A historic beacon built in the aftermath of the worst maritime disaster on the Great Lakes.

A plaque marks a former safe house on the secret route, now hidden next to a McDonald's.

An enormous park-like oasis, full of famous Chicagoans' graves.

The farm where one of America's greatest leaders was raised is now a well-appointed landmark.

Hot Doug's "Hot Dog" Stand.

A lush green oasis in the middle of Chicago.

This whimsical Oz-themed park had a wonderful impact on the surrounding neighborhood.

The subtle science of a master molecular gastronomist.

A monument to the art of slicing people open.

A display of magnificent stained glass windows is the first exhibit of its kind.

A gothic church spire sits atop this skyscraper, the tallest church in the world.

This massive stained-glass masterpiece is thought to be the largest Tiffany dome in existence.

This museum celebrating the almighty dollar lets visitors literally stand in the shadow of a million bucks.

This historic hotel invented the chocolate brownie.

Each of these gorgeous, intricately decorated rooms is painstakingly crafted to the scale of 1 inch: 1 foot.

In one Chicago park, a trio of werewolves are waiting to devour their fallen brethren.

A goddess-topped water fountain in Chicago was created thanks to the dreams of a thirsty newsboy.

This unauthorized stone mermaid was secretly carved out of public stone before being permanently preserved.

A hollow cement depiction of time's inexorable effect on the human body.

You thought Santa Claus didn't exist, but it turns out you were wrong.

A miniature world of concrete and stone in Springfield, Ohio.

This candy shop has been serving up sweets to the Louisville area since the 1850s.

The massive, original Colgate Clock is mounted on a defunct factory building that was once a prison.

This old steel industry company town has a tradition of parking cars on the sidewalk so people can walk in the narrow streets.