1

Forestiere Underground Gardens

Image: Francesco Ungaro

Baldassare Forestiere, a Scicilan immigrant built a series of subterranean structures over a period of 40 years in Fresno, California.

Initially created as a small cellar to escape the summer heat, Baldassare carved a series of attached rooms, with underground trees , creating an incredible structure that can be visited today.

2

Swaminarayan Akshardham

Image: Usha Kiran

A structure that most people would associate with a very different part of the world was built between 2015 and 2023 in Robbinsville, New Jersey: a large Hindu temple . It is the largest building of this kind in the United States and the second largest in the world.

3

Cathedral of Learning

Image: henry perks

A 42-story skyscraper that looks like an Art Deco cathedral, the Cathedral of Learning is part of the University of Pittsburgh’s main campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Standing at 535 feet, this Late Gothic Revival structure is the tallest educational building in the Western Hemisphere and the second-tallest university building in the world. It is also the second-tallest gothic-style building in the world, after the Woolworth Building in Manhattan.

4

Hammond Castle

Image: Ted Gracz

An impressive feature of the Atlantic coast in the Magnolia area of Gloucester, Massachusetts, the Hammond Castle was the home, laboratory, and museum of John Hays Hammond Jr., an inventor and pioneer in the study of remote control .

The building is composed of modern and 15th-, 16th-, and 18th-century architectural elements, and operates as the Hammond Castle Museum, displaying Hammond's collection of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance artifacts as well as exhibits about his life and inventions.

5

San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden

Image: Annie Spratt

Imagine a Japanese Tea Garden set in an abandoned limestone rock quarry, and you will be picturing the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden, or Sunken Gardens in Brackenridge Park, San Antonio, Texas.

After several years working as a quarry, the area was redeveloped as the tea garden that it is today, with walkways, stone arch bridges, an island, a Japanese pagoda, and, of course, a tea room .

6

Ashbel Smith Building

Image: Mario La Pergola

The huge Romanesque Revival building in Galveston, Texas, familiarly known as Old Red, was built in 1891 with red brick and sandstone . The Ashbel Smith Building, as it is officially named, was the first University of Texas Medical Branch edifice.

7

Mission San Xavier del Bac

Image: Sean Benesh

The oldest European structure in Arizona is the Mission San Xavier del Balc. This historical Spanish Catholic mission is 10 miles south of Tucson and was founded in 1692. It is an outstanding example of Spanish Colonial architecture in the United States and it is a well-known pilgrimage site, with thousands visiting each year on foot and on horseback, some among ceremonial cavalcades or cabalgatas.

8

New River Gorge Bridge

Image: Ashley Knedler

The New River Gorge Bridge is a steel arch bridge 3,030 feet long over the New River Gorge near Fayetteville, West Virginia, in the Appalachian Mountains. With an arch 1,700 feet long, the New River Gorge Bridge was t he world's longest single-span arch bridge when completed in 1977.

9

National Park Seminary

Image: Charles Marleau

National Park Seminary was a private girls' school open from 1894 to 1942 , located in Forest Glen Park, Maryland. Its name refers to the nearby Rock Creek Park. The historic campus boasts a massive building dating from the late 1800s.

10

Mercer Museum

Image: Camila Credidio

The incredible Mercer Museum is a poured-in-place concrete structure built by the museum's founder, archeologist Henry Chapman Mercer, originally meant as his private residence. It is located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

11

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

Image: Charles Marleau

The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, United States, was designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1956, and completed in 1961.

Created according to traditional Byzantine architectural forms , but reinterpreted by Wright to suit the modern context, this building offers a striking view to its visitors.

1

Multnomah Falls (Bridal Veil, Oregon)

Image: Karsten Winegeart

Multnomah Falls is, without a doubt, the mother of all the 77 waterfalls that can be found in the gorge of the Columbia River in the state of Oregon. Located 30 miles east of Portland, it is one of the three largest waterfalls in the United States . Multnomah Falls has a staggering drop of 620 feet divided into two sections and is a natural wonderland of breathtaking beauty.

