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Every state has its unique claim to fame, often featuring something exceptionally big. This could be a monumental object, a remarkable quantity of something ordinary, or an impressive achievement. Here at Zippia, we believe no accomplishment is too small to be recognized.
We’ve scoured countless records and perhaps a few quirky roadside attractions to uncover what each state has that’s gigantic, extraordinary, and downright colossal.
Check out the map above to explore the animals, foods, actions, and other remarkable items of substantial size that each state boasts, or continue reading for our more fascinating discoveries.
Summary of the Biggest Thing Each State Has
- Who doesn’t enjoy some delicious salsa with tortilla chips? In Arizona, the largest serving ever created weighed a staggering 7,308 lbs, made to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Nana’s Best Tasting Salsa Challenge in 2014. We can only imagine what the 40th anniversary celebration will bring in 2024.
- Many dream of their wedding day long before they meet their partner. To make it unforgettable, Connecticut baked the largest wedding cake, weighing in at 15,032 lbs, showcased at a bridal fair. With a cake of that size, the price tag was undoubtedly extravagant, not to mention the whimsical addition of the largest pair of googly eyes!
- To set the record for the greatest distance run on sand, one must have access to an ample sandy area, which is why Florida takes the prize. A remarkable feat was achieved when someone ran 134 miles on the beach in Destin, Florida within a 24-hour span.
- While many associate whoopee cushions with childhood pranks that lose their charm with age, Georgia proudly boasts a massive 25-foot whoopee cushion, proving that humor knows no age limits.
- As fall approaches, states prepare for Halloween and Thanksgiving festivities. New Hampshire leads with the most lit Jack-O-Lanterns on display, while Ohio is known for the largest pumpkin pie. Additionally, Pennsylvania features the largest Ouija board, South Carolina has the hottest chili, Louisiana is home to the largest Voodoo doll, and Idaho holds the record for the largest straw bale maze. So, if you’re searching for the ultimate autumn experiences, these states have you covered!
The Bigger, the Better
While each state has its own unique record, it’s clear that there’s something extraordinary to celebrate in every corner of the country.
From the holiest tongue to the largest parade of fire trucks, there’s a wide array of records that cater to diverse interests.
Even records you might not have expected, like the most people making snow angels at once, are featured in the comprehensive list below.
Discover the remarkable achievements that make each state stand out for its unique and massive accomplishments.
| State | Biggest Thing |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Biggest bubble ever blown |
| Alaska | Greatest distance barefoot in 24 hours |
| Arizona | Largest serving of salsa |
| Arkansas | Largest set of windchimes |
| California | Most skateboard ollie big spins in one minute |
| Colorado | The largest gathering of people wearing false mustaches |
| Connecticut | The world’s largest wedding cake |
| Delaware | Oldest woman to cross America by bicycle |
| Florida | Greatest distance run on sand in 24 hours |
| Georgia | Largest whoopee cushion |
| Hawaii | Largest wave surfed |
| Idaho | Largest straw bale maze record |
| Illinois | Most loop the loops in a Hot Wheels track |
| Indiana | Largest high heel race |
| Iowa | Longest beard |
| Kansas | Largest serving of nachos |
| Kentucky | Shortest woman to give birth |
| Louisiana | Largest voodoo doll |
| Maine | Most corn husked in a minute |
| Maryland | Largest crab cake |
| Massachusetts | Largest wallet |
| Michigan | Tallest dog ever |
| Minnesota | Largest collection of cow related items |
| Mississippi | Fastest time to travel the length of the Mississippi River by canoe |
| Missouri | Largest BBQ/grilling lesson |
| Montana | Longest ramp jump by a truck cab |
| Nebraska | Largest advertising poster |
| Nevada | The world’s most calorific burger |
| New Hampshire | Most lit jack o lanterns on display |
| New Jersey | Holiest tongue |
| New Mexico | Largest Indian reservation in the United States |
| New York | Highest pancake toss |
| North Carolina | Longest model train |
| North Dakota | Most people making snow angels simultaneously |
| Ohio | Largest pumpkin pie |
| Oklahoma | Largest parade of fire trucks |
| Oregon | Most episodes of a family-focused reality television show |
| Pennsylvania | Largest Ouija board |
| Rhode Island | Largest sock |
| South Carolina | Hottest chili |
| South Dakota | Dog with the longest tongue |
| Tennessee | Longest picnic table |
| Texas | Largest diaper cake |
| Utah | Fastest towed big wheel |
| Vermont | Largest snow softball tournament |
| Virginia | Largest simultaneous yo-yo |
| Washington | The world’s most expensive hot dog |
| West Virginia | Largest bird feeder |
| Wisconsin | Most Big Mac burgers eaten in a lifetime |
| Wyoming | Oldest national park |
Author
Amanda Postma is a writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog with a focus on creating entertaining content to help you through your job search. She received her BA from the University Of Missouri-Columbia.
