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

Apple pie

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

We’ll start with an undisputed American icon: After all, doesn’t the saying go, "as American as apple pie" ? This iconic treat has been at the heart of countless American traditions, perhaps most notably during Independence Day celebrations. Fireworks and a slice of apple pie are all we need for a 4th of July to remember.

While apple pies originated in 14th-century England, it wasn’t until they arrived in America that they became a global icon. Over the centuries, several recipes and toppings have emerged, such as whipped cream, ice cream, custard, or even cheddar cheese.

2

Key lime pie

Image: American Heritage Chocolate

Who says pies can’t be sour? The Key Lime Pie is the perfect example of a " When life gives you lemons " mentality: it takes the lime, a fruit that no one would want to eat raw, and transforms it into a luscious and delicious treat.

The Key Lime Pie is Florida’s official state pie, as it was invented in the "Sunshine State" during the 1940s. Not only that, but the traditional way to make this pie uses Key limes, which get their name from the Florida Keys where they are grown.

3

Blueberry pie

Image: Diliara Garifullina

Just like pumpkin pies, blueberry pies were first created by American settlers , who used the abundant varieties of blueberries found in the country to make these delicious treats. Over time, their popularity spread to Europe, where people used their own types of blueberries to try to replicate the American versions.

This sweet treat has become synonymous with the state of Maine, where blueberry pie made with wild Maine blueberries was designated as the official state dessert. However, blueberry pie is still happily enjoyed across the entire nation.

4

Pumpkin pie

Image: Alexander Grey

Just like apple pie is the go-to dessert for the 4th of July, pumpkin pie is instantly associated with Thanksgiving . After all, the origins of this delicious treat can be traced back to the very first American colonists, though it was served in a very different manner. Historians believe that these early versions of pumpkin pie were more akin to a type of pumpkin soup, served inside a hollowed-out pumpkin.

Nowadays, the pumpkin pie we know and love is made with eggs, milk, evaporated sugar, and several spices like nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon, often topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

5

Boston Cream pie

Image: Marko Klaric

According to some historians, Armenian-French chef Mossburg Sanzian created a particularly delicious cream-filled cake one afternoon in 1856 at the Parker House Hotel in Boston. Unbeknownst to Sanzian, his creation would eventually become the iconic Boston cream pie , declared Massachusetts’ official state dessert in 1996.

Since that day in 1856, this iconic dessert has gone by many names, such as "chocolate cream pie" and "Parker House chocolate cream pie." You might be confused by our use of the word "cake," but that was no mistake: The Boston cream pie is technically a cake. Its confusing name comes from the fact that, in the 19th century, both cakes and pies were baked in the same pan, which led these two words to become synonyms.

6

Peanut Pie

Image: ROMAN ODINTSOV

American President James "Jimmy" Carter is still well-known for his love of peanuts, so it stands to reason that his beloved wife, Rosalynn, was known for her delicious peanut pie . After all, this pie is a staple of Southern cuisine and is especially beloved in Carter’s home state of Georgia.

Peanut pie is similar to pecan pie in that they are prepared with similar ingredients, such as corn syrup, eggs, and sugar. However, peanut pie is highly versatile and may include other ingredients, such as molasses, cayenne pepper, bourbon, or cream cheese.

7

Marionberry Pie

Image: Larissa Farber

The marionberry pie is a delicious treat, particularly popular in the Pacific Northwest. After all, this type of blackberry is named after Marion County in Oregon , where it was bred and tested during the 20th century.

As you would expect, the marionberry pie is Oregon’s official state pie, and it truly shows. If you ever happen to visit "The Beaver State" during berry season, you’ll probably be welcomed with a warm smile and a slice of delicious marionberry pie.

8

Peach cobbler

Image: khezez | خزاز

Cobbler is definitely the entry with the most baffling name on this list. After all, what does a shoemaker have to do with this delicious dessert? In any case, don’t let this unusual name discourage you; cobblers are a simple yet amazing sweet treat.

While we would love to include as many types of cobblers as we could find, for brevity's sake, we’ll instead focus on one of the most popular cobblers in America: Peach cobbler combines the sweetness and texture of peaches with a crumbly, sweet topping. In 2013, Texas declared the peach cobbler its official state cobbler.

9

Pecan pie

Image: nikohoshi

Standing on the other side of peanut pie, we have pecan pie, another Southern delicacy . Just like peanut pie, pecan pie might seem simple at first glance, but there are several variants and styles associated with this sweet treat. Different recipes include molasses, honey, or cane syrup.

In the American South, pecan pie is closely associated with the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. Due to its status as a cultural icon, Texas declared pecan pie its official state pie.

10

Cherry pie

Image: Nik

While most of us associate the 4th of July with apple pie, it should also be noted that many Americans picture a delicious slice of cherry pie when reminiscing about our Independence Day. Like many other pies on this list, cherry pie can be enjoyed with whipped cream or ice cream.

