getaways Across the U.S. to Take With That Special Someone

Looking for a last-minute Valentine's getaway with your special someone? It's not too late to make plans!

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 22
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Trips & Routes
Road Trips

Oklahoma Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

It's wonderful to explore the Sooner State by car! This list of Oklahoma road trip ideas will inspire you to hit the road.

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 8
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Nature

Few People Know There’s A Natural Wonder Hiding In This Tiny Washington Town

Friday Harbor on San Juan Island offers picturesque views, great dining, and outdoor activities, with Cattle Point being a highlight for its natural beauty and wildlife.

by Lauren Baker
on Jul 25
A white lighthouse stands on a grassy shore, overlooking calm waters and a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Most Remote Beach In Florida Is A Must-Visit This Summer

Upham Beach in St. Pete, Florida, is a hidden gem with calm waters, secret coves, and a secret garden, perfect for a peaceful family outing.

by Lauren Baker
on Jul 25
A sunny beach scene with people, umbrellas, and a palm tree, overlooking calm turquoise waters.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Here Are The 18 Absolute Best Places To Stay In Alaska

Lists 18 top vacation rentals in Alaska, catering to various travel needs and budgets.

by Lauren Baker
on Apr 2
A modern house with a red door, surrounded by trees and mountains, overlooking a calm lake at sunset.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

These Are The 20 Absolute Best Places To Stay In Montana

Discover the best vacation rentals in Montana, catering to various traveler needs and preferences.

by Lauren Baker
on May 1
A scenic view of a house surrounded by trees, with rolling hills and mountains in the background under a blue sky.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Here Are The 20 Absolute Best Places To Stay In Oregon

Lists the 20 best vacation rentals in Oregon, highlighting diverse landscapes and unique accommodations.

by Lauren Baker
on May 2
A modern cabin with a large front porch, surrounded by mountains and vineyards under a bright blue sky.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Here Are The 20 Absolute Best Places to Stay in Hawaii

A curated list of the best vacation rentals in Hawaii for various budgets and preferences.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 20
A charming wooden house with a pool, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

Nevada Road Trip Ideas: 10 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

The Silver State features some incredible history, natural wonders, and unusual sights. See it all by taking a road trip.

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 11
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Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Friendly Small Town In Northern California That’s Perfect For A Spring Day Trip

Sonoma County offers a laid-back wine country experience with charming small towns, outdoor activities, and culinary delights.

by Lauren Baker
on May 8
A scenic vineyard with rows of grapevines, set against rolling hills and a windmill in the background during golden hour.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

New York Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Explore 11 of the best road trips in New York State, offering diverse experiences across different seasons.

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 9
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Trips & Routes
Road Trips

11 Best Road Trips in Texas That Showcase the Lone Star State

Discover 11 diverse and exciting road trip ideas across Texas, from city tours to natural wonders.

by Lauren Baker
on May 29
view of a waterfall and natural pool from a cave at Hamilton Pool Preserve in texas
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Missouri: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Highlights the best hotels in Missouri for various types of vacations, including family trips, romantic getaways, and outdoor adventures.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 5
A scenic view of a resort by a lake, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies with fluffy clouds.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Oklahoma: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Discover the 12 best hotels in Oklahoma, each offering unique amenities and experiences.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 7
A modern hotel building at night, illuminated against a starry sky, surrounded by city lights and greenery.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Washington: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

A curated list of the 12 best hotels in Washington State, highlighting unique features and amenities.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 6
Aerial view of a large lodge surrounded by dense forests and mountains, with snow patches and a river nearby.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Tennessee: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Lists the best hotels in Tennessee, highlighting unique features and nearby attractions.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 6
Rooftop pool area with colorful umbrellas, lounge chairs, and vibrant floral decor against a city skyline backdrop.
Food

The Best Cheesesteak In Washington Is Served At This Amazing Hole-In-The-Wall Restaurant

