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

Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Image: The Silverdalex

Located in an area already filled with memorials, Arlington National Cemetery stands out as one of the nation’s most sacred landmarks. Established during the Civil War on land confiscated from General Robert E. Lee's estate, it became the final resting place for over 400,000 brave Americans, including casualties from WWII to the Vietnam War.

At its heart lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a continuously guarded monument that symbolizes the sacrifices of all unidentified fallen heroes. Notably, the graves of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy are among the most visited sites in the cemetery.

2

Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C.

Image: Ryan Stone

Popularly known as the Vietnam Memorial, this U.S. national landmark located in Washington, D.C., honors those who served during the Vietnam War. Its centerpiece consists of two imposing black granite walls, engraved with the names of over 58,000 individuals who died or went missing while serving their country in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

Designed by architect Maya Lin, the monument is strikingly powerful in its minimalism, evoking deep emotions through its simplicity. The site also includes the Three Soldiers statue and the Vietnam Women's Memorial.

3

Marine Corps War Memorial, Virginia

Image: Sal Cenicacelaya

Located in Arlington County, Virginia, this war memorial was inspired by the iconic 1945 photograph of six Marines raising the U.S. flag atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Standing 32 feet tall, the monument is an enduring symbol of courage and determination, honoring all Marines who have served since 1775.

Though the sculpture depicts a moment when the U.S. flag had 48 stars, the flag flown today is always the current version, symbolizing the memorial’s dedication to all Marines who have died in defense of the United States, regardless of the era.

4

Air Force Memorial, Virginia

Image: Yogi Panchal

Located near the Marine Corps War Memorial and Arlington Cemetery, this 270-foot-high sculpture features three stainless steel spires reaching toward the sky. It was the final project of American architect James Ingo Freed, renowned for his work with I.M. Pei and his contributions to various iconic U.S. public buildings.

The spires seem to evoke the contrails of a group of Air Force Thunderbirds performing a dramatic flight maneuver. Notably, only three of the typical four contrails are depicted, symbolizing the "missing man" formation traditionally used in Air Force funeral flyovers.

5

World War II Memorial, Washington, D.C.

Image: Joshua Woods

Featuring 56 pillars adorned with bronze laurel wreaths, each symbolizing a U.S. state or territory, this memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served in World War II. It stands as a grand tribute to the "Greatest Generation," celebrating their victories and the sacrifices they made for their country.

Interestingly, the memorial includes two subtle "Kilroy was here" engravings, a nod to the iconic symbol that became a reassuring emblem for American soldiers during the war, marking their presence and protection wherever it appeared.

6

Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C.

Image: Joe Richmond

Dedicated in 1995, this national memorial features a haunting image of nineteen steel statues of soldiers standing in silent patrol. The memorial honors the 1.5 million Americans who served in Korea, a conflict that is sometimes referred to as the "Forgotten War."

A granite memorial wall is also part of the site, engraved with the names of U.S. military personnel and South Koreans embedded in U.S. units who died in the conflict. The monument includes the Pool of Remembrance, a tranquil 30-foot-diameter pool lined with black granite, surrounded by a grove of trees and benches, offering a peaceful place for quiet reflection.

7

National D-Day Memorial, Virginia

Image: Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain

This memorial pays tribute to the courage and sacrifice of all service members of the Allied forces on D-Day, June 6, 1944. The site prominently displays the inscription, "In Tribute to the Valor, Fidelity, and Sacrifice of Allied Forces on D-Day." Featuring a symbolic pool with a landing craft, an American soldier, and a German beach barrier, the memorial captures the essence of the immensely dangerous beach landings.

According to the National D-Day Memorial Foundation, the site is designed as a continuum of three distinct plazas, each representing a different phase of the operation—planning, execution, and victory. The centerpiece of the monument is a 44-foot-tall arch, symbolizing the triumph of the operation while surrounding elements evoke the soldiers' bravery under relentless fire.

8

U.S. Navy Memorial, Washington, D.C.

Image: Michael Afonso

The granite plaza of the Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., is well known for its iconic Lone Sailor statue, which symbolizes all those who have served in the U.S. Navy throughout its history. The statue, crafted by sculptor Stanley Bleifeld, gazes over the Granite Sea—a map depicting the world's oceans, centered on Washington, D.C.

