Calling all history-buffs! Why not combine fun and education for your family trip this summer? Check out 7 of the most historical U.S. cities that the whole family will love to explore!
From the Lincoln Memorial to Union Station to Washington Monument to U.S. Supreme Court Building, you really could spend all summer exploring amazing historical places, museums and memorials in Washington D.C. with the family. Here are some places we think you absolutely need to see during your summer trip to Washington D.C.:
1. The White House – We know you’re thinking “duh” – but seriously, you need to take the kids to see this home to every President (minus George Washington). Seeing it in books, TV shows and movies just isn’t enough – they need to see the sprawling green lawn and the house (dating back to the early 1800s) in person. Plus – you know they are going to want to take a selfie to share with their friends.
2. Library of Congress – Okay, so granted, dragging the kids into a library during the summer might be a bit of a challenge. We’re not saying spend all day here, but with over 100 million books, maps, recordings, manuscripts, films and photos – you can’t miss this legendary library.
3. Ford’s Theatre & Petersen House – This is a must-see during your trip. Built in the 1830s, Ford’s Theatre was originally a house of worship but was renovated in the 1860s to be the theater seen today. It is infamous for being the location where President Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth in 1865. Lincoln was shot in the theater, but taken across the road to Petersen House where he died the next morning.
Honorable Mentions: National Archives, Frederick Douglass’ Cedar Hill, Woodrow Wilson House, Vietnam Memorial, World War II Memorial, Old Stone House and Jefferson Memorial.
Visiting the historical hub that is Boston, MA will have you yelling “the British are coming” in no time. Whether you’re exploring Faneuil Hall Marketplace (Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market) that was built in 1742 or sitting in the Boston Common (a cow pasture in a former life) or walking the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail – you’ll be in history heaven. Narrowing down our must-see historical places for Boston was a challenge, but here we go:
1. Paul Revere House – Built in 1680, this is the oldest existing building in downtown Boston. Filled with period and Revere-family pieces, this home gives an adequate description of what life was like in the 1700s. Pretty cool! Pro Tip: go early in the morning to avoid lines and crowds.
2. Old North Church – Right within walking distance of the Paul Revere House, this famous church is THE church. You know, the one with the two lanterns were lit to warn that the British were coming? The one Paul Revere feverishly road to light the lanterns to warn Charlestown and then went on to warn anyone along the path to Lexington. It’s definitely a must-see!
3. Boston Museum Experience – Time travel back to December 16, 1773 and join the Sons of Liberty in protesting the Tea Act! “Historical interpreters, interactive exhibits, full-scale restored 18th Century sailing vessels, historic artifacts, and the award-winning multi-sensory documentary ‘Let It Begin Here’ are just a taste of what you will experience during your visit.” Seriously, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum go all out! As one of the most important events leading up to the American Revolution, the kids (and obviously you) will love this stop!
Honorable Mention: Feneuil Hall Marketplace, Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Bunker Hill Monument, Granary Burying Ground, Old State House, U.S.S. Constitution, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, King’s Chapel and Old South Meeting House.
Ah, the mecca of all things big in American History – Philadelphia is a great way to explore history with the family. Freedom, justice and all things that scream U.S.A. originated here – we’re geeking out. Okay, here are our Philly phavorites (see what we did there?):
1. Elfreth’s Alley – This is our nation’s oldest residential street, dating back to 1702. How awesome is that? Home to 18th-century butchers, bakers, candlestick-makers and all types of trades people, this alley was a hub for business in the early 1700s. Today, visitors can walk the street and feel like they’re transported back 3 centuries. There’s also a museum to explore while there!
2. Independence Hall – Walk in the shoes of the 50+ brave men who gathered together in 1776 to defy England and sign the Declaration of Independence. From Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Franklin to John Adams, our Founding Fathers strolled these hallowed halls to scribe their names on one of the most famous documents in history. Let’s just say, Independence Hall is a must-see. Hey, while you’re there, head on over to see the Liberty Bell Center and go see the famous symbol of freedom!
3. Betsy Ross House – Meet Ms. Ross in person! Okay, so it’s not actually the true Betsy Ross, but feel free to ask the impersonators any questions you have about the woman who may or may not have been the one to sew the first American flag. The 1740 home – from the tiny rooms to the tight staircases – is authentic to the 18th century.
Honorable Mention: Benjamin Franklin Museum, The President’s House, Museum of the American Revolution, Carpenters’ Hall, Powel House and Declaration (Graff) House. Pro Tip: Have some extra time? Drive the 2.5 hours to Gettysburg, PA to see the home of the Gettysburg Address and one of the greatest battles ever fought on American soil. Or, make Gettysburg the halfway point and go another 2 hours to Colonial Williamsburg (aka the “Disney for history buffs”).
