1

Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska

Image: John Dame

Imagine driving through the Great Plains and stumbling across Stonehenge—only this version is made entirely of old cars. That’s Carhenge. Built in 1987 by artist Jim Reinders, this auto-art installation mirrors the original monument’s dimensions using vintage American cars, all painted gray. It’s history with a humorous twist, you know!

2

Salvation Mountain – Niland, California

Image: Megan Ellis

Located near the edge of the desert, Salvation Mountain is a wonder filled with color and faith. Leonard Knight spent decades slathering adobe and straw with thick coats of paint, spreading a message of love through hand-lettered Bible verses. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the heart behind this monument—it’s pure passion on display.

3

The Enchanted Highway – Regent, North Dakota

Image: Carol Highsmith's America

This isn’t your average country drive. The Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile stretch of open road lined with enormous metal sculptures—everything from geese in flight to grasshoppers the size of RVs. Created by Gary Greff, a small-town schoolteacher turned roadside visionary, this whimsical parade of artwork proves that a little welding—and a lot of heart—can turn even the quietest town into a road trip highlight.

4

The Paper House – Rockport, Massachusetts

Image: Unlimited Access

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with old newspapers, how about building a house? In the 1920s, engineer Elis Stenman did just that. The walls, furniture—even the curtains—are made from varnished newspapers. It’s cozy, clever, and surprisingly sturdy. Part architecture, part recycling marvel, this little New England oddity is well worth the detour.

5

The Museum of Bad Art – Boston, Massachusetts

Image: Marishka Tsiklauri

Some artwork takes your breath away. Other pieces make you laugh out loud—and that’s exactly the goal at the Museum of Bad Art. This small but mighty gallery celebrates delightfully terrible creations. It’s not about mocking; quite the opposite. It’s about finding joy in the offbeat and honoring artists who dared to create something totally different. Trust us—you’ll leave smiling.

6

The Unclaimed Baggage Center – Scottsboro, Alabama

Image: Raquel Brepohl

Ever wonder where your missing suitcase ended up? Chances are, it’s here. The Unclaimed Baggage Center is part retail store, part treasure hunt. Spread across 40,000 square feet, it sells items left behind at airports—from clothes and gadgets to the occasional surprise oddity. If you enjoy thrifting, this is a must-stop on your trip.

7

The Wigwam Motel – Holbrook, Arizona

Image: Johnathan Ciarrocca

Nothing screams classic Americana like Route 66, and the Wigwam Motel delivers. Here, you’ll sleep in your very own concrete teepee. It’s one of only three surviving "Wigwam Villages" from the 1950s. It’s kitschy, it’s cozy, and it’s a nostalgic nod to the road trips of yesteryear. Want a bonus? Check out the vintage cars parked out front.

8

The House on the Rock – Spring Green, Wisconsin

Image: Cristina Glebova

Imagine a mansion crossed with a carnival funhouse—that’s The House on the Rock. Started in the 1940s by Alex Jordan Jr., this labyrinth of rooms features bizarre collections, from a giant carousel to self-playing orchestras and a hall filled with model ships. It’s overwhelming, wonderful, and completely unforgettable—a place where your inner child will be wide-eyed the entire time.

9

The Grotto of the Redemption – West Bend, Iowa

Image: Mustafa akın

Part spiritual sanctuary, part geological marvel, the Grotto of the Redemption is made of millions of stones, gems, and fossils. Started by Father Paul Dobberstein in 1912, this labor of love took over 40 years to complete. The result? A jaw-dropping series of religious scenes and structures that glitter in the sunlight. Bring your sunglasses—you’re in for a dazzling experience.

10

The UFO Watchtower – Hooper, Colorado

Image: Gabriel Tovar

For those who believe in aliens—or just love a good alien yarn—the UFO Watchtower is a must-see. Located in the San Luis Valley, a hotspot for sightings, this quirky site offers 360-degree views of the sky, a garden filled with visitor trinkets, and plenty of stories. Try it out—what if you spot a flying saucer? Let’s face it, we’re all a little curious about what’s out there.

