1

Abraham Lincoln

Image: Jacob Thorson

"You have to do your own growing no matter how tall your grandfather was" is an iconic line attributed to Abraham Lincoln. The funny thing is, he was indeed very tall, remarkably so. In fact, he holds the title of the tallest US president! At 6'4", Honest Abe was a really tall man for his era (and also by today's standards). Plus, his trademark stovepipe -where he was said to keep papers and documents- added even more inches!

2

Thomas Jefferson

Image: David Trinks

Thomas Jefferson was not only one of the Founding Fathers; he was also one of our country's tallest presidents. At 6'2.5", Jefferson was pretty close to the towering Lincoln!

In addition, there are records that speak of his large hands and feet, and it's stated that he wore size 12 shoes, which were considered very large.

3

George Washington

Image: Dave Lowe

At 6'2", the first President of the United States, George Washington, was also one of the tallest Commanders-in-chief. However, there was much more than just his height.

According to historical records, The Father of His Country was also strong and muscular, standing out from a young age in disciplines such as horseback riding and wrestling.

4

George H. W. Bush

Image: David Everett Strickler

During his youth, George H. W. Bush played as the captain of Yale University's baseball team, where his 6'2" height made him stand out. In fact, he ranks 5th among the tallest US Presidents. However, several other presidents also stood at 6'2", including the aforementioned George Washington, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Bill Clinton, and Chester A. Arthur, who all share the fifth spot.

5

Ronald Reagan

Image: Nicolas HIPPERT

Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the US, stood at 6'1", which made him about 4 inches taller than the average height of men in his time. As is well known, Reagan maintained an athletic body from a young age and well into adulthood, enjoying activities like horseback riding and swimming.

Even before his political career, Reagan's height and presence -along with his skills and charisma- helped him get acting roles in Hollywood, where he went on to star in dozens of films.

6

John F. Kennedy

Image: Florida Memory

Although several presidents were taller, John F. Kennedy still stood above the average at 6'1".

You've probably seen images of JFK standing beside his opponent, Richard Nixon, during the 1960 US presidential campaign, right? As you can see in those pictures, as well as in the famous TV debate, Kennedy appears quite taller than Nixon. Additionally, JFK's voluminous hair -one of his trademarks- added a few more inches.

7

Richard Nixon

Image: History in HD

Some specialists claim that a candidate's height may influence the outcome of presidential elections, tipping the balance in favor of the taller candidate. They say this might have been the case in the 1960 election. However, Richard Nixon's 5'11" didn't stop him from becoming the 37th President of the United States. He won the 1968 election, defeating Hubert Humphrey (also 5'11"), and was re-elected in 1972 with a victory over George McGovern (6'1").

8

Jimmy Carter

Image: Suzy Brooks

Just one inch shorter than Nixon, President Jimmy Carter stood at 5'10", surpassing the average height for an American man by a hair's breadth but falling just below the average presidential height of 5'11".

From a young age, Carter was involved in various sports and outdoor activities, and his tendency to maintain an active lifestyle was emphasized during his presidency.

9

John Adams

Image: sarina gr

Now, it's the turn of presidents whose heights were slightly below the average for American men. Among them is the extraordinary John Adams, the second President of the United States, who stood at 5'7".

What distinguished this Founding Father wasn't his physique but his amazing intelligence, charisma, and strong character, which were fundamental in shaping our nation.

10

James Madison

Image: Richard Hedrick

Finally, we come to James Madison, the 4th US President and the Father of the Constitution. At 5'4", Madison was the shortest president in American history. Some portraits of the time depict him alongside his wife, Dolley Madison, who was not only slightly taller but also wore hats that added extra inches to her height.

However, despite Madison's shorter stature, it's undeniable that his role in shaping the United States was immense.

1

Big Mac (McDonald's)

Image: amirali mirhashemian

Two beef patties, shredded lettuce, dill pickles, onions, cheddar cheese, and a special sauce, all topped with two seeded buns. That's the Big Mac, McDonald's flagship product and one of the world's best-selling fast food dishes.

The idea of the Big Mac as we know it today was originally conceived in the mid-1960s by entrepreneur Jim Delligatti, owner of one of the brand's first franchises. The name of the iconic burger, however, was suggested by a 21-year-old secretary working in McDonald's advertising department.

2

Classic Pretzel (Auntie Anne’s)

Image: Pierre Gui

If we talk about the best fast food snacks, pretzels must be included. In the United States, "pretzel" is synonymous with Auntie Anne's. This franchised chain, founded in 1988 , now boasts more than 1,300 stores across the country.

