historical traveler tourist activities

50 Best Historical Sites To Visit In America

The United States of America is a young country, but even in its relatively short history, the nation has had an incredibly engaging story to tell — some told by Indigenous peoples, some by people from other places who voyaged to the New World. The U.S. is a vast country with an incredible number of historic and stunning places that tell us the story of this place and its people, from the inspirational to the devastating to the absolutely fascinating. 

We've compiled a list of 50 of the best historical sites in America, including national landmarks, places of historical significance, museums, galleries, memorials, centers of learning, and more. While reading about U.S. history in a school textbook might not have hooked you on the subject, it's different when you're standing in the actual spots where history occurred. Imagine taking in the same views as thousands of immigrants did when they first touched American soil, or seeing the Pueblo cliff dwellings, or visiting the ships of the Boston Tea Party. Whether you're a serious history buff or not, these historical sites in America help to tell the nation's story — a story that's anything but boring. 

1. The Alamo (San Antonio, Texas)

The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, is the most-visited tourist attraction in the Lone Star State. The mission and fortress was the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, at which a small garrison of Texas independence fighters was finally overwhelmed by a much larger Mexican army after a 13-day siege. Today, visitors can take guided or self-guided tours of the mission to learn more about the church, the various rulers of Texas, the Texas Revolution, and the defenders of the Alamo, including famed pioneer Davey Crockett.

2. Alcatraz Island (San Francisco, California)

A 15-minute ferry ride from San Francisco, California, takes visitors to Alcatraz Island. On this 22-acre island, you can visit the former fort and federal prison, which is said to be one of the most haunted places in the world. Here, you can learn about military history and the infamous escapes from Alcatraz. The island also features exhibits on the 1969-71 occupation of Alcatraz Island by American Indian activists and information about the island's topography.

3. American Civil War Museum (Richmond, Virginia)

The American Civil War was a complicated conflict that somehow Americans still can't agree on today. The American Civil War Museum in Richmond, Virginia, attempts to tell the story of the Civil War from all sides of the battle. Voices from soldiers and civilians both Confederate and Union are represented. The museum's main exhibition, "A People's Contest: Struggles for Nation and Freedom in Civil War America" also includes narratives from the eyes of women, enslaved African-Americans, Native Americans, and others.

4. Arlington National Cemetery (Arlington County, Virginia)

The Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, features over 400,000 graves of American soldiers, both those who died in battle and those who retired and died later of other causes. Every American should see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is the final resting place for unknown soldiers from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Every hour in the summer (and half-hour in cooler months), there is a changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, complete with a moving ceremony. Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of John F. Kennedy, William Howard Taft, the space shuttle Challenger's crew, as well as 4,000 former slaves buried in a section of land known as Freedman's Village, which was Arlington's first free neighborhood.

5. Betsy Ross House (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Betsy Ross (1752-1836) was an upholsterer who was thought to have created the first American flag. While many historians dismiss this claim, it's been a part of American lore for a long time. That said, the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, tells more than just this small piece — true or not — of her story.  You can view artifacts and historical documents, take an audio tour of the building, and chat with costumed interpreters, including Betsy Ross herself.

At the time of this writing, you can also join a "Sip and Stitch," which includes having a drink while learning needlework techniques of the time period, or take the "Spooky Twilight Tour" on Fridays during October to learn about Philly's darker past.

6. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum (Boston, Massachusetts)

There's no shortage of historic things to see in Boston, Massachusetts, as it's one of the best U.S. cities for history buffs , but the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is an absolute must-see. The museum itself tells the story of the events that happened leading up to the American Revolution, and you'll see a colonial town meeting in action and can "dump the tea" on the ship. The Boston Museum features perhaps one of the most fascinating objects from this era of American history, the Robinson Tea Chest, the only known remaining tea chest from the Boston Tea Party in 1773.

7. Bunker Hill Monument (Charlestown, Massachusetts)

One of the first monuments in the United States, the Bunker Hill Monument in Boston, Massachusetts, is actually on Breed's Hill, which is where the misnamed Battle of Bunker Hill actually took place. Here, you'll hear a talk on why this costly British victory was a major turning point for the colonies during the Revolutionary War, and can learn about the soldier's weapon of choice, the musket.

8. César E. Chávez National Monument (Keene, California)

César E. Chávez was a Latino civil rights leader whose family lost their farm in the 1930s during the Great Depression and had to become migrant farm workers. He founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers labor union, working to improve life, pay, and working conditions.

The César E. Chávez National Monument, which is part of the Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz property, centers around the home of the Chávez family and honors his work. The site covers 108 acres in the Tehachapi Mountains. The man himself is buried in the Memorial Garden, which you can visit. You can also check out the visitor's center and the desert garden, as well as take a virtual tour. (Some of the center is closed to visitors as it's still a working center.) 

9. Colonial Williamsburg, (Williamsburg, Virginia)

If you've never experienced the living history museum at Colonial Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Virginia, move it to the top of your list. There are 89 18th-century buildings to see, and you're not just looking at pictures in a museum. You're actually transported back into time while walking the streets. Employees dress in costume and go about their daily lives blacksmithing, sewing, and performing other tasks you would have encountered during the Colonial period. 

The ability to talk to people in a living history museum further immerses you in this historic town during a time of great change in America. Highlights include the Governor's Palace, the Wythe House, the Bruton Parish Church, and the Raleigh Tavern. You can watch people working in a print shop, meet a wigmaker, visit a cooperage (they make barrels), as well as take a ride in a carriage and even visit the jail. You'll also learn how America gained independence from Britain.

10. Disneyland (Anaheim, California)

Widely considered to be the first-ever theme park, there's a surprising amount of history at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. Disneyland changed the American amusement park forever thanks to its innovations in themed lands and technology. There are a number of original 1955 attractions still operating today, including Autopia, the Disneyland Railroad, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, and the Storybook Land Canal Boats. History buffs should also be sure to see Abraham Lincoln himself tell his story in Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln, featuring the first-ever animatronic from the 1964 New York World's Fair.

11. Ellis Island (New York, New York)

America would be nothing today without immigrants, and between 1892 and 1924, more than 12 million of them were processed at Ellis Island. Today, Ellis Island in New York, New York, is the home to a museum where you can see the plight and hope of these immigrants. Some 100 million Americans can trace their ancestry back to one of the aforementioned 12 million immigrants. At Ellis Island, you can visit the American Family Immigration History Center and try to trace your own family's heritage.

12. Ford's Theatre (Washington, D.C.)

The site of Abraham Lincoln's assassination, Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C., will teach you about the impact of that singular, violent act as well as the rest of Lincoln's presidency. A museum at the theatre features a number of artifacts, including the weapons assassin John Wilkes Booth used to murder the 16th president. The theatre itself is also a stunning, historical venue, and live shows take place there regularly.

13. Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum (Hyde Park, New York)

Opened in 1941, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York, was the first presidential library and continues to be a must-see for anyone interested in the presidency. FDR was the president during the Great Depression, the New Deal, and World War II, and his library features documents and self-guided exhibitions about that fascinating period of American history. You can also access Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt's home, with a guided tour from a park ranger.

