Allison Goodlin is the Editor and Lead Writer for Top of Temecula, bringing over two decades of local perspective to the valley's premier community directory. Allison earned her degree in Journalism and Media Studies from Livingston College at Rutgers University, establishing a professional foundation in storytelling and editorial integrity.
Following her studies, Allison and her husband relocated to Southern California, where they quickly fell in love with the region's rolling hills, coastal proximity, and near-perfect climate. Now a 20-year resident of the Temecula Valley, Allison has raised her two children in the community she covers. Her work at Top of Temecula is fueled by this deep-rooted connection, as she takes pride in sharing the unique stories, standout businesses, and hidden experiences that make the valley home.
When she isn't highlighting local makers or editing the latest valley guide, you can find her enjoying the very hills and trails she writes about.
Guides by Allison
Hot Air Balloon Rides in Temecula (2026) — What It Costs, Who to Book, and What Nobody Tells You
The practical guide to Temecula hot air balloon rides — real prices, which company to book, sunrise logistics, cancellation policies, and what the experience is actually like over wine country.
Published April 19, 2026
Preschool & Daycare in Temecula and Murrieta (2026) — Programs, Real Costs, and How to Choose
Independent guide to preschool and daycare in the Temecula Valley — program types, real costs by age, waitlist strategy, TK explained, and what most parents figure out too late.
Published April 18, 2026
Temecula ADU Rules (2026) — What You Can Build, What Your HOA Can't Block, and What It Actually Costs
The independent Temecula ADU guide — California's 2026 laws, city size limits, HOA override rights, permit fees, and real construction costs for granny flats and guest houses.
Published April 17, 2026
Senior Living in Temecula (2026) — Every Level of Care, What It Costs, and How to Choose
Independent guide to senior living in Temecula and Murrieta — assisted living, memory care, in-home care, RCFEs, real costs, and what most families learn too late.
Published April 17, 2026
Temecula Wine Tasting for First-Timers (2026) — What You Actually Need to Know
The honest first-timer's guide to Temecula wine tasting — how tastings work, what they cost, how many wineries per day, which corridor fits your vibe, and what most visitors get wrong.
Published April 17, 2026
Temecula E-Bike Rules (2026) — What California's New Laws Mean for Your Family
Temecula's 2026 e-bike rules for parents and riders — class limits, where kids ride, TVUSD Safe Riders, and what California law holds parents liable for.
Published April 15, 2026
Where Do Locals Actually Eat in Old Town Temecula?
The Front Street tourist stretch is packed for a reason — but it's not where Temecula locals eat on a Tuesday night. Here's the shortlist of the spots that stay busy with regulars.
Published April 14, 2026
Living in Redhawk Temecula — The Complete Neighborhood Guide
Everything to know before buying in Redhawk Temecula — HOA structure, schools, home values, and what most buyers miss until they're in escrow.
Published April 13, 2026
A Perfect Friday Night in Old Town Temecula
Where to eat, drink, and walk on a Friday night in Old Town Temecula. An opinionated local itinerary with ranked picks and real recommendations.
Published April 13, 2026