With July 4th almost here, it’s a good time to celebrate our nation’s vibrant history. If you’ve visited the Statue of Liberty or Liberty Bell one too many times already, try a change of pace by visiting one of the most historic spots in the United States on our list! Their distinct stories and sights are well worth the road trip out of New York City.
Plymouth, MA
Known as “America’s Hometown,” Plymouth was the site of the original Pilgrim settlement, where New England was first established. It has since grown into one of America’s busiest tourism centers, offering not only historical museums and tours, but also fine dining and shopping. Be sure to visit the Plimoth Plantation for a live replica of the settlement in 1627, complete with full-costumed expert actors. Other sites to visit include the Mayflower Society House, National Monument to the Forefathers, and Plymouth Rock.
4 hours drive via I-95 N, seeplymouth.com
Gettysburg, PA
Most famous for the Battle of Gettysburg that turned the tide of the American Civil War, this historical town is home to the Gettysburg National Military Park. Here visitors can witness live re-enactments of famous battles, drills, and first-person accounts, which will take place July 4-6 this year. Having passed its 150th anniversary, it’s as good a time as any to head on over to Gettysburg and experience history first-hand.
3.5 hours drive via I-78 W, destinationgettysburg.com
Ellis Island, NY
Just off the tip of Manhattan Island, this iconic site is where it has been estimated nearly half of all Americans today can trace their family history to someone who passed through. Plan a visit to learn about the experiences American Immigrants from 1892-1924, the history, and timeline of the Island, even uncover your own family history.
20 minutes drive via I-78 W, then ferry, ellisisland.org
Cooperstown, NY
For a taste of history, you don’t have to leave New York State. While Cooperstown is known as the home of America’s pastime, the village has even more to offer than just baseball. Here visitors can explore the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the Doubleday Field, but also step into history at the Farmers’ Museum. With authentic items, farmhouses, and costumes circa 1845, this living history park and its actors are a sight to see.
3.5 hours drive via NY-17 W, thisiscooperstown.com
Charlottesville, VA
At Charlottesville, visitors can explore Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, third U.S. president. At the house this July 4th, there will be free walk-through tours, an ice cream festival, children’s activities, and more! Jefferson’s legacy can also be seen at the Rotunda at the University of Virginia, which he designed to be an “Academical Village.” However, this is better for a revisit, as it is closed for renovation until summer 2016. Instead, why not head over to fifth U.S. president James Monroe’s home at Ash Lawn-Highland.
5.5 hours drive via I-95 S, visitcharlottesville.org
Williamsburg, VA
At Williamsburg you will find the Historic Triangle—Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown. Visit the Jamestown Settlement, which includes three settlement ships, Powhatan Village, James Fort, and the Yorktown Victory Center for replicas of life four centuries ago. For re-enactments of historic scenes, visit Colonial Williumsburg’s Revolutionary City, where you too can be a part of a community at war, or join ghost walks to learn about historic hauntings.
4 hours drive via I-95 S, visitwilliamsburg.com
Washington, DC
The United States capital, Washington, DC, is a must-visit for families interested in American history. Pay an educational visit to the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, or even the famous White House itself, where self-guided tours are available. If your child loves animals, take them to the National Zoo to meet Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and baby Bao Bao, the zoo’s famous pandas!
4 hours drive via New Jersey Turnpike S & I-95 S, washington.org
United States Military Academy at West Point, NY
Sitting on a scenic high ground overlooking the Hudson River, the entire central campus of this academy is considered a national landmark. West Point’s role in U.S. history dates back to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, which visitors can explore at the West Point Museum. Established in 1854, it is now considered the oldest military museum in the world. Artifacts on display include George Washington’s pistols, Napoleon Bonaparte’s sword, and more.
1.5 hour drive via Interstate Pkwy N, usma.edu
Fraunces Tavern in New York, NY
At the Fraunces Tavern Museum you can explore New York History as it related to Colonial America, the Revolutionary War, and the Early Republic. In 1783, George Washington gave his farewell speech to officers of the Continental Army in this very location! The 1719 building itself is often considered Manhattan’s oldest surviving building, in which visitors can now see art and artifact exhibitions about the site and the American Revolution.
10 minutes via John St & Pearl St, frauncestavernmuseum.org
Hyde Park, NY
This town located along the Hudson River is known for being the hometown of 32nd U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, whose Springwood estate can be visited here. His grandfather’s home, the Isaac Roosevelt House is also located in Hyde Park, as well as that of his wife Eleanor Roosevelt, Val-Kill. For those interested in Gilded Age architecture and interiors, visit the country palace Vanderbilt Mansion.
2 hour drive via Taconic State Parkway N, historichydepark.org
