Mental Floss

MAPS

High population states are usually most vulnerable.

Where does your state land on the scale?

Hard not to have fun in a place like this.

See which states prefer luxury spas, all-inclusive resorts, or relaxing cruises.

Where do your groceries come from?

If you’re wondering how tariffs might affect your grocery bill, use this interactive to trace the origins of your food.

Which is the most popular genre in your state?

Discover which literary genres captivate each state and Washington D.C.

Miller dominates in America.

Coffeeness reveals the most popular beer brands across the U.S., with the Miller Brewing Company coming out on top.

Where does your state rank?

Use this map to plan your birding schedule ahead of the spring migration.

The Shamrock Shake flavor is a national favorite overall.

Curious about St. Patrick‘s Day green food trends? Explore which states are most interested in dyeing their pies, drinks, and desserts for the holiday.

Which destination does your state want to travel to?

Discover the most searched vacation destinations in the U.S., from tropical beaches to overseas adventures.

A lot of people seem to be craving chicken pot pie lately.

From savory chicken pot pie to the nutty pecan pie, find out which dishes people are interested in for Pi Day.

The District of Columbia comes out on top.

Midwestern and northeastern states were most likely to have positive workplace cultures.

The border between these two countries is a little odd in places.

An old map error led to some strange—and at times contentious—geography.

Good luck trying to find Beatosu, Ohio.

Facts become very easy to copyright when they aren’t true. Here are people, places, and things that exist only on paper, solely to thwart would-be info burglars.

This island may look mysterious, but it isn’t a phantom island.

Old maps are littered with islands that have vanished. What happened to these strange and unexplainable lost lands? Did they ever exist in the first place?

What‘s your state‘s favorite McDonald‘s menu item?

McDonald‘s fans across the U.S. have spoken: See which items top the charts in each state.

This map caused a stir in the early 2000s.

From a U.S. map with only 38 states to a probable hoax, these maps definitely had geographers buzzing.

“Gaslighting“ is the most commonly searched term in the U.S.

If you’ve ever looked up the definition of “gaslighting,” you’re not alone.

Monopoly helped some POWs break free.

For some soldiers confined in German POW camps during World War II, ‘Monopoly’ was so much more than just a board game.

Baking and food items were most popular.

From heart-shaped waffles to bathtubs, see what your home state is searching for this Valentine’s Day.

Buffalo chicken is still a crowd-pleaser.

From buffalo chicken to artichoke dip, find out which dips are making waves across the U.S. for Super Bowl 2025.

Spicy favorites across the states.

Find out which brands have states fired up this year.

Which food is the top pick in your state?

Buffalo chicken dip is a classic for a reason.

See which cities in the U.S. offer the most romantic proposal experiences.

If you’re planning a proposal in the near future, these cities offer scenic spots for unforgettable moments.

Many coffee drinkers prefer mom-and-pop shops to corporate franchises.

From Knoxville to Lincoln, these independent coffeeshops are brewing up some love.

Earth has played host to an untold number of human-made borders over the years.

What was going on around the globe in 4000 BCE? This map shows you.