King Philly Cheesesteaks in Seattle offers authentic and diverse cheesesteak options, including popular vegan choices, in a family-owned, hole-in-the-wall setting.

by Lauren Baker
on Mar 7
Sign for "King Philly Cheesesteaks" with a crown logo, featuring an "Open" neon sign in the window.
Stays

This Boutique Hotel In Washington Is One Of The Coolest Place You’ll Ever Sleep

Palihotel in downtown Seattle offers a vintage-inspired boutique experience with excellent views and proximity to major attractions.

by Lauren Baker
on Mar 7
Sunset casts warm light on a brick building with a sign, as people stroll along a tree-lined street.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Florida: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Discover the top 12 unique and highly-rated hotels in Florida for your next trip.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 3
Aerial view of a tropical beach with palm trees, a wooden pier, and clear blue waters under a sunny sky.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Southern California: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Lists the best hotels in Southern California, highlighting unique features and amenities.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 6
A picturesque estate with unique architecture, surrounded by lush greenery and reflecting in a calm body of water.
Food

This Adorable Eatery In Washington Serves Absolutely Mouthwatering Thai Fusion

Sisi Kay Thai Eatery & Bar in Northern Seattle offers a unique dining experience with classic and fusion Thai dishes in a charming ambiance.

by Lauren Baker
on Mar 6
Exterior of Sisi Kay Thai Eatery & Bar, featuring a balcony, green doors, and outdoor seating with umbrellas.
Nature
National & State Parks

Get Away From The Crowds At This Incredible, Little-Known State Park In Washington

Battle Ground Lake State Park in Washington offers a variety of outdoor activities and is conveniently located near Portland and Vancouver.

by Lauren Baker
on Mar 13
A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees, reflecting the sky and forest in calm waters.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Texas: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

A curated list of the best hotels in Texas, highlighting unique, luxury, and highly-rated accommodations.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 5
Aerial view of a water park with slides, pools, and lush greenery, surrounded by large hotel buildings under a blue sky.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Louisiana: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Discover the best hotels in Louisiana, from luxury resorts to charming boutique accommodations.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 4
Historic red brick building with ornate balconies and lush greenery, featuring a classic white convertible parked in front.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

Best Hotels & Resorts in Georgia: 12 Amazing Places to Stay

Highlights the best hotels in Georgia for various types of stays, including luxury, boutique, and beach resorts.

by Lauren Baker
on Jun 2
A grand Mediterranean-style mansion with a large terrace, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.
Food

This Remote NorCal Restaurant Serves Farm Fresh Food In A Nursery

High Hand Cafe in Loomis, California, is a unique greenhouse-turned-restaurant offering a charming brunch experience surrounded by a beautiful plant nursery.

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 15
An old green truck parked inside a greenhouse filled with hanging plants and flowers.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Enchanting Town In Northern California Is The Perfect Day Trip

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 13
Historic buildings with a palm tree, blue sky, and an American flag in a small town setting.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

This Beach Town Road Trip Along America’s West Coast Is The Ultimate Adventure

A detailed itinerary for a road trip along the West Coast, highlighting ten beautiful beach towns from Northern Washington to Southern California.

by Lauren Baker
on Apr 10
Map highlighting a road trip along America's West Coast, featuring beach towns and travel time. Text promotes an adventure.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

The Charming Town Of Conway, South Carolina Is Picture-Perfect For A Weekend Getaway

Conway, South Carolina, offers a charming small-town experience with historic downtown, unique accommodations, and seasonal attractions, especially in October.

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 1
A quiet street lined with brick buildings and parked cars, decorated for the holidays with wreaths on storefronts.
Food

This Four Story Restaurant In Oklahoma Offers A Dining Experience Like No Other

The Joinery in Oklahoma City offers a unique dining experience with multiple levels featuring different activities and a variety of food and drink options.

by Lauren Baker
on Feb 1
A brick building with a sign reading "The Joinery Food & Friends" and several windows, some with open shutters.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

3 Oklahoma Nature Centers That Make Excellent Family Day Trip Destinations

Oklahoma offers beautiful scenery and family-friendly nature centers perfect for day trips.

