Best US Historic Destinations

America is a relatively "young" country. Or so the rest of the world keeps telling us. We may not have regal castles, crumbling ruins, or ancient cathedrals, but we've still got a healthy portion of preserved landmarks. In pockets across the U.S., historic sites stand proudly next to contemporary structures—a testament to America's eagerness to modernize. Perfect for school trips and history buffs, these cities are brimming with 
 recollections of America's short but significant past.

^#1

Washington D.C.

Why Go: Washington, D.C. stands as the political heart of the U.S. Leaving room for museums and monuments, the original urban architects designed the city as a ceremonial one. True to its purpose, America's capitol brims with things to do. The Washington Monument, the Capitol Building, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial anchor the National Mall, which boasts a variety of other attractions.

^#2

 

Williamsburg

Why Go: Part historical town, part theatrical stage, Williamsburg hosts numerous refurbished buildings and a legion of period actors. While some consider Colonial Williamsburg to be the Disneyland of the Revolutionary War, others find the recreations educational and enjoyable. If you want a little more history, check out nearby Jamestown. Otherwise, there's always Busch Gardens for a roller coaster ride back to the present.  

^#3

 

Why Go: This metropolis still belongs to Benjamin Franklin. You'll see his name, busts of his likeness, and his influence across town. First, visit Independence Hall, where Ben & Co. signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Then, pay homage to the famously cracked Liberty Bell next door. Lastly, dig into a classic Philly cheesesteak in South Philly, although we don't think Benjamin had anything to do with this landmark dish.  

^#4

 

Boston

Why Go: Boston is a city of American firsts. The country's first public library, first subway system, first public school, and first public park belong to Boston. Here, you can stroll the same cobblestone streets as the puritans, the revolutionaries, and NFL-legend-in-the-making Tom Brady. Better yet, the city makes this walk through history really easy with the Freedom Trail. 

^#5

 

Charleston

Why Go: Walking around The Battery and spotting Fort Sumter in the distance, you may believe that you've stepped back into a gorgeous antebellum world. Should you wish to glimpse the lifestyle of the wealthy 19th-century Southern gentry, tour the Calhoun Mansion or the Nathaniel Russell House. Charleston's historic downtown has weathered the decades very well.

^#6

 

Richmond

Why Go: The former capital of the Confederacy is just a two-hour drive from Washington, D.C. Richmond may not be as big as DC, but Virginia's capitol remains an alluring spot for history buffs. The Virginia State Capitol Building reminds you of Jefferson's Monticello, and the Virginia Historical Society boasts an exhaustive collection of Civil War paraphernalia. And the Museum of the Confederacy occupies a building commonly known as the "Confederate White House."

^#7

 

Santa Fe

Why Go: Santa Fe is the "Oldest Capital in the U.S." Founded in 1610, this fascinating town boasts a colorful past. The Palace of the Governors has been around since the city’s formation and informs visitors of its heritage. Also on Santa Fe Plaza, the St. Francis Cathedral evinces the region's Catholic heritage. Lastly, the Georgia O'Keefe Museum and the galleries along Canyon Road epitomize Santa Fe's storied artistic tradition.  

^#8

 

Yellowstone

Why Go: Ulysses S. Grant made history when he signed Yellowstone National Park into being as the first national park in the world. Yellowstone hosts some of America’s most remarkable natural sites, including the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Old Faithful, and Mammoth Hot Springs. See for yourself why this sprawling 2,221,766-acre territory should be preserved for future generations. 

^#9

 

Savannah

Why Go: Back in the good ole' days, Savannah was the epicenter of Georgia's sophisticated gentry. The upper class built luxurious townhouses around quaint squares and basked in tradition. While some things have certainly changed, much of Savannah's appearance has stayed the same. Explore the Owens-Thomas House, Bonaventure Cemetery, and Forsyth Park to glimpse the antebellum world. 

^#10

 

New Orleans

Why Go: While Hurricane Katrina tried to take down New Orleans in 2005, the city got back up on her feet and restored herself to her former glory. Most come to party hard on Bourbon Street, but history-lovers will take in the sights, like the French Quarter, the Cabildo, and St. Louis Cathedral that mark this district. Should you desire a quieter place, try the Garden District or Chalmette Battlefield.  

^#11

St. Louis

Why Go: As Louis and Clark's "Gateway to the West," St. Louis has historical significance, but lacks the monuments to show it. Of course, the Gateway Arch is a sight to behold, but beyond that, there aren't many beacons of the past. That said, modern shrines do include the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and the Cardinal's Busch Stadium.  

^#12

San Francisco

Why Go: While San Jose and the Silicon Valley continue to engineer modern marvels, San Francisco remains a treat for history buffs. The myths of Alcatraz draw conspiracy theorists and school children; the architectural achievement of Golden Gate Bridge attracts gawkers and giddy engineers; and the vibrant Castro and the Mission District bring in social progressives.  

^#13

New York City

Why Go: "The City" offers history at high speeds and high altitudes. Scale the Empire State Building; stroll across the monumental Brooklyn Bridge; or hop the ferry to Ellis Island. These are just a few ways to visit New York's iconic sites and take in gorgeous views of this metropolis. Also, don't forget the city's most recent historical footprint—the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.