There's More to Discover
The USA is a vast and fascinating country with countless intriguing facts. Here are ten surprising things about American cities that you might not know!
10 Surprising Facts About the USA
1. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
Many U.S. cities, such as New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Boston, offer hop-on hop-off bus tours. These tours allow you to explore the city at your own pace. You can get on and off the bus at different stops to visit various attractions, making it a fun and flexible way to see the sights.
2. Washington, D.C. Has Free Museums
Washington, D.C., is home to some of the best museums in the world, and many of them are free to visit! The Smithsonian Institution, which includes the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, doesn’t charge admission. This makes it easy for everyone to explore history, art and science without spending any money.
3. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge Isn’t Golden
Despite its name, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is actually painted "International Orange." The bridge gets its name not from its color but from the Golden Gate Strait, the entrance to San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean.
4. New York City Has Central Park’s Secret Waterfall
Central Park in New York City has a hidden gem: a secret waterfall! Tucked away in the park’s North Woods area, this peaceful waterfall offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a bit of nature in the heart of Manhattan.
5. Boston Has the Oldest Public Park in the USA
Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States, established in 1634. Located in the center of Boston, this historic park is a wonderful place to relax, have a picnic or take a leisurely stroll while soaking in its rich history.
6. San Francisco Has a Crooked Street
San Francisco is famous for Lombard Street, often called the most crooked street in the world. With its steep hill and sharp turns, Lombard Street attracts tourists who love to take pictures or drive down the winding road for a unique experience.
7. New York City Has Its Own "Little Italy"
New York City is known for its cultural diversity, and one of the most beloved neighborhoods is Little Italy. This area is filled with Italian restaurants, bakeries and shops, making it a great destination for anyone who enjoys delicious Italian food.
8. Washington, D.C. Has No Skyscrapers
Unlike most major cities, Washington, D.C. has no skyscrapers. A special law ensures that no building in the city can be taller than the U.S. Capitol, giving Washington, D.C. a distinct and open skyline compared to other bustling urban areas.
9. Boston Has a Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail in Boston is a 2.5-mile-long path that guides you through 16 historic sites, including Paul Revere’s House and the site of the Boston Massacre. Following this red-brick trail is a fantastic way to learn about Boston’s significant role in American history.
10. New York City Has a Hidden Subway Station
Beneath the streets of New York City lies City Hall Station, a hidden and abandoned subway station. It was one of the city’s first subway stations, and it’s known for its beautiful architecture, including stained glass and tiled arches. Though it’s no longer in use, you can still catch a glimpse of it by riding the 6 train.
Understanding the USA
These surprising facts reveal just how much there is to discover in American cities. From secret waterfalls to historic trails, each city has its own unique charm and hidden treasures waiting for you to explore!