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John Williams

John Williams is a New York City-based writer who has lived in the Empire State for over a decade. For Only In Your State, he covers New York's regional cuisine, neighborhoods, and local destinations with the well-worn familiarity of someone who has spent years exploring the state on foot — from long walks in city parks to discoveries well beyond the five boroughs.

Trips & Routes

Everyone In New York Should Check Out These 15 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals

by John Williams
on Jul 18
Aerial view of Central Park surrounded by skyscrapers, showcasing lush greenery and a large crowd in the park.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Reconnect With Nature When You Stay At These Charming Rentals In New York

by John Williams
on Jul 13
A cozy wooden cabin with a hot tub on the deck, surrounded by greenery and a sunset sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Conservatory Garden Is A Hidden Garden In New York Worthy Of A Day Hike

by John Williams
on Jun 28
A vibrant garden with a central fountain, surrounded by colorful flowers and trees under a clear blue sky.
Food

Enjoy A Beautiful Piece Of Brisket At This Delicious BBQ Restaurant In New York

by John Williams
on Jun 27
Exterior of John Brown Smokehouse BBQ, featuring a brown awning and large windows, in a dimly lit urban setting.
State Pride

Here Are The 7 Best Fourth Of July Fireworks In New York

by John Williams
on Jun 25
Colorful fireworks illuminate a city skyline at night, with buildings reflecting the vibrant display.
Food

The One-Of-A-Kind Italian Market In New York That You Could Spend Hours Exploring

by John Williams
on Jun 22
Storefront of Di Palo's, featuring a sign for fine imported Italian cheese, established in 1925.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

The Spontaneous Road Trip Through New York That Is the Perfect Weekend of Adventure

Gas up your car for this perfect New York weekend road trip with scenic stops, local eats, and must-see attractions across the state.

by John Williams
on Apr 21
A couple sitting on a wooden bench in a vibrant outdoor shopping area in Ithaca, NY, featuring shops and a restaurant in the background.
Food
Restaurants

This Restaurant In Manhattan Might Be The Best-Kept Secret In New York

by John Williams
on Jun 18
A colorful restaurant sign reads "Great N.Y. Noodletown" with decorative flags and plants in front.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This New York Sculpture Park Makes For The Perfect Urban Day Trip

by John Williams
on Jun 14
A modern garden structure with plants, set against a city skyline and green grass.
Stays
Camping

This Gorgeous, Little-Known River Is One Of The Most Underrated Fishing Spots In New York

by John Williams
on Jun 12
A serene river scene surrounded by lush greenery, with a person fishing on the bank under a partly cloudy sky.
Food
Bakeries & Dessert

The Outdoor Cafe in New York That Is The Prettiest Place To Enjoy A Warm Afternoon

by John Williams
on Jun 11
A wrought iron gate with "Iron Gate" sign, surrounded by greenery and brick buildings in a quiet setting.
Nature
Waterfalls

The Hidden Nature Park In New York With Its Very Own Waterfall, And So Much More

by John Williams
on Jun 7
A serene waterfall cascading over stone, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers.
Food

You’ll Be Transported To A German Town At This Top-Rated Restaurant In New York

by John Williams
on Jun 5
Exterior of Schnitzel Haus, an authentic German restaurant, featuring wooden doors and a sign above.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

The Incredible Road Trip Through New York That Leads You To 5 Stunning Lakes

by John Williams
on Jun 4
Map highlighting a road trip route in New York, leading to five stunning lakes and North/South Lake Campground.
Food
Restaurants

The Treehouse Cafe Hiding In New York Is One Of The Most Magical Places You’ll Ever Dine

by John Williams
on May 31
A wooden deck with a treehouse and dining area, surrounded by lush greenery and soft lighting.
Stays

Discover 3 Unique and Exceptional Airbnbs Across New York

Looking for an unforgettable, quirky Airbnb stay in New York State? Well, we have not just one, but three great options for you!

by John Williams
on Jan 15
Rustic multi-level wooden treehouse glowing with warm string lights among tall green trees.
Nature
Hiking

You’ll Fall In Love With The Tiny Waterfall Hiding Along This Breathtaking New York Trail

by John Williams
on May 28
A serene waterfall cascading over rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees in a tranquil forest setting.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

The Bar In New York That Features Magnificent Creek Views

by John Williams
on May 25
A cozy outdoor setting in a forest with string lights, picnic tables, and a food truck, filled with people enjoying the atmosphere.
State Pride
History

I’ve Lived In New York For More Than 10 Years And I’ve Never Had Beef On Weck

by John Williams
on May 23
A close-up of a sandwich with sliced meat on a bun, garnished with herbs, served with a pickle on a checkered tablecloth.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Incredible Farm in New York Where You Can Pick Buckets of Berries

Pick fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and more at Lewin Farms, one of the best berry-picking farms on Long Island.

by John Williams
on May 25
Hand holding fresh picked blueberries at Long Island berry farm
Food

Enjoy A Sense Of Peace At This Incredible Waterfront Restaurant In New York

by John Williams
on May 17
Exterior of a restaurant with a blue awning, outdoor seating, and a sign stating "Shoes & Shirts Required."
Stays
Vacation Rentals

The Magnificent Lakefront Airbnb in New York That Is Perfect for a Spring Retreat

This lakefront Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes, New York is a great escape for all ages!

by John Williams
on Apr 7
a large blue house on the lake
Stays
Camping

Get Away From It All At This Remote And Beautiful Campground In New York

by John Williams
on May 13
Sign for Kenneth L. Wilson Public Campground and Day Use Area, surrounded by trees and greenery.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

