1

Cornbread

Image: Rafael Cisneros Méndez

With its roots planted in Native American cuisine, cornbread has become a unique staple, especially in the South of our country.

Easy to make and irresistibly tasty , this quick bread stands out for its versatility , making it a great companion to meals of many Americans at different times of the day .

And the best part? You only need cornmeal, all-purpose flour, buttermilk, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and a couple of eggs to make it! What time of the day do you prefer to enjoy this recipe?

2

Apple Pie

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Did you know that apple pie was one of the favorite desserts of our first president, George Washington ? While it originated in England, the apple pie was brought to America by European settlers and stayed here to evolve into the special dessert we know today. It is now so linked with American culture that we have the saying, "As American as apple pie," to prove it!

Often enjoyed during Thanksgiving and other holidays as a tasty autumn dessert , this is a slightly more elaborate recipe, but definitely worth a try.

And if you're looking for a special occasion to bake one, May 13th is the perfect date, since it's National Apple Pie Day in the United States!

3

Pecan Pie

Image: Leila Issa

Pecans are a delightful treat, right? And you know what? They are native to North America , especially the South , which is why the wonderful Pecan Pie is associated with this region of the country.

The formula for this tasty dessert is said to have emerged in the late 19th century , with one of its earliest recipes appearing in an 1886 recipe book!

And, while it's a classic during holidays like Thanksgiving , you can actually enjoy it anytime, all year round. In fact, this recipe is so popular that the state of Texas has declared it their official state pie !

4

Philly Cheesesteak

Image: Ir Like

Enough sweet for now. Now, let's talk about a savory delight, the Philly Cheesesteak .

As its name suggests, this classic was born in the city of Philadelphia , Pennsylvania, and is believed to be the creation of a hot dog vendor in the 1930s .

Who can resist the combination of a crispy hoagie roll, thinly sliced pieces of steak, onion, bell pepper, and melted cheese? We can't!

Of course, people in Philadelphia have a special day to celebrate this dish: March 24. Have you ever joined the celebration? If not, consider this as a sign to do it next year!

5

Thanksgiving Turkey

Image: Megan Watson

As you probably already know, it is believed that in Plymouth, Massachusetts , a special meeting took place in 1621 . According to myth, English settlers there shared a feast with Native Americans that included primarily turkey , among other foods. This gathering is often considered the very first Thanksgiving , forever linking turkey to this day of gratitude.

For this delicious recipe, you won't need many ingredients; just butter, fresh herbs, an onion, a lemon, some garlic, and salt and pepper to taste, along with your turkey , of course! In addition, you can stuff it with the option of your choice.

And while all this may sound familiar, here's a surprising fact: According to the National Turkey Federation, approximately 46 million turkeys are eaten each year at Thanksgiving!

6

Biscuits and Gravy

Image: Stephen McFadden

Originally from the South of the United States , the Biscuits and Gravy recipe is today a classic comfort food that has also spread to other parts of the country.

Mainly consumed as breakfast but also having special appearances as brunch or dinner, this dish is characterized by its flavor and simplicity.

Depending on the area where it is prepared, the type of gravy may vary, and sometimes, you can find combinations with some extra ingredients, like bacon or eggs . Are you one of the fans of this dish?

7

Po' Boy Sandwich

Image: Anastasia gezalova

While its origin is still debated, there is a story about the birth of the Po' Boy Sandwich that has been accepted by most New Orleanians.

The year was 1929 when a strike of streetcar conductors broke out. In the city of New Orleans , Benny and Clovis Martin decided to support the striking workers. As restaurant owners, they began handing out free special sandwiches to the conductors, affectionately known as "Poor Boys." This name later became associated with the sandwich and, over time, "Poor Boy" evolved into the "Po' boy" we know today, a staple of Louisiana cuisine .

The classic recipe contains the delicious combination of fried shrimp or roast beef, lettuce , tomato , pickles , mayonnaise , and a sauce of choice, all on a good loaf of French bread . Irresistible!

8

Reuben Sandwich

Image: Asnim Ansari

If you love grilled sandwiches, then the Reuben Sandwich is the choice for you.

