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.


Editorial Team

Ian Spiegel-Blum

Ian Spiegel-Blum shares his knowledge on a wide range of subjects, including great dining spots, seasonal activities, and unique local experiences across states like Virginia, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Wyoming, and New Jersey. His work highlights the local culture, events, and food trends, bringing attention to the distinct flavors and attractions of each area. With a sharp eye for detail, he guides readers to the best offerings in these states.

Kimberly Ripley

Kimberly Ripley explores the diverse New England landscape of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine, showcasing a variety of local attractions, dining experiences, and unique activities. Her articles span from botanical gardens and art classes to the best places for pancakes and holiday festivities, providing readers with insightful recommendations for every occasion. Whether highlighting family-friendly spots or the most romantic restaurants, Kimberly's passion for uncovering hidden gems shines through in her engaging writing. A retired writer, author of four books, and celebrity news journalist, Kimberly is also a loving grandmother who enjoys spending time with her family.


BestLocalThings.com Corrections Policy

At BestLocalThings.com, we are committed to providing accurate and reliable information in our articles. If errors occur, we take prompt action to address them and ensure our readers receive corrected and up-to-date content.

Identifying Errors:

If you spot an error in any of our articles, please notify us by contacting us. We welcome feedback from our readers to help improve the quality of our content.

Review Process:

Upon receiving a report of a potential error, our team will review the claim, verify the information, and determine if a correction is necessary.

Making Corrections:

Once a reported inaccuracy has been reviewed and confirmed, the necessary corrections will be made directly to the article to ensure the information is accurate and reliable.

Commitment to Transparency:

Our goal is to maintain the trust of our readers by addressing errors openly and promptly. We strive to provide content that is both accurate and enjoyable to read.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us.