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4 days ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
There’s a special place along the Saluda River that feels like a secret garden, a quiet stretch of woods and water that somehow manages to balance tranquility with adventure. Saluda Shoals Park, just a short drive from downtown Columbia, is my favorite park in South Carolina — and one I can’t recommend highly enough for anyone who loves the natural world.
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4 days ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
If you’re craving a summer getaway brimming with creativity, outdoor beauty, and unexpected sophistication—but want to skip the international flights and crowds—look no further than Greenville, South Carolina. This dynamic Southern city has quietly transformed into one of the most vibrant cultural destinations in the Southeast, and it rivals the artistic energy of Europe’s most iconic cities.
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4 days ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
As someone born and raised in Miami, Florida, Homestead has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, weekend drives down U.S. 1 to pick strawberries in the winter or grab milkshakes at Robert Is Here were part of the rhythm of life. I remember school field trips to Everglades National Park, my parents’ stories about Hurricane Andrew, and the quiet joy of wandering through fruit stands and local farms.
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4 days ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
One of my favorite ways to hike, especially in the summer, is when there is a water feature to cool off. Whether it's a waterfall hike, a lakeside gem, or a beachfront trek, waterfront hiking trails in Alabama are my favorite way to stay cool and still get outside and explore. An incredible hiking trail to add to your summer to-do list is nestled away on the sparkling shores of Lake Martin.
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4 days ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
Craving a journey off the beaten path? Backroad Bites uncovers the unsung heroes of local cuisine—mom-and-pop diners, hidden food trucks, and beloved neighborhood spots where flavor tells the story of a place. We celebrate the dishes, traditions, and passionate people that make each community unique. So buckle up and join us on a delicious detour—because the best meals aren’t always found on the main drag.
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1 week ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
It doesn't get much better when your North Carolina hiking trail is a two-fer. Sure, while it's nice to get out on the trails and enjoy some exercise, nature, and fresh air, what would you say to rolling in a little swimming reward at the end? The Tracks in the Sand Trail in Jockey's Ridge State Park isn't your average hiking trail for a lot of reasons. First, some aspects of this trail will make you feel like you're trekking through the Sahara. And second, you can hike AND swim all in one shot.
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1 week ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
When people dream of Tuscany, visions of rolling hills, sun-drenched vineyards, rustic villas, and long tables filled with wine and laughter often come to mind. But what if you didn’t have to cross the Atlantic to experience that kind of countryside magic? Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains lies Dahlonega, Georgia—a charming town with a vineyard scene and scenery so inviting, it just might make you forget about your Italian vacation dreams.
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1 week ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
Birding is experiencing a resurgence, especially among young people who are looking to disconnect from their mobile devices for a while and get out into the world. I remember when birding was more of an adult activity, but lately, I feel like I see more and more young people out and about, eyes glued to the skies. After all, there’s probably an app for that.
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2 weeks ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
While so many people are opting for road trip travel this summer, we're going to pivot here in the Sunshine State and show you a different experience altogether. First things first, did you know that South Florida had its very own Raccoon Island? I didn't either until a few months ago. Raccoon Island—also known as Sandspur Island—is a small, uninhabited mangrove isle in Biscayne Bay, near North Miami Beach.
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2 weeks ago | 
onlyinyourstate.com | Megan Todaro
Have you ever dreamt about hopping a transatlantic flight and exploring the French Riviera with nothing but a few good novels, a retro bathing suit, and a big floppy hat? Sometimes I daydream exactly like this, and then reality creeps in and I get distracted by things like work, finances, and other day-to-day responsibilities. But what if I told you that there is a place in North Carolina comparable to the French Riviera, particularly Villefranche-sur-Mer, France, but at a fraction of the cost?
