In spite of the fact that it is relatively young compared to countries like those inhabiting the European continent, the U.S. boasts countless historical attractions. These sites make excellent vacation destinations, whether the goal of the trip is to travel and view many or to see a particular one. There are even tours like the Band of Brothers one described by Michael Canzian on his blog. According to Michael Canzian, the experience is good for WWII enthusiasts. Sights and tours like this one are available in many places, but some cities have such an abundance of them or feature such significant ones that they count as historical attractions themselves.
1. Washington D.C.
The nation’s capital is, naturally, a hub of historically significant memorials, buildings and amusements. There is the white house, home to all of the country’s presidents. Other features that historians and regular people alike love to explore and snap pictures of include the Lincoln Memorial, Library of Congress, Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument and the Woodrow Wilson House. There is also a vast assortment of memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers from different wars and branches. Madame Tussauds presents an incredible interactive tour where individuals can enjoy the pleasure of standing by each president’s form carved from wax. These are only a few of the city’s assortment of historical attractions.
2. New Orleans
As one of Louisiana’s main cities and a major port, the Big Easy has a rich history involving the Spanish, French and British. Throw in a splash of African culture courtesy of the city’s slave population and the city is a melting pot that features its own unique Creole culture. The French Quarter, Bourbon Street, St. Louis Cathedral — these are only a few of the city’s offerings.
3. Boston
Known for the significant events leading up to the Revolutionary War that took place on its streets (and in its harbor), the capital of Massachussetts is one of the nation’s oldest cities, settled by Puritans in 1630. Historical trails like the Freedom Trail and Black Heritage Trail allow individuals to get a glance into the past. Boston is littered with spots and buildings heavy with history.
4. New York City
The Big Apple is one of the U.S.’s major tourist attractions in and of itself. People come from all over the country to take in its bustling streets and enormous skyscrapers. Immigrants flocked to it, filled with hope at the sight of the iconic Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, historical symbol of opportunity. The Wall Street Historic District is another popular feature for tourists. Visiting history enthusiasts are drawn to the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, Carnegie Hall, Chrysler Building and more.
5. Gettysburg
Americans know this city as the site of one of the bloodiest battles and major turning points of the Civil War. It is also the location of one of the most well-known speeches in the nation’s history, Abraham Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address. Given its place in history, it comes as no surprise that it is filled with attractions, including the Gettysburg National Military Park, the Gettysburg National Cemetery and the Shriver House Machine.
These cities are rich in history and historical features. As a result, they make excellent tourist destinations for families, history buffs and non-enthusiasts alike.