While a lot of America’s history takes place on the East Coast, we have a few for you out west. The first is Sacramento – aka the first non-Native American settlement in California’s Central Valley. Wondering what’s to see in this historical city, check out our list:
1. Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park – Grab a picnic and enjoy a trip down history lane. As the earliest settlement – established by Swiss immigrant John Sutter in 1839 – New Helvetia (aka, New Switzerland) was a flourishing agricultural center. While visiting Sutter’s Fort, you can see reenactments, historic buildings (restored to their 1847 appearance) and much more!
2. Old Sacramento – Within about 28 acres you’ll find 53 historic buildings – which is more than any similar areas in the west. Take a riverboat, railroad, horsedrawn carriage or bike ride to explore this Gold Rush town. With real-life characters, reenactments, historic walking tours and ghost tours – you’re sure to find something for the whole family to enjoy!
Get the feel of early Spanish colonial life on your visit to San Antonio. Whether you decide to take a guided tour or adventure out on your own, you’ll love exploring this city that dates back to 1718. Here are a few things you need to make sure you see:
1. The Alamo – Texas’ most famous battle site was also the first mission established in San Antonio. It was the way station between east Texas and Mexico before it fell in the infamous Battle of the Alamo. Come explore these grounds with your family – it’s a must-see.
2. Casa Navarro State Historic Site – The restored home of Texas patriot José Antonio Navarro. Dating back to late 18th century, Navarro called this adobe building home. As a supporter of Texas statehood in 1835 and independence, he was one of the three Mexican signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Visit his home to see period antiques, copies of Navarro’s writing and more.
Honorable Mention: King William Historic District, Main Plaza, The Guenther House, San Fernando Cathedral and Spanish Governor’s Palace.
The beach and antebellum life – who said learning about history couldn’t be fun? With strong ties to the Civil War, Charleston is more than your average beach town. It is abundant in historic sites to visit and learn about. Are you excited? We’re excited. Here are some sites that are worth taking a timeout from the beach to see:
1. Fort Sumter – Everything came to a head here, on April 12, 1861. The first shot of the Civil War. Take a ferry on over to the actual fort and explore the caverns and Civil War-era cannons. Plus, you can visit the museum that gives you and the family more insight into Fort Sumter’s involvement in the Civil War.
2. Drayton Hall – Dating back to 1738, this is one of the oldest surviving plantations south of the Mason Dixon Line. Unchanged after almost 280 years, you can walk through the historic building to get a true insight into life in antebellum south. Don’t miss this plantation!
3. The Battery – There’s truly no better way to learn about Charleston history than walking through the city. One place you positively need to walk through is the Battery. A row of Southern-style mansions that overlook the Charleston Harbor will come alive to you as you stroll through what was once the heart and soul of the city.
Honorable Mention: H.L. Hunley Submarine (the world’s first successful submarine), White Point Gardens, Middleton Place, The Aiken-Rhett House Museum and Charleston City Market.
Okay, so NOLA might be known for late-night debauchery, making it not exactly the most family-friendly city; however, there are so many awesome historical experiences to enjoy during the day that make New Orleans worth visiting with the fam. Speaking of, check out these 3 must-sees:
1. French Quarter – This is the place you need to hit in the morning (because Bourbon Street transforms when happy hour hits). This is the site of the original 1718 New Orleans French colony and a National Historic Landmark. Simply stroll along these cobblestone streets to see authentic baroque architecture and historic sites – such as Jackson Square and the Faulkner House.
2. The Cabildo – During your explorations of the French Quarter, you must stop at the Cabildo. Dating back to 1799, this was once the seat of the Spanish government. Later, in December 1803, the Louisiana Purchase took place at the Cabildo. Now, this famous historic building is part of the Louisiana State Museum – which is also a great place to visit!
3. Garden District – So this may sound a bit morbid, but no trip to NOLA is complete without visiting one the many famous cemeteries. You’ll find one of the most famous in the Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Take one of the guided tours through this area of NOLA to see the city’s most beautiful homes and learn more about the history. This is a great thing to do mid-afternoon when the heat is at its worst because you’ll be shaded from the tree-laden neighborhood.
Honorable Mention: Chalmette Battlefield, Jean Lafette National Park, St. Louis Cathedral (the oldest Cathedral in North America dating back to early 1700s), Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World and Louisiana Children’s Museum.
So what are you waiting for? Start organizing your family’s summer trip to one of these awesomely historic U.S. cities! Which place do you want to go most?