11

The World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas

Image: Amie Bell

It started small. Then the neighbors added to it. Then visitors joined in. Now, it’s a Midwest legend. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine keeps growing, with a yearly "twine-a-thon" that invites everyone to contribute. It’s quirky, community-powered, and a great example of how something ordinary can become roadside-worthy.

12

The World’s Largest Collection of the World’s Smallest Versions of the World’s Largest Things – Lucas, Kansas

Image: Nik

Yes, that’s the real name. And yes, it’s every bit as whimsical as it sounds. Artist Erika Nelson created this traveling museum of tiny replicas, honoring America’s obsession with "world’s largest" attractions. It’s part satire, part celebration, and completely charming.

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

Columbus discovered America

Image: Hector John Periquin

Although this isn't strictly about the United States, it does concern our continent. It's often said that Columbus "discovered" the Americas in 1492, but that's not precisely true. He wasn't even the first outsider to arrive! The Vikings, led by Leif Erikson, reached North America around the year 1000 AD, almost 500 years before Columbus. And, of course, the continent was already inhabited long before any European explorers arrived.

2

George Washington had wooden teeth

Image: Priscilla Gyamfi

One of the most famous historical myths is that George Washington, the first US president, had wooden teeth. While it's true that he struggled with dental problems and used several prosthetic devices made from various materials, none of his teeth were actually made of wood.

3

The US Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776

Image: Glen Carrie

Every 4th of July, the country turns into a party. And it's no wonder, since we're honoring Independence Day! Perhaps because of the date of this holiday, many people believe that the US Declaration of Independence was actually signed on July 4, 1776. In reality, the key event on that day was the Continental Congress voting to adopt the Declaration of Independence. Most delegates actually signed the document later, on August 2, 1776, in Philadelphia.

4

America became fully independent in 1776

Image: The New York Public Library

On July 4, 1776, the American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain by adopting the Declaration of Independence. However, the Revolutionary War continued for several more years. It wasn't until the war ended in 1783, with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, that the United States' independence was officially recognized.

5

Cowboys wore Stetson hats

Image: Brice Cooper

Although Stetson hats are now inseparable from the cowboy image, the reality of the 19th century was pretty different. People in the Wild West sported a variety of styles: while some did wear wide-brimmed hats similar to Stetsons, these were not the most common, and many other types were also popular.

6

Paul Revere rode alone

Image: Pixabay

Paul Revere's name became a symbol of American courage and determination. His midnight ride on April 18, 1775, was undoubtedly heroic, but some details have been distorted over time. While many think he shouted "The British are coming!", historians suggest he likely said something closer to "The regulars are coming", given the dates. And contrary to popular belief, Revere didn't ride alone; he was part of a group of riders working together to warn the colonial militia.

7

George Washington chopped down a cherry tree

Image: Jeffrey Clayton

The story of George Washington chopping down a cherry tree is one of the most famous tales in American history. However, it's actually a myth, created by one of Washington's early biographers to highlight one of his defining characteristics: honesty. Although there is no reliable historical evidence to support this famous anecdote, there is plenty of proof of the courage and honesty of the Father of His Country.

8

Al Capone was jailed for his violent crimes

Image: Ashim D’Silva

Al Capone was one of the most infamous gangsters in history. Although his life was filled with criminal activity, it wasn't his violent acts that put him in jail, as there wasn't enough evidence to convict him. Instead, authorities used tax evasion charges, and he was finally imprisoned for that reason in 1931.

9

Prohibition made drinking illegal everywhere

Image: Drew Beamer

Many people assume that drinking alcohol was completely illegal during Prohibition. In reality, the 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act (1920–1933) banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol, but not the act of drinking itself!

10

The Founding Fathers as a unified group

Image: J. Amill Santiago

Many believe the Founding Fathers worked as a unified group, sharing a single vision without disagreement. But history tends to be a little more complex. While they collaborated and worked hard to establish the United States, they held diverse ideas and visions for the nation, and some even became rivals. Yet, despite their differences, they successfully laid the foundations for the first large-scale modern republic.