West Virginia has officially been declared the least happy state in America. WalletHub just released the results of a comprehensive study comparing the economic, emotional, physical and social health of each state in the nation. The Mountain State ranked dead last.
The states were ranked across 28 key metrics that included everything from depression rates to sports participation to income growth. West Virginia earned a total score of 34.89 out of 100 in a ranking that considered emotional and physical well-being, work environment, community and environment. The data also suggests West Virginia has the fourth-highest share of depressed adults in the nation.
Oklahoma and Louisiana were also in the bottom three, while Minnesota secured the title of happiest state in America.
Of course, happiness is just as hard to measure as it is to manufacture. There’s no denying that West Virginia is a gorgeous state filled with countless incredible places and people. As proof, take a look at these incredible natural wonders in West Virginia.
Most fast food chains around the world tend to carry out an overall uniform design, looking nearly identical no matter which location you pay a visit to. But something people might not realize is that there are actually quite a few McDonald's in the U.S. that look pretty different from all of the rest. Now that the Chicago flagship has received a makeover, the McDonald's at 600 North Clark Street has a futuristic look that's turning heads. Come and see what's new at this futuristic McDonald's in Chicago!
advertisement
If you've never visited the McDonald's flagship in Chicago, you can see below how its eye-catching exterior and grand golden arches once easily brought in crowds and wowed all those who saw it.
But now, after undergoing a major renovation, the new flagship McDonald's of Chicago looks like something much more futuristic.
Many are comparing it to the look and feel of an Apple store. The new McDonald's has 19,000 square feet and plenty of seating available inside.
Oh, and what's that above the self-service kiosks where you'll order your food? Just a floating garden!
Everything about the new flagship feels modern, from the charging stations available all over the store and the LED lighting to the variety in seating and floor-to-ceiling windows and tableside service - it's really quite different than what we're used to seeing at McDonald's.
We'd also be remiss if we forgot to mention that there's a stand-alone McCafe inside the new McDonald's as well. How could you not want to see this place for yourself?
As soon as you walk into the futuristic McDonald's, you'll be able to order at a self-service kiosk and take a number to wherever you're seated. Then an employee will bring your food right to you at your table. If you'd rather just keep things old-school, you can also continue walking to the back of the store to find a counter with employees that will take your order.
advertisement
Have you been to this futuristic McDonald's in Chicago? What's the most unique McDonald's location you've ever visited in the country? For more tasty treats around the U.S., read about how this California ice cream shop is offering a $60,000 sundae!
Let’s face it: some of us simply aren’t cut out for long road trips or endless journeys on public transport, whether on vacation or in our own hometown. So whether you’re hoping to amp up your daily step game or simply searching for a way to save a few bucks on daily transportation costs, you might be drawn to some of America’s most walkable cities. Luckily for you, we live in one of them - Oakland, CA. Even though most people might conjure up predictable metropolises like New York or Washington, D.C., Oakland ranks near the top of the list of some of the most pedestrian-friendly locales throughout the United States. Read on and learn more about why love to amble around on foot in our wonderful Northern California town!
advertisement
If you’ve traveled west to explore the sunny state of California, you’ve likely checked out some of its more popular cities.
Whether you’ve chased Hollywood dreams in Los Angeles, enjoyed fantastic fare in San Diego, or gazed at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, you’ve undoubtedly explored a handful of the region’s most beloved tourist destinations.
If you’re eager to find a vacation destination with high-ranked walkability, though, the underrated city of Oakland might be just the place.
While it’s not quite as large as San Francisco, this Bay Area gem still offers plenty to see and do - all without the hassle of relying on a car to get around town. In fact, you might just find yourself strolling for hours without the need for a vehicle of any sort.
So, what is there to see when you walk through our beloved Oakland?
We proudly boast a variety of historic neighborhoods and plenty of unique restaurants as top draws in the city. There are also a lot of shops in Oakland. So whether you’re dropping by for a quick weekend getaway or enjoying a full-blown vacation, you'll find something that suits your fancy.
And we love our water backdrops!
Because of the sometimes slanted new media people often ask, "iI Oakland safe?" Not to worry. Safety here is really no different than most other large cities. The locals here spend the day on foot among incredible creatures at the Oakland Zoo, stretch our legs along the waterfront at beautiful Lake Merritt, and often venture to nearby Tilden Regional Park for a long walk among nature.
advertisement
Artistic expressions are big in Oakland as well.
From beautiful murals like this one, to sculpture gardens, art museums, and more, we have it all here.
While you might find yourself relying on rideshares or public transit to reach some of the city’s attractions, many Oakland neighborhoods are compact enough to allow for one quick ride before seemingly endless exploration.
Have you added this Bay Area wonderland to your getaway bucket list?
For more information about our wonderful, walkable hometown, visit the Visit Oakland website or the Visit Oakland Facebook page.
Have you spent time in Oakland? Do you think it’s deserving of a spot on the list of America’s most walkable cities? Which other destinations do you think should be included among the top rankings? We’re always eager to hear from you, so share your thoughts and ideas with us in the comment section below!