20 Historic Destinations Every American Needs To Visit

Beaches and amusements are fun, but you can visit some of the places you’ve read about in history books. If you’re a history buff, chances are you’ve traveled or dreamed of traveling somewhere that played a part in building this nation. You can take in history, visit a new state, and enjoy a fun getaway all at once. Are you wishing to travel and learn on your adventure? Check out these 20 destinations full of history when planning your next vacation. 

Washington, D.C.

If you think American history destinations, D.C. is guaranteed to come to mind. Tour the Whitehouse, view documents at the National Archives, and visit the many monuments dedicated to those who did their part in making America great.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

If you enjoy learning about the Civil War, Gettysburg is the perfect destination for you, Watch a Civil War reenactment, tour the battle field, and visit the museum at the Visitors Center. 

Savannah, Georgia

If you’re looking for a cute southern town, Savannah is the vacation spot of your dreams. While in Savannah, take a ghost tour, walk down the historical district, and visit Battlefield Park Heritage Center.

Salem, Massachusetts

Remember the witch trials? You  can visit where they took place. Take a tour of the city, visit the Witch Trials Museum, and take part in one of the many haunted ghost tours.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A trip to Philadelphia is not complete without visiting the Liberty Bell, tour Independence Hall, and visit at least one of the museums on Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Don’t forget to run up the “Rocky Steps” and snap a picture while in Philly. 

Boston, Massachusetts

While in Boston, walk down Freedom Trail, visit the Paul Revere house, and  visit Faneuil Hall. Baseball fans, make sure to visit Fenway Park on your adventure

Williamsburg, Virginia

If you’re going to do anything in Virginia, make sure you visit Colonial Williamsburg and visit some buildings from the 1700s. VIsit Historic Jamestowne and the Governor’s Palace before you leave. 

Charleston, South Carolina

Looking to visit a fort? Look no farther than Charleston. You can find things from the colonial period and the civil war in this coastal city. Make sure you visit the Old Slave Mart Museum to remember an important, but nasty part of our nation’s past.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

If you’re going to do one thing in Plymouth, you should visit the Plymouth Plantation. This plantation is set up to send you back in time complete with 17th century costumes and goods to purchase to take home. You can even view a replica of the Mayflower here.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. George Street is full of history and you’re sure to find something you enjoy, whether it be a cafe, monument, or museum. The Lightner Museum is perfect for the art lover on your vacation.

New Orleans, Louisiana

You can’t go to New Orleans without visiting the French Quarter. Visit the oldest operating cathedral in the U.S., the St. Louis Cathedral. Make sure to ride in one of the historic street cars before you leave. 

Honolulu, Hawaii

While in Honolulu, visit Pearl Harbor and you may meet one of the last survivors of the attack. You can go on a tour of the battle ships, and visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Attend a Luau to experience Hawaii’s rich culture on this trip.

Memphis, Tennessee

While in Memphis, visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s museum. Stay in the Peabody hotel on this vacation and watch the ducks parade through the lobby. Go sightseeing at toe Cooper-Young Historic District before returning home.

Mobile, Alabama

Mobile is the home of Mardi gras. Try to visit when you can catch a parade or visit the Mobile Carnival Museum. A trip to Mobile isn’t complete without stopping by the USS Alabama Memorial Battleship.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to 10 very different museums, so you’re guaranteed to find one that interests you. Visit the before-its-time Pullman Historic district and learn the rich history behind this neighborhood. 

 Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta may not be known as a place of historical significance, but it contains many historic sites that make it an excellent vacation choice. Visit the World of Cocacola 

Montgomery, Alabama

Montgomery is home to the Rosa Parks Library and Museum and the Civil Rights Memorial. Make sure to visit Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. once served as pastor. 

Santa Fe, New Mexico

While in Santa Fe, visit one of the many historic religious buildings such as the Loretto Chapel, Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, or San Miguel Mission (considered to be the country’s oldest church). Visit a national monument or national park to complete your trip.

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New Port, Rhode Island

While in New Port, visit one of the many beautiful, historic houses once belonging to people who greatly influenced American history, such as Isaac Bell. Visit Fort Adams and the United States Naval War College, which was established in 1884.

Annapolis, Maryland

While in Annapolis, tour the U.S. Naval Academy and watch the Blue Angels fly. Visit the Sailboat Show or watch them race in the waters of the historic downtown part of the city. Learn more about African American history at the Banneker-Douglass Museum.