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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.

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

A winding, leaf-strewn path leads through a wooded area, with power lines visible in the distance.

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

A panoramic view of a serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and rolling hills under a clear blue sky.

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

A dark cave entrance surrounded by greenery, with a sign labeled "Marble Hill" in the foreground.

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

A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and sandy shores under a clear blue sky.

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

Two open boxes featuring a fresh margherita pie, representing authentic Pizza New Jersey.

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

A group of horses standing on a sandy beach near the ocean, with gentle waves in the background.

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

Exterior of Snappy's Bar & Grille, featuring a wooden deck and a parked car in front. Overcast sky in the background.

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

Colorful, whimsical house with unique architecture and vibrant decorations, surrounded by greenery and flowers.

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

A colorful indoor play area with murals, ramps, and soft flooring, designed for children's activities and exploration.

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

A snowy landscape featuring a frozen waterfall, with mist rising and trees in the background.

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

A tilted pirate ship replica near a mini-golf course, surrounded by greenery and visitors in the background.

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

Exterior view of a rustic restaurant with a wooden facade, outdoor seating, and people walking by.

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

Two empty chairs by a serene lake, surrounded by trees and reflecting calm water under a clear blue sky.

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

A close-up of a sliced sandwich with layers of meat and egg on a wooden surface.

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

A scenic view of a winding river surrounded by lush green hills under a clear blue sky.

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

A serene lake surrounded by sandy shores and lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

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

A metal bridge spans a calm river, adorned with a wreath, with a church steeple visible in the background.

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

Pepperoni Pizza Slice close up with someone grabbing a slice with a spatula

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

A modern wooden cabin with large windows, surrounded by trees and a gravel pathway under a cloudy sky.

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

A festive scene with a lit Christmas tree reflecting in water, surrounded by colorful lights and a cloudy evening sky.

Drive Through 1.5 Million Holiday Lights At Winter Wonderlights In New Jersey

Winter WonderLights in New Jersey offers a festive drive-through holiday light show at Middlesex County Fair Grounds.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A colorful tunnel illuminated with red, green, and blue lights, creating a vibrant, glowing effect.

You’ll Get Your Own Private Beach When You Stay At This Charming New Jersey Cottage

A charming oceanfront cottage in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, offers a perfect beach vacation with private beach access and numerous amenities.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

Two white Adirondack chairs and a small table on a sandy beach, with ocean waves and a distant couple walking.

Enjoy A Fire Under The Stars At This Uniquely Gorgeous New Jersey Farmhouse

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A charming red house with a porch, surrounded by greenery and a well-maintained lawn.

Wake Up To Panoramic Ocean Views At This Charmingly Unique New Jersey Rental

Discover a unique round beach rental in New Jersey with panoramic views of Delaware Bay, perfect for a memorable vacation.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A round, two-story beach house with a gray roof, surrounded by sand and sparse vegetation.

Enjoy The Fall Foliage And Relax In A Hot Tub With A Stay At This Lakefront New Jersey Cottage

Discover a modern lakefront home in Jefferson, New Jersey, perfect for a cozy and scenic getaway.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A serene lakeside view at sunset, featuring a wooden dock and a cozy house in the background.

These 6 Unique Restaurants In New Jersey Will Give You An Unforgettable Dining Experience

Discover six unique and unforgettable dining experiences in New Jersey, ranging from exotic meats to garlic-themed dishes.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

Cozy restaurant interior with textured walls, soft lighting, and tables lined along a narrow corridor.

Take An Easy Loop Trail Past Some Of The Prettiest Scenery In Texas On Arbor Hills Nature Preserve Trail

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve Trail offers an easy, scenic hike suitable for all ages with beautiful views and wildlife.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A serene path through lush greenery, framed by tree branches, with a warm sunset in the background.

The Heart And Soul Of New Jersey Is The Small Towns And These 7 Have The Best Downtown Areas

Discover some of the best small town downtowns in New Jersey, known for their charm, history, and walkability.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A waterfront view of a brick hotel and modern building, with boats docked along the shore under a clear blue sky.

One Of The Most Haunted Bridges In New Jersey, Clinton Road Bridge Has Been Around For Decades

Clinton Road in New Jersey is considered one of the most haunted roads, with legends of ghostly encounters and dark energy.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A winding road surrounded by trees and greenery, with fallen leaves scattered along the pavement.

Wildlife & Farms

Drink Cider Slushies, Enjoy A Hay Ride And Explore A Corn Maze Experience At This New Jersey Farm

Etsch Farms in New Jersey offers a variety of family-friendly fall activities including a corn maze, hay rides, and cider slushies.

by Rebecca van Sambeck

A playful corn maze display featuring a smiling hay bale and a sign for Etsch Farms, set against a blue sky.