14. Freedom Trail (Boston, Massachusetts)

The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path across downtown Boston, Massachusetts, features a great number of historical sites tied to the early history of the United States. Walk this trail (recommended from south to north) to see the Old South Meeting House, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, the USS Constitution, and more sights. The Freedom Trail also includes the Granary Burying Ground, where the likes of Samuel Adams and Paul Revere are buried, as well as King's Chapel Burying Ground, where early pilgrims are buried.

15. Fort McHenry National Monument (Baltimore, Maryland)

Without Fort McHenry, there would be no "Star-Spangled Banner." During the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812, the raising of the American flag over this battlefield inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the song that would become our national anthem. Today, you can visit the Fort McHenry National Monument and hear talks about the famous battles that took place at this Baltimore, Maryland, spot. You can also raise and lower replicas of the flag that inspired Key.

16. Fort Sumter (Charleston, South Carolina)

The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie monument in Charleston, South Carolina, is the site of the first shots of the Civil War. Here, you can take a self-guided or ranger-led tour to learn about how slavery and sectionalism in the early history of the United States eventually led to the devastating Civil War. This educational spot is meant to be a reflective, historical, and contemplative place.

17. George Washington's Mount Vernon (Mount Vernon, Virginia)

Learn the history of the family of our country's first president by visiting George Washington's Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia. You can see the mansion, its stunning grounds, and even George Washington's distillery. Learn more about Washington and his history as a military general during the Revolutionary War at the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center. There are also important exhibits about the life of Martha Washington, slaves at Mount Vernon, and a moving wreath-laying ceremony at the Washingtons' tomb.

18. Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)

The Civil War comes alive in Gettysburg, the famous Pennsylvania battlefield where the U.S. Army repealed a Confederate invasion in the costliest battle of the war. Every weekend from April to October, Civil War living historians give demonstrations across the park to show how people of the time lived and fought. Gettysburg also hosts battle walks and campfire lectures throughout the summer. Visitors should also pay their respects at Gettysburg National Cemetery, where President Lincoln gave his stirring Gettysburg Address in tribute to those who fell in the battle.

19. Graceland (Memphis, Tennessee)

Rock 'n' roll music is an integral part of the American story, and perhaps no artist has had as much impact as Elvis Presley. Today, his mansion Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, is a memorial to the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," and you can take an iPad-led tour of his mansion home. There's also Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum and a collection of Elvis' automobiles in Memphis. Of course, the musical history in this town doesn't begin and end with Elvis; while in Memphis, be sure to also visit the legendary Sun Studio, where B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and more recorded some of their biggest hits.

20. Grand Canyon (Arizona)

If you're looking for the most breathtaking views of America while you learn a thing or two about this country, look no further than the Grand Canyon. You can learn about the history of this Arizona wonder in the visitor's center on the South Rim. Here, you can watch a 20-minute movie about the canyon, see historic artifacts from the region, or sign up for a guided tour of the area. The Yavapai Geology Museum is nearby, as is the Tusayan Ruin and Museum, where you can learn about Puebloan Indian life.

21. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation (Dearborn, Michigan)

The history of American transportation and invention is told at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, Michigan. Car culture is at the forefront of this museum; the Driving America exhibit is a must-see, with the first car built by Henry Ford and the history of the American automobile. Other fascinating artifacts at this museum include steam engines, Rosa Parks' Bus, Model T Fords, JFK's limo, and other presidential vehicles.

22. Independence Hall (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is technically where U.S. history began, so any history buff should have this on their travel bucket list. At the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, you embark on a 40-minute guided tour where you see the Assembly Room as it actually was during the Constitutional Convention. An original draft of the Constitution is also a must-see.

23. Jamestown (Williamsburg, Virginia)

For English settlers in America, history starts in 1607 in historic Jamestown, near Williamsburg, Virginia, which was the first permanent English colony in the New World. Adjacent to the archaeological site is a modern reconstruction of the Jamestown settlement. The living history museum illustrates the story of 17th-century Virginia through the experiences of the colonists. See recreations of the ships that brought the first settlers, a colonial fort, and a recreated Powhatan Indian Village.

24. Kennedy Space Center (Cape Canaveral, Florida)

If you have any interest in NASA and space, then Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, is a must-visit. Since 1968, Kennedy Space Center has been NASA's primary launch center. The facility still launches rockets every so often, which you can watch — and it really is a sight to behold. Even if there is no launch, you will see the launch site of the Apollo missions, including the famous Apollo 11 flight during which astronauts walked on the moon for the first time. This awe-inspiring center is one of the best things to do in Florida beyond Disney and the beach.

25. The Liberty Bell Center (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

You can see the original state house Liberty Bell and its world-famous crack at the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In addition to the big bronze bell, one of the most recognized symbols of America and its freedom, the Liberty Bell Center also features exhibits on the iconography of this bell, which has been featured on everything from stamps to ice cream molds, and X-ray views of the bell.

26. Mark Twain House & Museum (Hartford, Connecticut)

Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, is one of the country's most famous authors. He wrote quintessential American works, such as "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, Connecticut, is the Clemens family home and where Clemens wrote some of his most famous books. You can take a guided tour of the home, watch a Ken Burns documentary on Mark Twain, and see the adjacent museum.

27. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park (Atlanta, Georgia)

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Georgia, features several buildings documenting the life and work of one of America's foremost civil rights activists. Learn about MLK's roots by seeing his childhood home and the church where he was baptized. His final resting place is also in this national park in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. This center also features exhibits on King, his wife Coretta Scott King, and Mahatma Gandhi. Be sure to stop by the visitor center, where you can see various exhibits of the Civil Rights Movement.

28. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

The Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is home to the incredible stone cliff homes built by the ancestral Pueblo people, who lived here for over 700 years, though other tribes had lived here for over 1,400 years. The national landmark is now a World Heritage Site that celebrates the cultural heritage of the many tribes who've called this area home. 

Along with attending various cultural dances and demonstrations, you can check out the Mesa Verde Museum, where you can watch a film about the history of the settlement and take an audio tour. 

29. Montpelier (Orange County, Virginia)

Montpelier in Orange County, Virginia, was the plantation home of James Madison, the fourth president of the United States. The estate features over eight miles of hiking trails and offers a variety of tours, most of which touch on the Constitution and on Madison as a man. Slavery was a huge part of Montpelier, and the former plantation does not hide or gloss over this fact. The permanent exhibition "The Mere Distinction of Color," curated by descendants of slaves who worked on the Madison family property, tells the story of slavery's impact on Virginia.

30. Mount Rushmore (Keystone, South Dakota)

If you're interested in and respect former presidents, then Mount Rushmore near Keystone, South Dakota, is the tourist destination for you. The likenesses of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln are carved into stone here. For history buffs, we recommend taking an audio tour and listening to the story of Mount Rushmore and how this American vision was brought to life.

31. Museum of the American Revolution (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

If you're looking for one of the best history museums in America , look no further than the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. This museum has an expansive collection of Revolutionary War weapons, diaries, letters, and other personal items, telling human stories of a war that happened long ago. See a replica of the Boston Liberty Tree, where the first rumblings of revolt were discussed. Must-see items also include George Washington's tent, a 13-star flag, and a copy of the first newspaper printing of the Declaration of Independence on July 6, 1776.

