Articles

From sea to shining sea: discover state secrets, road trip adventures, and fascinating stories about this incredible country we call home.

The Only U.S. State With Just One Bordering State

America\'s Single-Border State

Maine stands as a geographical anomaly among U.S. states, sharing a land border with only New Hampshire while being surrounded by water and Canada. This unique positioning has shaped Maine\'s development, culture, and identity throughout its history.

Cyclists using a protected bike lane in downtown Portland

America's Top Bike-Friendly Cities

Cycling continues to grow as both recreation and transportation across America. These cities lead the way with dedicated infrastructure, bike-sharing programs, and cycling-supportive policies that make them ideal destinations for those who prefer to travel on two wheels.

Golden Gate Bridge with San Francisco skyline in background

15 Iconic American Bridges

From coast to coast, America's bridges tell stories of engineering triumph, historical significance, and architectural beauty. These iconic structures not only connect landscapes but have become beloved landmarks that define their cities.

The iconic Prada Marfa art installation outside the quirky desert town of Marfa, Texas

10 Must-Visit Quirky American Towns

America is filled with wonderfully weird towns that defy expectations. From a town where Christmas never ends to one built entirely underground, these quirky destinations showcase the creative spirit and unique character that make small-town America so fascinating.

The ornate United States Senate chamber with empty desks arranged in a semicircle

Small States' Outsized Power in the Senate

Despite having just a fraction of the U.S. population, states like Wyoming and Vermont wield the same Senate voting power as California and Texas. This constitutional feature creates a significant imbalance in representation that shapes American politics in profound ways.

Peaceful tent campsite in a secluded forest clearing at sunrise

15 Secret Camping Spots You Won't Believe Exist

Beyond the crowded national parks and popular campgrounds lies a different America - one of secluded beaches, hidden canyons, and pristine forests where you can truly connect with nature. These hidden gem camping destinations offer solitude, adventure, and stunning landscapes without the tour buses and selfie sticks.

Aerial view of Washington D.C. showing the National Mall and Capitol Building

Why D.C. Became America's Capital City

The establishment of Washington D.C. as America's capital was not a straightforward decision but rather the result of political compromise, strategic planning, and the vision of key founding fathers. The story involves regional tensions, financial deals, and George Washington's personal influence.

Map showing U.S. states with highlighted borders between states

States With Most Neighbors

Some U.S. states are geographical connectors, sharing borders with numerous neighbors. These border-rich states often serve as cultural and economic crossroads, influencing everything from regional accents to transportation networks.

San Francisco skyline with iconic Golden Gate Bridge and downtown high-rises

15 Budget-Busting US Cities

Living in America's most expensive cities offers unparalleled opportunities and amenities, but at a steep price. From astronomical housing costs in San Francisco to the premium lifestyle of New York City, these urban centers demand significant financial resources from residents seeking their unique advantages.

Map of the United States showing electoral college votes by state

Electoral College Explained: America's Unique Voting System

The Electoral College isn't a physical place but a process that determines who becomes US President. With 538 electors divided among states based on congressional representation, this system has decided presidential outcomes for over two centuries-sometimes selecting presidents who didn't win the popular vote.

California Zephyr train passing through Colorado's Rocky Mountains with snow-capped peaks in background

12 Stunning American Train Journeys

America's railways offer some of the most spectacular views of the country's diverse landscapes. From crossing the Rocky Mountains to hugging Pacific coastlines, these train routes combine comfort with breathtaking scenery that can't be experienced any other way.

Cracked road with large fissure after major Alaska earthquake

Alaska: America's Earthquake Capital

Alaska experiences more earthquakes than all other 49 states combined. With over 20,000 seismic events annually, this geological wonder sits at a perfect storm of tectonic activity that makes it one of Earth's most unstable regions.

Scenic landscape of Wyoming with mountains and open plains

10 States with the Fewest Residents

While some US states boast populations larger than many countries, others remain surprisingly sparse. These ten least populated states offer unique lifestyles, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating cultural identities despite their relatively small number of residents.