Everyone has followed the scent of these freshly baked pretzels at the mall or the airport at least once. It’s impossible to resist their buttery, salty, and delicious flavor that transports us to another world entirely. No wonder their slogan is "Pretzel Perfect"!

3

Curly fries (Arby’s)

Image: Chait Goli

Fries never disappoint, but if they come in a novel spiral shape, well-seasoned, and perfectly sized to devour in one bite, we're looking at one of the most incredible fries ever created.

While Arby's may not have invented curly fries, it was certainly the company that brought them to fame. Arby's introduced these crispy and delicious Cajun-style seasoned fries in 1988, and they have been a hit ever since.

4

Chicken tenders (Popeyes)

Image: Samuel Isaacs

Many fast food chains offer their version of the chicken nugget, but since Popeyes specializes in fried chicken, it's no surprise that they have one of the best versions of chicken tenders on the market.

If you haven't tried Popeyes' take on this classic American dish, you should. Their tenders are famous for their juicy chicken and their secret blend of crunchy coating. Pair them with the dipping sauce of your choice, and you’re good to go!

5

Cajun fries (Five Guys)

Image: hansbenn

Five Guys is best known for their delicious burgers, but perhaps the dish that sets them apart from other chains is their Cajun fries.

Tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside, these fries are truly unique. Once fried, they are tossed in a special blend of Cajun spices —garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, and more! They are flavorful with just the right amount of spice. Have a kick with Five Guys' cajun fries!

6

Glazed doughnut (Krispy Kreme)

Image: No Revisions

Krispy Kreme has been around since 1937, and in those many years of history, it has created hundreds of different doughnut flavors. Yet, the glazed doughnut remains a classic that never fails to impress.

Its light, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with that crackly glaze transports anyone back to their childhood in an instant—especially if you're lucky enough to get them fresh out of the oven!

7

Fried chicken (KFC)

Image: Aleks Dorohovich

One of Popeyes' biggest competitors is, without a doubt, Kentucky Fried Chicken. While Popeyes is known for its chicken tenders, KFC is famous for its giant buckets of fried chicken.

KFC's signature dish is fried, on-the-bone chicken pieces seasoned with Colonel Harland Sanders' "Original Recipe" of 11 herbs and spices—and we all love it. Whether you have them at a Fourth of July celebration or during a football game, KFC's fried chicken has that nostalgic effect that keeps you going!

8

Whopper (Burger King)

Image: Servetphotograph

If there's one thing we've always associated with Burger King, it's that distinctive grilled flavor. And the best representation of that flavor is its signature dish, the Whopper burger.

Although the ingredients of this gigantic sandwich, created in the late 1950s , are quite simple—one beef patty, lettuce, tomato, and pickles—it’s a favorite among fast food lovers around the world.

9

Italian B.M.T. (Subway)

Image: mandarinMD

Subway is one of the largest fast-food chains in the world, specializing in submarine sandwiches. While everyone can create their own custom sandwich with fresh ingredients of their choice, Subway has a best-selling sandwich that has become an all-time classic.

Subway's Italian B.M.T.—short for "Biggest, Meatiest, Tastiest"—is served on freshly baked bread and filled with a combination of three types of deli meats: salami, pepperoni, and ham. According to lore, the name also references the Brooklyn-Manhattan Transit subway line. Did you know that?

10

Blizzard (Dairy Queen)

Image: ROMAN ODINTSOV

A list of the best fast food items wouldn't be complete without including at least one ice cream product. Many chains offer incredible alternatives, but Dairy Queen is, well, the queen of soft serve.

Dairy Queen's staple product, the Blizzard, was introduced in 1985 , and that same year, the company sold more than 100 million desserts. Today, there are almost 20 different Blizzard flavors, each with the best toppings. From cookies to candy, there's a delicious option for everyone!

11

Baconator (Wendy’s)

Image: Batu Gezer

Wendy's is an American fast-food restaurant, founded in 1969, famous for its square patties. It offers a large number of products, all equally delicious. But even though it was only introduced in 2007, the Baconator has become one of its flagship products, helping the company increase its sales.

A perfect combination of beef, American cheese, and crispy smoked bacon makes this burger a favorite among consumers across the country.

12

Onion rings (Burger King)

Image: Alejandro Aznar

French fries are the ultimate fast food side dish, but every once in a while, it's nice to switch things up and try something new. Burger King's onion rings are definitely a safe bet.