32. National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis, Tennessee)

Built around the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination at the former Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, the National Civil Rights Museum tells the story of the search for civil rights in America from slavery in the 1600s to present day. This moving yet highly educational museum has over 260 artifacts, 40 films, and interactive exhibits that show the history of racism and resistance in America.

33. National Mall (Washington, D.C.)

Some of the most famous monuments in America surround the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Head to this grassy field, where numerous famous protests and presidential inaugurations have occurred. After you soak in that sight, see the nearby monuments, which include the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, Washington Monument, Reflecting Pool, and more.

34. National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.)

There are a lot of museums in Washington, D.C., so don't worry if you haven't been to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. It's relatively new; it opened in September 2016. The museum highlights the culture and strength of African Americans but doesn't hide from the tragedies that they have faced during the country's short history. Must-see items include garments worn by slaves, a Bible owned by rebellion leader Nat Turner, and Emmett Till's glass-topped casket.

35. National Museum of American History (Washington, D.C.)

Any history buff could easily get lost in the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Nearly 4 million people visit this Smithsonian-run institution annually. Exhibits here focus on every part of American history and culture, including entertainment, politics, science, and the military. Not-to-be-missed items on display include Julia Child's kitchen, the John Bull locomotive, the lunch counter at which the Greensboro civil rights sit-in took place, a display of first ladies' dresses, and the original flag that inspired the "Star Spangled Banner."

36. National Museum of the American Indian (Washington, D.C.)

The rich culture of American Indian communities from the past and present is on display at the National Museum of the American Indian. The museum has two locations, one in Washington, D.C., and another in New York City. Both are definitely worth a visit, but the D.C. museum is an absolute must-see. This museum has one of the largest collections of Native American art and artifacts in the world, with over 800,000 items.

37. The National Museum of the United States Air Force (Dayton, Ohio)

The National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, is the official museum of the United States Air Force. This museum tells the story of military aviation through its collection of planes, missiles, and uniforms from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, and more. The museum also tells the history of pioneers in flight, including Ohio's own Wright Brothers.

38. National Portrait Gallery (Washington, D.C.)

The National Portrait Gallery of the United States opened in 1968 and showcases the likenesses and stories of the people who have shaped America. No trip to this gallery would be complete without seeing the America's Presidents exhibit, which has the largest, most complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House. It's truly remarkable. The only museum in the country dedicated to portraiture, the gallery also features paintings of Benjamin Franklin, Michelle Obama, Martha Washington, and more.

39. 9/11 Memorial & Museum (New York, New York)

The National September 11 Memorial Museum tells the story of the largest terrorist attack in American history. The highly informative, 110,000-square-foot museum tells the history of the World Trade Center before September 11, 2001, what happened on that fateful day, and how 9/11 changed the landscape of New York and the United States forever. The National September 11 Memorial features twin reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of the 2,977 people killed in the 9/11 attacks and the six victims of the 1993 terrorist attack at the World Trade Center are etched in bronze around the waterfalls. It's a somber yet important place for every American to visit.

40. Paul Revere House (Boston, Massachusetts)

Though it's along the Freedom Trail in Boston, Massachusetts, the Paul Revere House is worth a special stop. This 17th-century house is the oldest house in downtown Boston, which is already interesting enough, but this was also the actual home of Paul Revere during the American Revolution. Here, you can learn about this silversmith's role in the early days of the Revolution and what really happened during his famous midnight ride as he warned that the British were coming — without actually muttering that phrase.

41. Pearl Harbor (Honolulu, Hawaii)

While there are many stunning places to visit in Hawaii, if you're looking for American history, be sure to travel to Honolulu and visit Pearl Harbor. This National Historic Landmark actually features four different attractions, so plan for a whole day here. The USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial both commemorate those who lost their lives when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. You can also take a self-guided tour of the World War II submarine USS Bowfin and visit the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

42. Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park (St. Augustine, Florida)

St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in America, and the Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is the first site in that city. Learn about Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon and the 1565 colony in St. Augustine. While in St. Augustine, explore beyond this park to take in the Spanish-style architecture and stop by the very unique Spanish Military Hospital Museum to see Spanish Colonial medical practices.

43. Preservation Hall (New Orleans, Louisiana)

Jazz is arguably the American musical art form, and Preservation Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the home of jazz. This music venue, which has been open since the 1960s, has multiple shows nightly where you can see the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. American history is also about culture, and the Cajun culture and the excitement of a big brass band is a must-do for those who have never seen real, live jazz, especially if you're unfamiliar with New Orleans' rich music history . 

44. Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park (Richmond, California)

We often think about the sacrifices that soldiers made on the battlefields of World War II, but what about those who stayed on the home front? Surely you're familiar with posters and images of Rosie the Riveter, a character who embodied women in the war effort, promising "We can do it." The Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park celebrates the women who took up all the jobs vacated by men on the front lines, the sacrifices made at home, and the social changes that came about after the war ended.

There were 6 million women in the workforce for the first time during that war, and people's lifestyles at home were defined by rationing, learning about casualties of friends and families, budding industries to tackle, and the development of childcare centers due to working mothers. At this national landmark, you can visit a range of permanent exhibits while celebrating the women who helped the war effort on the home front.

45. Smithsonian American Art Museum (Washington, D.C.)

Formerly known as the National Museum of American Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C., tells the story of American history through its various art movements. Here, you'll see everything from modern folk art to impressionist paintings to paper sculpture. It's one of the largest collections of American art in the world and spans everything from colonial works to modern multimedia pieces.

46. The Statue of Liberty (New York, New York)

Perhaps the most iconic symbol of American freedom, the Statue of Liberty in New York City is also a national park and museum you can visit, though advance tickets are highly recommended. After a ferry trip to Liberty Island, you'll be able to explore the lush green grounds around the statue. You can also access the pedestal and see a museum telling the story of how the Statue of Liberty was built and how it became such an icon. With an advance reservation, you can also step into the crown of Lady Liberty to see a truly stunning view of New York.

47. Tenement Museum (New York, New York)

The immigrant story in New York City and the United States isn't always a glamorous one, and the Tenement Museum in Lower Manhattan, New York, tells that tale. You can see actual apartments that immigrants lived in and learn their stories. The Tenement Museum tells the history of people from a variety of backgrounds, including immigrants from Ireland, Germany, Poland, Greece, China, Puerto Rico and more.

48. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (Washington, D.C.)

Though the horrors of the Holocaust took place largely overseas, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum not only tells the international story but also the story from the American point of view and asks why very few Americans helped. Like other places on this list, this museum is a sobering yet important place for all Americans to visit and asks us to confront other modern genocides and instances of antisemitism.

49. Women's Rights National Historical Park (Seneca Falls, New York)

At the Women's Rights National Historical Park, you can learn about the landmark Women's Rights Convention, which was held in Seneca Falls, New York, in 1848. The place celebrates early feminist leaders, as well as abolitionists and reformers from the time. You can take a look at the Declaration of Sentiments — a document that argued for the rights of women, which was signed by 68 women and 32 men and authored principally by Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

You can reflect on how far we've come (and still need to go) while touring the beautiful Declaration Park waterfall, the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House, and the M'Clintock House, where the important document was drafted. 

50. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

While hiking across Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park may not be every American history buff's idea of a good time, this 2.2-million-acre park has a storied history. It was designated as America's first national park by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872 and has numerous different ecosystems that tell the larger story of America's topography. Of course, be sure to see the erupting geyser Old Faithful, which goes off every 45 to 125 minutes. After you visit Yellowstone, you'll know why it's one of America's most popular tourist destinations .

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

• United States

30 of the Best Historic Sites in the United States

Discover some of the best historic sites in the united states, from iconic sites like the white house, statue of liberty, and mount rushmore, to the more hidden historical gems like historic jamestowne, taos pueblo, and the freedom trail in boston..

Lily Johnson

19 aug 2021.

The United States is home to an array of fascinating historic sites, from the battlefields of the American Civil War to the iconic Statue of Liberty. Traversing its Native American origins all the way up to the 20th century, exploring the history of the USA is an intriguing and worthwhile pursuit.

For this world superpower, we have compiled a list of the best sites to visit, featuring a range of the USA’s most famous attractions alongside its lesser-known gems.

1. The White House

The White House has been the seat of the US government and home of Presidents of the United States of America for over 200 years.

Original construction of the White House began in October 1792 after President George Washington chose what is now 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue as the location for the new home of the federal government. The White House was not yet completed when, in 1800, it housed its first ‘first family’ President John Adams and First Lady, Abigail Adams.

The White House Visitors Centre is also a source of White House history, including details of the building’s architecture and history. A tour of the visitors centre should take between 20 minutes and an hour.

2. Gettysburg Battlefield

Gettysburg National Military Park is brimming with approximately 1,328 monuments, markers and memorials relating to the American Civil War. The Battle of Gettysburg raged from 1 to 3 July 1863, resulting in over 51,000 casualties and victory for the Unionists. It marked a significant turning point in the war, followed twenty one months later by the surrender of the Confederacy.

Visitors can follow the route of Battle of Gettysburg, from Seminary Ridge and Culp’s Hill to Cemetery Ridge and Devils Den as well as visiting David Wills’ house, a museum about the town. The National Park Service Museum and Visitor Center is a good place to start as it contains a wide range of Civil War related information as well as a plethora of guided tours and exhibitions.

3. Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is a Greek style monument in Washington DC’s West Potomac Park. The Lincoln Memorial was designed by the architect, Henry Bacon, who also sculpted the statue of Lincoln which visitors can see within its walls.

As the site of many important political speeches and events, Lincoln Memorial has a history of its own, independent from its original purpose. In particular, it was the site where Martin Luther King delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech on 28 August 1963.

4. Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is a breathtaking Native American site dotted with over 4,000 archaeological treasures, including 600 exceptionally well preserved cliff dwellings dating back to 600 AD. Mesa Verde National Park was once the home of the Pueblos, a Native American people who lived there for over 700 years before migrating to New Mexico and Arizona.

Some of the sites, such as the Cliff Palace and Balcony House with its over 150 rooms can only be viewed as part of a ranger tour, for which you can buy tickets at Far View Visitor Center before attending the sites. It’s also well worth viewing the large collection of artefacts on display.

5. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is an iconic copper and steel statue in the entrance to New York Habour and an enduring symbol of freedom and independence. The Statue of Liberty’s total height from ground to torch is a staggering 92.99 metres. Originally built in France in 1884, it arrived in New York in June 1885 and was dedicated on 28 October 1886.

Situated on Liberty Island, there are numerous exhibits and tours available both inside and outside the Statue of Liberty. Upon reaching Liberty Island, visitors can go to the information station to watch a short film about the statue’s history and check the schedule of events for one of 45 minute long ranger tours, which start at the Liberty Island Flagpole.

6. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island was the site of a notoriously harsh prison based off the coast of San Francisco, California, this isolated position earning it the name of “The Rock”.

Alcatraz Island is today managed by the National Parks Service and offers tours of the old prison. An eerie yet fascinating journey into the workings of this famous site, visitors to Alcatraz Island can make use of audio guides which chronicle its history (45 minutes). The visit usually lasts 2-3 hours.

7. Independence Hall - Philadelphia

Independence Hall in Philadelphia is one of the most important landmarks in US history, being the site where the nation declared independence from Great Britain on 4 July 1776. The hall is now part of Independence National Historical Park, which also encompasses a myriad of important sites such as Congress Hall and Liberty Bell Centre sprawled over 55 acres within the City of Philadelphia.

Visitors can choose from a variety of ranger guided walking tours as well as various indoor and outdoor activities. Across the road is the Liberty Bell Centre, housing the famous Liberty Bell, one of the most significant symbols of the American Civil War and formerly hung in Independence Hall’s tower. Congress Hall is next door to Independence Hall.

8. Historic Jamestowne

It was in Historic Jamestowne in 1607 that the English established their first successful colony in America. Previous attempts, notably that of Roanoke in 1587, had been made, but the colony the English formed in Jamestowne was the root of what was to eventually become America.

Today, Jamestowne forms part of Colonial National Park, a historic site which encompasses York Town Battlefield, Colonial Parkway and the Cape Henry Memorial. Visitors can explore the history of the site and that of the country as a whole. Amongst its many attractions, it is worth seeing the Jamestown Glasshouse, a recreation of the first industrial building of the Virginia Company, the London-based company that founded the colony.

9. The Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail takes visitors to Boston through a tour of sixteen sites in the city which were of importance before and during the American Revolution against British rule in the 18th century.

Boston played a central role in igniting the American Revolution, also known as the American War of Independence, and the Freedom Trail contains the sites which tell its story.

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile trip which visitors can either follow independently using the red pavement markings around the city or join one of the selections of guided tours, which last around an hour and a half.

10. September 11 Memorial

The World Trade Centre was a complex of seven buildings in Manhattan in New York, which was destroyed by terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001 in a devastating event known as 9/11.

Today, visitors can see the site where the attacks took place, with the World Trade Centre Memorial and Museum on the site where the Twin Towers once stood.

11. Martin Luther King Jr National Site

The Martin Luther King Jr National Site in Atlanta, Georgia is dedicated to commemorating the life of the leader of the African-American civil rights movement and chronicling his campaign for racial equality.

Visitors to the Martin Luther King Jr Historic Site can visit Dr and Mr’s King’s crypt at the King Centre, view his birthplace and see exhibitions and films about Dr King’s life and the civil rights movement. There are also exhibits about Gandhi , who inspired Dr King and about Rosa Parks , whose refusal to give up her seat on a bus was an iconic event of the movement.

12. Ellis Island

Ellis Island was the entry point into the United States of America for over twelve million immigrants between 1892 and 1954.

The Ellis Island Immigration Museum offers a detailed insight into the island’s history, its role in the country’s immigration procedures and the stories of the immigrants. It is a celebration of immigration, including a wall of honour and many exhibits and artefacts.

