1

Paul Bunyan

Image: Abby Savage

Paul Bunyan , the colossal lumberjack of American folklore, is said to have cleared forests from the Northeast to the Pacific Northwest. With his blue ox, Babe , he performed incredible feats of strength, like carving out the Grand Canyon just by dragging his axe behind him, and creating the Great Lakes with his footprints.

Originating in oral traditions among lumberjacks, Bunyan’s exaggerated exploits gained momentum with the American westward expansion during the 19th century and soon became deeply ingrained in the popular imagination.

2

Johnny Appleseed

Image: Aarón Blanco Tejedor

Born John Chapman, Johnny Appleseed wandered the American frontier planting apple trees and spreading goodwill in the early 19th century. A devout Christian, he became a folk hero for his kindness, environmentalism, and pioneering spirit.

Contrary to the popular image of Johnny Appleseed randomly scattering apple seeds, he was a skilled nurseryman who meticulously planted apple tree nurseries. Each nursery was carefully fenced to shield the saplings from livestock and wildlife. After establishing these nurseries, he entrusted them to neighbors but revisited them periodically.

3

Pecos Bill

Image: JosephHershMedia

Pecos Bill , a fictional cowboy raised by coyotes in the wilds of Texas, became a larger-than-life figure known for taming cyclones and roping tornadoes. His adventures, first popularized in the early 20th century, embody the frontier spirit and Texas mythology, blending humor with tales of rugged individualism.

Among his many tales, one credits him with creating the Gulf of Mexico . According to legend, during a severe drought in Texas, Pecos Bill lassoed a storm cloud in California and brought it to Texas. The resulting deluge caused extensive flooding, ultimately forming the Gulf.

4

Davy Crockett

Image: Joseph Corl

Davy Crockett , known as the "King of the Wild Frontier," was a real-life frontiersman later turned politician whose exploits were mythologized even during his lifetime. Born in East Tennessee, he quickly gained fame for his sharp hunting skills and captivating storytelling.

During his time in the U.S. Congress, he staunchly opposed many of President Andrew Jackson’s policies, particularly the Indian Removal Act, and championed the rights of small landowners. Crockett’s life ended with valor at the Battle of the Alamo , solidifying his folk legend as a symbol of courage and patriotism. His legacy remains an enduring part of American history.

5

Calamity Jane

Image: Vidar Nordli-Mathisen

Martha Jane Canary, better known by her alias Calamity Jane, was a frontierswoman and scout famed for her sharpshooting skills and daredevil exploits. During her youth, she stepped up to provide for her large family, taking on various jobs, from ox team driver to scout for Fort Russell. Eventually, she embraced the rough and adventurous lifestyle that made her a legend.

Despite her fearsome reputation, Calamity Jane was compassionate and often helped those in need. Her adventures in the Wild West alongside figures like Wild Bill Hickok cemented her status as a legend of the American frontier.

6

Molly Pitcher

Image: Garry T

Molly Pitcher, the nickname given to Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley, became famous for her bravery during the American Revolutionary War. Although several historical figures are known by this moniker for similar deeds, Mary Ludwig Hays distinguished herself during the Battle of Monmouth in June 1778, where she served as a water carrier for the soldiers.

When her husband, an artilleryman in the Continental Army, fell to enemy fire, she took his place, swabbing and loading the cannon with such bravery and determination that she earned a commendation from George Washington.

7

Daniel Boone

Image: Scott Longerbeam

Daniel Boone was a legendary frontiersman and explorer who blazed trails through the Appalachian Mountains and into Kentucky. Born in 1734, Boone became famous for his expert hunting and survival skills, as well as his role in establishing the Wilderness Road, a trail that facilitated westward migration through the Cumberland Gap.

After serving as a militia officer during the Revolutionary War, he was briefly taken in by the Shawnees in the Northeastern Woodlands. After a few years, he returned and continued to help protect the Kentucky settlements.

8

Buffalo Bill

Image: Judy Beth Morris

William Frederick "Buffalo Bill" Cody was a legendary figure of the American West, known for his Wild West shows that toured the United States and Europe. Born in 1846, Cody was a skilled buffalo hunter, Army scout, and showman who brought cowboy skills and frontier life to audiences worldwide.

He earned his nickname after the Civil War by providing Kansas Pacific Railroad workers with buffalo meat, hunting record numbers of the animal. He even engaged in hunting competitions with his partner, Bill Comstock. His legendary figure has been frequently portrayed in film and television, especially during the height of the Western genre in the 1960s.

9

Wild Bill Hickok

Image: Pablò

James Butler Hickok, famously known as Wild Bill Hickok, was a legendary figure of the American Old West. Born in 1837, Hickok gained fame as a skilled marksman, gambler, and lawman.

Though his exploits were certainly exaggerated by the outlandish tales he told about himself, he was involved in several notorious gunfights during his life. Most notably, he dueled with Davis Tutt, a local gambler with whom he had various disagreements, particularly over their mutual affection for the same woman.