A stone bridge suspended between two cliffs offers the best views. The Benson Bridge, built in 1914, allows you to cross the lower falls and continue along a paved trail to the viewing platform at the top. From this privileged observation point, you’ll be able to appreciate the geology exposed by centuries of flooding. Multnomah Falls is the perfect place for hikers , especially during the autumn months. Its rich natural, cultural, and geological history is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

2

Bridalveil Fall (Yosemite, California)

Image: PeterBowers

Bridalveil Falls is a 617-foot cascade and is one of the most iconic sights in the Yosemite National Park . This famous waterfall drops to the base in spring and early summer with enough water to spray its visitors with a gentle mist. In winter, Bridalveil Falls offers a soft yellow glow.

The Ahwahneechee tribe believed that Bridalveil Falls was home to a vengeful spirit named Pohono who protected the entrance to the valley and that those leaving should not look directly at the waterfall lest they suffer the curse. They also thought inhaling the mist from the waterfall would help them find someone to marry , hence the name it is known today.

3

Nugget Falls (Juneau, Alaska)

Image: Timon Cornelissen

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes, Nugget Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the United States. Although it’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts , the scenery alone provides ample reasons for anyone to visit and explore.

Located at the tail end of Alaska's Mendenhall Glacier, these 377-foot falls are formed from a glacial stream making their way to Mendenhall Lake in the course of a two-tiered plunge. They can be accessed by a gravel road, but they are often visited as part of an excursion to Juneau Shore or Mendenhall Lake. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for some tranquil moment in nature, Nugget Falls is sure to provide a memorable experience .

4

Wailua Falls (Līhuʻe, Hawái)

Image: Zane Persaud

You may recognize these waterfalls from their appearance in the opening credits of the hit TV show "Fantasy Island". Or you may have seen them in promotional materials for Kauai, as Wailua Falls are considered the most amazing waterfalls on this scenic Hawaiian island . It is located 5 miles north of downtown Līhuʻe and although there is no walking trail, it can be easily seen from the road.

The double-flow cascade spans an 80-foot drop, thundering and crashing into a small plunge pool below. A lush jungle wall surrounds Wailua Falls, a magnificent site, especially after heavy rains. If you visit in the morning, you may be greeted by a rainbow as the sunlight hits the mist rising from the waterfall . It's an excellent photo opportunity you don’t want to miss!

5

Tahquamenon Falls (Paradise, Michigan)

Image: Dillon Austin

The astonishing Tahquamenon Falls are divided into two equally impressive sections. You can visit the Upper Falls to witness the 200-foot-wide and 48-foot-high cascades before heading to the Lower Falls, a group of five waterfalls that drop around a freshwater island. This area was first popularized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s "The Song of Hiawatha", but long before that, it was used as a hunting and fishing site by the Ojibwa natives .

Nowadays, these rust-colored cascades —the result of tannins released from cedar trees upstream— are known to some as "Root Beer Falls." They are located in Tahquamenon Fall State Park, an ideal location for fishing and swimming during the summer. In winter, it becomes a snow-covered paradise for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing . No matter the time of the year, the natural scenery of Tahquamenon is truly a sight to behold!

6

McWay Falls (Big Sur, California)

Image: Jairo Gonzalez

Located on the stunning California coast, McWay Falls is a true hidden gem. With its crystal clear waters cascading directly onto the white sandy beach, this 80-foot waterfall delights all visitors with its unique beauty . If you are planning to visit Big Sur and you're looking for spectacular views, McWay Falls is a must-see!

The history of McWay Falls dates back to the beginning of the 20th century when the area was acquired by the McWay family. Julia Pfeiffer McWay, a woman with an adventurous spirit and a passion for nature, fought all her life to preserve its native ecosystem. In 1983, the site was donated to the State of California and incorporated into Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, named in honor of Julia's generosity.

