1

Beignets

Image: Jessica Tan

We’ll start with this Louisiana delicacy. This won’t be the last time you see an exquisite Louisiana dish in this article, since "the Pelican State" has a lot of meals to share with the world. Beignets are particularly popular in New Orleans, as this gorgeous city has been producing these iconic pastries since the 1700s.

While there are several European varieties of beignets, the ones served in Louisiana are usually rectangular in shape and deep-fried. They are usually consumed with coffee during breakfast, fresh from the frier, and with a healthy dose of powdered sugar on top. As you might have already figured out, beignets are the official state donut of Louisiana.

2

Chicago Pizza

Image: Matt Antonioli

Chicago-style pizza is sometimes considered a divisive subject, but we truly don’t understand why. Sure, this deep-dish delicacy inverts the established order of pizza, putting a hearty amount of tomato sauce on top of copious amounts of cheese.

However, as any 5th-grade math teacher can tell you, changing the order of the ingredients will not change the end result: In the end, Chicago-style pizza is just as delicious as traditional pizza. If you ever find yourself in "The Windy City" , treat yourself to a slice!

3

Texas Chili

Image: Artur Kornakov

While Texas is world-known for its delicious barbecue (on which the brisket reigns supreme), the official dish of "the Lone Star State" is its famous "Chili con carne". Texas-style chili's main distinction from its Mexican counterpart is its lack of beans: A traditional Texan "bowl of red" may contain a generous amount of beef and peppers, but never beans.

If you ever want to try some amazing chili from the birthplace of Texas style, you might want to visit the wonderful city of San Antonio : It was in this place that the "Queens of Chili" started selling their delicious recipes at affordable prices.

4

Boston Cream Pie

Image: Alonso Reyes

Beignets are not the only sweet treat you’ll find on this list. From the very heart of New England comes the delicious Boston cream pie . As its name suggests, this spongy pie is filled with cream and usually topped with a layer of chocolate.

The Boston cream pie is a long-standing symbol of everything "Bean City" has to offer: After all, it has been proudly produced in this city since at least the 19th century. According to legend, this pie was created in 1856 in the historic Parker House Hotel, by Armenian-French chef Mossburg Sanzian.

5

Philly Cheesesteak

Image: Niramay Kachhadiya

Just like their trademarked slang noun "jawn", Philly’s most iconic dish is an extremely versatile sandwich. The cheesesteak and Philadelphia are as synonymous as… Well, Rocky and Philadelphia. This sandwich is made from pieces of roasted beef, grilled onions and melted cheese served on a hoagie roll, so its popularity doesn’t really need to be explained.

If you are looking for someone to thank for this delicious fast food, you can pay homage to brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri. In the 1930s, these two Philadelphians created what most believe to be the very first iteration of the Philly cheesesteak in their hot dog stand.

6

Gumbo

Image: David Trinks

We told you that beignets weren’t the only Louisiana delicacy making it to this list. Gumbo is an exquisite Louisiana Creole stew characterized for always including three ingredients known as the Creole "holy trinity": celery, bell peppers, and onions.

While this dish has been synonymous with "The Pelican State" since at least the 19th century, gumbo gained national popularity in the 1970s, after the U.S. Senate added it to the dining room’s menu in honor of Louisiana Senator Allen Ellender.

7

New England Clam Chowder

Image: Kevin Lanceplaine

Looking for "warm food for the soul"? Then maybe New England can help: Just try a hearty bowl of clam chowder in any of the states that comprise this beautiful region. This iconic soup has been produced in New England since the 18th century, although it is now widespread throughout the entire nation.

While several variations exist, all clam chowder recipes include clams, potatoes, and onions. The three most popular variants are the New England or "white" recipe (which includes cream or milk), the Manhattan or "red" recipe (which includes tomato sauce), and the Rhode Island or "clear" version which includes neither dairy nor tomatoes.

8

New Mexico Green Chile Stew

Image: Acton Crawford

If you ever visit New Mexico, don’t be surprised if someone asks you the state’s official question "Green or Red?" No, it's not a confusing haiku nor a piece of experimental poetry: they are just asking which type of pepper you would like with your meal. That being said, you should keep this entry in mind before you give out your answer, since you might want to try a bowl of mouth-watering "Chile Verde" or green chile stew.

