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An 1898 map of the District of Columbia.

Why Is the Nation's Capital Called the “District of Columbia”?

Inside the complicated compromise that created the District of Columbia and the City of Washington—which are kind of the same thing.

15 of the World’s Funkiest Fungi

There's a big wide world beyond common molds and mushrooms—and some of it is very strange.

Nickelodeon invaded schools throughout the 1990s.

When ‘Nick Takes Over Your School’ Let Kids Rule

In the '90s, Nickelodeon convinced a handful of schools to cancel class for the day and let kids go (somewhat) wild.

Exploring an ice cave in Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park.

10 Hidden Gem UNESCO World Heritage Sites Worth Visiting

From waterfalls in Argentina to old-growth trees in Japan, these under-the-radar destinations deserve a spot on your bucket list.

Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #44

The riddle below dates back to the 1890s—can you figure it out?

How Did Ginger Ale Get Its Name?

Despite what the name suggests, most modern ginger ales lack both real ginger and ale.

Here‘s how to make sure your avocados are ripe and delicious.

How to Tell If an Avocado Is Ripe

Not sure if your avocado is ripe? Learn easy ways to check, tricks to speed up ripening, and the best ways to store it without ruining the taste.

You could call this “the full monty”—but was it the original use of the phrase?

Who’s the Monty of ‘The Full Monty’?

The original meaning of ‘the full monty’ may involve a hearty breakfast or a three-piece suit.

The 10 Best (and Worst) States for Road Trips in Summer 2025

Gas prices, road safety, and roadside attractions are all reasons to head for certain states (and avoid others).

The State Names That Are Hardest to Pronounce, Mapped

Plus, a map of the state names that are hardest to spell.

A breathtaking, misty view of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Top 10 Most-Visited Free National Parks

Explore America’s favorite no-fee national parks and sites, including Great Smoky Mountains, Cuyahoga Valley, and Gateway Arch.

Definition Detective Quiz #43

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

Why Is It Called “Cream Soda” If There’s No Cream In It?

The answer lies in the way our brains and taste buds respond to vanilla.

Enjoy color photography? You have two great minds to thank for its creation.

10 Incredible Cases of Inventions Being Created Simultaneously

In most cases, only one inventor actually got the spotlight for these creations.

It pays to get familiar with your hiking gear.

What Is the Hidden Whistle on Backpacks Used For?

This small, overlooked feature could save your life.

‘The Bear’: 20 Facts You Need to Know Ahead of the Fourth Season

Is ‘The Bear’ a comedy? If you’re asking the Television Academy, the clear answer is, “Yes, Chef!”

The Right Way to Pronounce ‘Worcestershire Sauce’

What it is, why it’s called that, and how to say it correctly.

Can you correctly identify the city skylines below?

Can You Identify These Famous City Skylines?

Celebrate 20 years of Google Earth by testing your knowledge of iconic skylines.

Biologists have created a marine animal database, from the smallest to the largest known species.

Biologists Launch Most Comprehensive Database of Marine Animal Body Sizes to Date

Scientists have made the first comprehensive marine wildlife size database to help scientists better understand ocean ecosystems.

The 25 Most Patriotic States in the U.S

These are the most patriotic states in America based on military service and civic involvement.

See if you can figure out this twisted tune.

Tune Twist Quiz #47

It’s time to play Tune Twist, where we translate the lyrics of popular songs into multiple languages and then back into English. Can you figure out what the song is, or who performed it?

Why Is It Called “New York-Style” Cheesecake?

All cheesecake is delicious. So why should you opt for New York-style over any other kind?

Star Wars figures can force high prices on the collector's market.

15 of the Most Valuable Star Wars Action Figures

Discover some of the most valuable vintage Star Wars action figures, including a Jawa with a vinyl cape and the 1979 Kenner Boba Fett action figure, plus so much more.

A gift to some, and a disaster to others.

Cup Noodles Debuts Dill Pickle Instant Ramen

Cup Noodles is embracing the pickle craze with a bold new flavor.