A woman with wavy hair rests her chin on her hand, smiling softly while wearing a blue shirt.

Lysa Allman-Baldwin

Lysa Allman-Baldwin is a Digital Nomad, travel writer, professional speaker, and author with more than 25 years of experience covering destinations across the globe for print and online publications. For Only In Your State, Lysa brings a world-class traveler's discernment to American destinations — writing about local culture and travel highlights with the perspective of someone who has genuinely used the entire world as her baseline for comparison.

Stays

The 15 Best Cabins in Idaho for a Cozy Mountain Escape

Explore the state with this curated list of the 15 best cabins in Idaho, featuring cozy retreats, scenic views, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Apr 24
Looking toward an A-frame cabin Airbnb surrounded by a pine tree forest in Garden Valley, Idaho.
Stays

Best Cabins In Florida: Cozy Rentals For Every Budget

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Oct 8
A charming house with a porch, surrounded by palm trees and a landscaped garden, featuring a driveway and garage.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Scenic Drive In Northern California That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Weaverville

California State Route 3 offers a scenic drive through historic Weaverville, featuring natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jul 10
A scenic view of a lake surrounded by mountains and trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Oldest Lake In Northern California Is A Beautiful Piece Of Living History

Clear Lake in Northern California is the largest natural freshwater lake in California, known for its rich history, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jun 20
Scenic view of a lake surrounded by mountains and greenery under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Most Remote Lake In Northern California Is Also The Most Peaceful

Lake Genevieve in Northern California offers a remote hiking experience with stunning scenic views and peaceful ambiance.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jun 22
A serene lake surrounded by rocky mountains and tall pine trees under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

A True Hidden Gem, Glacially Formed Castle Lake Is Perfect For Northern California Nature Lovers

Castle Lake in Northern California is a hidden gem offering stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jun 21
A serene lake surrounded by rocky hills and lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Experiences
Attractions

This Amusement And Waterpark In Northern California With Its Own Negative G-Force Hill Will Make Your Summer Epic

South Bay Shores Waterpark in Northern California offers a variety of thrilling and family-friendly water activities.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jun 7
A colorful water slide spirals down into a splash pool, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

One Of The Largest Urban Parks In The U.S. Is In Northern California, And It’s Magical

Golden Gate Park in San Francisco offers a diverse array of natural, cultural, historic, and recreational amenities, attracting millions of visitors annually.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on May 25
Aerial view of a city with a large park in the center, surrounded by urban development and distant hills.
State Pride
History

The Ancient Town In Northern California That’s Loaded With Fascinating History

Yreka, a small town in Northern California, offers a rich historical experience rooted in the Gold Rush Era.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on May 24
Historic street scene featuring colorful storefronts and American flags in a small town. Mountains in the background.
Food
Bakeries & Dessert

The Outrageous Milkshake Bar In Northern California That’s Piled High With Goodness

The Parlor Ice Cream in Northern California offers imaginative and delicious milkshakes and ice cream flavors.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on May 15
Exterior of "The Parlor" ice cream shop, featuring a sign and colorful window displays with ice cream and puffs.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

The Whole Family Will Love A Visit To This Adorable Riverside Cabin Resort In California

The Lure Resort in Northern California offers a variety of rustic and full-amenity cabins in a scenic, nature-filled setting.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on May 18
A cozy wooden cabin by a river, surrounded by lush green trees and mountains under a clear blue sky.
Food
Bakeries & Dessert

The Middle-Of-Nowhere General Store With Some Of The Best Breads, Sandwiches, and Pastries In California

Stewarts Point Store in Northern California offers a nostalgic experience with its delicious bakery and café.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Jul 30
A display of assorted pastries and baked goods, including croissants, scones, and sweet rolls, on a wooden counter.
Food

Dine With The Fishes At This One-Of-A-Kind Aquarium Restaurant In Northern California

Waterbar Restaurant in San Francisco offers a unique dining experience with fresh seafood and stunning views of the bay and aquariums.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on May 14
Outdoor dining area with people, palm trees, and a view of a bridge in the background. Cloudy sky above.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Baldwin Beach Has Some Of The Clearest Water In Northern California

Baldwin Beach at Lake Tahoe offers crystal-clear water, picturesque sandy shores, and numerous recreational activities.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on May 3
A serene lake surrounded by mountains and trees, reflecting the clear blue sky and autumn foliage.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Take The Longest Float Trip In California This Summer On the Yuba River

Experience the natural beauty and history of the Yuba River in Northern California through a tubing adventure.

by Lysa Allman-Baldwin
on Apr 27
A serene river flows through a forested area with autumn foliage and a small building nestled among the trees.