1

Harrisburg

Image: Judith Chambers

With a long and rich history, Harrisburg may not be the largest or most famous city in its state, but it holds the title of the capital city. Situated along the Susquehanna River, it serves as the heart of a state that played a critical role in shaping the nation. Known as "The Keystone State," this region was central to the Revolutionary War and the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

2

Springfield

Image: Andrew Adams

In Springfield, you'll find landmarks like the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Why? Well, because Uncle Abe lived in this city for nearly 20 years before becoming the 16th US president.

Beyond Lincoln, Springfield is also known for its signature dish: the horseshoe sandwich ! Have you tried it? We bet you already know which state Springfield represents as its capital!

3

Jefferson City

Image: Ann Schreck

Jefferson City—named after Thomas Jefferson —is the capital of the " Show-Me State ," renowned for the breathtaking Ozarks.

Jefferson City was specifically established to serve as the state capital. With a population of under 45,000, it is the 16th most populous city in the state! Can you guess which state it belongs to?

4

Frankfort

Image: Alek Olson

One of the smallest capitals in the United States by population, Frankfort is the capital of a state located in the Southeastern US, bordered by seven states, including Tennessee and West Virginia. Famous for its fried chicken and bourbon , it is known as the "Bluegrass State." What's your guess?

5

Carson City

Image: Roland Schumann

Located near Lake Tahoe, Carson City is the capital of the "Silver State," known for its mining history, desert landscapes, and unparalleled shrimp cocktail.

It is recognized as the driest state in the country, home to landmarks like the Hoover Dam and the mysterious Area 51 . Have you ever visited?

6

Tallahassee

Image: Damon On Road

If we say: Everglades, Walt Disney World, and Kennedy Space Center, which state comes to mind? Famous for its orange production, its iconic Key lime pie, and delicious Cuban sandwiches, this state’s capital is Tallahassee, a lovely city in the northern part of the state. Do you know which state we’re talking about?

7

Harrisburg: Pennsylvania

Image: Andre Frueh

You were right! Located in the center of the state, Harrisburg has been the capital of Pennsylvania since 1812 . Before Harrisburg, Philadelphia (1682–1799) and Lancaster (1799–1812) served as the capitals of Pennsylvania.

8

Springfield: Illinois

Image: Tucker Good

If you guessed "Illinois," you were right! Springfield has been the capital of the Prairie State since 1839 . As mentioned, the city's history is closely tied to Abraham Lincoln's legacy, which is why you'll find landmarks like the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Additionally, it was in this city that Lincoln delivered his famous "House Divided" speech !

9

Jefferson City: Missouri

Image: Rythik

Its proximity to the Missouri River was instrumental in choosing Jefferson City as the capital city of the state of Missouri in 1821. Here, you can find the imposing Missouri State Capitol building, completed in 1917!

Bonus fun fact: Before it was named Jefferson City—in honor of our nation’s 3rd president—local authorities considered calling it "Missouriopolis." Can you imagine?

10

Frankfort: Kentucky

Image: Josh Collesano

Frankfort became the capital of Kentucky in 1792, shortly after the state entered the Union. Located in the Bluegrass region of the state, the city is crossed by the Kentucky River, which gives it a unique charm. Frankfort is also home to the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery —one of the oldest bourbon distilleries in the country—and the historic Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial .

11

Carson City: Nevada

Image: Parth Thakker

Since 1864 , when Nevada became a state, Carson City has served as its lovely capital. But do you know why it's called "Carson City"? The capital of Nevada was named in honor of Christopher "Kit" Carson , a famous frontiersman and explorer of the area.

If you want to learn more about the history of Nevada and its capital, you can visit the Nevada State Museum , also located in Carson City!

12

Tallahassee: Florida

Image: Kevin Dunlap

With an estimated population of about 200,000, Tallahassee has been the capital of sunny Florida since 1824 . Considered a " college town " because of its large population of college students, Tallahassee is home to Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee Community College!

