History

How Death Valley Got Its Sinister Name

They don’t call it Death Valley for nothing, but anyone who’s been to this arid basin in Southern California will be surprised to learn that the imposing name has nothing to do with the area’s (in)famous heat.

5 Cities and Towns Where History Comes to Life

Step back in time to experience the rugged, lawless days of America’s Wild West, glide through the 13th-century canals of a charming Dutch village, or stroll the lantern-lit streets of an ancient trading port in Southeast Asia.

History
Big Apple? Big Easy? The Origins of 5 Popular U.S. City Nicknames

From the Big Apple to Beantown to Sin City, some beloved nicknames have taken on a life of their own, but their origins are often surprising. Learn where five of the most iconic U.S. city nicknames came from.

History
5 Fascinating Abandoned Amusement Parks Around the World

Abandoned amusement parks offer a unique glimpse into the past, telling fascinating stories of innovation and ambition to decline and unrealized dreams. These are five of the most fascinating abandoned amusement parks around the world.

History
Why Isn’t the Upper Peninsula Part of Wisconsin?

Wisconsin shares a 200-plus-mile border with the U.P., whereas Michigan is only connected via the Mackinac Bridge. Which has naturally given rise to a question: Why isn’t the Upper Peninsula part of Wisconsin instead?

History