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 31
A scenic waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs into a clear blue pool, surrounded by lush greenery and a bright sky.
Food

You’ll Love Visiting The 1761 Old Mill, A Massachusetts Restaurant Loaded With Local History

The 1761 Old Mill in Westminster, Massachusetts, offers a historic and scenic dining experience with traditional American food.

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 26
A rustic building with a red roof reflects in a calm pond, surrounded by autumn foliage and trees.
Stays

Wake Up On Top Of A Mountain At This Catskill Airbnb In New York

The Mountain Wonder home in the Catskills offers a perfect mountain getaway with stunning views, a hot tub, sauna, and private hiking trails.

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 24
A cozy cabin surrounded by colorful autumn trees and a winding path, with a chair on the lawn.
Food

This Hidden Gem In New York Offers A Dining Experience Like No Other

Northern Farmhouse Pasta in Roscoe, New York, offers a unique menu of homemade Italian pasta and Asian-inspired ramen in a cozy, farm-to-table setting.

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 24
A red farmhouse with a stone exterior, surrounded by snow and trees, featuring a sign for takeout and dining.
Stays

This Charming Bed And Breakfast In Virginia City, Nevada, Is Worthy Of Your Bucket List

The Tahoe House Hotel in Virginia City offers a unique Old West experience with historic charm and modern comforts.

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 21
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Nature
National & State Parks

With Its Genuine Ghost Town, This Underrated NorCal State Park Is A Must-Visit

Bodie State Historic Park in California is a preserved ghost town from the Gold Rush era, offering a unique historical experience.

by Lauren Baker
on Jan 13
A panoramic view of a deserted ghost town with wooden buildings surrounded by sagebrush and rolling hills.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

There’s Nothing More Enchanting Than a Winter Getaway to This NorCal Small Town

Twain Harte offers a charming winter getaway with snow-covered landscapes and small-town charm.

by Lauren Baker
on Oct 29
A close-up of a pine tree heavy with snow. A frozen lake is in the background.
Stays

This Iconic Hotel In Arizona Is One Of The Coolest Place You’ll Ever Sleep

Adobe Grand Villas in Sedona offers a luxurious and unique stay with stunning views and exceptional amenities.

by Lauren Baker
on Dec 30
A southwestern-style building with adobe architecture, surrounded by greenery and parked cars under a clear blue sky.
Food

The Historic And Quaint NorCal Restaurant That’s Been Open Before World War I

San Francisco's Chinatown, the oldest in the U.S., is home to the historic Sam Wo Restaurant, known for its traditional Chinese dishes and unique history.

by Lauren Baker
on Dec 29
Colorful street scene in Chinatown with shops, lanterns, and flags under a bright blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Charming Small Town In NorCal Is Home to Country’s Only Hand Fan Museum

Healdsburg in Sonoma County offers a charming alternative to Napa Valley with its vineyards, culinary excellence, and unique attractions like the Hand Fan Museum.

by Lauren Baker
on Dec 29
A vintage vehicle parked near lush green vineyards under a golden sunset in a scenic landscape.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Charming Mackinac Island In Michigan Is Famous For Its Fudge

Mackinac Island in Michigan is a charming, car-free destination known for its Victorian charm, fudge, and diverse activities.

by Lauren Baker
on Dec 29
A quiet street lined with colorful buildings, bicycles, and a horse-drawn carriage, bathed in warm morning light.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Charming Small Town In Wisconsin Was Once Known As The Pottery Capital Of The United States

Cambridge, Wisconsin offers a charming small-town experience with a rich history, vibrant art scene, and various outdoor activities.

by Lauren Baker
on Dec 20
A charming small-town street lined with historic buildings and shops under a clear blue sky.