Eight Weird and Wacky U.S. Laws

While the vast majority of United States laws are in place to preserve safety and order among citizens, there are a number of laws whose purpose is a little more confounding. Here are eight laws — some archaic, some still enforced — that will leave you scratching your head.

1. In Texas, it's against the law to sell your eyeball.

2. In Denver, Colorado, it's considered illegal to loan your next door neighbor your vacuum.

3. If you're a resident of Florida who also happens to own an elephant, make note: If you leave your elephant left tied to a parking meter, then you have to pay the meter.

4. Do you enjoy walking backwards after sunset? You'd be well-advised to steer clear of Devon, Connecticut, where it's illegal to do so.

5. In Gainesville, Georgia, you must eat fried chicken with your hands. Using utensils is against the law!

6. If you happen to cross paths with Bigfoot while hiking in Washington state, don't attempt to harass the creature. Doing so could land you in jail.

7. Love the combo of pretzels and beer? Bad news if you live in North Dakota: It's illegal for beer and pretzels to be served at the same time in any bar or restaurant.

8. In Alabama, it's against the law to drive a vehicle while blindfolded.

Bizarre Regional Laws In the U.S. Are Even Weirder Than You Thought [Gizmodo]
Weird U.S.A Laws [Information Central]
United States Weird Laws [Law Guru]

History Meets Adventure at These National Parks Near New York City

Beyond the hustle and bustle of New York City lie two national parks that were built to commemorate unique moments in American history. One is the home of a beloved First Lady, and the other is a former haven for artists seeking refuge outside of the city.

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
Amidst the 180-acre rural sprawl lies "Val-Kill," the only property that Eleanor Roosevelt ever owned. She purchased this modest cottage with encouragement from her husband, Franklin, to use the home and land as a means to develop her numerous endeavors. During the Great Depression, she used the cottage as a furniture factory to teach young men the trade. The house and its surrounding units are now open year-round to visitors for walk-through tours. There are also trails throughout the land nearby.

Weir Farm National Historic Site
Weir Farm National Historic Site is located in Ridgefield, Connecticut, 60 miles northeast of New York City. This structure was once home to a legendary artist community started by famous impressionist painter J. Alden Weir. Take a guided tour through the house where Weir and other painters, like Childe Hassam, Albert Pinkham Ryder, and John Twachtman, developed the skills that would later define the period. There are even art supplies provided free of charge for guests to make paintings of their own, if the house and its history should inspire you.

Trip Idea: Springfield, Illinois

No tour of state capitals would be complete without a visit to Springfield! Illinois's capital, as you might have guessed, features lots and lots on the life of Lincoln. But there's more to see and do! Here are some top destinations if you're planning a visit:

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
Explore the life and legacy of the man who many call America's greatest president. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on Holidays. Make sure you make a stop at Lincoln's Tomb located just a few miles away. 

Dana-Thomas House
Head over to the Dana-Thomas House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902. Take a tour through the house to see a bowling alley, wine cellar, string quartet band lofts, beautiful stained glass, and more. Explore the 35 room house from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. 

D'arcy's Pint
Relax with an authentic Irish meal after a day of site seeing. The warm and cozy environment is perfect for enjoying a pint of beer and some traditional bar food. Make sure your try the "horseshoe," a Springfield classic made with Texas toast, your choice of protein (hamburger, chicken, bacon, turkey, etc.) then topped with fries and homemade cheese sauce. 

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