1

Mourning Dove

Image: Anish Lakkapragada

The melancholic name of the mourning dove comes from its sad call , which the casual listener might mistake for an owl. Mourning Doves inhabit a wide range of open habitats, including suburbs and urban parks.

Their call is generally referred to as the "perch coo," a song sung by an unmated male from a perch. These birds have other well-known nicknames, such as "turtle doves" and "rain doves."

2

Northern Mockingbird

Image: Tyler Jamieson Moulton

More than just mockers, mockingbirds are expert singers, continuously adding new imitations of other birds' songs to their repertoires and sometimes mimicking unnatural sounds, such as car alarms. Northern mockingbirds may learn up to 200 different sounds.

These medium-sized, long-tailed gray songbirds prefer open habitats with a scattering of shrubs and small trees. They eat a wide variety of fruits, invertebrates, and even small vertebrates, such as lizards.

3

White-breasted Nuthatch

Image: Patrice Bouchard

You can recognize this bird by its white face and underside, bluish back and wings, dark crown, nasal "yank-yank" call, and its habit of creeping down tree trunks headfirst.

The name "nuthatch" is derived from "nut hacker," reflecting the bird's method of opening up nuts by jamming them into a crevice and then hammering at them.

4

Downy Woodpecker

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

The smallest woodpecker in North America, the Downy Woodpecker is a stubby-billed, black-and-white bird that inhabits deciduous woods and tree-filled urban and suburban parklands. It forages on trees, shrubs, and large weeds for insects and other arthropods.

The "downy" in this bird's common name refers to the soft, white feathers of its long, white back stripe . The "woodpecker" part refers to the fact that this bird pecks bark, looking for termites hidden underneath it.

5

House Finch

Image: Patrice Bouchard

Originally found only in the West, the House Finch was introduced to the eastern U.S. in 1939, when a few individuals were released from a pet store. The word "finch" comes from the German idiom fink , which refers to a lively or cheerful person —a description that certainly fits this active and gregarious songbird. The term "house" refers to the bird’s tendency to hang around human dwellings.

6

Song Sparrow

Image: Patrick Fobian

Song Sparrows, as their name suggests, sing a cheerful and recognizable song. Although these birds can be found in a wide range of habitats, their favorite spots are often close to streams and other sources of fresh water.

The English word "sparrow" derives from the Anglo-Saxon word spearwa . This term means "flutterer," an apt description for this active songbird.

7

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

The only hummingbird that regularly breeds in the eastern U.S. is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. The male's metallic-looking red throat, or "gorget," explains the first part of the name. And the hummingbird part comes from the humming sound their wings make as they fly.

8

Blue Jay

Image: David Bridle

The "bullies" of the birdfeeder, Blue Jays' name comes from the bird's noisy, garrulous nature. This term has also been applied to other birds of the same family, which are generally gregarious as well.

Before approaching a feeder, Blue Jays often give harsh calls that sound like those of hawks, perhaps to scare off other birds that might compete for access to the bird seed.

9

Tufted Titmouse

Image: Paul Crook

These curiously named birds form longer-lasting family units than many other songbirds, with their younglings sometimes even hanging around for a second year to help raise younger siblings. The "titmouse" name has nothing to do with rodents, but instead comes from an Old English phrase meaning "small bird."

10

Spotted Towhee

Image: Anish Lakkapragada

Spotted Towhees are members of the sparrow family. These birds have dark heads and backs, white spots on their wings, rusty sides, and striking red eyes. Their song is a simple trill.

The name "towhee" is a simulation of the bird's call and it was coined in 1731 by the naturalist and bird artist, Mark Catesby.

1

Coca-Cola

Image: Bradley Pisney

A beverage so iconic that it inspired an entire genre of soft drinks named after it, Coca-Cola had its start in 1886 when it was created by pharmacist John Pemberton, who initially intended to market it as a temperance drink and medicinal tonic.

A blend of coca leaves and kola nuts (a source of caffeine), the iconic soft drink became a sensation, and soon Pemberton sold the ownership rights to Asa Griggs Candler, a businessman who transformed the Coca-Cola brand into a global powerhouse. While the ingredients have been changed a few times since its inception, the current formula remains a closely guarded trade secret, fueling much speculation and numerous attempts to uncover it.

2

Pepsi

Image: Oleg Ivanov

Developed in 1898 by pharmacist Caleb Bradham—and originally named "Brad's Drink"—Pepsi was initially conceived as a digestive aid. Its name is derived from pepsin, a digestive enzyme produced by the body, though pepsin was never actually included in the drink's formula.

Despite nearly going bankrupt in the early 1920s, Pepsi gained popularity during the Great Depression, even briefly outpacing Coca-Cola, thanks to clever marketing that appealed to budget-conscious consumers. This kickstarted a fierce rivalry, leading to bold marketing stunts, including an unlikely deal with the Soviet Union, making Pepsi the first Western product sanctioned for sale there.

3

Dr Pepper

Image: Yana Smetana

Another soft drink originally conceived in a pharmacist's lab, Dr Pepper actually predates both Coke and Pepsi. Launched in 1885 in Waco, Texas, its unique flavor sets it apart from most competitors. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has categorized Dr Pepper, much like Coca-Cola, as its own distinct type of beverage: "pepper soda."