13. Montezuma Castle

Montezuma Castle in Arizona is a cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua Indians in around 1100 AD, and occupied until approximately 1425 AD. Occupying an area of around 4,000 square feet, Montezuma Castle is an eminently impressive five storey limestone and mud structure demonstrating the ingenuity of the Sinagua people.

Unfortunately, the public cannot actually enter Montezuma Castle and have not been able to do so since 1951. Those interested in its history and excavation can visit the onsite museum.

14. Ford Theatre

It was in Ford Theatre on the night of 14 April 1865 that well-known actor John Wilkes Booth shot President Abraham Lincoln. President Lincoln was the first American President to be assassinated .

Ford Theatre is now an operating theatre house as well as a museum showcasing a variety of historical artifacts related to Lincoln’s presidency, his assassination and his life in Washington. Ford Theatre also stands across the street from Petersen House, where the President was taken following the shooting and where he subsequently died.

15. Little Bighorn Battlefield

Little Bighorn Battlefield in Montana played an important role in the Great Sioux War, a conflict between the Lakota and Northern Cheyenne Native Americans and the US government and which was part of an era known as the American-Indian Wars.

Now a National Park, the battlefield is dedicated to commemorating the events of the battle and the conflict of which it formed part. It includes an Indian Memorial, the Custer National Cemetery and offers guided talks exploring the conflict.

16. The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument was designed by architect Robert Mills, made out of marble, granite, and sandstone and completed on 6 December 1884, almost thirty years after Mills’ death.

The Washington Monument was constructed in honour of the first president of the United States of America, George Washington, who was considered to be the “Father of the Country”. Washington led the USA to independence from the British and commanded great respect from his countrymen.

The Washington Monument is now part of the National Mall and Memorial Parks, with visitors able to ride the elevator to its observation deck, from which the views of the city are spectacular and run for thirty miles.

17. Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo is a Native American settlement in New Mexico’s Rio Grande, USA.

The Pueblo community in Taos Pueblo is known to date back to the fourteenth century, although some archeologists think it was established as far back as the 1st century AD. The Pueblo tribe is one of the most secretive and enigmatic of the Native American communities, meaning that little is known about their culture, however around 150 Pueblos still live in Taos Pueblo.

Visits can be somewhat restrictive, particularly as regards Taos Pueblo’s beautiful church, but tours are available offering an insight into the Pueblo culture.

18. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is one of the most famous art museums in the world, exhibiting pieces spanning over eight thousand years of history.

From prehistoric art and that of the Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans to medieval works, Asian art and art of the Americas, the Metropolitan Museum of Art explores ancient and historical cultures through their artwork.

Containing an incredibly diverse and comprehensive collection, the best way to tour the Metropolitan Museum of Art is probably with one of their guided tours, especially if you’re not sure what you want to see or want an overview of the museum or one of its collections. Tours are included in the admission price.

19. Yorktown Battlefield

Yorktown battlefield in Virginia is the location of the final battle of the American Revolution.

It was at Yorktown battlefield that, on 19 October 1781, the British surrendered to the combined forces of the French and American armies, under the command of General Washington. This dramatic action marked the end of the war and was the point at which the Americans attained independence.

Today, Yorktown battlefield forms part of Colonial National Park which encompasses Historic Jamestown, Colonial Parkway and the Cape Henry Memorial. Visitors to Yorktown Battlefield can learn about the history of the site and the end of the American Revolution with tours and exhibitions including visiting Moore House, where the terms of surrender were agreed.

20. The Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is one of the most important symbols of freedom and liberty in the US. Cast in London’s East End, the Liberty Bell arrived at Independence Hall – then called the Pennsylvania State House – in 1753 where it was hung. There it cracked on its very first toll.

The Liberty Bell has always embodied ideas of freedom and democracy. For example, it was engraved with the quote “Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the Land unto all the inhabitants thereof” from Leviticus 25:10. This extract inspired a group of slave abolitionists to first name it the Liberty Bell, making it an emblem of their movement.

Today, the bell is on show in the Liberty Bell Center, part of the Independence National Historical Park.

21. Lincoln Tomb

Lincoln Tomb in Springfield, Illinois, is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth President of the United States of America.

Abraham Lincoln, born 12 April 1809, was the country’s first Republican president and led the Union during the American Civil War. His Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 resulted in the abolition of slavery . His term as president ran from March 1861 until 14 April 1865, when he died after being shot at Ford Theatre.

Abraham Lincoln is buried at Lincoln Tomb, which is now also the resting place of his wife and three of his four sons. Visitors to Lincoln Tomb can enter the 117-foot brick and granite structure and learn about Lincoln through his own speeches, which are displayed throughout.

22. The US Capitol

The US Capitol is the seat of the United States Congress, made up of the Senate and the House of Representatives, and, with its famous neoclassical facade and dramatic dome, is an iconic building in its own right.

Construction of the first incarnation of The US Capitol began in 1793 and the US Congress first met there – in what would be its north wing – in November 1800. Since then, The US Capitol has been the setting for many important national events such as presidential inaugurations.

Today, The US Capitol is both the home of the US legislature and a museum of American history and art. Free tours of the Capitol building itself are available, but must be booked in advance, and there is also a new visitor centre with exhibits about the US Capitol and its history.

23. The Anasazi Heritage Center

The Anasazi Heritage Center in Southwest Colorado is an archaeological museum which explores the culture and history of the Ancestral Puebloan people, also known as the Anasazi.

The Anasazi were Native Americans who lived and farmed in an area known as the “Four Corners”, made up of southwest Colorado, northeast Arizona, northwest New Mexico, and southeast Utah from as early as 1500 BC to around the fourteenth century. They were the ancestors of the modern Pueblos.

The Anasazi Heritage Center works to explore their culture through finds from excavations of archaeological sites. Two such twelfth century sites can also be found nearby and the museum is a good starting point for exploring the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument which contains a wealth of historical sites.

24. Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is a historic site in Virginia made up of an entire town restored to its colonial state.

From homes to public buildings and shops, Colonial Williamsburg takes visitors back to the time when Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia – between 1699 and 1780. Later, during the American War of Independence, the capital of Virginia was moved to Richmond.

25. The Pacific Aviation Museum

The Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island in Hawaii is dedicated to telling the story of US aviation in the Pacific during World War II .

The museum is located on the historic Ford Island, a 441-acre island in the middle of Pearl Harbour . The museum thus focuses on the fateful day – 7 December 1941 – which effectively forced America to join World War II , when Japanese forces launched a surprise attack on the US military base.

Visitors begin by viewing a film about the attack on Pearl Harbour , before seeing a series of exhibitions ranging from photographs and dioramas to aircrafts. The Pacific Aviation Museum houses numerous aircrafts including light civilian planes, a B-25B Mitchell, a P-40 fighter, and a SBD Dauntless dive bomber.

26. The Alamo

The Alamo is an iconic historic site in downtown San Antonio that remains a symbol of Texan heroism. It has been immortalised in popular culture for the events that unfolded during the famous Battle of The Alamo , which took place on the 6th March 1836.

Today the Alamo is one of Texas’ most popular tourist destinations. The complex is made up of a number of buildings, including the barracks, and hosts several exhibits about the battle and the history of the war. Tour guides are also on hand to guide visitors around the complex.

27. Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is a granite mountain in Keystone, South Dakota carved with the heads of four of the Presidents of the USA.

Begun in 1927, the work to create Mount Rushmore was carried out by 400 sculptors. It was intended that each figure be shown from the waist upwards, but the project ended prematurely in 1941 when funds ran out.

There are guided tours of Mount Rushmore (30 mins) or visitors can rent an audio guide (30-120 mins). A trip to Mount Rushmore usually lasts around 2 hours.

28. Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia is both a military burial site and an iconic monument to fallen soldiers. Initially, the site of Arlington Cemetery began as a house – Arlington House – built in memory of President George Washington. The house, which still stands today, then became the property of Mary and Robert E. Lee.

Over the years, Arlington National Cemetery has come to represent a memorial to all US soldiers who have died for their country and is still an active cemetery. In fact, there are approximately 300,000 graves at Arlington National Cemetery, neatly aligned and each with a white headstone.

Many famous Americans are buried at Arlington National Cemetery, from military heroes to astronauts and leaders such as President John F Kennedy. Those visiting Arlington National Cemetery can start at the visitor centre, where there are guide books, maps and exhibits. Arlington House itself is also open to the public, with a museum and guides chronicling this building’s unique history.

29. Dealey Plaza

Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas was the site where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated at 12:30pm (CST) on 22 November 1963. Kennedy was the thirty-fifth President of the United States of America and served during the Cold War , his premiership encompassing events such as the Invasion of the Bay of Pigs, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the building of the Berlin Wall .

Dealey Plaza has changed little from the day of Kennedy’s assassination, however there are several nearby monuments such as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. There is also a small museum, known as the Sixth Floor Museum, in the adjacent Texas School Book Depository where Oswald is alleged to have hidden. This chronicles the life of John F Kennedy. The museum also offers audio guides to Dealey Plaza and nearby sites, which is included in the entry fee.

30. National Museum of American History

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History offers a diverse exploration of the nation’s history, its collections ranging from public lives, to major national events and cultural elements such as areas of advertising and the cinema.

With over three million artifacts, the National Museum of American History covers everything from popular culture and entertainment to technology, military history and politics.

Some of the highlights of its exhibits include the actual Star Spangled Banner, Lincoln’s iconic top hat and, depending on your area of interest, the original Kermit the Frog Puppet.

The Top 16 Historical Sites in the World

The world is filled with mind-blowing man-made historical sites and wonders. Over the course of human history, we’ve produced some pretty amazing stuff, even if, sadly, not all of it has lasted until today.

With many breathtaking and incredible historical sites built by ancient civilizations, it’s sometimes hard to narrow down the best. Think of all the lists of historical wonders out there and how different they are.

What criteria do you use to judge? What makes a good historical site? What makes the best ?

Everyone has their own criteria for deciding what historical places are good or aren’t good — including me. Not only am I a history buff who studied history in college but I’ve spent over 15 years traveling around the world and have visited countless historical sites and monuments in the world.

Below is a list of the best historical sites in the world — sites that every traveler should visit at some point. The story these ruins and monuments tell is part of humanity’s shared story. They show us how we’ve developed as a species and as a civilization.

In short, they are great. You can click on the links below to jump ahead:

Table of Contents

1. Machu Picchu

3. the pyramids at giza, 4. angkor wat, 6. stonehenge, 7. the colosseum and forum, 8. the parthenon, 9. easter island, 10. taj mahal, 11. the alhambra, 12. the great wall of china, 13. chichén itzá, 14. volubilis, 15. sukhothai, 16. pompeii.

Concerns over growing numbers of tourists have led to limitations on how many people can enter the site, though only by a fraction of what is necessary. Hopefully, they will limit it even more so this site can last for hundreds more years to come.

Where to Stay : Viajero Kokopelli – Viajero Kokopelli is a fantastic hostel with free breakfast, modern pod beds, a bar/restaurant, and a lively social crowd.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Peru .  

You can channel your inner Indiana Jones early in the morning or late at night when the tourists go home when it’s just you and the jungle. It is very serene and doing just that made for one of the best travel memories I have. I particularly enjoyed seeing the sunrise from atop the temples. (Random trivia: The city at the end of Star Wars: A New Hope ? Tikal!)

If you don’t want to explore solo, you can take a more involved 8-hour guided tour of the site , which includes lunch, park admission, and the expertise of a local guide.

If you’re coming from Belize , you may find a bus at the border for 100 GTQ per person. Otherwise, the best way to get there from Belize is to do a tour from San Ignacio or drive yourself (watch out for border officials overcharging you for visas!). The park’s main gate opens at 6am and officially closes at 6pm. Adult tickets for foreigners are 150 GTQ (plus an additional 100 GTQ if you enter before 6am to see the sunrise).

Where to Stay : Los Amigos Hostel – An artsy, social hostel with a jungle garden for relaxing in, a bar/restaurant serving local cuisine, free Wi-Fi, and hot showers.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Guatemala!  

The largest, called the Great Pyramid, was built by the Pharaoh Khufu and has limited access.

Another popular and more convenient option for visiting the pyramids is via guided tour. There are tons of options departing from Cairo, including both full-day and half-day tours.

If you want to go on a multi-day tour through the country, here are my recommended options for tour companies in Egypt .

The pyramids are open daily from 8am-5pm (4pm from October to March). General Admission is 200 EGP, while admission to the entire complex, including entry to The Great Pyramid and the Solar Boat Museum, is 600 EGP.

Where to Stay : Horus Guest House Pyramids View – Just a short walk from the entrance to the pyramids, this guest house offers a complimentary Egyptian breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and exceptional views over the pyramids.  

The most popular temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Thom, and they always have crowds. In order to really experience the temples, you’ll need to purchase the three- or five-day pass. The best time to visit is early in the morning before the big tour groups arrive and stay late after they have gone.

The temples are about a 20-minute drive from Siem Reap . A 1-day pass is $37 USD, 3-days is $62 USD, and 7-days is $72 USD. You can rent a tuk-tuk driver for about $20-25 USD to take you around for the day, or you can bike around yourself (the area is too big to walk).

There are also plenty of guided tours departing daily from Siem Reap, including sunrise tours so you can experience the complex before most of the crowds arrive. I personally enjoyed exploring the site by bike, and there are a number of bike tours that you can join (or you can rent your own bike and see it at your own pace).

Where to Stay : Onederz Hostel Siem Reap – This premium hostel is located right on bustling Pub Street and has multiple pools, a bar/cafe, and comfy private rooms and dorm rooms.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Angkor Wat!  

Under Roman rule, the site declined rapidly and was abandoned by the late 4th century and more or less forgotten by much of the world. In 1985, Petra became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Many tour companies run full day tours from Amman that include entrance fees and an English speaking guide. We also offer an 11-day tour of Jordan that includes several days in Petra!

Where to Stay : Ata Ali Hotel – This is a centrally-located, budget-friendly option for staying near Petra, with complimentary breakfast, a rooftop cafe, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.  

Stonehenge is now fenced off, and you can no longer go into the circle of stones; visitors can only walk around the attraction. But it’s worth visiting for the mystery behind it. There’s an excellent and detailed audio tour, which is included in admission ( booking timed tickets in advance online is required).

