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Laura Meli

Laura Meli is a contributor to Only In Your State who has covered Illinois and Wisconsin extensively, with a beat that spans waterfall trails, abandoned parks, hidden hikes, and the unusual laws that make the Midwest quietly fascinating. Her writing reflects a local's eye for the places most visitors never find.

Vacation Rentals

15 Best Cabins in Wisconsin for a Cozy and Scenic Getaway

Discover the best cabins in Wisconsin, from cozy retreats to luxury lakefront stays perfect for your next getaway.

Aerial view of a lakefront cabin surrounded by vibrant autumn trees on the rocky Wisconsin shoreline.

This Overgrown, Abandoned Waterpark In Illinois Will Give You The Creeps

Ebenezer Floppen Slopper’s was a popular water park in Illinois that is now abandoned and overgrown.

Overgrown metal roof with patches of rust and vegetation, surrounded by greenery.

11 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Illinois Should Take

Illinois offers a variety of scenic and challenging hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, featuring waterfalls, canyons, and diverse landscapes.

A scenic view of a wooden walkway winding through lush greenery, overlooking a calm river below.

These 9 Hidden Waterfalls In Illinois Will Take Your Breath Away

Discover nine hidden waterfalls in Illinois that offer beautiful and unique hiking experiences.

A serene waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs into a calm pool surrounded by lush greenery.

Not Many People Realize That These 10 Things Are Actually Illegal In Illinois

Illinois has several bizarre and amusing laws that are still technically enforceable.

A fluffy white poodle with a blue bow, standing beside a person, enjoying a sunny day outdoors.

These 10 Crazy Laws in Illinois Will Leave You Scratching Your Head In Wonder

Illinois has many bizarre and outdated laws that are still technically enforceable.

A close-up of a giraffe with distinctive patterns and a clear blue sky in the background.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 14 Gorgeous Lakes In Illinois Are Demanding Your Attention

Illinois boasts some of the most extraordinary lakes in the country, from the massive Lake Michigan to smaller, cerulean blue inland lakes.

A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

There’s Something Magical About These 13 Illinois Lakes In The Summer

Highlighting some of the best lakes in Illinois for fishing, boating, and swimming.

A serene lakeside scene with lush greenery, a wooden dock, and a heron standing near the water's edge.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

There’s Something Magical About These 13 Wisconsin Lakes In The Summer

Wisconsin offers numerous lakes perfect for summer activities like fishing, boating, and swimming, each with unique features and scenic views.

A sunset over a calm waterway, with people gathered on a wooden pier silhouetted against vibrant clouds.

These 10 Epic Waterparks in Illinois Will Take Your Summer To A Whole New Level

Discover the best water parks in Illinois to cool off during the summer.

A vibrant water park featuring colorful slides, a wave pool, and lounging areas with umbrellas and palm trees.

10 Surprising Firsts That Illinois Can Proudly Claim

Between the first skyscraper, household appliances, and modern medicine, the Prairie State is truly a trailblazer in these ways.

view of the original McDonald's franchise in Des Plaines, Illinois with vintage cars parked in front

These 14 Unique Day Trips In Wisconsin Are An Absolute Must-Do

Discover 13 unique day trips in Wisconsin, from festivals and flea markets to natural wonders and historic sites.

A packed stadium with large American flags on the field during a football game, surrounded by cheering fans.

These 9 Water Parks In Wisconsin Are Pure Bliss For Anyone Who Goes There

Discover the best water parks in Wisconsin for an unforgettable summer adventure.

A vibrant water park with slides, pools, and many visitors enjoying a sunny day. Surrounding buildings in the background.

Here Are 11 Unique Day Trips in Illinois That Are an Absolute Must-Do

Discover the best day trips in Illinois, featuring gardens, wildlife adventures, historic towns, and scenic parks.

10 Surprising Firsts That Wisconsin Can Proudly Claim

Wisconsin has been a pioneer in various fields, contributing several significant firsts in history.

A scenic view of the Wisconsin countryside with rolling green hills, farmland, and scattered trees under a partly cloudy sky.

These 3 Waterfall Swimming Holes In Wisconsin Are Perfect For A Summer Day

Discover three beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin where you can swim.

A scenic view of a river with a waterfall, surrounded by trees, where people are swimming and enjoying the water.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Here Are 4 Wisconsin Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Epic

Discover four natural swimming holes in Wisconsin perfect for cooling off during the summer.

A small waterfall cascades over rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees and a serene natural setting.

9 Awesomely Odd Places In Wisconsin That Are A Must-See For Everyone

Discover some of the most unique and unusual museums to visit in Wisconsin.

A large, colorful fish sculpture stands in a grassy area, surrounded by tall trees and a plaque nearby.

These 9 Epic Waterparks in Wisconsin Will Take Your Summer To A Whole New Level

Discover the best water parks in Wisconsin to cool off and have fun with the family.

Four people enjoy a water ride in yellow tubes at a water park, with slides and greenery in the background.

10 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Illinois

Illinois offers a variety of scenic and challenging hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, featuring prairies, rock formations, waterfalls, and more.

Remote & Secluded Camping in Wisconsin: 10 Off-Grid Campgrounds

Spend The Night At Wisconsin’s Most Haunted Campground For A Truly Terrifying Experience

High Cliff State Park in Wisconsin offers a unique camping experience with its stunning natural beauty and haunted history.

A rocky jetty extends into calm waters, reflecting a vibrant sunset with colorful clouds above.

Primitive Camping In Illinois: 10 Best Dispersed Campgrounds

A serene waterway with a small waterfall, grassy banks, and a bench nearby under a cloudy sky.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

9 Gorgeous Beaches in Illinois That Are Demanding Your Attention This Summer

Illinois offers several beautiful beaches perfect for family outings and summer activities.

These 15 Amazing Camping Spots In Illinois Are An Absolute Must See

Illinois offers diverse camping experiences, from state parks to luxury glamping sites, catering to various preferences and activities.

Sunset over a calm river, with reflections on the water and silhouettes of trees and grass in the foreground.

5 Illinois Restaurants Right On The River That You’re Guaranteed To Love

Discover some of the best waterfront dining spots in Illinois, offering great food and stunning river views.

These 10 Charming Illinois Towns Have The Best River Walks

Discover 10 charming Illinois towns with beautiful river walks perfect for scenic strolls and outdoor activities.

Here Are The Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Illinois

Illinois boasts charming small towns that offer affordable living, friendly people, and strong communities.

A person walks a dog along a path by a river, with a town and bridge in the background under a cloudy sky.

Here Are The Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Wisconsin

Highlights the best small towns in Wisconsin known for their safety, community, and affordable lifestyle.

7 Must-Visit Flea Markets In Wisconsin Where You’ll Find Awesome Stuff

Discover some of the best flea markets in Wisconsin for great bargains and unique finds.

Exterior of 7 Mile Fair building with flags, featuring a red roof and large signage. Cloudy sky in the background.