7

Crabtree Falls (Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina)

Image: Leslie Cross

North Carolina has many natural wonders that can be enjoyed all year round, and Crabtree Falls is no exception. Although it’s not as popular as other waterfalls in the state, it's a site worth visiting, especially during the warmer months . Located just 45 miles north of Asheville, this 70-foot-high cascade is surrounded by an oak and hickory tree forest.

Originally known as Murphy’s Falls, this area was renamed Crabtree Falls by the National Park Service when the Blue Ridge Parkway was constructed in the 1930s. If you are a flower and plant lover, Crabtree Falls is the place to be . In the spring, visitors can find a magnificent array of wildflowers along the trail, and during the summer, ferns fill the forest with rosebay rhododendrons in bloom.

8

Havasu Falls (Supai, Arizona)

Image: Daniel Hernandez

The Grand Canyon attracts more than 5 million tourists every year and is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. But hidden deep in the canyon, on the Havasupai reservation, there is a breathtaking site little known to most tourists: the Havasu Falls . Being in a protected reserve, a special permit is required to visit. If you're lucky enough to get one, the falls can be accessed by helicopter, horse, or mule. Another option is to hike 10 miles there and back, along a beautiful path of red rocks and ancient pictographs.

Havasu Falls is known for having a fantastic turquoise color due to the high levels of calcium carbonate present in the spring-fed waters of Havasu Creek, the main source of the waterfalls. These high levels also create the 70-degree travertine pools at the top, making them the perfect swimming spot!

9

Palouse Falls (LaCrosse, Washington)

Image: Dave Hoefler

The unexpected beauty of Palouse Falls dominates eastern Washington, attracting thousands of visitors each year to experience the 200-foot drop from a stunning rocky outcrop into a swirling blue pool. The falls are surrounded by striking cliffs and can be seen from several vantage points throughout the State Park, including the trail that hugs the canyon's rim.

Palouse Falls is the result of the last Ice Age , the product of several glacial floods known as the Missoula Floods that swept across the region, creating the unique landscape that amazes us today. If you are feeling adventurous, just pack a tent and prepare to catch one of the best sunset views the country has to offer!

10

Niagara Falls (New York)

Image: Ivan Torres

Last, but certainly not least, Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful sights in the United States and a unique destination that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. With a width of more than 3,000 feet and a drop of 160 ft, these three magnificent falls —two American and one Canadian— are located 400 miles from New York City. Approximately 600,000 gallons of water flow over the falls every second and the average depth underneath is 170 ft.

Named by the Iroquois tribe, the word Niagara means "thunder of water" . Since its discovery by European settlers in the 17th century, Niagara Falls has become very popular, not only for their beauty but also as a source of energy. Niagara Falls is a marvelous spectacle that will remain in the memory of all those who have the chance to explore it . There’s no doubt about it, everyone should visit Niagara Falls at least once in their lifetime!

1

Double title

Image: Tingey Injury Law Firm

Holding an important office is a tremendous honor, but it can also be a stressful experience, right? Well, imagine not only serving as the President of the United States but also becoming the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court! There has only been one person in the entire history of our country who has held both positions.

We are talking about William H. Taft, who was elected as Theodore Roosevelt's successor and served as President of the United States from 1909 to 1913. But another achievement awaited him a couple of years later: he served as Chief Justice from 1921 to 1930, appointed by President Warren G. Harding.

2

Bill cover

Image: Kenny Eliason

Being featured on the front of a banknote is an honor that only a few have received. Today, we can see Presidents, Founding Fathers, and other important figures from our national history on our banknotes and coins. But did you know that U.S. paper money has also featured Supreme Court Justices?

Yes, that's right! Only two Justices of the Court have had their faces on U.S. bills: John Marshall, whose picture appeared on an early version of the $500 bill, and Salmon P. Chase, who was featured on the $10,000 bill. Today, those bills are no longer in circulation.

3

Wig: yes or no?

