The world's only teal arches exist in a city that cares more about its aesthetic than an Instagram influencer.

Before it was buried by volcanic ash, this fast-food restaurant fed the hungry hordes of ancient Rome.

This twisty sign depicts the chain's first logo.

This constitutionally sound Muffler Man harkens back to the days these attractions were a must-see.

A clear blue swimming hole with hidden caves, still unexplored.

A small side chapel in Santa Fe's basilica is home to the oldest statute of the Virgin Mary in North America.

This opulent Pueblo Deco movie palace melds Art Deco and Native American motifs.

A burnt-out motel with priceless Native American artwork in the basement, redeveloped into apartments.

The official atomic museum of the United States explores the explosive and productive history of a much maligned energy source.

A wealth of pop culture statuary and green chile dishes give this roadside restaurant clout.

Legend says this sacred tree was a gift from goddess Athena.

With print dying, this local paper keeps the lights on by doubling as a stunning cafe and cocktail bar.

This quirky outpost and gallery inside a former church is an unexpected trove of handcrafted art.

A little stop along the Texas highway where Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, and James Dean stayed while shooting the 1955 film "Giant."

Steep canyon walls hide a forested oasis in the West Texas desert.

An abandoned quicksilver mining town surrounded by the Big Bend parks.

Mysterious glowing orbs float through the desert night.

This museum started as a collection of Manhattan Projects and continues to add exhibits as they are declassified.

Wee (and not so wee) footprints that insects and reptiles of the Paleozoic Era left behind.

Explore the largest pure gypsum deposit in the world, and go dune sledding while you're at it.

The site of Billy the Kid’s most famous escape and the end to the Lincoln County War.

The final resting place of the living embodiment of the famous Forest Service symbol.

This is one really big nut.

This fast-food outlet is the only space and UFO-themed McDonalds in the world.