Location
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
School
Chatham University, Bowling Green State University
Expertise
International Coffee & Beer Cultures, Unusual Museums, Pre-Columbian Civilizations & Ruins
- Jess regularly writes about regional cryptids and folklore for outlets like Atlas Obscura and Mental Floss.
- They once toured Europe as the baritone sax player in a jazz band.
- They have traveled to 15 countries across four continents and are over halfway through their bucket list of visiting every state and province in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Experience
Jess started writing for a living in 2015. Before becoming a full-time writer, they worked in the service industry, including stints managing a coffee shop and working as the overnight front desk attendant at the Wyndham Grand in Pittsburgh. Their writing work has included ghostwriting novels, memoirs, nonfiction books, and online content in addition to writing under their own name for publications like Authors Publish, Pittsburgh City Paper, and Pittsburgh Magazine. They are an award-winning fiction writer as well as a freelance writer and the author of the flash fiction chapbook Cryptid Bits (Last-Picked Books, 2024), along with more than 20 short stories published in various literary journals and anthologies.
Education
Jess has an MFA in creative writing from Chatham University (fiction concentration with a certificate in travel writing) and a bachelor's degree in music from Bowling Green State University.
Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
This centrally-located park offers a wide variety of activities, from fishing and hiking to kayaking and disc golf, and it's convenient to several major cities.
Read More
-
Escapism doesn't always have to mean disappearing into a good book or a movie. Sometimes, a city brings sci-fi and fantasy to life in the best ways.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
This former steel plant in Pennsylvania is now a thriving center for arts and culture. It hosts thousands of events each year, including several concerts.
Read More
-
Pittsburgh is a literature lover's dream city. If you're looking to sink into the scene, these exhibitions, cafes, events, and festivals are for you.
Read More
-
A lesser-known destination near Erie offers a quieter way to enjoy northwest Pennsylvania, with calm waters, boating, year-round fishing, and scenic wetlands.
Read More
-
This cozy city near Detroit is home to excellent local restaurants, plenty of walking paths and green space, and a calendar packed with family-friendly events.
Read More
-
Offering big city amenities, miles of coastline, and affordable prices, this Ohio county was recently named the best place to retire in the Midwest.
Read More
-
A former industrial landscape is now a sprawling outdoor escape where wooded trails, wildlife, and dramatic ravines await south of a major city.
Read More
-
Explore five independent Pittsburgh bookstores recommended by a local, with author events, cozy reading spaces, and books by regional writers.
Read More
-
If you're looking for an inviting, small town with just the right mix of events, restaurants, and even a little nightlife, this one might be right for you.
Read More
-
This sprawling county just outside of Detroit offers visitors 62 towns to discover that highlight hundreds of shops, colorful downtowns, and pretty trails.
Read More
-
This nature area in Ohio isn't the most famous park, but it's well worth a stop and offers everything from fishing and boating to hiking and flower gardens.
Read More
-
Hidden in western Kentucky, this peaceful natural lake offers quiet waters, abundant birdlife, and scenic wetlands far from the usual crowds.
Read More
-
West Virginia
By Jess Simms
Along with a quirky name, this West Virginia town offers a fun seasonal festival, historic landmarks to explore, and plenty of wild outdoor adventures.
Read More
-
Not only is it home to a must-see landmark, but this Ohio village is also home to charming local shops and a sprawling river trail that's great for biking.
Read More
-
Retirement and adventure are found in equal measure in this charming Ohio county, a spot packed with natural beauty and fascinating communities.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
Just outside Pittsburgh, one welcoming community blends outdoor adventure, rich local history, and neighborhood favorites into an easy weekend escape.
Read More
-
From a historic downtown and local shops to riverfront trails, fresh seafood, and nearby healthcare, this East Coast destination offers plenty for retirees.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
A lesser-known destination near Pittsburgh offers scenic lakes, miles of rail trails, historic communities, fishing, hiking, and peaceful weekend escapes.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
Popularized on the internet and social media, this small town in Pennsylvania is known as the "town of motels," but boasts much more to see and experience.
Read More
-
United States
By Jess Simms
From 19th-century mill towns to industrial hubs, these Ohio ghost towns all once hosted thriving communities. Today, they're haunting ruins reclaimed by nature.
Read More
-
Pittsburgh isn't the only place in Western PA with plenty of vintage charm. History buffs and nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in this small town.
Read More
-
For travelers to Detroit looking to do some shopping and escape the downtown noise, this suburb is a pleasant day trip that won't disappoint.
Read More
-
Pittsburgh is great on its own, but if you're in the city and looking to escape for a day, there are lots of terrific options just a car ride away.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
There are plenty of state parks and wooded areas throughout Pennsylvania, but if you're looking for a quiet place to escape crowds, this might be your spot.
Read More
-
Historic farms, local wineries, and seasonal festivals add to the appeal of a quiet, scenic countryside retreat between major Midwestern cities.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Jess Simms
A rare roadside water eruption in Pennsylvania bursts from a long-abandoned coal shaft, creating an unusual East Coast geological curiosity.
Read More