1

Rich Uncle Pennybags

Image: Maria Lin Kim

Board games are popular, at least some of them. Clue, Pictionary, Monopoly—we’ve all played at least one of these. But Monopoly’s popularity is something else. And it’s not just the game’s popularity but the fine man who is the face of the brand.

Rich Uncle Pennybags was introduced in 1936 and is widely known as Mr. Monopoly. This rich guy, dressed in a smart tuxedo, turned out to be so popular that he’s been incorporated into the brand’s logo altogether.

2

Tony the Tiger

Image: Franki Chamaki

Introduced in 1951, Tony the Tiger has been a fixture in, possibly, every single household in the United States and many more countries around the world.

With his classic blue background, Tony the Tiger successfully helped Kellogg’s skyrocket as a brand and made not only the mascot but the cereal truly unforgettable. In spite of being a tiger, Tony is known for his courageous messages and friendly smile that invites consumers to take a scoop of cereal and be ready to face the day. Who doesn’t need this shot of inspiration every morning? We can definitely count on Tony the Tiger for that!

3

Pillsbury Doughboy

Image: Kelsey Todd

This fluffy, adorable mascot, affectionately known as Poppin’ Fresh has been making kitchens a little brighter since 1965.

His real name is the Pillsbury Doughboy, and he is famous for his infectious laugh that erupts whenever someone pokes his belly. Dressed in his signature white chef’s hat and scarf, this giggling, chubby fella is the best company one can have when baking. If you have any doubts, you can ask this baking master!

4

Gritty

Image: Lynda Sanchez

If chaos had a face, it would definitely be Gritty! This wild-eyed, orange furball took the world by storm as the official mascot of the Philadelphia Flyers NHL team.

He made his debut in 2018 and soon became a favorite thanks to his unpredictable antics and meme-worthy expressions, which you are surely familiar with!

Both his personality and his color are quite loud, making him quite unforgettable, as orange is also the color of the team. It represents their essence: unapologetically weird and proud of it!

5

Smokey Bear

Image: Brian Wangenheim

Nature is truly a wonder, but in order to keep it that way, we need to protect it. Now, when it comes to this, warning messages have effectively prevented people from accidentally starting wildfires, thanks to a strong brown bear with a powerful message "Only you can prevent wildfires."

The campaign started in 1944 when Smokey Bear was introduced to the nation to spread the message across radio, TV, and print media. In no time, he became a success and a mighty figure of environmental protection.

6

Mr. Met

Image: Lesly Juarez

The spring of 1963 must be a loving memory for Mets fans: that’s when their mascot, Mr. Met, was born. And he came to this world with only one purpose, to cheer the New York Mets for life, and oh-boy did he accomplish it!

For over four decades, and with a partner in crime who joined the family in the mid-1960s, Lady Met, this baseball-loving mascot with a giant baseball for a head, has not only been a mascot but has also become part of the family. Is he a part of yours?

7

Kool-Aid Man

Image: Reba Spike

This brand is one of the most consumed in America and, even though they didn’t need a mascot to be successful, the Kool-Aid man surely brought around a fair dose of cuteness and good marketing.

Originally known as Pitcher Man, which made sense since he is the drawing of a pitcher, he was later renamed Kool-Aid Man with a clear target audience: children. Once again, the brand mascot made it an undeniable success, and it soon became a cultural icon with an iconic "Oh, Yeah!" catchphrase that can make you thirsty just from reading it! Thank goodness we have the Kool-Aid man to assist us there!

8

The Laughing Cow

Image: Kenny Eliason

This brand has a namesake mascot which, ever since it was created in 1921, has undergone quite an evolution! The cheerful cow, known as the Laughing Cow, first appeared to promote high-quality dairy products when packaged cheese was a novelty.

The character, highly recognizable for its red color, has graced all kinds of the company’s product packages and has become a synonym for quality dairy products, so much so, that it continues to be the logo of the brand today!