Its origin is still debated, with two competing stories: one from the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1920 , and the other from Reuben's Delicatessen in New York City in 1914. Whether it comes from New York or Omaha, the Reuben is undeniably an American classic .

Making this dish is quite simple. You'll need rye bread , thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, a good Swiss cheese , and dressing (Russian or Thousand Island dressing). And don't forget to butter the bread before grilling !

With a combination of Jewish deli meats, German sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, this sandwich is a representation of the diverse cultures and cuisines that enrich our nation.

9

Buffalo wings

Image: Clark Douglas

If you offer this dish to a foreigner, you might confuse them a bit. After all, buffaloes don't have wings! The thing is that this delicacy is named after the city where it originated.

The story goes that Buffalo wings were invented in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York , where co-owner of the bar Teressa Bellissimo created the dish in search of a quick snack. That's when she deep-fried some chicken wings and tossed them in a sauce made from butter and seasonings . She then served them with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, just as they are served today.

If you're not among the millions who prepare this dish for the Super Bowl , don't worry. You can enjoy it at the National Buffalo Wing Festival , held every Labor Day weekend; you probably guessed where: in Buffalo, New York.

10

Clam chowder

Image: Kevin Lanceplaine

Representing New England cuisine , Clam Chowder has become one of America's staples, and its origin and ingredients can prove it.

It is said that when the European settlers arrived on the Atlantic coast , they wanted to recreate their traditional seafood stews. However, inspired by the local ingredients , something entirely new was born. It was a creamy soup with clams and other coastal treats. The first known written recipe for this dish appeared in 1832 in "The New England Farmer" magazine.

And as if all that was not enough, this recipe definitively sealed its status as a classic when it was included in Herman Melville's unforgettable novel, "Moby-Dick" !

1

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Image: Paul IJsendoorn

Technically, pronghorns are not true antelopes , but try telling that to early settlers. This stunning slot canyon was named in their honor.

Winding through the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, its entrance was once grazed by herds of pronghorns gracefully navigating the red rock terrain. Although the original inhabitants have mostly been scared away, the beautiful landscape remains.

2

Buffalo, New York

Image: Pixabay

Despite the name, no actual buffalo roam here—only football fans in snow boots. There are several theories about the origin of the name: some say it comes from the French beau fleuve ("beautiful river"), while others insist early settlers mistook bison sightings for true buffalo .

Either way, the city still honors the animal’s spirit through bronze statues, sports teams, and, of course, Buffalo wings.

3

White Salmon, Washington

Image: Drew Farwell

White Salmon, Washington. This charming town above the Columbia River Gorge got its name from an unusual fish tale. In 1805, Lewis and Clark spotted pale-colored Chinook salmon swimming upstream and named the White Salmon River, which later lent its name to the town.

The white salmon themselves are rare spring sightings, but the name stuck, like a good fishing story.

4

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Image: Jonathan Cooper

No, they didn’t find woolly mammoth bones here. The name "Mammoth" refers to the size , not the species, of this mind-bending cave system. With over 400 miles explored, this south-central Kentucky cave is the largest known cave system on Earth.

5

Eagle River, Alaska & Wisconsin

Image: Greg Johnson

Two towns, one majestic bird , and a very straightforward name. In Alaska, Eagle River sits just outside Anchorage, where bald eagles actually soar overhead—and sometimes steal a salmon right out of your hands.

In Wisconsin, Eagle River offers a quieter charm: a hub for lake lovers and snowmobilers who know how often the eagle motif appears on murals, signs, and T-shirts.

6

Wolf Creek Pass, Colorado

Image: Deepak Adhikari

The name alone sounds like it belongs in a Western, and the real place doesn’t disappoint. This high mountain pass in southern Colorado winds its way through the San Juan Mountains, where wolves once prowled the slopes .

Though they’ve long been gone from the area, the name remains, also immortalized in a song by C.W. McCall.

7

Pelican Bay, Florida

Image: J Dean

This coastal enclave near Naples is all palm trees, golf carts, and private beaches, but yes, there are still pelicans.