Group day trips from London are a popular option too (though keep in mind that it’s two hours one-way).

Stonehenge is open from 9:30am-7pm (closes at 5pm from September 6th–March 15th). Prices start at 20 GBP for adults, and 12 GBP for children, though prices fluctuate a bit by season.

Where to Stay : The Wheatsheaf – A traditional-style inn located in a historic 19th-century building in Salisbury with free parking and a pub downstairs.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to England!  

The complex has slowly crumbled throughout the ages, and much of it is restricted now, especially the floor and basement where everything was organized (though some tours, like this one , provide guided access to these restricted areas).

I definitely recommend a guided tour that includes skip-the-line access because the information presented by the authorities doesn’t go into much detail.

Where to Stay : YellowSquare – A fun, social hostel with a bar downstairs, organized walking city tours, and a coworking space.

For more hostel suggestions, check out my list of the best hostels in Rome , and for more insights into the different areas of the city, here’s a post that breaks down the best neighborhoods in Rome.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Rome!  

Though it’s currently (and seemingly has been forever) getting a face-lift, the Parthenon is still astounding and breathtaking. Moreover, it provides a sweeping view of Athens and nearby ruins, whose temples and buildings are equally as wondrous.

Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

Where to Stay : Pella Inn Hostel – Located in the fun, vibrant neighborhood of Psyrri just north of the Acropolis, Pella Inn has affordable private and dorm rooms, all with their own balconies, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.

For other suggestions, check out this post on the best neighborhoods in Athens and where to stay in each.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Athens!  

The stones that attract visitors to this island are made out of volcanic ash; many still remain in the quarry, left behind by the inhabitants as diminishing resources on the island drove the tribes to go to war with each other.

There is much speculation about the creation, purpose, and transportation of the statues, and the mystery is part of what adds to the allure of visiting this enigmatic place. Due to its remote location, Easter Island is expensive to visit, though it’s still possible to find ways to cut your costs here if you’re strategic.

Where to Stay : Hostel Petero Atamu – Offers apartment rentals with kitchen access, complimentary breakfast in the mornings, and a free shuttle to/from the airport.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Chile!  

The Taj sees between two and four million tourists annually, so there have been recent restrictions on tourism in an effort to help protect the site. However, the greatest threat is the air pollution that is destroying the marble.

While it’s a bit far (three hours one-way), guided day trips from Delhi are popular as well as convenient option, especially if you’re short on time. You’ll get a knowledgeable guide plus all transportation is taken care of.

The site is open from 7am-5pm from Saturday-Thursday and closed Fridays. Adults cost 1,100 INR plus an additional 200 INR to visit the main mausoleum.

Five nights a month (on the full moon, as well as 2 nights before and 2 nights after), you can visit at night in order to see the marble spectacularly lit up by the natural light of the moon. Tickets are limited (only 50 people are allowed in per 30 minute visit) and cost 750 INR.

Where to Stay : Joey’s Hostel Agra – Offers affordable private and dorm rooms with air-conditioning, a shared lounge and kitchen, and a rooftop terrace with incredible views overlooking the Taj.  

It’s one of the best-preserved historic Islamic palaces in the world, with construction starting in 1238 by Muhammad I Ibn al-Ahmar, founder of the Emirate of Granada, on the ruins of a Roman fort.

During the Napoleonic occupation, the Alhambra was used as a barracks and nearly blown up. What you see today has been heavily but respectfully restored. This is a beautiful site with so many various gardens and buildings, and its view of the historic area of Granada is second to none.

Due to high demand and visitor restrictions, I highly recommend booking a ticket in advance .

If you take a guided tour , fast-track advance tickets are included, plus you’ll get a more in-depth experience with a local guide. Adult tickets are 19.09 EUR. Children under 12 are free.

Where to Stay : Eco Hostel – A modern, social hostel located in a beautifully restored historic building right on one of Granada’s main thoroughfares.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Granada!  

Many people take guided group tours from Beijing , which includes round-trip transportation, tickets, and the insights of a local guide.

Where to Stay : The Great Wall Courtyard Hostel – Located at the Badaling section of the wall, this is a simple yet nice hotel with Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and it’s just a short walk to both the train station and the entrance to the Great Wall.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to China!  

Historians believe the location was chosen due to its proximity to Xtoloc cenote, an underground freshwater source. At its height, the city was home to an estimated 35,000 people, and today the ruins include 5 square kilometers (1.9 square miles) of temples, intricately carved columns, tombs, and even ball courts.

Many tour companies also combine a visit to the site with other attractions in the area, such as this tour from Cancun that takes you to a cenote for swimming as well.

Entry to Chichén Itzá is 613 MXN and the site is open daily from 8am-5pm.

Where to Stay : Mama’s Home – This hostel in Tulum is located on a centrally-located street and offers a free home-cooked Mexican breakfast every morning, social activities, and bike rentals.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Mexico!  

I found it empty of tourists, not built up, and open in a way that really lets you get up close and see the structures without being behind ten feet of barriers and jostled by crowds.

Most of the city is still unexcavated, so the site has a very raw feel to it. I’ve been to a lot of Roman ruins in my travels, but I love this one the best. It’s a lovely day trip away from the crowds and noise of Fez .

There are many tour companies that offer day trips to Volubilis from Fez , or you can join a multi-day tour through Morocco. Volubilis is open daily and costs 70 MAD to enter.

Where to Stay : Riad le petit ksar – This is an excellent riad (a traditional-style Moroccan house with an inner courtyard) with a rooftop terrace, complimentary breakfast, air-conditioning, and a variety of rooms.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Morocco!  

The central area contains 21 temples enclosed by a moat. Its many temples showcase the unique Sukhothai style of decoration, which incorporates Khmer ( Cambodian ) and Sri Lankan influences. It’s a huge, huge site and takes a good day or two to see. Most of it is exposed to the sun, so bring sunscreen or you’ll get massively sunburned.

Since there are actually three ruined cities here, seeing them by bike is a fun way to cover a lot of distance. You can take a full-day or two-hour bike tour with Sukhothai Bicycle Tour .

Where to Stay : Old City Boutique House – This hostel is right near the entrance to the historical park and has AC, free breakfast, bike rentals, and friendly owners to help you with whatever you need!

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Thailand!  

Admission is 16 EUR while a guided tour with a professional archeologist is 59 EUR.

Where to Stay : Hostel of the Sun – Located in Naples, this is a cozy, award-winning hostel with private and dorm rooms as well as complimentary breakfast in the mornings.

To start planning your trip, read my budget travel guide to Pompeii!

The world has many amazing historical sites and these ones are the best but, even if you don’t make it to these, there are plenty more out there worth seeing. Just look some up where you are going! Make your own list! The more you know and understand the past, the more you can understand why people act the way they do in the present. Visiting these attractions and learning our history helps us get there!  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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30 best historical places to visit [from around the world].

The world is packed FULL of historical places.

And what’s amazing is that each and every year, more and more sites are being uncovered and expanded.

I feel very fortunate to have visited the vast majority of the historical sites from around the world that we have listed in this guide.