9

Big Tex

Image: Ray Shrewsberry

If you are from Texas, or if you have attended its State Fair, you are probably familiar with this 55-foot-tall state mascot. Big Tex, the official mascot of the State Fair of Texas was introduced in 1952 as a repurposed Santa Claus figure!

At the time, he was completely transformed into the towering cowboy we all know today. With his classic cowboy hat and his iconic greeting "Howdy, folks!" However, it’s not entirely fair to call him just a mascot, as he actually serves as a cultural ambassador for everyone who visits the State Fair.

10

Cy the Cardinal

Image: Jacob Rice

Cereal, cleaning products, sports teams—mascots are everywhere. And universities also have their furry friends. In the case of Iowa State University, Cy the Cardinal is the one and he has been ever since 1954.

Born from a student contest to create a mascot that embodied the school pride, Cy was inspired by the university’s nickname, the Cyclones. He is characterized by his vibrant red plumage and his big smile, which is key to rallying fans at any sporting event. Isn’t he fierce?

1

Baseball

Image: Chris Chow

Baseball isn’t called America’s favorite pastime for nothing. The heartbeat of American sports, it was already recognized as the national sport in the 19th century, when it originated as a blend of older bat-and-ball games.

Curiously, the first official baseball game on record didn’t take place in the United States but in our northern neighbor, Canada, which is often credited with creating the basis for most modern baseball rules. However, New York City clubs were responsible for further shaping the game into what it is today.

2

Fishing

Image: Greysen Johnson

Fishing has long been a beloved pastime for millions of Americans, luring people in with a peaceful and nature-immersed experience. No longer a necessity for survival in everyday life, most people today enjoy fishing recreationally, with many anglers choosing to release their catch unharmed.

Celebrated American writers like Ernest Hemingway have portrayed fishing as a reflective and rewarding pursuit, capturing the romantic longing for a simpler life and the joy of the great outdoors that remains at the heart of this pastime. Moreover, the hobby encompasses more than just fishing, with many enthusiasts taking pride in creating their own custom lures, often crafted to resemble various types of live bait.

3

Camping

Image: Chris Holder

Camping became popular in the early 20th century as Americans sought respite from growing urbanization. Today, it remains a beloved way to explore the country's vast landscapes, from national parks to remote forests. Extensive networks of protected foot trails crisscross the nation, offering opportunities for both short and long excursions.

In fact, it could be argued that camping is part of the wild heritage of the American frontier spirit, encouraging Americans to reconnect with nature. Much like fishing—and these two pastimes often go hand in hand—camping is about adventure, self-sufficiency, and the pursuit of simplicity away from the hustle of daily life.

4

Football

Image: Carol Highsmith's America

American football—also known as gridiron football or simply football—originated in the 19th century, evolving from various older ball games related to rugby. In recent decades, it has grown into a national obsession, rivaling baseball and even surpassing it in viewership, with millions tuning in every weekend.

The Super Bowl and similar events have become iconic elements of American culture, transforming into major community celebrations that draw more than just football fans. Major events like the Super Bowl bring families and friends together across the country, often featuring entertainment segments and halftime shows that transform these sporting events into full-blown celebrations.

5

Barbecuing

Image: Vincent Keiman

Barbecuing is an art form in America, with roots tracing back to indigenous peoples and early settlers. Whether it’s a Fourth of July cookout or a casual weekend gathering, the grill is central to American social life. The tradition initially spread through pit barbecues, where meats were smoked and cooked over a dug trench filled with burning embers.

Over time, this technique evolved into the conventional backyard grilling we use today. Despite the widespread popularity of standard barbecues, styles vary significantly by region, each with its own distinct flavors and techniques, often featuring elaborate sauces or unique smoking methods.

6

Auto Racing

Image: Tim Trad

Auto racing—and particularly stock car versions of the sport like NASCAR—has captivated the imaginations of Americans almost since the invention of motor cars in the early 20th century. Drawing inspiration from popular European races like the Paris-Rouen contest, the enthusiasm for motor racing quickly took hold in the U.S.