Big, slightly clumsy, and oddly charming , they’re often seen gliding above the Gulf waters or crash-landing into the surf. The bay itself is a protected estuary, and the birds serve as unofficial greeters.

8

Moose, Wyoming

Image: Danika Perkinson

If you were to walk around the area, you’d understand why this town got its name: actual moose wander here. Just outside Grand Teton National Park, the scenic town of Moose offers ranger stations, cozy lodges, and the occasional 1,200-pound mammal chewing shrubs near the parking lot.

9

Fox River, Illinois & Wisconsin

Image: David Gomez

This river wasn’t named directly after the clever creature, but after the Fox (Meskwaki) Native American tribe . The winding river flows more than 200 miles, passing through Midwest towns, bike trails, and history-rich spots

Today, statues, murals, and local school mascots keep the fox theme alive, although you’re unlikely to spot a red fox along the riverbanks these days.

10

Bear Lake, Utah & Idaho

Image: Megan Nixon

This turquoise lake marks the Utah–Idaho border and was named after, you guessed it, actual bears.

Grizzly and black bears once roamed the surrounding area, though nowadays you’re more likely to spot jet skis than paw prints. Locals call it the "Caribbean of the Rockies," thanks to its unique limestone-rich, electric-blue waters.

11

Cougar, Washington

Image: Leah Huyghe

Cougar, a tiny town in southwestern Washington, gets its name from the sleek mountain lions that once roamed the thick forests nearby. The area is best known for its proximity to Mount St. Helens. A post office called "Cougar" was established there in the early 1900s, and the unincorporated community followed soon after.

12

Coyote, California

Image: Kaylin Pacheco

In what is now Silicon Valley, Coyote was once a standalone ranch town named for the clever canines that run across the hills.

While coyotes still prowl the region—occasionally crashing backyard barbecues—the town itself has been mostly absorbed into San Jose. Still, the name lingers in road signs, local parks, and historic maps.

13

Hawk Mountain, Pennsylvania

Image: Frank Cone

High above the Appalachian ridges of eastern Pennsylvania, Hawk Mountain is a sanctuary. It was transformed into the world’s first refuge for birds of prey in the 1930s.

Today, birdwatchers flock here every fall to witness thousands of hawks, eagles, and falcons gliding overhead. There’s no town—just trails and sky.

1

A renovation project saved thousands of lives on 9/11

On September 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon at 9:37 a.m., killing 189 people. Few people know this part: the death toll could have been much higher. But there was a renovation project underway at the time of the attacks.

The Pentagon’s five-sided structure is divided into five "wedges," and workers had been renovating them one at a time. Flight 77 struck the wedge that had just been completed. Of the 4,500 people who normally worked in that section, only about 800 had moved back in. Without the reinforced construction and the incomplete occupancy, experts believe the casualties would have been catastrophically higher.

2

The Cold War and the hot dog stand

In the middle of the Pentagon’s five-acre center courtyard once stood a modest hot dog stand. According to a Cold War legend (one still retold by official Pentagon tour guides on every public tour), between the 60s and the 80s, Soviet satellite images tracked large groups of high-ranking military officials converging on that small building at the same time every day.

Soviet intelligence reportedly concluded the structure must be the entrance to some underground bunker in America. In reality, all it did was sell lunch. In 2006, the original stand was torn down, and a sandwich shop was built in its place.

3

Its construction began on September 11th, exactly 60 years before the attack

Builders broke ground on the Pentagon on September 11, 1941. That was exactly 60 years to the day before the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that would strike the same building.

Construction had been ordered by Army Brigadier General Brehon Somervell, who wanted a permanent headquarters for the Defense Department to replace its then-17 scattered offices across Washington, D.C.

The project was extraordinarily ambitious: plans called for the world’s largest office building to be completed in just 16 months. In the end, the conception, design, and construction of the entire Pentagon building took a total of 15 months.

4

The same person oversaw its construction and the Manhattan Project

Colonel Leslie Groves of the Army Corps of Engineers took charge of Pentagon construction in August 1941. He worked six days a week and drove his team relentlessly, at one point employing more than 15,000 workers around the clock.

