1

"White Christmas" by Bing Crosby (1942)

Image: Ivan Dorofeev

This is a perfect choice to start with. One of the most iconic holiday songs of all time, "White Christmas," definitely holds a special place in the hearts and minds of all Americans.

Released in 1942, the song became an instant hit and was played on every radio station. It even went on to sell over 50 million copies worldwide!

Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Michael Bublé are just a few of the legendary artists who made their own version of this classic song. It's one of our favorites for the holiday season!

2

"Heartbreak Hotel" by Elvis Presley (1956)

Image: Drew Beamer

The 1950s introduced one of the most exciting musical innovations to the spotlight: rock and roll. And when it comes to rock, we have to mention the King.

In 1956, Elvis released his iconic "Heartbreak Hotel," which had everyone singing along at the top of their lungs with the unforgettable line, "You made me so sad, oh, so sad."

An undeniable hit, "Heartbreak Hotel" was pivotal for Elvis Presley's career, as the song became his first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. We've already rushed to play it; we hope you do too!

3

"Johnny B. Goode" by Chuck Berry (1958)

Image: Erik Mclean

We know we promised "only one per decade," but it's just too hard to stick to that rule! We couldn't resist including this legendary Chuck Berry track.

Yes, we're talking about "Johnny B. Goode," the 1958 hit that could make even a statue dance! When this song hits your ears, it’s nearly impossible not to give in to its charm and start moving. With its unforgettable electric guitar riff right from the start, this tune is instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever set foot in this beautiful country.

Not only was this song an instant hit, but it also gained even more fans when it was featured in the 1985 film Back to the Future.

4

"Like a Rolling Stone" by Bob Dylan (1965)

Image: weston m

Now, let's pause the dancing for a moment to focus on the lyrics and melody of one of the greatest songs ever.

"Like a Rolling Stone," released by the amazing Bob Dylan in the year 1965, introduced listeners to Dylan's iconic rock sound. Acclaimed and celebrated by critics and audiences alike, the song features something unusual for the time of its release: it's almost 6 minutes long!

But its lengthy duration did not hinder the track from becoming a hit, and it certainly didn't prevent it from evolving into a classic.

5

"Hotel California" by Eagles (1976)

Image: Diane Picchiottino

When someone mentions the Eagles, the first song that instantly comes to our minds is the iconic "Hotel California," released in 1977.

This hit features great lyrics and an exceptional sound, reaching millions of listeners and inspiring covers in different musical genres and languages. While interpretations of its lyrics are many and varied, one of the most popular theories is that it metaphorically explores the dark side of rock stardom.

Featuring one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history, "Hotel California" remains a timeless gem that we continue to enjoy to this day.

6

"Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson (1982)

Image: Markus Spiske

It's time to put on your dancing shoes again. Just two seconds of this song is enough for anyone on Earth to recognize it.

Every time Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" plays, it's like magic—everyone starts moving. And that has been true since its release in the early 1980s. In fact, the song spent seven consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the best-selling singles in history!

Did you know that Michael Jackson first showcased his Moonwalk dance during a performance of this hit?

7

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana (1991)

Image: Jurian Kersten

This song is the quintessential symbol of the 1990s and one of the most defining tracks of grunge.

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" was released in 1991 as the lead single from Nirvana's second and most iconic album, Nevermind . It quickly became a sensation and is often considered an anthem for Generation X.

There’s a humorous story behind the song’s title: Kurt Cobain's friend wrote "Smells Like Teen Spirit" on a wall as a joke, and the singer just loved it. It turns out "Teen Spirit" was actually a brand of deodorant, but Cobain didn't know that!

8

"I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston (1992)

Image: israel palacio

Get ready to grab some tissues, because this one might bring on a few tears.

Remember the 1992 movie The Bodyguard ? Beyond the incredible performances of Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, one of the most celebrated aspects of the movie is its beloved soundtrack.

The song was originally written and recorded by the great Dolly Parton in 1973, almost 20 years before the movie. Whitney Houston recorded "I Will Always Love You" in 1992 specifically for The Bodyguard . Her cover surpassed the original version in popularity, becoming one of the most listened-to romantic hits of all time.

9

"Umbrella" by Rihanna ft. Jay-Z (2007)

Image: Kittitep Khotchalee

Welcome to the 21st century, where everything is a bit more accelerated.

You've probably heard, "Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh." That's the catchy chorus from "Umbrella" by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, released in 2007 as part of her album Good Girl Gone Bad.

The song got people all over the world dancing and singing along, topping charts in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and other countries.

Its iconic music video, featuring rain and an impressive umbrella choreography, inspired countless replicas.

10

"Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (2014)

Image: Greyson Joralemon

If you feel like dancing, this is the track you should play. This song is all about rhythm!

Released in 2014, "Uptown Funk" combines modern sounds with a funky retro beat that immediately takes you back to the 1980s. This mix was the key to captivating everyone! This song quickly became popular, with everyone knowing the lyrics by heart. Its success was unprecedented, spending an incredible 14 weeks at #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

With its upbeat vibe and infectious rhythm, this is one of the defining songs of the mid-2010s.