1

Babe Ruth

Image: Diana Polekhina

Who better to start this article than The Sultan of Swat himself? Babe Ruth is the closest thing to baseball royalty, arguably the most famous player in American history. Born George Herman Ruth in 1895, he showcased his talent early on: By 19, he had signed with the Baltimore Orioles but was soon sold to the Red Sox. However, it was after joining the New York Yankees that the Bambino truly made his mark, becoming what many consider the greatest baseball player of all time .

2

The Curse of the Bambino

Image: Steshka Willems

Remember when we mentioned that the Red Sox sold Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees ? We forgot to highlight a rather infamous detail: For many fans, this transaction sealed the fate of the Boston-based team, subjecting them to an 86-year championship drought known as The Curse of the Bambino . According to believers, the controversial sale doomed the Red Sox , who had won five of the first fifteen World Series before Ruth’s departure. Fortunately, the team finally broke the curse in 2004 by defeating the St. Louis Cardinals.

3

Mickey Mantle

Image: Brandon Mowinkel

When Mickey Charles Mantle was a child in Spavinaw, Oklahoma, he likely had no idea he would one day earn some of the most colorful nicknames in baseball history , including The Commerce Comet or simply The Mick . Few players have ever lived up to such titles as Mantle did. To this day, he is considered one of the greatest sluggers of all time, winning the American League MVP award three times and earning his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974.

4

Reggie Jackson

Image: Tim Gouw

eginald Martinez Jackson, better known as Reggie Jackson —or by his iconic nickname, _Mr. October_—is considered baseball royalty. Not only did he help four of the greatest teams in Major League Baseball secure multiple championships, but he also hit an impressive 563 career home runs over 21 seasons in Major League Baseball. Along the way, he earned 14 All-Star selections and won the American League MVP award in 1973. Today, Jackson serves as a special advisor to the Houston Astros, a team he helped win the 2022 World Series.

5

Have it in the bag

Image: benjamin hershey

Did you know that one of the most famous American idioms comes from baseball? To have something in the bag means being completely confident in achieving victory or a desired result. Interestingly, this phrase originates from a superstition held by the New York Giants in the 1910s. According to this ritual, if the Giants were leading late in the game, they would carry their equipment bag off the field, believing it would secure their victory.

6

Teddy Williams

Image: Josh Hemsley

Ted Williams’s greatness shouldn’t be recognized only in the world of baseball. Not that his career was anything short of formidable— Teddy Ballgame is still considered one of the greatest hitters of all time and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966 . However, Williams also holds the honor of being a World War II veteran , bravely serving his country and inspiring thousands of American soldiers deployed overseas.

7

Willie Mays

Image: Lesly Juarez

If you happen to visit Queens , you’ll see that this NYC borough still reveres the name Willie Mays . During the height of his career, Mays could often be found engaged in a friendly game of stickball with neighborhood kids. Beyond his kindness, Mays was also a legendary player, and his famous over-the-shoulder catch during the 1954 World Series is still considered one of the greatest plays of all time.

8

Joe DiMaggio

Image: Winston Chen

Joe DiMaggio’s life has been the subject of many documentaries and books , cementing his status as a pop culture icon. Just think of all the songs that reference this legendary player, from Simon & Garfunkel’s "Mrs. Robinson" to Madonna’s "Vogue." In fact, his colorful life often overshadows his baseball prowess—a remarkable feat, considering DiMaggio’s career is one of the most successful in the sport’s history. Joe led the New York Yankees to 10 American League pennants and 9 World Series championships , a record surpassed only by fellow Yankee Yogi Berra.

Speaking of…

9

Yogi Berra

Image: Chris Briggs

Lawrence Peter "Yogi" Berra played 18 of his 19 MLB seasons with the New York Yankees , a team that still considers him one of the greatest players to ever wear the pinstripes. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, Yogi's exceptional skills as a catcher cemented his place in baseball history. But beyond his athletic prowess, he is also remembered for his unique way with words, famously coining phrases like, "It ain't over 'til it's over."

