The futurism espoused at Disney World's Epcot theme park in Orlando, Fl. was taken in by generations of kids who saw the world through Walt Disney-colored glasses. Here, we look at five visions of the future in hindsight—and see how they hold up.

In the quest for bigger and better thrills, some rides attempt to betray the laws of physics. And while these rides are usually well-designed, safe attractions—just so big and awe-inspiring that they are frightening—some of them are simply dangerous.

At America’s elite helicopter rescue academy, Coast Guard professionals are put to the test by ocean cliffs, sea caves and a treacherous stretch of coastline known as the Graveyard of the Pacific. PM attends one of these challenging courses. (Published in the April 2009 issue)

In much of the country, winter has lost its cold grip and, with the thermometer steadily above 55 F, the outdoors are calling. It's time to get bikes out of the garage and, with a little grease and some basic tools, get them back into shape and ready to roll.

The sun is setting earlier and beach days are numbered, but there’s still time to master these critical PM-worthy skills before Labor Day weekend, from grilling the perfect burger to maximizing the splash from your cannonball into the pool.