The origin of its name is disputed. Originally, people would simply order a "Waco" at soda fountains. While some speculate the name comes from Charles T. Pepper, a doctor who gave Wade Morrison his first job (or, according to another version, gave him permission to marry his daughter), it was more likely than not a creative marketing decision, as using "Dr." in product names was a common way to suggest health benefits.

4

7UP

Image: Julian Rösner

7UP, created in 1929 by Charles Leiper Grigg, was originally marketed as "Bib-Label Lithiated Lemon-Lime Soda," as it contained lithium citrate (a mood-stabilizing drug) among its ingredients. While lithium was removed in 1948, the drink's refreshing lemon-lime flavor remained, having already become a household favorite.

The soft drink, however, didn’t quite find its market niche until it launched the "Uncola" marketing campaign in the 1970s, which positioned the soda as a distinct alternative to colas, boosting its popularity. The origin of the name 7UP remains a mystery, with speculation that it refers to the original 7-ounce bottles or the drink’s initial seven ingredients.

5

Sprite

Image: Gift Habeshaw

Introduced by Coca-Cola in 1961 to compete with 7UP, Sprite quickly became one of the leading lemon-lime sodas on the market. Interestingly, this popular soft drink didn’t originate in America but in West Germany in 1959, where it was launched as "Fanta Klare Zitrone" ("Fanta Clear Lemon" in English).

In the ‘80s, Sprite leveraged its appeal to younger generations through bold advertising campaigns and endorsements from popular musicians. Today, the brand has expanded into various flavors, including cranberry, cherry, grape, orange, tropical, ginger, and vanilla, among others.

6

Mountain Dew

Image: Shane

Mountain Dew was originally created in the 1940s by Tennessee beverage bottlers Barney and Ally Hartman as a mixer for whiskey. The name "Mountain Dew" was a colloquial term for homemade liquor, making it fitting for the soda’s Appalachian roots. However, the drink only took on its citrus-flavored, energizing modern form after being acquired by the Tip Corporation in 1961.

It remains one of the most caffeinated sodas on the market, containing 54 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can—nearly double that of Coca-Cola. This is likely what draws many soda drinkers to this flavor, as the high sugar and caffeine content can give a short-term boost of energy.

7

RC Cola

Image: Brooke Cagle

Founded in 1905 by Claud A. Hatcher, Royal Crown Cola (RC Cola) was originally created as a direct competitor to Coca-Cola and Pepsi. The soft drink was born after the Hatcher family, who were grocery store owners, could not get a discount for purchasing large volumes of Coca-Cola syrup from local distributors. Frustrated, they vowed to create their own alternative.

Despite never achieving the same market dominance as Coke or Pepsi, RC Cola soon gained a loyal following, especially in Southern states. Unlike its rivals, RC offered a slightly stronger cola flavor, which many found refreshing compared to the sweeter taste of Coke. RC Cola also innovated with the first aluminum can for sodas and was one of the first companies to produce diet sodas, such as Diet Rite.

8

Fanta

Image: Renato Trentin

Did you know that Fanta was born in Germany during World War II, of all places? After local Coca-Cola plants could no longer import syrup due to trade embargos, German businessman Max Keith created a new soda using available ingredients—which were mostly fruit scraps and whey.

Fanta quickly became a wartime favorite in Germany. After the war, Coca-Cola regained control of the plant, formula, and trademarks, introducing Fanta to the U.S. in 1955. It rapidly gained popularity as a fun, fruit-flavored alternative to traditional sodas. While Fanta's orange flavor remains its best seller, the brand now offers over 90 flavors worldwide.

9

A&W Root Beer

Image: David Lusvardi

A&W Root Beer was introduced in 1919 by Roy Allen, who first started selling it at a parade honoring returning World War I veterans. Its creamy texture and rich flavor quickly made A&W Root Beer a favorite, especially when paired with vanilla ice cream to create the now-iconic root beer float.

By 1922, Roy Allen partnered with fellow entrepreneur Frank Wright, and A&W became a franchised brand, launching one of the first fast-food chains in America that same year. Despite struggling with labor shortages and sugar rationing during World War II, the company endured and remains one of the most iconic root beer brands in America to this day.

10

Sunkist

Image: The Pop'd Shop

Sunkist, launched in 1979 by the Sunkist Growers cooperative, was introduced to tap into the American love for citrus-flavored sodas. Known and loved for its bold orange flavor, Sunkist was the first major orange soda to include caffeine in its formula, setting it apart from competitors like Crush and Fanta.

Most importantly, Sunkist's success was greatly boosted by its association with the California citrus industry. Its marketing campaigns, including the "Taste the Sun" slogan, further linked the brand to sunny, vibrant outdoor activities, making it one of the top-selling orange sodas in the U.S. for decades.

