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Rebecca van Sambeck

Rebecca van Sambeck 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.

Experiences

One Of The Most Haunted Roads In Connecticut, Downs Road Has Been Abandoned For Years

Downs Road in Hamden, Connecticut is rumored to be haunted and home to a Bigfoot-like creature.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Oct 6
A winding, leaf-strewn path leads through a wooded area, with power lines visible in the distance.
Nature
Hiking

This 13-Mile Trail Will Take You As High As You Can Possibly Go On A Hike In New Jersey

The Windbeam Mountain, Bear Mountain, Board Mountain, and Lake Rickonda Trail in New Jersey offers a challenging 13.5-mile hike with significant elevation gain and rewarding views.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Jul 5
A panoramic view of a serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and rolling hills under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Hiking

Hikers Of All Ages Can Explore Ice Caves On This Easy Loop Trail In New Jersey

The Warren-Highlands Trail to the Marble Hill Ice Cave in New Jersey offers an easy yet beautiful hike with stunning ice formations and scenic views.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Jun 30
A dark cave entrance surrounded by greenery, with a sign labeled "Marble Hill" in the foreground.
Nature
Hiking

Hike To An Emerald Lagoon On The Easy Hidden Lake Trail In New Jersey

Hidden Lake Trail in New Jersey offers a short, easy hike with stunning views of a vibrant, crystal-clear lake.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Feb 6
A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and sandy shores under a clear blue sky.
Food

New Jersey Has The Best Pizza In The Entire Country, And These 7 Pizzerias Prove It

New Jersey has been officially recognized as having the best pizza in the country by Food and Wine.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on May 14
Two open boxes featuring a fresh margherita pie, representing authentic Pizza New Jersey.
Nature

Assateague Island Is A Fascinating Spot in Maryland That’s Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale

Assateague Island in Maryland offers a fairytale-like experience with its beautiful beaches and freely roaming wild horses.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on May 4
A group of horses standing on a sandy beach near the ocean, with gentle waves in the background.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

Snappy’s Bar And Grille Is A Little-Known Delaware Restaurant That’s In The Middle Of Nowhere, But Worth The Drive

Snappy's Bar & Grille in Bridgeville, Delaware, is a small, unassuming restaurant known for its generous portions and delicious American cuisine.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Apr 8
Exterior of Snappy's Bar & Grille, featuring a wooden deck and a parked car in front. Overcast sky in the background.
Experiences

The 7 Coolest Attractions In New Jersey That Not Enough People Visit

Discover unique attractions in New Jersey, from aviation museums to whimsical art exhibits and construction-themed amusement parks.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Apr 25
Colorful, whimsical house with unique architecture and vibrant decorations, surrounded by greenery and flowers.
Experiences
Activities

The First Indoor Nerf Gun Arena In New Jersey Is Just As Much Fun As It Sounds

Pups of War has opened a new indoor Nerf gun arena in East Brunswick, New Jersey, offering a fun and safe activity for kids and adults.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Feb 9
A colorful indoor play area with murals, ramps, and soft flooring, designed for children's activities and exploration.
Nature
Waterfalls

The Frozen Waterfalls On The Mohawk River In New York Are A Must-See This Winter

Cohoes Falls in New York transforms into a stunning frozen waterfall during winter, offering a unique and magical sight.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Dec 9
A snowy landscape featuring a frozen waterfall, with mist rising and trees in the background.
Experiences

Pirate’s Cove Is A Pirate-Themed Mini Golf Course In Massachusetts That’s Tons Of Fun

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, offers a fun, pirate-themed mini golf experience for the whole family.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Feb 1
A tilted pirate ship replica near a mini-golf course, surrounded by greenery and visitors in the background.
Food

The Austrian Restaurant In Missouri Where You’ll Find All Sorts Of Authentic Eats

Grünauer in Kansas City, Missouri, offers an authentic Austrian dining experience in a historic setting.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Jan 29
Exterior view of a rustic restaurant with a wooden facade, outdoor seating, and people walking by.
Stays

You’ll Have A Front Row View Of The Massachusetts Water In These Cozy Cabins

Wallis Cove Cabins in Douglas State Forest offers a peaceful, rustic getaway with lake views and various outdoor activities.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Jan 26
Two empty chairs by a serene lake, surrounded by trees and reflecting calm water under a clear blue sky.
State Pride
Meet the Locals

11 Foods Every New Jerseyan Craves When They Leave New Jersey

New Jersey is known for its iconic foods like Taylor ham, saltwater taffy, and Trenton tomato pie, which locals miss when they leave the state.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Dec 25
A close-up of a sliced sandwich with layers of meat and egg on a wooden surface.
Nature
Hiking

12 Scenic Trails To Explore In New Jersey, One For Each Month Of The Year

Explore some of the best scenic hikes in New Jersey, each offering unique views and experiences.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Dec 21
A scenic view of a winding river surrounded by lush green hills under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Hidden Lake In New Jersey Has Some Of The Bluest Water In The State

Manumuskin River Preserve in New Jersey features stunning blue holes but is on private property and not safe for swimming.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Dec 16
A serene lake surrounded by sandy shores and lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Visit The Small Town Of Califon In New Jersey, The Place That Inspired ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’

Califon, New Jersey, inspired the setting for the classic holiday film "It's a Wonderful Life."

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Dec 6
A metal bridge spans a calm river, adorned with a wreath, with a church steeple visible in the background.
Food

A Restaurant for Every Month: 12 Bucket-List Worthy Spots in New Jersey

The Garden State is full of delicious dining opportunities—start here.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Jan 16
Pepperoni Pizza Slice close up with someone grabbing a slice with a spatula
Stays

You’ll Have A Front Row View Of The Oklahoma Woods In These Cozy Cabins

Kiamichi Cabins in Oklahoma offer luxurious and affordable accommodations surrounded by nature, perfect for a cozy and relaxing getaway.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Nov 1
A modern wooden cabin with large windows, surrounded by trees and a gravel pathway under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Winter Walk In New Jersey That’s Straight Out Of A Hallmark Christmas Movie

Winter Walk in Taylor Park, Millburn, NJ, offers a festive holiday experience with thousands of twinkling lights and a magical ambiance.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Nov 2
A festive scene with a lit Christmas tree reflecting in water, surrounded by colorful lights and a cloudy evening sky.