Hikers on trail with view of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park

15 Top National Parks for Hikers

America's national parks offer some of the most spectacular hiking opportunities in the world. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the deep canyons of the Southwest, these protected landscapes provide hikers with unforgettable trails and vistas that showcase nature at its most awe-inspiring.

Museum display of Augustynolophus morrisi, California's official state dinosaur

California's Official Dinosaur: A Rare Golden State Discovery

In 2017, California joined a select group of states by officially adopting Augustynolophus morrisi as its state dinosaur. This duck-billed hadrosaur roamed California during the Late Cretaceous period and represents one of the most complete dinosaur specimens ever found in the state.

Colorful historic buildings along Charleston's waterfront with palm trees

10 Perfect Weekend Escape Cities

Short on vacation days but craving an escape? These 10 US cities offer the perfect weekend getaway balance - enough attractions to fill 2-3 days without overwhelming you, easy accessibility, and distinct cultural experiences that make you feel you've truly gotten away from your routine.

Outdoor dining scene in Traverse City with local cuisine and cherry-based dishes

15 Small-Town Foodie Paradises in America

Beyond the renowned food scenes of major cities lie America's small-town culinary gems, where passionate chefs, farm-to-table ethos, and regional specialties create exceptional dining experiences with charm and authenticity that big cities simply can't match.

A large grizzly bear standing in a wilderness setting

America's Deadliest Animals

While America's wildlife is diverse and beautiful, some species pose serious threats to humans. This guide explores the animals responsible for the most deaths and injuries in the United States, from unexpected insects to powerful predators.

Exterior view of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC with visitors entering

17 Must-Visit American Museums

From priceless art collections to fascinating scientific exhibits, America\'s most popular museums attract millions of visitors each year. These cultural institutions showcase everything from ancient artifacts to space shuttles, offering immersive educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

Fishmongers tossing fresh fish at Pike Place Market in Seattle

10 Must-Visit Food Markets in American Cities

America's urban food markets offer culinary journeys unlike any other, showcasing local specialties, artisanal goods, and cultural diversity. These 10 cities host the country's most exceptional food halls and markets, where visitors can taste regional delicacies, meet passionate vendors, and experience authentic American food culture firsthand.

Aerial view of Hawaii\'s Big Island showing volcanic terrain and coastline

10 Largest US Islands Worth Visiting

The United States possesses some of the world\'s most spectacular island territories, from the volcanic wonders of Hawaii to the Arctic wilderness of Alaska. These diverse landmasses offer unique ecosystems, cultures, and landscapes that showcase America\'s geographic diversity beyond the mainland.

Juicy sliced brisket with smoke ring served on butcher paper at a Texas barbecue joint

15 Epic American BBQ Destinations

American barbecue is a culinary tradition defined by regional styles, time-honored techniques, and passionate debate. From Texas brisket to Carolina whole hog, this guide takes you through the smoky landscape of America's most celebrated barbecue destinations.

Iolani Palace in Honolulu, the only royal palace on U.S. soil

Hawaii: America's Only Former Kingdom

Before becoming America's 50th state, Hawaii stood as a sovereign kingdom with its own monarchy, complex political system, and international recognition. This royal heritage makes Hawaii unique among all U.S. states and continues to influence its culture and identity today.

Yosemite Falls cascading down granite cliff in Yosemite National Park

America's 10 Tallest Waterfalls

America's landscape is adorned with some of the world's most impressive waterfalls, with heights that rival skyscrapers and volumes that move millions of gallons daily. From Yosemite's iconic falls to lesser-known cascades in remote wilderness areas, these natural wonders showcase the raw power and beauty of flowing water cutting through the American terrain.

The Old State House in Dover where Delaware ratified the Constitution

Delaware: America's First State

On December 7, 1787, Delaware made history by becoming the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, earning its nickname "The First State." This small mid-Atlantic colony beat larger states to ratification through strategic decision-making, unity among its delegates, and a progressive vision for the new nation.