1

Pacific Coast Highway

Image: Lance Anderson

We’ll begin this hypothetical trip of ours in California, and "The Golden State" offers an equally convenient and panoramic way to travel along its stunning coastlines. California State Route 1 is known by many names, such as Cabrillo Highway, Shoreline Highway, or Coast Highway, but it is perhaps best recognized as the "Pacific Coast Highway."

This state route crosses many iconic and gorgeous locations in California, including Big Sur, the San Francisco Bay Area, and the Monterey Bay Area. Beyond its scenic beauty, the Highway is a pop culture icon in its own right, referenced in songs by bands like the Beach Boys and the Decemberists.

2

Yosemite

Image: Jordi Vich Navarro

Yosemite truly needs no introduction. This iconic national park spans 759,620 acres across four California counties, with nearly 95% of its total area designated as wilderness.

From its stunning giant sequoia trees to its breathtaking waterfalls, granite cliffs, and pristine streams, the park offers something for everyone. Yosemite is a quintessential example of the natural beauty America has to offer.

3

Red Rock Canyon State Park

Image: Kristen P

Since we’re still on the California portion of our fictional road trip, let’s make a quick stop at another natural treasure. Red Rock Canyon State Park is renowned worldwide for its stunning rock formations and its arid yet strikingly beautiful scenery.

While the weather is definitively drier than in other parts of California, don’t think for a moment that nature is absent in Red Rock Canyon. In fact, this park is home to the rare Red Rock Canyon monkeyflower, a unique flower found exclusively in this region.

4

California’s Lost Coast

Image: Paulius Dragunas

Last but certainly not least on the California leg of our trip is the stunning region known as the "Lost Coast." Situated in Humboldt and Mendocino counties, this area earned its name because it remains largely natural and undeveloped, the product of a surge in depopulation in the 1930s.

While the inaccessibility of the area is definitively a hurdle—its steep terrain makes establishing roads difficult—we highly recommend it to those adventurous enough to explore on foot. Its pristine, unspoiled landscapes are truly a sight to behold.

5

Willamette Valley

Image: Dan Meyers

Let’s now step into the wonderful state of Oregon to continue our fictional journey. What better place to start our tour through the "Beaver State" than through the beauty of Willamette Valley ? While this region is undeniably vast—stretching 150 miles and encompassing Oregon’s five largest cities—we’d like to highlight a few features that truly make this valley a beautiful area.

Driving through this predominantly agricultural landscape, publicized in the 1820s as a "promised land of flowing milk and honey," means running across rather scenic and bountiful sights. Trust us: watching the golden grapevines shimmer in the autumn sun is just one of the many experiences that make Willamette Valley so magical.

6

Oregon Coast

Image: Kevin Butz

The Oregon Coast not only offers unparalleled and gorgeous sights of the Pacific Ocean, but it's also a unique and massive area that encompasses more than 25 cities, lush landscapes, and a rich variety of birds, marine life, and other wildlife.

As you would expect, the many wonders of this area make the Oregon Coast a popular tourist destination. Those looking for adrenaline-fueled activities may be interested in surfing or sandboarding, while some history buffs might find intrigue in historic landmarks such as Fort Clatsop, Battle Rock, and Oregon’s many lighthouses.

7

Olympic National Park

Image: Georg Eiermann

Now that the route has taken us to the state of Washington, why not visit Olympic National Park and its gorgeous sights? Originally designated as Mount Olympus National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt, this park is divided into four distinct regions, each hosting three unique ecosystems.

Due to its amazing variety, a single entry could never encompass all the natural wonders this park has to offer. However, we can highlight a few favorites: for instance, Mount Olympus, the tallest peak in the Olympic Mountains, or the Hoh Rainforest, renowned for its stunning Bigleaf maples.

8

The San Juan Islands

Image: David Lang

The San Juan Islands is a four-island archipelago at the border between Washington State and the Canadian province of British Columbia. The Islands are considered the go-to place for birdwatching enthusiasts, boasting the highest concentration of bald eagles in the contiguous United States.

If bird-watching is not your thing, don’t worry—there’s plenty more to see and do on these breathtaking islands. Several ferry tours offer access to some of the best panoramic views of the region, which, as you might imagine, are nothing short of stunning.

9

Denali National Park

Image: Bryson Beaver

We’ve now arrived in the final state of our West Coast road trip. In that sense, what better place to conclude our journey than the "Last Frontier"? With that in mind, let’s begin our exploration of Alaska with what many consider to be the state’s crown jewel: Denali National Park.

Denali holds the distinction of being the highest peak in North America, and while this is truly no small feat, that’s not what makes this area so special. This mountain’s immense size is rivaled only by its breathtaking magnificence. Denali is renowned for its stunning glaciers, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, which includes brown bears, beavers, and Arctic foxes.

10

Kenai Fjords National Park

Image: Kedar Gadge

Kenai Fjords National Park’s beauty is as stunning as it is diverse. Its landscapes are marked by truly unique and stunning features, such as glaciers, islands, and fjords. In addition to its remarkable terrain, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and sea otters.

Designated by President Carter in 1978, the park is primarily visited by cruise ships and tour boats. Thousands of visitors are awestruck each day by the grandeur of Kenai Fjords, including the famous Exit Glacier, which is located at the end of the park’s only road.