A woman sits on a rocky outcrop, smiling against a backdrop of mountains and blue skies.

Rachel Pfutzenreuter

Rachel Pfutzenreuter is a writer based just north of Chicago who covers Illinois and Midwest destinations for Only In Your State. A perpetual trip planner and adventure enthusiast, Rachel writes about local travel with the infectious excitement of someone always scoping the next great place to go — and generous enough to share every detail with her readers.

Experiences
Events

The Old-Fashioned Christmas Festival In Ohio That Will Take You On A Journey Back In Time

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Nov 27
Santa Claus in a red suit speaks into a microphone, standing next to a man in a black coat, with a festive crowd behind them.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Exploring This Small Town Park In Ohio Is The Definition Of An Underrated Adventure

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Nov 27
Silhouetted trees against a dramatic sunset with vibrant orange and gray clouds.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Exploring This Small Town Park In Illinois Is The Definition Of An Underrated Adventure

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Nov 12
Two geese swim in a calm lake surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and clear blue skies.
Experiences
Events

The Old-Fashioned Christmas Festival In Illinois That Will Take You On A Journey Back In Time

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Nov 7
A red barn with a "Merry Christmas" sign, surrounded by frosted Christmas trees and a blue truck parked nearby.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Exploring This Small Town Park In Wisconsin Is The Definition Of An Underrated Adventure

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Nov 7
A person water skiing on a lake, with trees and houses in the background and people relaxing by the shore.
Food

People Travel Across Illinois Just To Eat At This Hidden Gem Restaurant

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Oct 13
A cozy restaurant with a sloped roof, illuminated signs, and a sunset backdrop. Trees line the background.
Food
Restaurants

People Travel Across Maryland Just To Eat At This Hidden Gem Restaurant

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Oct 9
Sign for Captain James Crab House with blue accents and outdoor seating visible in the background.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Small Town In Florida That Comes Alive In The Fall Season

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Sep 22
A red caboose with "Withlacoochee State Trail" written on it, set against a blue sky and green grass.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Small Town In Michigan That Comes Alive In The Fall Season

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Sep 20
A scenic view of a colorful autumn landscape with vibrant yellow and red foliage, lakes, and distant hills.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Small Town in Wisconsin That Comes Alive in the Fall Season

Baraboo is a Wisconsin small town that comes alive in autumn. See the leaves changing color, go apple picking, or ride a nearby train.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Oct 5
A vibrant autumn tree viewed from below, showcasing bright orange and yellow leaves against a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In Georgia

Vidalia, Georgia, known as the Sweet Onion City, offers a nostalgic small-town experience with attractions like the Vidalia Onion Museum and the annual Vidalia Onion Festival.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Aug 17
Sunset over a lush green field, with dew-covered grass and dramatic clouds in the sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In Wisconsin

Clam Lake in Wisconsin offers outdoor activities, elk viewing, and a simple rural lifestyle.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Aug 2
A large elk with impressive antlers walks through a lush green landscape.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Rural Georgia Lake Is The Perfect Place To Make A Splash This Summer

Lake Nottely in Georgia offers various summer activities like swimming, boating, and fishing in a scenic rural setting.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Jul 28
A serene lake view with a vibrant rainbow arching over the water, surrounded by trees and a well-kept lawn.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Rural South Carolina Creek Is The Perfect Place To Make A Splash This Summer

Enjoy paddling and wildlife viewing on Wambaw Creek in South Carolina's Francis Marion National Forest.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Jul 24
A serene river scene with lush green trees and a person kayaking on calm waters under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Rural Wisconsin Lake Is The Perfect Place To Make A Splash This Summer

Discover Teal Lake in Wisconsin's Northwoods for a peaceful summer getaway with fishing, swimming, and scenic views.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Jul 21
Serene lakeside view at dawn, with mist rising over the water and boats docked near a grassy shore.