The first American automobile race is generally considered to be the Thanksgiving Day Chicago Times-Herald race on November 28, 1895. As cars became more accessible and the automotive industry developed, racing grew in popularity, eventually evolving into the high-octane spectacle that is now a distinctly American tradition.

7

Gardening

Image: Benjamin Combs

Gardening has always been a cherished American hobby, providing a peaceful retreat within one’s home while also beautifying one’s surroundings. From victory gardens during wartime to modern suburban flower beds, gardening remains a thriving pastime for Americans everywhere.

It’s a way to create something beautiful and sustainable, connecting with nature in a personal and meaningful way. Recently, interest in homegrown vegetables and organic food has surged, with an estimated 40 percent of American households—33 million—growing their own produce.

8

Movies

Image: Kilyan Sockalingum

Since the early 20th century, movies have been integral to American culture. Whether going to a local theater or, more recently, enjoying a cozy movie marathon at home, millions of Americans have shared this experience for almost a century. As Hollywood and the film industry evolved, American movies reached audiences worldwide, earning acclaim for their excellence.

Today, the magic of cinema continues to captivate Americans just as it did decades ago. This is no surprise, as the love for good storytelling and innovation—two true American passions—lies at the heart of this cherished tradition. Although the 2020 pandemic dealt a blow to movie attendance, it has been steadily recovering, showing no signs of slowing down.

9

Home-Cooking

Image: Or Hakim

More than just a necessity, home-cooked meals are a true American passion. Food is a key part of a nation's identity, so it’s no surprise that cooking at home holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. Our country’s incredibly diverse culinary heritage offers a vast array of edible experiences to choose from, and gathering with friends and family to enjoy delicious homemade dishes is one of our favorite pastimes.

Whether preserving family recipes passed down through generations or trying new culinary experiments, home cooking is always a way to connect with loved ones, celebrate traditions, and enjoy the satisfaction of a meal crafted with love and skill.

10

Road Trips

Image: averie woodard

With a country as vast and beautiful as ours, it’s no wonder Americans often choose to spend their vacations exploring its diverse landscapes. From bustling cities to scenic countryside, domestic travel is not always just about relaxation—it can also be an adventure of self-discovery and a journey through our shared history.

And there’s certainly no shortage of sights to see! From the breathtaking vistas of our national parks to meticulously preserved historic sites, few experiences foster a deeper connection to our heritage. Whether it’s the towering peaks of the Rockies, the rolling hills of the Appalachians, or the sun-kissed shores of the coasts, every corner of the country offers something new to discover.

1

Dundas Castle, Roscoe, New York

Image: Annie Spratt

Also known as Craig-e-Clair, this castle was built by Ralph Dundas in the early 20th century. It is an architectural marvel of stone and copper.

Dundas died before the castle was completed, and his wife was reportedly committed to a sanitarium shortly after. Consequently, no member of the Dundas family ever actually lived in the mansion. This has led to the "Ghost of Dundas Castle" legends, with locals claiming to see a woman in white wandering the unfinished halls, waiting for a housewarming party that never happened.

2

Rockwell House, Milledgeville, Georgia

Image: Clem Geiss

Built in 1838, the Rockwell House is a stunning example of Federal-style architecture, but its beauty is shadowed by a dark past. It was originally built for Colonel Samuel Rockwell, a prominent lawyer.

Local lore whispers about the "Rockwell Ghost," believed to be a young girl who died during a yellow fever outbreak. However, the house’s most tangible secret lies in its survival; it has endured multiple fires and periods of extreme neglect. In recent years, it has become a focal point for preservationists who uncovered hidden structural reinforcements that suggest the house was built to be an impenetrable fortress of its era.

3

Elda Castle, Ossining, New York

Image: Nitrogel

If the name David Abercrombie sounds familiar, it’s because he co-founded the clothing company Abercrombie & Fitch . But in the 1920s, he also built this granite castle, named Elda (an acronym of his children’s names), as a secluded retreat.