1

Extra cheese

Image: Ivan Torres

Let's start with a wild card: extra cheese pizza. It's no surprise it's one of the most popular choices, with its unbeatable trio of classic ingredients: dough, a lot of mozzarella cheese, and a simple tomato sauce. And who doesn't like cheese?

However, its simplicity doesn't make it any less delicious; it can be one of the best pizzas you'll ever taste! And if you want to try something new, some suggest swapping mozzarella for provolone.

2

Pepperoni

Image: Alan Hardman

A total winner of all rankings, pepperoni pizza is undoubtedly one of Americans' favorites. And that's no surprise at all. The combination of delicious melted cheese with a tasty tomato sauce and spicy, smoky pepperoni slices makes it an irresistible variety for most palates. Is it your favorite, too?

3

Sausage

Image: Nadya Spetnitskaya

Thanks to pizza's unlimited variety of toppings, you don't have to pick between protein and carbohydrates; you can enjoy both!

Sausage pizza is now a staple on the menus of many restaurants and pizza chains. And it's no wonder, given that it's one of the most popular choices among Americans. Traditionally, pizza-makers opt for Italian sausage, but you can always choose your favorite type!

4

Mushrooms

Image: Lavi Perchik

Along with pepperoni, sausage, and extra cheese, mushrooms are also one of the most popular pizza toppings in America.

Because of their versatility, mushrooms are a great choice to complement any pizza, whether it's a vegetarian or a meat pizza. In addition, they are a recommended topping for their flavor, nutritional value, and low-calorie content.

5

Green Peppers

Image: engin akyurt

Green peppers also make the top 5. If sausage isn't your choice or you follow a vegetarian diet, green pepper pizza is likely one of your favorites.

The crunchy texture and slightly sweet flavor of green peppers make a fantastic team with pizza crust and tomato sauce, making it one of the most popular.

6

Onions

Image: Adonyi Gábor

There is an alternative that's a must-have on any menu: onion pizza. Although it may not have as many staunch and expressive fans as other varieties, onion pizza is actually one of the most requested options across the country.

Onion, like tomato and cheese, is a widely used ingredient in Italian cuisine, making it a classic that's also included in other varieties and sauces.

7

Black olives

Image: Carissa Gan

Black olives have earned a spot in this ranking, as it is a very appreciated option for those who demand a briny touch on their pizza.

Some people hate them, others love them, but if you've never tried black olives on your pizza, we recommend giving it a shot. Many people have tried them and come back for more!

8

Fresh garlic

Image: Sébastien Marchand

Hand in hand with onion, garlic is a must when it comes to giving a punch of flavor to food. And pizza is no exception. In fact, fresh garlic pizza is also one of the most widely eaten pizzas in America.

While it may not have as large a fan base as other toppings, those who choose garlic as their favorite are incredibly loyal! This variety offers an exquisite combination: Often paired with mozzarella cheese and olive oil, garlic gives a unique touch.

9

Margherita

Image: Aldward Castillo

If we talk about perfect combinations, we can't leave out the legendary Margherita, a fabulous Italian pizza. Created in the 19th century in Naples, Italy, this pizza was invented especially for the Queen Margherita of Savoy, with flavors that represent the Italian flag: the green of the basil, the red of the tomato, and the white of the mozzarella cheese. Irresistible!

10

BBQ Chicken

Image: serjan midili

Chain restaurants and pizzerias wouldn't be the same without the delicious BBQ chicken pizza, a blend of flavor, heartiness, and creativity.

If the more traditional varieties have bored you, this is the perfect option for you. With a combination of sweet and smoky, this variety is undoubtedly a top choice for those who appreciate audacious tastes.

1

Yellowstone National Park

Image: Meina Yin

Yellowstone National Park, created in 1872, is a vast natural forest of 3,500 square miles that spans the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. More than half of the world's geothermal phenomena can be observed here , with some 10,000 different examples. It also has more than 300 geysers, which is about two-thirds of all the geysers on the planet.

This location, the first national park in the United States, has been a World Heritage Site since 1978. It is also known for protecting abundant and diverse wildlife —such as grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and wapiti— and for drawing millions of visitors from all over the world each year. And you, have you ever been?

2

Independence Hall

Image: Rdsmith4, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

The Independence Hall, located in historic Philadelphia, was designated a World Heritage Site in 1979. This location, far more than just a building, is considered the birthplace of America’s political foundation . The Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall, is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. And just 11 years later, the United States Constitution was also debated and signed here.

This Georgian-style red brick structure was designed by Scottish lawyer Andrew Hamilton and completed in 1753 to house the colonial assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it was then renovated several times. In 1966, the building was recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. government and is currently the centerpiece of the Independence National Historical Park.