Flanking the memorial are two buildings, with the eastern one serving as a visitor center. This small museum often offers exhibits that explore the rich history of American sailors.

9

National Museum of the United States Army, Virginia

Image: Rob Martinez

More than just a museum, this site serves as a living memorial dedicated to the history of the U.S. Army. It honors the bravery, valor, and sacrifices of soldiers across America’s history while providing an in-depth exploration of the nation’s oldest and largest military branch.

Opened on November 11, 2020, the museum’s mission is to honor America’s soldiers, preserve Army history, and educate the public about the Army's role in American history. The facility also includes spaces for ceremonies, reenactments, lectures, educational programs, and reunions, making it a dynamic hub for both remembrance and learning.

10

USS Arizona Memorial, Hawaii

Image: Tim Mossholder

This solemn memorial rests above the sunken remains of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor, a pivotal site in American history. It honors the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941.

The majestic white structure symbolizes peace and remembrance, while the wall of names reminds us of the individual stories of bravery and sacrifice of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. A profoundly evocative monument, it stands as a testament to national resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

1

Wild Alaskan salmon sandwich

Image: Thomas Mertens

In Alaska, the sandwich of choice comes straight from its icy waters . The wild Alaskan salmon sandwich features freshly caught salmon, often grilled or lightly smoked, served on hearty bread with crisp lettuce, tomato, and a tangy dill sauce.

2

Frybread "Navajo Taco"

Image: Bob LaCour

Tacos with a twist: Arizona’s beloved frybread "Navajo taco" is a sort of open-faced sandwich. A variety of taco fillings served on pillowy frybread ; golden and crisp on the outside, soft inside.

It’s generously topped with seasoned ground beef or shredded meat, beans, lettuce, cheese, and sometimes salsa or sour cream.

3

Deep-Fried catfish sandwich

Image: Jonathan Borba

In Arkansas, a true taste of home often comes between two buttered buns. The deep-fried catfish sandwich features flaky catfish fillets, breaded in cornmeal and fried to a golden crisp. It usually contains a smear of tartar sauce, a few pickles, and maybe some shredded lettuce.

4

Italian Beef Sandwich

Image: Yoad Shejtman

Chicagoans take their beef seriously, and nothing embodies the city’s flavor like the Italian beef sandwich. Thinly sliced roast beef is simmered in its own seasoned jus, piled high on an Italian-style roll, and often topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers.

5

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Image: Jacinto Diego

Indiana’s pride comes between two buns: the legendary pork tenderloin sandwich. This oversized, breaded, and deep-fried pork cutlet, often wider than the bun itself, is served with classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles.

6

Hot Brown

Image: Natalia Gusakova

The Hot Brown is Louisville’s indulgent favorite. This open-faced marvel layers roasted turkey and crisp bacon atop toasted bread , smothered in creamy Mornay sauce, and baked until golden. It was created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel, designed as a late-night supper for hotel guests.

7

Jucy Lucy

Image: Juan Santos

Burgers count! Minneapolis is home to a burger with a deliciously molten secret: the Jucy Lucy. This cheese-stuffed masterpiece hides gooey American cheese inside two patties of seasoned beef. Today, it’s a must-try for any visitor seeking a twist on a classic American burger.

8

Pastrami Sandwich

Image: Akhil Pawar

Few sandwiches are as iconic as New York’s pastrami on rye, and Katz’s Delicatessen is the reigning champion. Brined, smoked, and expertly sliced pastrami piled high on fresh rye bread , often with mustard, has been a favorite since the deli opened in 1888.

9

The Elvis Sandwich

Image: Dexter McQueen

Tennessee claims a sweet-and-savory creation forever linked to its most famous son: Elvis Presley. The Elvis sandwich combines peanut butter, banana, and crispy bacon . Would you like to try it?

10

Lobster Roll

Image: Jesse

This one was an easy choice: no Maine culinary list is complete without the lobster roll. Bursting with fresh, tender lobster meat lightly dressed in butter or mayo and nestled into a soft, toasted roll, this sandwich is a staple of seaside shacks .