State

If you've ever found yourself oddly fascinated by the darker corners of history—true crime tales, Victorian mourning rituals, mummified oddities—then buckle up. Hidden among the star-studded chaos of Hollywood lies a place that leans full-tilt into the macabre: the Museum of Death. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it is a surprisingly illuminating stop for curious minds who can stomach a little darkness with their sightseeing.

Looking for a dining and entertainment experience that feels a little… fishy—in the best way possible? Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill in Round Rock, Texas, is where whimsical underwater adventure meets classic American fun. This is not your average bowling alley or casual restaurant. Here, you step into an immersive ocean-inspired world where sharks hover overhead, tropical fish swim along vibrant murals, and every lane feels like it belongs deep beneath the sea.

It’s hard to resist the magnetic pull of a candy store—but Gretel’s Candy House in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, isn’t just any candy shop. This charming little spot feels like stepping into a sweet lover’s dream, where every corner tempts you with bright colors, sugary scents, and old-school favorites that spark childhood memories. Even before you step inside, the playful signage and cheerful storefront seem to whisper, “Come on in—you deserve a treat.”

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a simpler time—a place where the hum of modern life fades and craftsmanship takes center stage—you’ll find your sweet spot in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country at Lehman’s in Kidron. This sprawling general store isn’t your average roadside shop. It’s a delightful, nostalgic journey where old-fashioned tools, quirky gadgets, and handmade goods abound, and every aisle invites you to slow down and savor.

If your idea of happiness involves chocolate—lots of it—then World of Chocolate Museum and Café in Orlando is your kind of paradise. Imagine wandering through a room filled with handcrafted chocolate sculptures of iconic landmarks, learning about cacao’s global journey, and then indulging in silky truffles, creamy hot cocoa, or rich desserts that taste as good as they look.

If Willy Wonka opened a dessert shop in real life, it would probably look a lot like The Inventing Room. Tucked into a quiet corner of Denver’s Sloan’s Lake neighborhood, this sugar-fueled wonderland doesn’t just serve treats—it puts on a show. With clouds of liquid nitrogen, color-changing sauces, and fizzy, crackling bites that feel straight out of a science fair, this place turns dessert into a full-on spectacle.

When you walk into this diner, you’re immediately greeted by something familiar. It’s not just the smell of fresh-baked crusts or sizzling bacon — it’s that cozy, old-school feeling that makes you want to slide into a booth and stay a while. This is the kind of place where the coffee is poured hot and the comfort food comes in heaping portions.

I’m not saying I’d wrestle a longhorn for a plate of brisket, but after tasting the smoky, melt-in-your-mouth magic at this Austin gem, I’d at least consider a stern staring contest with one. This isn’t just barbecue—it’s a culinary comet blazing through Texas, leaving a trail of satisfied sighs and sauce-stained napkins. By the time I stumbled out, belly full and heart fuller, I understood why this spot was crowned one of the nation’s top casual dining experiences.

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if an art gallery, a comic book store, and a vintage novelty shop had a baby—it would probably look a lot like Soap Plant Wacko. Tucked along Hollywood Boulevard in L.A.'s Los Feliz neighborhood, this offbeat institution is a glorious jumble of pop culture, lowbrow art, and delightfully weird collectibles. It’s been keeping Angelenos delightfully off-kilter since the 1970s, and stepping inside feels a little like falling down the rabbit hole—with a punk rock soundtrack.

If you think you need to drive hours to hit a pristine beach in Texas, think again. Tucked away in Texas City, Lagoonfest Texas is making serious waves with a man-made oasis that feels like a tropical getaway minus the airfare. Picture crystal-clear blue water, white sand between your toes, and a beach vibe that somehow mixes spring break energy with family-friendly fun. It’s not your average water park—and that’s exactly the point.