The castle features a network of spiral staircases and open-air porches designed to blend the indoors with the rugged wild. Its abandonment, however, is a sheer tragedy. After the family moved out, the castle was used as a research facility and later fell victim to vandals. Legend has it that a fire in the 1940s was started by squatters, leaving behind a charred stone husk that resembles a medieval ruin more than a 20th-century home.

4

Mongo's Castle, Memphis, Tennessee

Image: Denny Müller

A stark contrast to the classical mansions of the South, Mongo’s Castle was the passion project of Mongo Bebe, a man who built his home out of scrap stone, Ashlar blocks, and found materials.

The house is a maze of folk-art eccentricity. The builder intended it to be a community center and a symbol of African-American heritage and self-reliance. It stands today as a decaying puzzle, with many neighbors still unsure of the structural logic behind its towering, uneven walls.

5

Bannerman's Castle, Pollepel Island, New York

Image: Leonard G., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Rising from the Hudson River, this castle was never intended to be a home; it was a giant advertisement and warehouse for Francis Bannerman VI’s military surplus empire.

In 1920, 200 tons of gunpowder and shells exploded in the castle’s powder house, blowing out a significant portion of the walls. The ground is still considered unstable due to the remnants of military munitions, and the inscriptions on the walls are actually warnings and advertisements for the Bannerman business. Do you dare visit this mansion?

6

Castle Mont Rouge, Rougemont, North Carolina

Image: Florian Delée

This whimsical, onion-domed castle looks like it belongs in the Russian countryside rather than the North Carolina woods. It was designed by sculptor Robert Mihaly, but he ended up abandoning the project in the early 2000s following a personal tragedy and financial hurdles.

The castle remains an "empty sculpture," filled with intricate marble work and unfinished turrets. The bizarre architectural fusion lacks a standard floor plan, making it nearly impossible to convert into a functional residence without destroying its artistic integrity.

7

Ha Ha Tonka Castle, Camdenton, Missouri

Image: Hannah McBride

Robert Snyder, a wealthy Kansas City businessman, began building this European-style castle in 1905. He wanted a retreat that overlooked the breathtaking Ha Ha Tonka Spring.

Yet, Snyder never got to see his dream finished; he was killed in one of Missouri’s first recorded automobile accidents just a year after construction began. His sons finished the castle, but it was gutted by a fire in 1942. There’s a hidden network of caves beneath the castle, which were rumored to be used by outlaws and later as a natural "refrigerator" for the estate’s kitchen.

8

Carleton Island Villa, Cape Vincent, New York

Image: Tama66

This once-magnificent villa was built for William Wyckoff, who made a fortune with the Remington Typewriter Company.

The Secret: Wyckoff’s dream turned into a nightmare on the very first night he stayed in the house. He suffered a massive heart attack and died in his sleep. His wife had passed away a month prior, leaving the villa to a son who had no interest in it. The house has stood empty for over 70 years, its secret being the tragic "cursed" timing that prevented it from ever functioning as a family home.

9

Dicksonia Plantation, Lowndesboro, Alabama

Image: Theo Bickel

Dicksonia was a quintessential antebellum mansion, featuring the massive columns and wrap-around porches synonymous with the Old South.

Unlike many plantations that were destroyed during the Civil War, Dicksonia survived the conflict only to be destroyed by a mysterious fire in 1939. Its "ghost pillars," however, remained standing long after the wooden house burned away. These towering brick columns became a haunting landmark , representing the structural skeletons of a forgotten social order.

10

Wyndcliffe, Rhinebeck, New York

Image: Peter Herrmann

This house is the literal origin of the phrase "Keeping up with the Joneses." Though often referred to as a "Mystery Mansion" by urban explorers, this is the ruin of Wyndcliffe, the estate of Elizabeth Schermerhorn Jones.

Elizabeth’s mansion was so grand and intimidating that it prompted her neighbors—including the Astors—to build even larger homes to compete. The secret of Wyndcliffe is the psychological impact of its architecture; it was built to inspire envy, and its current state of absolute decay is a poetic commentary on the fleeting nature of social status.