Taryn Shorr-Mckee
Taryn Shorr-McKee is an Ozarks-based travel writer and photographer originally from Long Island, New York, who has spent her adult life between the Arizona desert and the Missouri Ozarks — and writes like someone who knows both intimately. For Only In Your State, she covers Missouri and beyond, with a particular focus on outdoor adventure, under-the-radar destinations, local food and craft beer, and the kinds of small businesses and hidden gems that most travelers drive right past. Her work has also appeared in Lonely Planet and Midwest Living. Follow her adventures at chasingtrailblog.com.
Meet the Woman Who (Literally) Paved the Way for Glamping in Branson, Missouri
From corporate executive to heavy-equipment operator, Halley Fleming followed her instincts to create a one-of-a-kind glamping escape in the Ozarks.
Check Into the Upside Down at This Real-Life ‘Stranger Things’ House
The beloved ‘80s-themed sci-fi/drama/horror series ended, but fans can keep the culture alive by staying in the replica Byers’ house near Atlanta.
Experience ‘Old Florida’ on Cabbage Key, a Tiny Island Only Accessible by Boat
This 100-acre Gulf island has no roads or vehicles, a family-run inn, roaming tortoises, and one famously paradise-like dollar bill-covered bar.
I’ve Stayed in Over 40 Glamping Resorts Across the US, and These Are the 10 Most Memorable
From my first glamping stay near Zion to solo nights in an Alaskan yurt and family trips to Colorado, these 10 “glampgrounds” stand out most.
This Tribal-Run Montana Ski Area Keeps Skiing Accessible—and Deeply Rooted in Community
On a Native American reservation in northern Montana, Bear Paw Ski Bowl proves that skiing doesn’t need luxury or high prices—just community, commitment, and a shared love of winter.
Step Inside Arkansas’ Ozark Ball Museum, a Wonderfully Weird Collection Hidden Inside a Home
Part ball collection, part folk music experience, this by-appointment museum invites visitors into a Fayetteville home filled with stories, songs, and surprises.
Utah Has a Sparkling “Glass Mountain” Hidden Deep in Capitol Reef
Reaching this little-known formation in Capitol Reef National Park took time, trust, and a very rough road — and it was worth every mile.
See Dozens of Restored Iconic Neon Signs Glow Again at Missouri’s New Route 66 Neon Park
This free roadside stop along Missouri’s original Route 66 lets vintage neon glow again, just as it did for road trippers 100 years ago.
Sleep Like Kevin McCallister at This Home Alone-Themed Hotel Suite Near Chicago
The Graduate Evanston brings the classic holiday movie to life with ‘90s decor, clever “Easter eggs,” and all the comforts Kevin would approve of — from plaid PJs to Little Nero’s pizza.
How a Post Office in a Tiny Missouri Town Spreads Christmas Spirit Worldwide
In Noel, Missouri, “Christmas City USA,” a heartwarming 90-plus-year-old tradition sends tens of thousands of hand-stamped holiday greetings worldwide each year.
Meet the All-Stars Behind Kansas City’s Women-Owned, Soccer-Themed Coffee Truck
Visit Kansas City's Pitchside Coffee, owned by six female KC Current soccer players, serving roasted-in-house coffee and community spirit.
I Rode a Vintage Train Into California’s Redwoods to a Magical Hidden Bar
This isn’t your average train trip: the Skunk Train carries riders into the redwoods, where a string-light-filled bar waits in a clearing under the trees.
This Lakota-Owned Drum Shop in Rapid City Keeps a Sacred Tradition Alive
Step inside a Rapid City shop where Sonja Holy Eagle makes heirloom-quality buffalo hide drums by hand, preserving centuries-old Lakota artistry and tradition.
This Quirky New Kansas City Museum is the World’s First Dedicated Entirely to Barbecue
From smoky legends to saucy lore, Kansas City’s Museum of BBQ dishes up barbecue history with plenty of flavor.