Thomas Edison's light bulb, one of America's most iconic inventions

10 Game-Changing American Inventions

American innovation has profoundly shaped modern civilization through groundbreaking inventions. From the internet and smartphones to the light bulb and airplane, these ten revolutionary American creations fundamentally transformed how humans live, work, and connect globally.

Massive dust storm approaching a rural farm during the 1930s Dust Bowl

The Dust Bowl: When America's Heartland Turned to Dust

The Dust Bowl of the 1930s stands as America's most devastating ecological disaster, when severe drought combined with decades of intensive farming destroyed millions of acres of farmland across the Great Plains. As apocalyptic dust storms blackened skies and buried homes, thousands of desperate families abandoned their land in search of survival.

The original Star-Spangled Banner flag that inspired Francis Scott Key

The Story Behind the Star-Spangled Banner

Born from the fires of the War of 1812, The Star-Spangled Banner began as a poem written by Francis Scott Key after witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry. This powerful symbol of American resilience has a fascinating history few know, from its humble beginnings to its official adoption as the national anthem in 1931.

American flag with potential new stars representing statehood candidates

Who Will Be America's 51st State?

From Puerto Rico to Washington D.C., explore the leading candidates vying to become the next U.S. state. Learn about their ongoing statehood efforts and the unique challenges each faces on the path to statehood.

Historical image of the signing of the Declaration of Independence

How Old is the USA? A Complete Timeline

From ancient Native American settlements to the Declaration of Independence and beyond, explore the fascinating journey of how the United States came to be and its true historical age.

Big Bend National Park in full spring flow

Best National Parks to Visit in April

From Yosemite's thundering waterfalls to Death Valley's desert blooms, discover the most spectacular national parks to visit during spring's perfect hiking weather.

Satellite view of the United States showing its vast geography

How Big is the USA? Guide to America's Size and Geography

Discover just how vast the United States really is. Compare its size to entire continents, explore its diverse geographic regions, and learn fascinating facts about America's immense scale.

Old law books with gavel

The Most Insane State Laws That Are Still Active in 2025

You can't feed garbage to pigs in Arizona without a permit? It's illegal to fall asleep in a cheese factory in South Dakota? These ridiculous laws are somehow still on the books - and you might be breaking them!

Charming main street in a historic American small town

Forget the big cities! These delightful small towns pack more character into their main streets than some states have in total. Get ready for quirky festivals, legendary pie shops, and the warmest welcomes in the USA.

Map with US time zones by state

States with Multiple Time Zones

Time-traveling is real - at least in these US states! Discover the places where you can technically celebrate New Year's twice and why your GPS might get very confused.

Scenic road through lesser-known American landscape

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Travel Destinations

Skip the tourist traps and explore America's best-kept secrets. From underground cities to forgotten ghost towns, these overlooked destinations are waiting to blow your mind.

Diverse landscape features of the United States

Fascinating US Geography Facts

Did you know there's a US state with active volcanoes? Or one where you can stand in four states at once? Prepare to amaze your friends with these mind-blowing American geography facts.

Scenic view of Rocky Mountain National Park

Top 10 Must-Visit National Parks in the USA

From the mind-bending rock formations of Utah to the steamy geysers of Yellowstone, discover the crown jewels of America's natural heritage. Warning: may cause spontaneous road trip planning!

Historical map showing US state boundaries

How US State Boundaries Were Drawn

Ever wonder why Wyoming is a perfect rectangle while Michigan looks like a mitten? Dive into the fascinating tale of surveyors, political drama, and occasional chaos that shaped America's state lines.

Classic American road trip on Route 66

Ultimate American Road Trip Routes

Gas up the car and queue your favorite playlist! From coast-to-coast adventures to scenic byways that'll make your Instagram followers jealous, these are the ultimate American road trips.