Image: J. Amill Santiago

Towards the end of the 18th century, some judges still kept the tradition of wearing the classic white wigs. During the first session of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1790, only one Justice showed up wearing a wig: William Cushing.

Apparently, his fashion choice was not well received. In fact, one story has it that Thomas Jefferson saw him and allegedly said, "For heaven's sake, discard the monstrous wig!" Thus, Jefferson demonstrated his willingness to distance himself from certain European customs.

4

Justice and sportsman

Image: Melissa McGovern

Serving as a Supreme Court Justice is not a job for everyone, nor is being a distinguished sportsman. Surprisingly, there was one man who did both.

Justice Byron Raymond "Whizzer" White, born in Colorado in 1917, was a lawyer, jurist, professional football player, and Supreme Court Justice. Quite a resume, huh?

White became an NFL player in 1938, but his sports career ended in 1940 due to some injuries while playing for the Detroit Lions. A couple of years later, he decided to pursue a law career, and in 1962, he became an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court after being nominated by none other than John F. Kennedy.

5

Better late than never

Image: Tim Mossholder

The U.S. Supreme Court didn't have its own fully functional building until 1935. That means the Justices operated in different locations for 145 years!

The first session of the Court, in 1790, was held in New York City at the Royal Exchange Building. Later, the Court met in Philadelphia's Independence Hall until 1800, when it finally moved to Washington, D.C. However, the capital city at that time didn't have a designated building for the Highest Court, so its members met in different spaces within the Capitol Building, even in the basement!

In the early 1930s, construction on the current Supreme Court building finally began.

6

The Highest

Image: Edgar Chaparro

When someone says "The Highest Court of the Land," they're clearly referring to the Supreme Court. However, it seems there's another "Highest Court" that many of us haven't heard of before.

Located on the fifth floor of the Supreme Court building, you can find another court: a basketball court. Since it's literally on the highest floor, the Justices playfully call it "The Highest Court of the Land." Working is important, but so is exercising!

7

Many appointees

Image: Ben Noble

Among their many other tasks and duties, U.S. presidents are also responsible for nominating justices to the Supreme Court. These nominees must then undergo the Senate confirmation process before they officially become justices.

Throughout U.S. history, some presidents have appointed more justices than others. Want to know who appointed the most? That was George Washington, with a total of 11 justices! The second place goes to Franklin D. Roosevelt, with 9 justices during his time in office. In third place, though a bit further back, is Andrew Jackson, who appointed 6 justices to the Supreme Court.

8

The youngest

Image: Bermix Studio

Among the many names that have served on the Supreme Court, some have stood out for different reasons. That is the case of Joseph Story, who was officially the Court's youngest appointee, nominated by President James Madison in 1811. How old was he? Just 32! Despite his young age, Story served as a justice for 34 years and contributed to our country's justice in many ways.

Most Supreme Court justices reach their positions with a lot of experience, often between the ages of 50 and 55, around 20 years older than the young Story.

9

A long-standing tradition

Image: Constantin Wenning

Have you heard of the famous "conference handshake"? This tradition has been part of the Supreme Court for many, many years. Do you want to know its origin and what it is all about?

The conference handshake is a long-standing practice where the justices of the Court literally shake hands with each other before taking their seats.

This custom originated at the end of the 19th century, and one of its promoters was Chief Justice Melville W. Fuller. From its beginnings, the greeting was intended to demonstrate that, while they may have differences, the justices must ensure harmony and respect above everything else.

10

Quill pens

Image: Pierre Bamin

The black robes and the handshakes are not the only traditions at the Supreme Court. There is another longstanding custom that continues to this day.

Whenever an attorney presents an oral argument before the Supreme Court for the first time, they are gifted a fancy quill pen. That's a nice and thoughtful gesture, don't you think?

This gift symbolizes the importance of their role and their responsibilities. Many choose to keep the quill pen as a souvenir that reminds them of a crucial step in their careers.