When the Pentagon was finished in January 1943, Groves was assigned to lead the Manhattan Project, America’s secret program to build the atomic bomb . His deputy, Captain Robert Furman, followed him into the Manhattan Project as chief of foreign intelligence. Together, the men who built the world’s largest office building went on to produce the weapon that ended World War II.

5

Why is it shaped like that?

The Pentagon’s iconic five-sided shape was the consequence of a geographic accident. The original site selected for the building, near Arlington Cemetery, **happened to be bordered on five sides by roads. **Architects designed the structure to fit those boundaries, producing a pentagonal floor plan. Then President Franklin D. Roosevelt intervened: worried the massive building would obstruct the view of Washington, D.C. from Arlington, he ordered the site moved to its current location along the Potomac River. But the five-sided design had already been drawn up, and nobody changed it.

6

It was the first desegregated building in Virginia

When the Pentagon was designed in 1941, segregation was the law in Virginia. Original plans called for doubled bathroom facilities: separate ones for Black and white employees, as required by Virginia statute. But President Roosevelt had signed Executive Order 8802 in June 1941, prohibiting racial discrimination in federal employment and government contracting.

As a federal building, the Pentagon was exempt from Virginia law. It became the only building in the state where segregation was not enforced. A fully desegregated federal workplace that opened in 1943. The doubled bathrooms were built anyway, as the plans were too far along to revise, but were never used as separately designated spaces.

7

Its construction was surprisingly frugal and incredibly fast

Ground broke on September 11, 1941, and construction finished on January 15, 1943, just 16 months later. More than 15,000 workers were on site around the clock. Wartime office shortages were so severe that employees moved into completed wings before the rest of the building was finished. Steel was too scarce to use extensively, so builders relied almost entirely on reinforced concrete. The 689,000 tons of sand and gravel required came directly from the nearby Potomac River, cutting transportation costs. The project was budgeted at $35 million, but the final bill was $63 million, which would translate to over $900 million in today’s dollars.

8

You can walk between its farthest points in only 7 minutes

The Pentagon is the world’s largest low-rise office building: 6.5 million square feet of space, which is three times the total floor area of the Empire State Building. Each of its five outer walls is 921 feet long. It has 7,754 windows and 17.5 miles of corridors. Approximately 26,000 military and civilian employees report for work there every day.

Despite that scale, the building’s concentric ring design is so efficient that it takes only about seven minutes to walk between its two farthest points.

9

The man who secretly lived inside its walls

During construction, Colonel Groves drove his deputy, Captain Robert Furman, so relentlessly that Furman rarely left the building. To cope, Furman had contractors build him a small, windowless apartment hidden inside the walls of the Army’s Ordnance Division. In this private room, he could sleep and shower without leaving the premises.

When construction ended and personnel dispersed, knowledge of the hidden room was never passed on to building management. Months later, when Furman returned to Washington on Manhattan Project intelligence business, he found the apartment undiscovered and exactly as he’d left it.

For over a year, he would slip back to the Pentagon, pop open a wall panel, spend the night, and emerge in the morning with his suitcase. He was finally caught in 1943 and forced to surrender the keys. It was never disclosed whether the secret apartment was maintained or eventually absorbed back into the official floor plans.

10

It houses over 30 restaurants, including everyone's favorite chains

The Pentagon feeds roughly 26,000 people a day, and its dining options read less like a military headquarters and more like a mall food court. The main Concourse Food Court, which opened in September 2009 and seats 875 people, is the largest of several dining areas.

Confirmed chains currently inside the building include McDonald’s, Five Guys, Subway, Popeyes, Starbucks (multiple locations), Dunkin’ (two locations), Panera Bread, Taco Bell, Panda Express, Baskin-Robbins, Potbelly, Jamba Juice, and Moe’s Southwest Grill, among others. The building also houses a CVS pharmacy, a florist, a jeweler, and a dry cleaner. In the summer of 2024, Potbelly became the first restaurant to open in the center courtyard. Yes, the very spot where the legendary Cold War hot dog stand once stood.