While there are many variations to this recipe, green chile stew usually includes green peppers (of course), pork, garlic, and green tomatillos . Its spiciness might vary depending on the type of pepper used, but it might go from mildly to extremely spicy.

9

Florida Key Lime Pie

Image: American Heritage Chocolate

You would think the orange, Florida’s most famous fruit, would be featured in The Sunshine State’s iconic dessert, but that honor goes to the delicious Key lime pie. Should you ever find yourself in Key West, don’t leave without trying a piece of this exquisite and citric treat.

As the name indicates, Key limes are essential for making this pie, since they tend to be more acidic and aromatic than other limes. These limes are so revered by the good people of Key West that every year, the Key Lime Festival is held on the Independence Day weekend.

10

Apple pie

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

We’ll end this article with a sweet treat synonymous with being American . How many times have you heard that something is "as American as apple pie"? This iconic dessert has been tied with our nation’s history and identity since its inception, so it is no wonder that we always choose to have a piece of apple pie on the 4th of July.

While apple pies were brought over to America by European immigrants during the 17th century, it was quickly adopted as one of our nation’s most beloved symbols. Two different recipes for apple pie appear in America’s very first cookbook, Amelia Simmons’ "American Cookery", which was published in 1796.

1

Griffith Park, Los Angeles

Image: Venti Views

Covering over 4,000 acres, Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. Located in the hillside neighborhood of Los Feliz, this park is full of natural spaces , with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, baseball fields, tennis courts, and golf courses.

Probably the two most famous attractions in Griffith Park are the Griffith Observatory at the top of the hillside and the Hollywood Sign on the southeastern slope of Mount Lee. Griffith Park also features a number of museums and themed gardens, including the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum, the Autry Museum of the American West, and the Los Angeles Zoo.

2

City Park, New Orleans

Image: Farah Almazouni

Imagine a spring afternoon sitting on a bench by the lagoon, in the shade of an 800-year-old oak tree, reading your favorite book. Is there a more delightful plan? This pleasant dream can come true if you visit City Park in New Orleans!

In addition to its 1,300 acres of woodlands, waterways, and wildlife, this park is full of cool attractions. From amusement and theme parks (Carousel Gardens and Storyland) to a 1930s Art Deco-influenced Botanical Garden, an art museum with 40,000 objects in exhibition, and a sculpture garden. Trust us, it's worth leaving the French Quarter for a little while to take a stroll around this majestic city park!

3

Sculpture Garden, Minneapolis

Image: Paul Esch-Laurent

Built in 1988 and spanning 11 acres, Sculpture Garden in Minneapolis is one of the top urban sculpture gardens in the country. The garden is an ongoing collaboration between the city's parks department and the Walker Art Center.

In 2017, Sculpture Garden underwent an extensive renovation. A few pieces by contemporary artists such as Theaster Gates and Katherina Fritsch were added, a former wetland was restored, and native flora was planted to help feed essential and endangered pollinators.

While most visitors are drawn to the garden's inaugural centerpiece, "Spoonbridge and Cherry," the park features 40 permanent art installations and many temporary pieces that rotate periodically.

4

National Mall, Washington D.C.

Image: Jacob Creswick

The National Mall is often considered the political heart of the United States. This landscaped park in downtown Washington, D.C., is surrounded by impressive monuments, iconic government buildings, and amazing museums. Nearly two miles long, it stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol.

At the center of the National Mall is the Washington Monument. This obelisk, the highest point in the city, is surrounded by 56 flags representing the 50 states plus Washington D.C. and 5 U.S. territories.

Throughout this iconic park, you can also find 10 Smithsonian museums. For example, the National Museum of American History, which houses the first version of the American flag, and the National Museum of Natural History, with rooms full of dinosaurs and the Hope Diamond.

5

Forest Park, St. Louis

Image: Keran Yang

If you're looking for a peaceful place to relax after a busy day in the big city, Forest Park is the best option. It is visited by 13 million people a year for a reason! This 143-year-old park covers 1,326 acres of meadows and wetlands that are home to a great variety of birds and wildlife. It also features a six-mile bike ride, paddle boats, a golf and tennis center, an amphitheater, a skating rink, and a restaurant.

In addition, Forest Park is an important cultural hub . As well as housing the Saint Louis Art Museum, it hosts events such as the Great Forest Park Balloon Race, the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis, and the LouFest Music Festival. But perhaps the most visited place in the park is the Saint Louis Zoo, which has a collection of 18,000 animals. It's impossible to get bored in Forest Park!