Discover 5 Of New York’s Most Iconic Views On This Epic 7-Hour Road Trip

by John Williams
on May 10
A cascading waterfall flows down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through New York That Runs Along The Hudson River

by John Williams
on May 8
A scenic view of a river valley with a bridge, surrounded by autumn foliage and rolling hills.
Food

The All-You-Can-Eat Buffet At County Fair Buffet In New York Features Downright Delicious Country Cookin’

by John Williams
on May 6
Sign for "County Fair Buffet" above a bustling dining area with people enjoying their meals.
Experiences
Activities

This Nighttime River Float In A Kayak Belongs On Your New York Bucket List

by John Williams
on May 4
Two people in yellow jackets prepare a kayak by a calm lake under a starry night sky, using headlamps for light.
Food
Restaurants

It’s An Epic Restaurant Adventure At Dining In The Dark Experience In New York 

by John Williams
on May 2
A vibrant restaurant interior with dim lighting, featuring patrons dining at round tables and a decorative glass display.
Food

The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At Go Play With Your Food In New York

by John Williams
on Apr 30
Exterior of a brick building featuring a sign for "Go Play With Your Food," a family board game tavern.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In New York

by John Williams
on Apr 27
A charming wooden cabin with a red roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a pathway leading to a hot tub area.
Food
Bakeries & Dessert

You’ll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Glazed & Confused Donuts In New York

by John Williams
on Apr 25
A colorful sign for "Glazed & Confused" featuring a donut with a mustache, hanging outside a shop.
Food

With Retro Video Games And Comic Books, This Incredible Restaurant In New York Is Perfect For Families

by John Williams
on Apr 22
A brightly lit burger restaurant with a yellow awning displaying "Action Burger" and a welcoming "Open" sign.
Stays
Camping

Before Word Gets Out, Visit New York’s Newest Glamping Experience

by John Williams
on Apr 20
A cozy glamping tent with a bed inside, two wooden chairs, a small table, and candles on a patterned rug outside.
Experiences
Events

This Giant Portal In New York City Connects Viewers To Others In Dublin, Ireland

by John Williams
on Apr 18
A large circular mirror sculpture reflects a city street with pedestrians and greenery in the background.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

The Three-Liter Margarita Tower At Mad Dog & Beans In New York Is Over-The-Top And Outrageously Delicious

by John Williams
on Apr 16
Three colorful drink dispensers in front of a restaurant window, with sombreros and snacks on display.
Food
Bars & Nightlife

This Speakeasy Hidden Inside a Bookcase Door in New York Is Perfect for a Date Night

There's nothing quite as cool as spending the evening in a hidden-away speakeasy with some of the best food and drinks in town.

by John Williams
on Mar 23
A woman sits at a bar in a speakeasy-inspired space
State Pride
History

This Is The Most New York Sound You’ll Ever Hear, And We Can’t Stop Listening To It

by John Williams
on Apr 10
A musician plays the saxophone on stage at Blue Note, with blue lighting and a piano in the background.
Trips & Routes

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through New York Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

by John Williams
on Apr 6
A vibrant garden filled with colorful flowers, including red, orange, pink, and purple blooms.
State Pride
History

The Little-Known Story Of The American Chestnut Tree In New York And How It’s Making A Big Comeback

by John Williams
on Apr 6
A dense forest scene featuring tall trees and lush green ferns, with a small tree in the foreground.
Food
Restaurants

This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In New York Will Transport You To Another World

by John Williams
on Apr 3
A garden scene featuring a white bust on a tree stump, surrounded by pumpkins and colorful flowers. Cozy seating in the background.
Food

One Of The Biggest Burgers In New York Requires Two Hands At Kings Of Kobe

by John Williams
on Apr 2
Exterior of "Kings of Kobe" restaurant featuring a sign and entrance to "Wagyu Kitchen & Bar."
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Easy 1.8-Mile Trail In New York Is Covered In Flower Blooms In The Springtime

by John Williams
on Mar 30
A vibrant garden filled with blooming pink and white azaleas among lush green foliage.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

Enjoy A Stroll On A Beautiful Path Along This Iconic New York River

by John Williams
on Mar 27
A scenic view of a waterfall cascading into a river, surrounded by greenery and city buildings in the background.
Experiences
Sights & Landmarks

This Classic New York Tourist Attraction Is Great For Skyline Views

by John Williams
on Mar 26
A vibrant city skyline at sunset, featuring skyscrapers and a bustling atmosphere in New York City.
State Pride
History

A Little-Known Slice Of New York History Can Be Found At This Church

by John Williams
on Mar 22
A large brick building with a cross on the side, featuring a water tower on the roof and trees nearby.
State Pride
Meet the Locals

The Glazed Donuts From Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop In New York Are So Good, They Practically Melt In Your Mouth

by John Williams
on Mar 20
A display of colorful donuts and pastries in a shop window, with a sign for "Peter Pan Donut and Party Shop."
Trips & Routes

The Country’s Most Impressive Rest Stop Is Hiding Right Here In New York

by John Williams
on Mar 19
A large "I ❤️ NY" sign in front of a modern brick building on a cloudy day.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

You Won’t Believe The Views You’ll Find At This Incredible Airbnb In New York

by John Williams
on Mar 16
A scenic view of a poolside area with umbrellas, overlooking a river and bridge, surrounded by lush greenery.
State Pride
History

The Incredible World’s Fair Site In New York That Has Been Left In Ruins

by John Williams
on Mar 13
A globe sculpture surrounded by trees and a water feature, set against a cloudy sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant And Cidery In New York

by John Williams
on Mar 12
Sign for Westwind Orchard with operating hours: Thu-Fri 2-8, Sat-Sun 12-8, surrounded by trees and a blue sky.