Cherry pie is also deeply ingrained in American folk songs , such as "Billy Boy," where the titular character is asked whether his bride-to-be can cook a cherry pie. Additionally, cherry pie is linked to George Washington’s birthday, thanks to the popular legend of a young Washington chopping down his father’s cherry tree.

1

Block Island, Rhode Island

Image: John Angel

One of the "Last Great Places" in the Western Hemisphere, as declared by the Nature Conservancy, Block Island has done a great job at preserving its natural beauty, with 40% of its territory being devoted to wildlife refuges.

32 miles of coastline and inland trails, along with beaches, biking, and trekking provide ample opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors. And, when the sun goes down, a healthy scene of bars and restaurants with an easy-going atmosphere and great food welcomes visitors.

2

Alamosa, Colorado

Image: Shelby Cohron

Colorado is not just about ski resorts and mountains, as Alamosa proudly demonstrates. If you head down south in the Centennial State you will find this high-altitude agricultural community mainly known to UFO sightings chasers and birdwatchers.

The town, packed with antique shops and craft breweries, is near the Great Sand Dunes National Park, a surreal place that makes visitors feel as if they were in the Sahara desert. The San Luis Valley and the Sangre de Cristo mountains, also near, provide ideal spots for hiking and exploring during the summer months.

3

Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin

Image: Dave Hoefler

Hiking trails might not look like the most crowded places but they can be—the popular ones, at least. Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail offers 1,200 miles of scenic hiking paths without the heavy foot traffic of places of most known trails.

The trail can be thoroughly enjoyed without the need to traverse it in full, as it has many segments that can be discovered individually. Wooded hills, gorgeous glacial lakes, and plenty of trailside camps and small communities to rest make this trail a great spot for a holiday in nature.

4

Pioneer Valley, Massachusetts

Image: Larry Ferreira

There is much more to Massachusetts than Boston, Cape Cod, and the Berkshires—for example, the Pioneer Valley . Carved by the Connecticut River, this peaceful area is home to several vintage mill cities turned into modern towns full of restaurants and one-off shops.

Hikers can walk the north woods on the New England Trail and Springfield visitors can discover the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, where the sport was born in 1891, as well as the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum & Sculpture Garden.

5

John Day Region, Oregon

Image: Anna Vineyard

While it has managed to avoid massive crowds for all of its existence, it's hard to believe that a natural wonder as picturesque as John Day Region will remain a calm place for much longer in this day and age. Take a moment to Google-search John Day Region’ s Painted Hills and you will get the idea.

And if that is not enough reason to make you plan a visit, the region is packed with old-growth rainforests, canyons, high desert plains, and undammed rivers complete with sandy beaches and gorgeous meadows, all in an easy-to-move-around area.

6

Pennsylvania Wilds

Image: Lera Kogan

When considering the abundance of wildlife and untamed mountain creeks, ancient trees of the Forest Cathedral, and Pine Creek’s own version of the Grand Canyon, it becomes clear that the Pennsylvania Wilds is a region that lives up to its name.

Sprawling across a vast expanse of the rugged Allegheny Plateau, the region boasts 29 state parks, two national wild and scenic rivers, a world-class stargazing center at Cherry Springs, and human relics like the Kinzua Bridge.

7

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Image: Drew Harbour

A city that has a ton of amazing things to offer but never appears on those glamorous Top-Cities-To-Visit lists, Tulsa is a hidden jewel of the Midwest. Its beautiful Art Deco architecture, impressive museums and cultural institutions with collections rivaling those of major cities, lively music scene, and craft breweries make it a great long weekend destination.

The best time window to visit would be from September to November when the temperate weather is ideal for walking tours and bike rides in the historic neighborhoods. The Tulsa International Airport has nonstop flights from all over the country, all year long.

8

Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia

Image: Parker Hilton

Combining beach fun and outdoor adventure with copious wildlife, Cumberland Island National Seashore receives visits that usually stay for the day. But staying overnight at beachside campgrounds or the Greyfield Inn is a fun adventure as well.

Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island is full of wild horses, sea turtles, wild turkeys, and infinite birds everywhere to be seen along the island’s 18-mile-long beach.

9

Western Tennessee

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

An enticing blend of nature, history, music, and food tells us that there is so much more to Tennessee than the tourist magnet that is Nashville. From the cradle of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll that is Memphis to the historical sites of Shiloh National Military Park and Fort Donelson National Battlefield to the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park that conserves nearly 13,000 acres of rare hardwood bottomland along the Mississippi River, including eerie bald cypress swamp. Western Tennessee is a place to explore.

10

Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas

Image: Oliver Graham

The few visitors who venture past Hot Springs National Park, and into the highlands of west-central Arkansas are rewarded with a haven of solitude and natural wonder in the form of the Ouachita range.

These mountains are ideal for those who like their hiking, camping, and fishing in a peaceful environment. And, if that proves to be too calm, Magazine Mountain is a regional hang-gliding mecca that also boasts amazing mountain biking routes.