6

Balboa Park, San Diego

Image: Leslie Yu

Balboa Park is a must-see for anyone visiting the city of San Diego. This huge 1,200-acre cultural and urban park was built in 1868, making it one of the oldest public spaces in the United States. Moreover, in 1977, it was declared a National Historic Landmark.

Balboa Park's 15 museums play a predominant role in the city's cultural life. These include the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Us, and the Museum of Art. Secondly, you can ' t miss the themed gardens, especially the Japanese Friendship Garden. Finally, the San Diego Zoo is one of Balboa Park's star attractions. This 99-acre zoo is considered one of the most important in the world, both for its diversity and its concern for the protection of animal species.

7

Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

Image: Jeffrey Eisen

Golden Gate Park is huge. At 1,017 acres, it is the largest park in San Francisco. Almost anything you can think of can be done in Golden Gate Park; from hiking and biking to disc golf and archery. But don’t worry if you are not a sports buff; this National Historic Landmark also has many relaxing spots to discover.

Some of the most interesting features you can visit are: the picturesque Dutch Windmill; the Garden of Fragrance, specially designed for blind visitors; the Japanese Tea Garden, decorated with bonsai and pagodas; or Shakespeare's Garden, with more than 200 flowers mentioned across the author’s works. Oh, and don't forget to head to the top of Strawberry Hill for an iconic view of the Golden Gate Bridge!

8

Patterson Park, Baltimore

Image: Aaron Burden

Patterson Park was once a key defense site for Americans fighting the British during the War of 1812. Today, this historic park, nicknamed "Best Backyard in Baltimore," is busy with bikers, joggers, and strollers who enjoy 137 acres of 50 different species of trees, smooth pathways, lakes, picnic areas, and sports fields.

In addition, during the summer, people can cool off in the swimming pool and, during the winter, have fun skating on the ski rink. But perhaps the park's main attraction is the Patterson Park Observatory, a gorgeous 1890s pagoda that serves as an observation tower and reflects Baltimoreans' fascination with the Orient.

9

Boston Common Park, Boston

Image: Josephine Baran

Boston Common was founded in 1634, making it the oldest public park in the United States. The site has great historical significance since many events related to American independence took place here. Today, the park is used primarily for recreational purposes and is the perfect spot to relax after a busy day.

Every spring, the famous swan-shaped boats sail away, as they have done for more than 140 years. In summer, the go-to place is the Frog Pond, which offers a refreshing wading pool for children. During winter, this same pond becomes a skating rink enjoyed by both kids and adults.

Fun fact: did you know that Boston Common sits on top of Boylston Station, the first subway station in the U.S.? Lots of "firsts" for this amazing site!

10

Central Park, New York City

Image: Michael Matloka

You may be thinking, what else can anyone tell me about Central Park that I don't already know? Yet, this city park is so iconic that it still has some secrets to reveal. For example, did you know Central Park is larger than the entire city-state of Monaco? Often referred to as "The Green Lung", this oasis in the heart of Manhattan is also the most filmed public park in the world, appearing in more than 500 movies.

With an extension of 843 acres, Central Park has a large number of attractions worth visiting, such as the Belvedere Castle, the "Imagine" mosaic, the Bethesda Fountain, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, the Central Park Zoo, lakes, 58 miles of pedestrian paths, many green areas to relax, two ice skating rinks and, in the warm season, outdoor theater and cinema. So, next time you visit New York City, you might want to check one of these out!

1

Musical roots

Image: Ahmed Rizkhaan

The American South is the birthplace of some of the most influential music genres in history, including blues and jazz. The blues, which originated in the Mississippi Delta in the late 19th century, captured the deep emotional and social experiences of African Americans in the post-Reconstruction South.

As the blues spread throughout the country, its rhythms and melodies laid the groundwork for jazz, which emerged in the vibrant streets of New Orleans in the early 20th century. These new sounds created a new musical language that favored improvisation and complex rhythms. By the 1920s, jazz had become a defining feature of American culture, solidifying the South's role as a cradle of American music.

2

The Lone Star state

Image: Perry Merrity II

Before joining the United States, Texas was an independent nation known as the Republic of Texas. After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas existed as a sovereign state for nearly a decade, with its own president, currency, and military.