10

John Henry

Image: Lucio Patone

John Henry was a legendary steel-driving man whose man-against-machine tale epitomized the strength and resilience of the American worker. An African American freedman, his dangerous job involved hammering steel drills into rocks to create holes for explosives used to blast open railroad tunnels.

According to the legend, John Henry's prowess was tested in a race against a steam-powered drill. He won the race but tragically died after victory, hammer in hand when his heart gave out from the immense physical stress.

1

Pacific Coast Highway

Image: Joe Pilié

The Pacific Coast Highway , officially known as California State Route 1, runs along the stunning California coastline. This iconic route stretches from Dana Point in Orange County to Leggett in Mendocino County, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Designated by the United States Department of Transportation as an All-American Road , the Pacific Coast Highway also serves as a vital artery for residents in the Greater Los Angeles Area and the San Francisco Bay Area. Unfortunately, the route is also known for its frequent coastal landslides, which often cause sections of the road to be closed or redirected inland, so if you are planning to take this route, be sure to check conditions and plan ahead.

2

Blue Ridge Parkway

Image: Angela Bartosh

For those who love bluish mountains and epic landscapes, this route is a must-visit. Winding through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

This 469-mile drive is renowned for its fall foliage, lush scenery, and panoramic vistas. Whether you plan to hike some of its many trails, explore historic sites, or simply enjoy the views from the comfort of your vehicle, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a truly rewarding experience. Just be aware that the road is not maintained in winter, and certain sections and high passes may be closed from late fall through early spring.

3

Route 66

Image: Nikolai Justesen

Famously dubbed the "Mother Road" by Steinbeck in The Grapes of Wrath , Route 66 embarks on an epic cross-country journey from Chicago to Santa Monica, stretching a total of 2,448 miles. Immortalized in songs and media, this historic road has achieved legendary status, not only as one of the country’s most celebrated routes but also as a symbol of the United States around the world.

This iconic route takes you through picturesque small towns, vast deserts, and quintessential Americana. Though the original road was supplanted by the Interstate Highway System in 1985, much of the historic route has been preserved as a National Scenic Byway , now known as "Historic Route 66."

4

Great River Road

Image: Mitchell Kmetz

Following the course of the Mississippi River , the Great River Road stretches 2,340 miles through ten states, from Minnesota to Louisiana. The term "Great River Road," however, refers not only to the official network of roadways that follow the river's path but also to a broader region of historical and touristic significance.

Originally extending north into Canada, it once connected with the provinces of Ontario and Manitoba. Notable stops along the route include the Twin Cities, Mark Twain's hometown of Hannibal, Missouri, and the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

5

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Image: Tevin Trinh

Located in Montana's Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile engineering marvel, with sections carved into steep rock faces. This alpine route traverses the Continental Divide through Logan Pass at an elevation of 6,646 feet, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.

The road is named after Going-to-the-Sun Mountain, which dominates the eastbound view beyond the high pass. According to a Native American legend, a deity called Sour Spirit descended from the sun to teach the Blackfeet tribe how to hunt, giving the mountain its name.

6

Overseas Highway

Image: Ilse Orsel

Connecting mainland Florida to Key West, the Overseas Highway is a 113-mile journey across a series of bridges and tropical islands. Much of the route was built on the remnants of the Overseas Railroad , which was severely damaged and partially destroyed by the 1935 Labor Day hurricane. In the 1950s, the Overseas Highway was revamped into a major coastal route linking Miami to Key West.

This exotic drive not only offers spectacular views of turquoise waters and coral reefs but also provides the opportunity to spot local wildlife such as American alligators, American crocodiles, and Key deer.

7

Tail of the Dragon

Image: Stephen Cook

Deals Gap , a thrilling mountain pass along the North Carolina–Tennessee state line, is famously known as the Tail of the Dragon due to its astonishing 318 curves in just 11 miles. This legendary stretch of U.S. Route 129 is a global favorite among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, who often come to challenge their vehicles and driving skills on its winding curves.

As the road forms part of the southwestern boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the 11-mile stretch remains free from urban development and features numerous scenic overlooks and pull-off points.

8

Hana Highway

Image: Claude Piché

Also known as The Road to Hana, the Hana Highway on Maui, Hawaii, is a 64.4-mile stretch of Hawaii Routes 36 and 360 that traverses through rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and seascapes. As it meanders across the island, the road features over 600 curves , leading to the charming town of Hana, one of the most isolated communities in the state.

Before you get too excited, though, be prepared for a journey that can take nearly three hours. Although the distance may seem short on paper, the highway's winding, narrow nature and its 59 one-lane bridges can significantly extend travel time.

9

Natchez Trace Parkway

Image: Mika Matin

Stretching 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a journey rich in history and natural beauty. This scenic drive follows the ancient Native American trail of the same name, even preserving sections of the original path.

This historical route offers peaceful landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities for visitors. Notable stops include archaeological treasures like Emerald Mound , several abandoned towns and historic settlements, and the Meriwether Lewis Monument and Grave Site.

10

U.S. Route 50

Image: Paddy Kumar

U.S. Route 50 is a major highway that spans the width of the United States, connecting Ocean City, Maryland, on the East Coast to Sacramento, California, on the West Coast. Stretching 3,073 miles, this route traverses diverse landscapes but is most renowned for its rural desert and mountainous scenery in the western United States.

