Find the Best Things

About Us

At BestLocalThings, we are passionate about showcasing the most vibrant places and experiences that each state in the U.S. has to offer. Our site is your ultimate guide to discovering the best activities and services tailored to every state, from hidden gem restaurants and lively nightlife to captivating live music venues and exciting outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. We also highlight the best upcoming local events, keeping you in the loop about the must-see happenings across each state. Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a traveler seeking authentic insights, our carefully researched content highlights the unique flavors, sounds, and sights of each state, ensuring you never miss out on what makes each place special. Join us as we explore the rich variety of culture and recreation America has to offer, connecting people to the experiences that best enrich their lives.

Get to Know Our Leadership Team

Ed Panian Co-Founder and President, Technology


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Ed Panian

Co-Founder and President, Technology

Jim Maglione Co-Founder and President, Community

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Jim Maglione

Co-Founder and President, Community

Mark Wratten Chief Technology Officer

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Mark Wratten

Chief Technology Officer


Our Editorial Process

In curating our lists of the best organizations, activities and places throughout the country, we gather information across a variety of sources. Web sentiment contributes significantly to our process, as the voices of the community through online reviews and comments are vital.

Writers’ personal experiences with these organizations, activities and places may also play a role in creating these lists, as well as other media sources such as magazine features, news articles, etc. Thorough research is essential in publishing honest content, and we strive to do so with each and every article.