Laura Kiniry

Contributing Writer, Via
Photo of AAA Via Magazine Contributor Laura Kiniry

Laura Kiniry is a professional freelance journalist and content creator with more than 15 years of experience. She is based in San Francisco (for more than 25 years!), and her work specializes in the SF Bay Area, travel, food and culture, wellness, cultural sustainability, and outdoor adventure. She has also served on a variety of panels as both a travel writer and culinary judge, and occasionally mentors college students looking to pursue a career in travel journalism. Her public speaking topics include everything from how to break into writing to the ins-and-outs-of RVing.

Featured Publications

Her writing has appeared in dozens of national, regional, and online publications, including O, The Oprah Magazine, BBC Travel, AtlasObscura.com, CNN.com, Smithsonianmag.com, National Geographic Traveler, AllRecipes.com, TravelandLeisure.com, Budget Travel, AARP, Popular Mechanics, The San Francisco Chronicle, and Frommers.com. She is also the author of three guidebooks on the Garden State (where she's originally from): Moon Handbooks New Jersey, 1st and 2nd editions, and Moon Spotlight: The Jersey Shore.

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Articles by Laura Kiniry

Lost Lake Trail in the Medicine Bow National Forest, Wyoming.

7 Best Day Trips for Fall Fun

Skip the summer traffic and crowds with these activity-filled road trips.
A mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus) stands in a meadow above Hidden Lake, Glacier National Park.

Complete Guide to Glacier National Park

Plan your trip from where to stay to the best trails to explore.
A grasshopper milkshake on the counter at Lala’s Creamery in Petaluma, California.

Best Milkshakes in the West

Cool off with these treats in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming.
The Organ sandstone rock tower seen along Arches Scenic Drive with dramatic storm clouds looming overhead in Arches National Park, Moab, Utah.

7 Quiet, Less-Traveled National Park and Preserve Roads

Find unparalleled views without the packed overlooks and unending lines of cars.
Huckleberry bear claw from Polebridge Mercantile on a piece of parchment paper.

9 Spots to Get Huckleberry Delights in the West

From milkshakes and pastries to burgers and cocktails, you don’t want to miss these berry-filled eats.
Downtown Placerville, California at dusk.

7 Summer Road Trips to Escape the Crowds

Take the road less traveled to these quieter destinations.
The view of the Pacific Ocean from the Dillon Beach Resort in Bodega Bay, California.

5 Affordable Beach Vacation Spots in the West

From quiet hideaways to pristine sandy stretches, these less-crowded destinations have something for everyone.
Gig car overlooking the San Francisco Bay Area

Get In and Go With Gig Car Share

It's easy to get around the Bay Area thanks to Gig, the car-sharing service from AAA.
a woman walks on the bluff at California's Salt Point State Park.

8 Best State Park Campgrounds in the West

Pop up your tent or park your RV at these top spots, from oceanfront to under the forest canopy.
Hikers take in the views from McHugh Creek Bridge near Alaska's Turnagain Arm.

6 Easy Summer Day Trips in the West

Escape the crowds and enjoy a mini vacation at these spots.
The deck at Salmon Falls Resort in Ketchikan, Alaska at sunset.

6 Long Weekend Getaways in the West

Make the most of your next 3-day weekend at these destinations.
The Eagle in the Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle, Washington

Free Things to Do Throughout the West

Experience your favorite cities without busting your budget.
Big H hamburgers and fries with Hires’ fry sauce from Salt Lake City's Hires Big H.

10 Best Fries in the West

Dip these golden delights into your favorite sauce.
RVs camp in Devils Garden campground in Arches National Park.

7 Best National Park Campgrounds in the West

Set up camp inside these iconic parks.
A woman looks a park map while planning a camping trip.

How to Get a Campsite When Everything is Booked

Follow these 5 tips to secure a spot and ensure you have the best camping experience possible.