3

Statue of Liberty

Image: Anthony DELANOIX

Installed in 1886 at the gate of New York’s harbor, the Statue of Liberty has since welcomed millions of immigrants who have come to populate the United States. This colossal neoclassical 305-foot-tall effigy enlightening the world with its torch was made in Paris by the sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in collaboration with Gustave Eiffel. It was a gift from France to our country on the occasion of the centenary of our independence.

To visit this historic monument, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, tickets must be purchased in advance. Or you can always ride the fare-free Staten Island ferry and admire it from afar in all its splendor!

4

Mesa Verde National Park

Image: Alec Krum

Located in the southwest of Colorado, the Mesa Verde Plateau reaches an altitude of over 8,500 feet. The National Park was established in 1906 and was added to the list of American World Heritage Sites in 1978. This location hosts a large number of Pueblo Indian dwellings built between the 6th and 12th centuries. Some 4,400 settlements have been found , including villages built high up on the plateau and imposing stone-built homes on rocky outcrops, with more than a hundred rooms in some cases.

The Mesa Verde National Park, which nowadays protects these invaluable archaeological sites, is a testament to the ancient cultural traditions of Native American tribes and is among the best preserved in the United States. If you haven’t visited yet, you must! We guarantee you a spectacular window into the past!

5

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Image: Zongnan Bao

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the southernmost Hawaiian island and was founded in 1916. It is best known for its extraordinary biodiversity spread over more than 340,000 acres, and it is in fact thanks to this natural richness that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1987.

The park, as you would have guessed, is home to several volcanoes . Although many of them are currently inactive, two are very much alive: Mauna Loa , which last erupted in 1984, is known to be still active and is considered the world's greatest volcanic mass; Kīlauea is more than 200,000 years old and has been erupting since 1983, the most recent occurring on June 3, 2024.

If you are considering visiting the park, exploring the volcanoes, and enjoying a unique experience, we also recommend a museum tour , where you can learn all about the history of these fascinating fiery peaks.

6

Monticello and the University of Virginia

Image: Richard Hedrick

The Monticello Residence in Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States, is one of the finest examples of American neoclassical architecture . Since 1987, it has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

Jefferson created Monticello as his plantation mansion and envisioned the university as the ideal ‘academic village’ . His vision of architecture, based on classical antiquity, reflects not only his aspirations for a new American republic heir to the European tradition but also the degree of cultural experimentation that could be expected of a country in the process of democratic evolution.

7

Papahānaumokuākea

Image: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - Pacific Region's, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Papahānaumokuākea, made up of a series of 583,000 square miles of small islands, atolls, and surrounding marine wilderness, is located in northwest Hawaii. This particular location has enormous natural value as one of the largest marine protected areas in the world . It is equally important for its Native culture. Two of its islands, Nihoa and Makumanamana , bear archaeological remains that attest to the presence of human settlement even before the arrival of Europeans . For Hawaiians, this site has cosmological significance , as it represents the bond between humans and nature.

Papahānaumokuākea was designated a World Heritage Site in 2010, and although it’s not currently open to the general public, it continues to be accessible for research, habitat restoration, and cultural and educational purposes.

8

Grand Canyon National Park

Image: Isadora Neto

Grand Canyon National Park is known as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

Located in the state of Arizona, this park is divided by a gigantic steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River, which, at more than 6,000 feet deep, is the most spectacular gorge in the world . This site is so relevant that all the geological history of the last two billion years can be found in its horizontal strata. And across its 277 miles, there are even traces of prehistoric man's efforts to adapt to a particularly inhospitable environment .

If you haven’t visited it yet, you should soon join the more than 5 million people traveling each year!

9

San Antonio Missions

Image: USA-Reiseblogger

This 2015 World Heritage Site, built on what was once the border of New Spain along the San Antonio River, constitutes five mission complexes that reflect the history of the region.

Founded by Franciscan missionaries in the 18th century, San Antonio includes architectural structures, archaeological remains, churches, dwellings, farmland, silos and water supply systems .

This site, located in Texas, is a living testament to the Hispanic monarchy's enterprise to colonize, evangelize, and defend the northern frontier territories of New Spain. These missions are also an example of the mixture of Hispanic and Coahuila culture , as can be seen in the ornamental elements of the churches that mix Catholic symbolism with native naturalist aesthetics.

10

The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright

Image: Yuhan Du

This series of eight Frank Lloyd Wright works recognizes the famous architect's influence on modern design . The most relevant buildings included in the 2019 Unesco designation are Fallingwater House in Mill Run, Pennsylvania; Unity Temple Church in Oak Park, Illinois; Herbert and Katherine Jacobs House in Madison, Wisconsin; and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of Art in New York City, among others.

These sites are a great example of the ‘organic architecture’ conceived by Wright, characterized by open plan design, the blurring of the boundaries between inside and outside, and the highly original use of materials such as steel and concrete . Wright's innovative conception of architecture, whether in residential, work, cultural, or religious buildings, greatly influenced the evolution of modern architecture in Europe and the United States and is still a point of reference for designers today.