The 2014 finalists of America's Best Public Restroom are anything but crap

Who wouldn't appreciate a public restroom that's clean and pretty to look at? Cintas' America's Best Restroom Contest is back for its 13th year, and 10 finalists are still in the running to become America's next top toilet. But the contest isn't just about looks. It also promotes the importance of hygiene and highlights businesses whose restrooms convey functional and design excellence.

Winners will be selected by a public online vote happening now until October 31. The top three restrooms with the highest votes will receive a complimentary Deep Clean of their restroom (valued up to $500). The 2014 overall winner will also receive a $2,500 credit to spend on Cintas services like restroom cleaning and supplies or Deep Clean for their restroom floors.

After Cintas announces the winner during a nationally publicized media event this fall, the winning restroom and runner–up will have a spot in Cintas’ American’s Best Restroom Hall of Fame.

Check out a few photos of this year's finalists below.

Longwood Gardens - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: "The public restrooms at Longwood Gardens, the most visited public garden in America, deserve a double–take as you walk by. That’s because the 17 restrooms themselves are part of the largest indoor “Green Wall” in North America! The staff at Longwood worked with artist Kim Wilkie on an unprecedented feat of bathroom architecture. Take a look at the photos, and you’ll understand. Aside from the restrooms’ lush greenery, they also feature domed, naturally lit lavatory cabinets hidden within the “Green Wall.” In addition, each restroom contains etched translucent glass at the top of the dome to provide natural light, reduce electricity and minimize the need for light fixtures. Longwood Gardens traces its roots to the famed du Pont family and has become preeminent for its grand collection of plant life. Now, its restrooms also share in the spotlight..."

Trail Restroom - Austin, Texas:  "In the heart of Austin, Texas sits a restroom in perfect harmony with nature. The Trail Restroom is one part bathroom and one part functional outdoor art. Designed by local firm Miró Rivera Architects, the Trail Restroom is a popular stop for outdoor enthusiasts who frequent the Ann and Roy Butler Hike–and–Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake. More than 1.5 million people visit the 10–mile Butler Trail every year, which was envisioned by notable names like Lady Bird Johnson, wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The public Trail Restroom uses sustainable materials and is low maintenance, maximizing airflow and blending with the surrounding natural areas. It also allows the sun to peek through via open spaces in the ceiling. The restroom was designed as part of a public–private partnership with the City of Austin and The Trail Foundation, which works to protect and enhance the popular hike–and–bike trail..."

Mai Kai - Ft. Lauderdale, Florida: "You might want to wear sunglasses before you step into the Mai Kai restrooms. That’s because everywhere you look there’s bright, shiny gold! From the floor to the ceiling, columns to the mirrors, the restroom has a golden aura that whisks you away with the feel of a royal washroom. Opened in 1956, the Mai Kai itself is a tiki–themed restaurant in Fort Lauderdale and one of the few “Grand Polynesian Palaces of Tiki” still in operation today. Come for dinner, and you’ll see the exciting Islander Revue performed by native Polynesian dancers in colorful hand sewn costumes. The Mai Kai is truly a feast for the eyes..."

American Girl Place - Chicago, Illinois: "Bright, whimsical colors. Mirrors and sinks designed for children’s height. Even signature doll holders in each bathroom stall. A trip to the restroom at American Girl Place in Chicago is as memorable as a walk through the store! Since 1986, American Girl’s mission is to celebrate girls and provide inspiring products for each stage of their development – most notably the company’s iconic line of dolls. A leader in experiential retail, American Girl and its location along Chicago’s famed Michigan Avenue are all about fun. From shopping, dining, going to the doll hair salon – and yes, even down to the added touches like having a holder in the restroom for her special doll – American Girl wants the overall experience at the store to be a day a girl will cherish forever..."

Other finalists:

• Plums Café - Costa Mesa, California
• Bowl Plaza - Lucas, Kansas
• The Fabulous Fox Theater - St. Louis, Missouri
• Tiki Lounge - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 
• The Grove - Los Angeles, California
• El Centro - Washington, DC

Vote for your favorite finalists here now until October 31.