5 US Landmarks with Amazing Backstories That Helped Shaped American History

As the nation looks ahead to America250—the celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary—there has never been a better moment to reflect on the places that tell the story of how the country came to be. When we think of iconic landmarks, our minds naturally jump to places such as the Statue of Liberty and Mount Rushmore, yet across the United States there is a wealth of historic and natural sites with fascinating backstories that helped shape American history. From the world‑famous Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles to the dramatic Devil’s Slide Trestles in Colorado, these landmarks offer powerful reminders of the people, events, and ingenuity that define the American journey. As part of the America250 commemoration, join us as we uncover the remarkable stories behind five US landmarks that continue to capture the nation’s spirit.

The Hollywood Sign is the star of the show in Los Angeles, California.

It goes without saying that the Hollywood Sign is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet, but its origins and its storied legacy since have helped cement its place as an American cultural icon. First erected in 1923, it originally spelled out ‘Hollywoodland’ and started life as a temporary advertisement for a real estate development in the Hollywood Hills, before later becoming a symbol synonymous with the nation’s booming movie and entertainment industry.

However, by the time the 1970s rolled around, the Hollywood Sign was in disrepair as a result of decades of weather damage, which ultimately led to it being controversially rebuilt in 1978. Set high up on Mount Lee, the sign can be seen from spots across Los Angeles, but for visitors looking to capture a great selfie with the Hollywood Sign, the best place to head is to the Griffith Observatory on Mount Hollywood, with its equally enviable views over the city itself.

Take in the magnificent views of this world-famous US landmark and get a great night’s sleep when you’re visiting Los Angeles, California, by booking your stay at the Aiden Los Angeles Downtown Dragon Gate Inn.

A landmark attraction that is millions of years old, at Thunder Hole near Bar Harbor, Maine

Our next famous US Landmark is a miraculous geological formation that has been millions of years in the making and is situated along Maine’s rugged Atlantic coastline on Mount Desert Island. Here, Thunder Hole is a narrow granite ocean inlet carved into the cliff face that creates a thunderous boom and a towering plume of spray with each wave when the ocean conditions are just right.

A firm favorite among tourists, the phenomenon of Thunder Hole is the result of waves surging into a natural chamber, which traps the air, resulting in its telltale sound effect and distinctive visual display. With plenty of viewpoints around and above Thunder Hole’s location, this geological US landmark is a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Check out the raw power of this almighty US landmark by booking your stay at the Bangor Aviator Hotel, BW Premier Collection in Bangor, Maine.

Learn the backstory of the abandoned Tonopah Army Airfield in Tonopah, Nevada.

Our next top US landmark has become a mecca for modern-day aviation enthusiasts and historians who flock to Tonopah Army Airfield in Nevada, once a critical World War II bomber crew training hub that prepared crews heading out for overseas combat. Its construction in late 1940 transformed the barren desert landscape into a vital air base used to train B-24 Liberator crews and later became a testing ground for some of the first ever guided military weaponry.

Today, the abandoned hangars and expansive runways of this once prestigious pilot training center now make for a landscape photographer’s dream while strolling among the derelict buildings. For visitors keen to find out more about Tonopah Army Airfield, be sure to also check out the intriguing exhibits on display at the Central Nevada Museum located in Tonopah itself.

Wander around the mesmerizing remains of this pivotal US Landmark when you book your stay at the Best Western Hi-Desert Inn in Tonopah, Nevada.

Go ghost hunting at the haunted landmark that is Liberty Hall in Frankfort, Kentucky.

Next on our shortlist of the most amazing US landmarks, we head to Frankfort, Kentucky, to explore the captivating hidden history of Liberty Hall. Once home to US Senator John Brown, Liberty Hall was built between 1796 and 1804, where visitors can now tour this distinguished home to discover its remarkable past.

Perhaps best known for its mysterious ghost stories, Liberty Hall is believed to be home to three former residents who have all been spotted in and around this historic landmark in the heart of Kentucky’s state capital. Of these, the Gray Lady is rumored to have haunted Liberty Hall for well over a century and is said to have once appeared three nights in a row, adding to the allure of visiting this mysterious Bluegrass State landmark.

Dare to explore the spooky goings on at Frankfort, Kentucky’s favorite haunted house, by booking your accommodation at the nearby Best Western Parkside Inn.

Venture to the jaw-dropping Devil’s Slide Trestles landmark outside Winter Park, Colorado.

Our final US landmark with a particularly interesting life story is the former railway bridges known now as Devil’s Slide Trestles, located just outside Winter Park in Colorado. Built in 1905 at over 11,600 feet in elevation, the Devil’s Slide Trestles are mounted on a sheer cliff that falls away nearly 1,000 feet below, which famously became one of the most treacherous railroad crossings in American history.

After over a century of decay, the bridges that connected the Devil’s Slide Trestles are no longer passable, but the area is still an incredibly popular landmark with hikers and mountain bikers along the trails of the Rollins Pass. Witnessing the Devil’s Slide Trestles in person is certainly recommended, as it showcases the ingenuity it would have needed to achieve this engineering feat, given the challenging terrain in which it was built.

Enjoy a hike or bike ride to see this astonishing US landmark by staying at the Best Western Alpenglo Lodge in Winter Park, Colorado.

From manmade icons born of ambition to natural wonders shaped over millions of years, these five US landmarks illustrate the diverse stories that together form the fabric of American history. As the country prepares to mark America250 and celebrate 250 years of independence, visiting places like these offers a meaningful way to connect with the past while appreciating how far the nation has come. Each landmark stands as a chapter in the broader American story—one of resilience, creativity, and exploration. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply seeking inspiration, let these historic sites remind you that the path to America’s 250th anniversary is paved with unforgettable places and stories worth rediscovering.