10

Hank Aaron

Image: Pixabay

Known by his nicknames Hammer and Hammerin’ Hank , right fielder Hank Aaron spent his legendary career representing the city of Milwaukee , first with the Milwaukee Braves (before their move to Atlanta) and later with the Milwaukee Brewers. Aaron accomplished what many thought was impossible when he broke Babe Ruth’s career home run record , a title he held for 33 years until 2007.

1

Pizza

Image: Nik Owens

This Italian classic truly needs no introduction. From its humble beginnings in Naples, pizza conquered the world, and America is no exception. Whether it's a classic New York slice or a deep-dish Chicago pie , pizza is a staple in American diets, with endless customizable topping options.

2

Sushi

Image: Jakub Dziubak

Once considered exotic, this Japanese delicacy has become a mainstream favorite in America. From California rolls to spicy tuna, these bite-sized pieces of artfully prepared fish and rice have won over many of our palates with their fresh flavors. Not to mention the fun appeal of sushi bars!

3

Fondue

Image: angela pham

Cheese fondue or chocolate fondue? All are welcome! This Swiss tradition of dipping diced food into a communal pot has become a fun and interactive dining experience for Americans. It’s a meal as much as an event: The point is to share and enjoy!

4

Dulce de Leche

Image: Leigh Skomal

This caramel treat hails from South America, where it's slathered on everything : pancakes, fruit, ice cream —you name it! Lately, Americans have embraced this sweet indulgence, swirling it into ice cream and frappucinos, drizzling it over desserts, and even stuffing it into cookies.

5

Ramen

Image: Bon Vivant

Another convenient, exotic, and fulfilling meal that many Americans can vouch for. Whether in the form of a quick instant noodle fix or as a gourmet bowl in a Japanese bar, this is a meal that has become a favorite comfort food for many.

6

Macaron

Image: Holly Stratton

Charming to the eyes as well as delicious! Macarons are delicate French cookies that are almost too pretty to eat . They are almond-based and usually served in bright colors, already a favorite for those of us with a sweet tooth.

7

Pad Thai

Image: Hidden

Once street food in Thailand, today a go-to for American takeout lovers. It combines fried rice noodles, protein, vegetables, and a tangy sauce . Interesting! The dish offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures that has garnered many fans across the country.

8

Paella

Image: Olivier Collet

Paellas are inviting to all of the senses. This saffron rice is a staple of Spanish cuisine and often includes seafood, chicken, or chorizo. It’s accompanied with vegetables and served in a large pan. Its colorful presentation makes it a showstopper at any dinner party or food festival.

9

Pavlova

Image: Léo Roza

This meringue-based feast from New Zealand and Australia has charmed its way onto many American dessert menus. If you like a crisp crust of meringue with a fluffy interior, topped with fresh fruit like strawberries or cherries, you must try this dessert —if you haven’t already!

10

Feijoada

Image: Beatriz Braga

Feijoada (pronounced fey-zhoo-ah-dah) is a hearty black bean stew from Brazil. It’s packed with pork, spices, and often served with rice and orange slices. Sure, a bold flavor . But Americans are starting to embrace this traditional Brazilian pride!

11

Arepas

Image: Alexandra Tran

Arepas can go with anything, really. Some refer to them as culinary blank canvases . They are versatile cornmeal cakes from Colombia and Venezuela, which can be stuffed or accompanied by spreads like cheese, shredded beef, vegetables —you name it!

12

Gyro

Image: Bruna Santos

The gyro (pronounced yee-roh) is a Greek pita-wrapped delight, and a favorite of handheld dining . Packed with spiced meat, crisp veggies, and garlicky tzatziki, gyros are a satisfying and flavorful meal that Americans have embraced for their fresh taste and convenience.

13

Curry

Image: Photo By: Kaboompics.com

The fragrant aromas and complex flavors of Indian curries have captivated us for decades. From the creamy tikka masala to the fiery vindaloo , curry dishes have opened the door for Americans to incorporate rich spices from foreign cuisines.