ICONIC AMERICA: OUR SYMBOLS AND STORIES examines the history of America through some of its most iconic symbols, objects and places, diving deep into each symbol’s history and how its meaning has changed over time.

Iconic America

"We, as Americans, have the power, and the ability, and the talent to create marvels in this world and the ingenuity to do it." 

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is one of the most diverse parks in the United States, supporting 19 different ecosystems and home to over 2,000 plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and breathtaking vistas, as well as learn about the rich history of the area - not to mention taking a tour of the notorious Alcatraz prison. The area has been inhabited for centuries by California's indigenous peoples, followed by Spanish colonists, Mexicans, and the US military. San Francisco Bay Area has grown into one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the country. Today, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for all to enjoy.

Golden Gate 

Bridging Times: An Icon of Innovation

From Dollywood, to Bollywood in India and Nollywood in Nigeria, the Hollywood sign has inspired numerous imitations and replicas around the world. 

Griffith Park, an expansive urban oasis in Los Angeles, offers a diverse range of attractions. Spanning over 4,300 acres, it's one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. The park houses the iconic Griffith Observatory, providing breathtaking views of the city and cosmos. Trails throughout the rugged terrain, including those to the Observatory, provide opportunities for hiking and horseback riding with glimpses of the famous Hollywood Sign, an enduring symbol of the entertainment industry. The historic Griffith Park Zoo ruins intrigue visitors, while the Los Angeles Zoo within the park delights with diverse wildlife. With the Autry Museum of the American West, golf courses, and cultural events, Griffith Park stands as a cherished recreational haven at the heart of LA.

Griffith Park

The Hollywood Sign: Often Imitated, Never Duplicated

As the nation wrestles with its past, there are heated arguments about the fate of the Monument at Stone Mountain. 

Stone Mountain Park, located near Atlanta, Georgia, is renowned for its massive granite dome and picturesque landscapes. The park offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and a scenic train ride. However, the park is not without controversy due to the gigantic Confederate Memorial Carving on the mountain's face. Depicting Confederate leaders Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, and Stonewall Jackson, the carving has sparked debates about its historical significance and its portrayal of a divisive past. As discussions continue, the park strives to balance its historical elements with a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Stone Mountain Park

The Future of Stone Mountain

David Rubenstein visits Ellis Island with Atlantic writer Caitlin Dickerson and discusses the history of the facility.

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognized symbols of freedom in the world. Standing 305 feet tall, it represents a woman holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet bearing the adoption date of the Declaration of Independence in her left. The statue was given to the United States by France in 1886 and has since become a symbol of hope and liberty for people around the globe. While the statue itself is an impressive sight, it is the words inscribed on its base that are truly inspiring. "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!" These words welcome immigrants to America and remind us that we are all equal in the eyes of liberty. The Statue of Liberty is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of hope and freedom for all.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty and the Immigrant's Story

Fenway Park is the #1 tourist attraction in Boston, MA. Should this destination become a national monument?

Fenway Park, an iconic baseball stadium in Boston, Massachusetts, is a revered gem in sports history. Erected in 1912, it stands as the oldest Major League Baseball venue still in use. The park's distinctive "Green Monster," a towering left-field wall, has witnessed countless home runs and heart-pounding moments. Fenway's intimate dimensions create an unparalleled atmosphere, fostering a deep connection between fans and players. Its timeless charm, including hand-operated scoreboards and original architecture, evokes a sense of nostalgia. As a treasured symbol of Boston's sports legacy, Fenway Park continues to captivate baseball enthusiasts, serving as a living testament to the game's enduring spirit.

Fenway Park

Should Fenway Park be a National Monument?

The greatest bald eagle congregation on Earth happens in southeastern Alaska in the village of Haines just before the fierce Alaskan winter.

The Haines State Forest is a 286,000-acre forest in southeast Alaska with a rugged topography ranging from sea level to over 7,000 feet. It is managed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and includes the watersheds of the Chilkoot, Chilkat, and Ferebee rivers. The area is the home of the Tlingit people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years and are known for their elaborate totem poles, seafaring skills, and complex social and political organization. The forest is also home to a variety of plant and animal life, including black bears, moose, bald eagles, and salmon.

Iconic America

My Videos

My Parks

Bridging Times: An Icon of Innovation

The Hollywood Sign: Often Imitated, Never Duplicated

The Future of Stone Mountain

The Statue of Liberty and the Immigrant's Story

Should Fenway Park be a National Monument?

Bald Eagles Gather in Pristine Alaskan Ecosystem

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