Tender and sweet on the inside, and crunchy on the outside, this classic American treat consists of sliced onions covered in batter and breadcrumbs, then deep-fried. Overall, it's the perfect snack for dipping into your favorite sauce!

1

Central Park

Image: Harry Gillen

Let’s open the list with a classic one: Central Park. Located in the heart of New York, Central Park attracts local and foreign visitors by the millions. The reasons are just one too many to list in this article but to put it simply, the park offers a wide variety of activities with some of the most astounding views in the city.

Within the 843 acres, visitors can enjoy views of the Ramble and Lake, the Central Park Zoo, Hallett Nature Sanctuary, and more. No visit to New York is truly complete without a visit to Central Park!

2

Independence National Historical Park

Image: Miguel Ángel Sanz

Our vast country has proudly fought its way to independence and the landmarks that narrate that history are scattered all over the country. However, one city has more landmarks than any other: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Here, you’ll find the Independence National Historical Park, a federally protected area that comprises several historic buildings like the Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell. Do you want to go over history? This is the place for you, and it’s free!

3

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Image: NATHAN MULLET

If nature is your thing, National Parks are the best options. They offer the best views for a free entrance, what’s better than that?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in our country and, big as it is, it offers more than just stunning mountain views. The park spans across the border of Tennessee and North Carolina and, in it, you can choose to visit the historic structures, walk along the hiking trails, enjoy the waterfalls, and more!

4

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Image: Daiga Ellaby

After two Snow Leopard cubs, the Cape May County Zoo was under the spotlight, and for good reason. This attraction will keep you entertained and won’t make you break the bank.

The animal exhibits, which feature more than 500 creatures , are amazing. Besides, you can also enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails.

Open every day except Christmas day, the zoo is a perfect opportunity to get to know the wildlife and enjoy an outdoor activity day for free!

5

Golden Gate Bridge

Image: Maarten van den Heuvel

This magnificent bridge has been the main character in many films and TV shows, it’s extraordinary, and imposing and it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most recognizable constructions in America and the World. It is one of San Francisco’s gems and crossing it is just a must for anyone paying a visit to the city. Moreover, visitors can enjoy the Golden Gate National Recreational Area and the Golden Gate Park. Just amazing, isn’t it?

6

U.S. Mint

Image: Adam Nir

Have you ever wondered where the coins you handle every day come from? If that is so, you have to pay a visit to the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia.

Visitors can learn more about the history of the nation’s coins through a self-guided tour that takes only 45 minutes. Additionally, there is a gift shop that offers collectible coins and tokens about the U.S. financial system. And of course, you’ll be able to see how the coins are actually produced. If that’s not enough, meeting Peter the Mint Eagle, a real bald eagle will surely convince you, right?

7

Freedom Trail

Image: Brett Wharton

This is no short trail. The Freedom Trail spans for 2.5 miles and it goes through a variety of locations that are significant in the construction of our nation.

Starting in Boston Common, in downtown Boston, the Trail takes you through historic sites , important buildings, and churches. Note that not every stop in the Trail admits visitors for free, but most of them do at the same time accept donations.

8

JC Raulston Arboretum

Image: micheile henderson

In Raleigh, North Carolina, you can find JC Raulston Arboretum, a 10-acre botanical garden that features a massive collection of plants, bulbs, trees, and more from over 50 countries!

With just a visit, you’ll get to know the most diverse plant collection . In the Arboretum, you’ll find more than ten carefully curated gardens and enjoy educational programs and workshops for all ages.

9

Loggerhead Marinelife Center

Image: Giorgia Doglioni

Located in Juno Beach, Florida, Loggerhead Marinelife Center is devoted to marine conservation. It specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of sea turtles and it offers its visitors the possibility to learn about sea animals’ ecosystems for free.

This place is perfect for children, but people of all ages can enjoy a visit through the guided tours and the educational programs it has. Now, the highlight of this place? You can also adopt a turtle and contribute to ocean conservation! How cute is that?

10

National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center

Image: Levi Meir Clancy

Located in Columbus, Georgia, this museum with free admission goes over the history of the U.S. Army Infantry . The archive collects pieces from the American Revolution to the more current military operations. The exhibits are curated and displayed in different galleries depending on the era.

It is an interactive museum that takes visitors through the values that guide the military task, such as duty, loyalty, service, honor, integrity, and more. Which of these places are you visiting next?