Stephanie Frias, Travel Journalist a Only In Your State

Stephanie Frias

Stephanie Frias is an Iowa native who spent more than half her life living and traveling across other states and countries — and chose to come home anyway. Now settled back in the Hawkeye State, she covers Iowa and beyond for Only In Your State, road tripping across the country with her family in search of state parks, bike trails, unique stays, roadside diners, charming small towns, and outdoor adventure. Her combination of wide geographic experience and deep Iowa roots gives her a rare perspective: the well-traveled local who always knows where to send you next.

Trips & Routes

Endless Outdoor Adventures Await in These 5 Small Towns in Iowa

Check out the most outdoorsy towns in Iowa, with great access to rock climbing, water trails, hiking trails, and biking rails

by Stephanie Frias
on Jun 15
An aerial, river shot of Elkader and the Motor Mill with green foliage, an outdoorsy town in Iowa
Nature
National & State Parks

Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Echo Valley State Park

Discover a charming small town near Echo Valley State Park that’s perfect for your next getaway, with great stays and easy park access.

by Stephanie Frias
on Jun 14
Tall bluffs over a scenic river, just 3 miles from a Small town near Echo Valley State Park.
Nature

Skip the Hikes and Try This Kansas Rail Trail Instead

There’s no need to hike when you can wheel or wander along this scenic Kansas rail trail.

by Stephanie Frias
on Jun 6
A meandering, gravel trail passing through green pastures with yellow blooms beneath a brilliant, blue sky. It's the Prairie Sunset Trail, a rail trail in Kansas.
Nature

The Dune Hike in Missouri That Everyone Should Take at Least Once

This famous dune hike in Missouri features an unforgettable highlight. Here’s what to expect and why it’s worth the visit.

by Stephanie Frias
on Jun 4
A woman wearing a blue and white striped shirt laying in the sand with her hand in front of her face, sand trickling through her fingers. She's at Sand Prairie Conservation Area, on a dune hike in Missouri.
Food

This Community-Loved Grand Rapids Cafe Is Serving Up Michigan’s Best Modern Brunch

This spot serves true Michigan comfort food you have to try, with hearty dishes, local flavor, and an unforgettable dining experience.

by Stephanie Frias
on Jun 2
A vibrant, breakfast dish with salmon eggs Benedict and a fresh, garden salad. This is a brunch dish, true comfort food in Michigan at Morning Belle in Grand Rapids.