Particularly notable is its Nevada segment, famously dubbed "The Loneliest Road in America" due to its sparse traffic and lengthy, isolated stretches. Established in 1926 as part of the original U.S. Highway system, US 50 initially extended from Wadsworth, Nevada, to Annapolis, Maryland. The original route incorporated several historic trails, including the Lincoln Highway, Midland Trail, and the National Old Trails Road.

1

Mt. McKinley/Denali

This Alaskan mountain has changed names several times. Historically called Denali (meaning ‘the big one’) by the Koyukon Athabaskan tribe, it was referred to as Bolshaya Gora (‘big mountain’) by the Russians. After the Alaska purchase, it was temporarily named Densmore's Mountain before gaining the name McKinley in support of the then-presidential candidate. It was renamed Denali in the 1970s at the state level and in 2015 at the federal level, before reverting to McKinley in 2024, although Denali is still the name of the National park that houses it . With this many changes, it’s no wonder some people still mix the names.

2

Liberty Enlightening the World/The Statue of Liberty

This statue is one of the indisputable icons of the USA and of New York City, but not everyone knows that ‘The Statue of Liberty’ is just a popular name. As a gift from France, it was named La Liberté éclairant le monde , or ‘Liberty Enlightening the World’ , but no matter what it’s called, it has become an iconic symbol of American values.

3

Alcatraz Island/The Rock

One of the most infamous American prisons, Alcatraz Island, is located less than two miles from the San Francisco coast. Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala named it Isla de los Alcatraces or Island of the Pelicans due to the prevalence of these birds. After becoming U.S. territory, Alcatraz Island became a military fort, and then a federal prison that housed some of America’s most notorious criminals. While many believe that it's popularly called The Rock because it was impossible to escape, the nickname is simply due to its rocky appearance and its isolated location.

4

Mt. Rainier/Tahoma

Located in the Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, Mt. Rainier is the tallest mountain (and volcano) in the Cascade Range. Native American tribes of the area have given numerous names to this peak, but the most prominent one is Tahoma or Tacoma , a name still used by some. Officially, however, it is called Mt. Rainier , a name given by the British explorer George Vancouver in the 1790s.

5

Lake Superior/Gitche Gumee

The largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior, is one of the biggest freshwater reserves in the world. Its current name originated when French explorers, after traversing Lake Huron, called this lake le lac supérieur (‘the lake above’). After the French and Indian War, the British simply translated the name. However, this lake also has a native name, usually transliterated as Gitche Gumee, a name used by the poet Longfellow in his work The Song of Hiawatha .

6

Mt. Rushmore/The Six Grandfathers

This mountain has been considered a sacred place by many tribes of the region —such as the Arapaho, Cheyenne, or Lakota Sioux— who named it ‘The Six Grandfathers’ after their ancestral deities . The place gained its current name when Charles E. Rushmore, a lawyer surveilling the area as a representative of a mining company, asked the name of the mountain. His guide replied that it had no name, but it would from that day be called ‘Rushmore’. The name stuck, and was officially recognized a few decades later.

7

Mission San Antonio de Valero/The Alamo

The battle of the Alamo is a well-known episode in Texan history, and its location is considered a shrine to Texan valor and liberty. However, what many don’t know is that the place is called Mission San Antonio de Valero , a name given by the Spanish. Where does the ‘Alamo’ name come from? After the place stopped being used as a Catholic mission, it became a military fortress, housing a military unit nicknamed Álamo de Parras after their city of origin, a nickname that extended to the site.

8

Cloud Gate/The Bean

Chicago regulars (and even those who never set foot in Chicago) know that The Bean is as iconic as it gets when talking about the city. Inspired by liquid mercury, this impressive sculpture might be shaped like a ginormous jellybean, but its official name is Cloud Gate . The sculptor, Anish Kapoor, initially disliked the popular nickname, but he has reportedly come to terms with it, even saying that he now calls it ‘the Bean’ too.

9

State House Bell/Liberty Bell

At its birth, this bell was simply the bell of the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall). Cast in the 18th century, it cracked the first time it was rung. It was recast twice, but it cracked again in the 19th century. Allegedly rung after the Declaration of Independence, it was hidden during the Revolutionary War, and it changed hands several times in the following century. Despite its popular association with the American Revolution, the ‘Liberty Bell’ name was actually given by anti-slavery groups , who took it as a symbol due to its inscription reading "Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof."

10

Cape Canaveral/Cape Kennedy

Originally named Cabo Cañaveral by the Spanish after its abundance of canes, its name was simply anglicized after the territory became part of the United States. In the 20th century, Cape Canaveral became the center of a series of missile and rocket tests, and it was the launch site of the Apollo 11 mission. A few days after J.F.K.’s assassination, the newly-instated President Johnson publicly announced that the cape would be renamed ‘Cape Kennedy’ as a memorial . The name change was not well-received by local Floridians, and the original name was reinstated a decade later, with the full support of the Kennedy family. The NASA space center is still named after President Kennedy.