The Lone Star flag, first adopted during this period, symbolized Texas's independent spirit and remains a proud emblem of the state today. Although the Republic of Texas was short-lived, with Texas officially becoming the 28th state of the Union in 1845, its legacy endures in the fierce yet friendly spirit of its inhabitants.

3

First successful powered flight

Image: History in HD

Although the Wright brothers were native Ohioans, the first successful powered flight took place in North Carolina on December 17, 1903. The historic flight occurred in the sand dunes of Kitty Hawk, where the Wright brothers chose to test their aircraft due to the area's steady winds and soft landing surfaces.

The achievement marked a pivotal moment in aviation history, proving that controlled, powered flight was possible. The site of this groundbreaking event is now commemorated by the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

4

Southern hospitality

Image: Aleks Marinkovic

Southern hospitality is more than just a stereotype—it's a deeply rooted tradition that has shaped the culture of the American South for centuries. This ethos of politeness, generosity, and warmth towards guests can be traced back to the region’s agrarian past, where communities were often isolated and people relied on one another for support.

This tradition was further reinforced over time by particular social customs, such as the importance of entertaining visitors with elaborate meals and ensuring that guests feel like part of the family. Southern hospitality is so integral to the region's identity that it’s become a hallmark of the South.

5

Mississippi River

Image: Mathew Benoit

Spanning over 2,300 miles, the Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States and plays a critical role in the nation’s geography and economy. Flowing from its source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, it traverses ten states, including several Southern states like Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

A vital artery for transportation and commerce since the early days of American history, the Mississippi also played a crucial role during the Civil War, with control of the river being a strategic priority for both Union and Confederate forces. To this day, the river continues to be a key waterway, supporting local industries and remaining a central part of the cultural and ecological identity of the region.

6

Oldest city in America

Image: Michael J. Vega

St. Augustine, Florida, holds the title of the oldest continuously occupied city of European origin in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, St. Augustine predates the founding of Jamestown and Plymouth by several decades.

As a strategic outpost for the Spanish Empire, the city played a crucial role in defending Spain’s claims to the New World, particularly against British and French incursions. The Castillo de San Marcos, a massive stone fortress completed in 1695, still stands as a testament to the region's rich history.

7

Southern delights

Image: Alex Haney

Southern cuisine, known for dishes like fried chicken, barbecue, and biscuits, is considered a cornerstone of American food culture. In fact, the popularity of Southern food has spread nationwide, with restaurants and festivals celebrating these flavors from coast to coast.

A true melting pot of cultures, the region’s beloved cuisine has a rich history with roots that can be traced back to Native American, African, and European influences. The ingredients reflect the region’s agricultural history, with many recipes using corn or corn-derived products. Southern cuisine also includes iconic dishes like jambalaya and gumbo from Louisiana, which highlight the region’s French and Creole influences.

8

Space pioneers

Image: Brian McGowan

NASA’s southern centers have been pivotal in shaping the U.S. space program. The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, was crucial in developing the Saturn V rocket that made the moon landing possible. The Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, is the hub for astronaut training and mission control, and the Kennedy Space Center in Florida has been the launch site for every manned mission since 1968.

To this day, the South’s importance in space and scientific endeavors remains uncontested: NASA centers in the region lead astronaut training and are essential for rocket launches, maintaining their status as pioneers of space exploration.

9

Bourbon & Moonshine

Image: Jeff Frank

Bourbon, often considered America's native spirit, has deep roots in the South, particularly in Kentucky, where it is produced under stringent guidelines. To be classified as bourbon, the whiskey must be made from a mash bill of at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. This specific process, along with Kentucky’s unique limestone water, gives bourbon its distinctive flavor and character.

But the tradition extends way beyond just bourbon. The craft of homebrewing various types of alcoholic beverages has long been a vital part of the region’s cultural heritage. For example, during Prohibition, the South became notorious for its moonshine —illegally brewed, high-proof spirits (essentially clear, unaged whiskey)—which were smuggled across the country.

10

Southern Drawl

Image: Joe Lavigne

The Southern accent, often referred to as the "Southern drawl," is one of the most recognizable in the United States. This unique dialect evolved from a mix of British, Irish, and African influences during the early settlement of the region.

The drawl's elongated vowels and slow cadence might even reflect the South's agricultural origins, where life moved at a more leisurely pace. The accent has evolved over centuries and is now recognized as a defining feature of Southern identity, often evoking a sense of charm and regional pride.