American Historical Sites
By Stuart Hughes
Reading about America’s incredible history is one thing, but being on location and witnessing first-hand where historical events took place offers an entirely different learning experience. Historical sites provide the perfect interactive backdrop for travelers to retrace the footsteps of history lessons once learned in school.
Yes, destinations like Washington D.C., New York City, and Boston have deep-rooted ties to American history. However, we’re setting off to discover seven of America’s oldest and most significant alternative attractions that will take you back in time.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in St. Augustine, Florida
We couldn’t recommend alternative historical destinations without mentioning a trip to St Augustine. Considered the oldest city in America, this historic town is home to Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
Castillo de San Marcos is a pivotal example of astonishing defensive design and construction, having never been captured in battle. This Spanish 16th century fort also became key in helping to establish trading routes between North America and Europe across the Atlantic.
Tours of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument are a must-see for all history enthusiasts, where visitors are welcome 364 days of the year.
Book your stay at Best Western Historical Inn.
The First Lincoln Memorial in Hodgenville, Kentucky
As one of America’s most famous historical figures, it only seems fitting to include The First Lincoln Memorial at Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace in Hodgenville, Kentucky. Over the years, this nostalgic landmark has proved to be a worthy destination of choice for several sitting presidents, including Roosevelt, Eisenhower, and Nixon.
Designed by then-famous architect John Russell Pope, its original cornerstone was laid by Theodore Roosevelt to commemorate Lincoln’s 100th birthday on February 12, 1909. Construction was completed two years later and ceremoniously dedicated to Lincoln by sitting President William H. Taft.
Self-guided tours of The First Lincoln Memorial are available year-round; however, ranger-led tours are also available to visitors from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Elizabethtown Inn & Suites.
Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Everyone may have heard about Gettysburg National Military Park and President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. But, if you’re captivated by how the United States became a united nation, then this is a top historic destination to come to visit.
As the setting of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle, Gettysburg proved to be the turning point in the Civil War. It also inspired Abraham Lincoln’s most famous speech, which he delivered in Gettysburg back on November 19, 1863.
In addition to the monument, The Gettysburg Foundation provides exceptional battlefield tours, where tourists can witness entertaining historical battle re-enactments in the heart of Gettysburg National Military Park.
Book your stay at Best Western Gettysburg.
Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, California
Most people believe the Golden Gate Bridge to be San Francisco’s most remarkable historical feature. However, we beg to differ. Instead, we’re focusing on the fascinating historic island of Alcatraz, where the infamous Al Capone and James “Whitey” Bulger called home while serving time at the world-famous Alcatraz prison.
While Alcatraz prison is the first thing most people think of, did you know this tiny bay island was also the site of a Civil War Fortress, home to the first-ever lighthouse on the US West Coast, and more recently, a fantastic Seabird sanctuary?
These days, hourly Alcatraz tours are available and provide a fascinating insight into this little island’s rich historical ventures. Visitor tours are available from Alcatraz Island Tickets, which departs from the heart of another famous San Francisco landmark, Pier 33 at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Book your stay at The Cartwright Hotel – Union Square, BW Premier Collection.
The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana
If tales of mystery and supernatural phenomena are more in keeping with your idea of a historic destination, The Myrtles Plantation should be your destination of choice. As one of America’s most haunted houses, this former plantation estate occasionally provides visitors with photographic evidence of a ghostly former resident.
The Myrtles Plantation has been featured in The New York Times, National Geographic, and the Discovery Channel, so if you’re looking for historic tails of murder and intrigue, then The Myrtles Plantation has to be for you.
Private and guided tours are available from the Myrtles Plantation General’s Store, which takes visitors around this 1796 former plantation. Learn about the ghostly legend of Chloe, her story, and how she staged her murderous revenge.
Book your stay at Best Western St. Francisville Hotel.
Taos Pueblo in Taos Pueblo, New Mexico
Taos Pueblo is a must-see destination if you have always wondered what life was like before the Europeans settled in the Southwestern United States. With over 1,000 years of history and tradition, this Native American community ranks as one of America’s oldest heritage sites.
Guided tours at Taos Pueblo take visitors around the community to see first-hand how, culturally and historically, Native Americans harnessed their relationship with nature. So significant is the community and its complex of adobe mudbrick households, that it has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is certainly worth a visit.
Book your stay at Best Western Rivers Edge.
The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas
The legend of the Battle of The Alamo is an iconic historical event that draws visitors worldwide to The Alamo. Mainly because it was a pivotal turning point in the Texas Revolution, but also for John Wayne fans, it provides a chance to see where he directed and starred in his 1960 film of the same name.
The Alamo was an 1836 battle that saw the Mexican Army outnumber Davy Crockett and over 200 other Texans after a 13-day siege. Although the Texan defenders were consigned to defeat, historians consider the lost battle the spark that reignited the fight to successfully claim independence from Mexico.
For a fully immersive experience, take one of The Alamo daily tours, where guides retell the story of this famous 18th century chapel and fortress.
Book your stay at Best Western Alamo Suites.
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