After 7 years of travel, we've made great progress in visiting these historical places and the ones we have left to do, will be completed in the future.

Some of these sites date back hundreds of years, others many thousands of years.

Each one is historically significant in its own right, and each one fascinating to behold in person.

So below I wanted to take you through what we believe to be the best historical sites in the world.

From the Mayan temples of Mexico, the beauty of the Taj Mahal, to the wonderment of Mesa Verde....

Each one is worthy of anyone’s travel bucket list!

Let’s get started…

Travellerspoint

The Best Historical Places to Visit in the World

1. the pyramids of giza.

Country: Egypt

Age: Around 4,500 years old

Reason for importance: The pyramids were built to prepare pharaohs for the afterlife in Ancient Egypt

Cost of visiting: $

Top tip: There are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs in Cairo that offer incredible views of the pyramids! 

The Pyramids of Giza are the definition of Ancient Egypt, and they’re one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World’.

How they were built is still one of the world’s top mysteries, as they’ve been around for over 4,000 years. This makes them one of the most historical places in the world! 

The Pyramids of Giza were built to prepare pharaohs for the afterlife. As well as being used as tombs, these pyramids were filled with everything that each ruler would need in the next world.

There are three pyramids in total, with the Great Pyramid being the largest. 

Next to the Pyramids, you’ll find the iconic Sphinx statue which is another place of historical significance that you don’t want to miss! 

This 8-hour private tour from Cairo includes a visit to the Pyramids, the Sphinx, The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, and a bazaar.

I first visited the Pyramids when I was a kid when cruising Egypt, and it's still a site that has stuck in mind all these years later. They do not disappoint.

2. Machu Picchu

Country: Peru

Age: Around 572 years old

Reason for importance: Machu Picchu is thought to have been built for the Inca Emperor Pachacuti

Cost of visiting: $-$$

Top tip: You might want to spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude change before visiting this iconic place!

‍ Machu Picchu is located high up in the Andes Mountains, in the beautiful country of Peru !

It’s found just above the charming town of Aguas Calientes and is a destination that’s made it onto many people’s bucket lists. 

What makes this place so historically significant is the fact that it’s an ancient Inca citadel that dates back to the 15th century! 

Information regarding its origin isn’t 100% known, but Machu Picchu is thought to have been constructed as a royal retreat for the famous Pachacuti who was an Inca Emperor.

Today, this amazing place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known across the world for its spectacular mountain backdrop, and for being one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World'.

If you’re looking to visit Machu Picchu then you’ve got a couple of options! You can either hike the Inca trail, ride the train from Cusco/Ollantaytambo or walk by the side of the train tracks from Hidroeléctrica.

All of these options will take you to Aguas Calientes, and from there you can either catch a bus or hike to the entrance.

You can also purchase your admission tickets in advance, or choose to visit on a day trip from Cusco .

Whichever way you decide to visit, just make sure this place isn't left off your Peru itinerary ! Just remember there are a specific set of rules to follow too, like not flying your drone or taking food into the site.

3. Stonehenge

Country: England, United Kingdom

Reason for importance: Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that dates back to the Neolithic period

Cost of visiting: $$

Top tip: Book your tickets in advance online to secure a spot 

Stonehenge is one of the most famous historical places in the world and it’s also one of the most unique! 

It’s an ancient stone circle that’s located in Wiltshire, which is a 2-hour drive from the capital city of London.

Although no one can know for sure, Stonehenge is thought to have been constructed to track the movements of the moon, sun, and stars.

Maybe less logical, there is folklore surrounding this ancient monument that suggests it was created by Merlin; the wizard from the Legend of Arthur.

However, the ‘how’ it was built is another matter. Due to the size of the standing stones, it seems impossible that they were somehow moved without machinery! 

It’s one of the UK’s great mysteries, which makes it a fantastic place to visit. So what are you waiting for?

A great way to visit is by taking a day tour from London that includes other attractions.

Fun fact: the route from my home in Kent to our university drove past Stonehenge so I've actually seen the site quite a few times! 

4. The Acropolis of Athens (and the Parthenon)

Country: Greece

Age: Around 1,500 years old

Reason for importance: The Acropolis is one of the greatest architectural masterpieces from Ancient Greece

Cost of visiting : $-$$

Top tip: The price of the entrance ticket depends on the time of year you visit

As you may have guessed, the Acropolis of Athens is located in Greece’s capital. It’s found on a rocky outcrop that offers stunning views of the city! 

The Acropolis (also known as the Athenian Acropolis) is the symbol of Ancient Greece . It was built to honor the goddess of Athena so has a lot of historical significance. 

There’s even some evidence to suggest it was constructed and inhabited earlier than the 5th century.

Over the years, there have been other historical sites built on top of the Acropolis including the Parthenon, the Ancient Temple of Athena, and the Temple of Asklepios!

The best way to explore the Acropolis and its surrounding sites is to take a guided tour . 

This is one of our top travel tips as you’ll get to learn all about Ancient Greece.

When we finally saw these epic temples in real life, they exceeded our expectations. This is a historical place to visit that will not disappoint and I guarantee you'll want to re-visit.

Head later in the day for the sunset and when the weather is cooler.

Country: Mexico

Age: Around 2,700 years old 

Reason for importance: Tula was the capital of the Toltec Empire

Top tip: You can purchase a skip-the-line entrance ticket with Get Your Guide! 

If you’re looking for historical places to visit in the world then make sure you head to Tula ! It’s located around two hours north of Mexico City and is quite the sight. 

The historical site of Tula was once the capital city of the Toltec Empire , and there are still archaeological remains of a few buildings that are left. 

It’s not 100% certain where the exact location of Tula was, but due to the remains, we’ve got a pretty good idea! It’s thought that the capital covered a size of at least 3 square miles. 

During your time here, you’ll get to see the remains of a large plaza, the palace complex, and a temple pyramid.

On top of this pyramid, there are stone columns that represent warriors.

Although Tula’s not a big place you’ll want to allow at least 2-3 hours here!

When we visited it was pretty much empty and we felt like we had the entire historical attraction to ourselves- it was pretty cool!

For an idea of what to wear for your trip, check out our Mexico packing list .

6. Angkor Wat

Country: Cambodia

Age: Around 900 years old

Reason for importance: Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world!

Top tip: A cheap way to get around the complex is to hire a bicycle in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat is one of the very first historical places we visited together many years ago, and we still remember the sunrise like it was yesterday.

Angkor Wat is one of the most historical places to visit in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It’s a huge Buddhist temple complex that covers an impressive 400 acres and is home to over 1,000 religious temples. This makes it the largest religious monument on Earth! 

Otherwise known as Angkor Archaeological Park, this area is home to the remains of the Khmer Empire which dates back to the 9th century. 

The complex was built by King Suryavarman II and is thought to have taken around 30 years to complete. It then served as the Royal Center for Khmer Kings throughout the period of the empire.

Some of the most popular sights to see here include the main temple of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Phnom Bakheng.

When visiting Angkor Wat, you can choose a 1-day pass, a 3-day pass, or a 7-day pass! I'd also recommend heading out on a sunrise guided tour so you can appreciate the views and learn more about this place.

Country: Jordan

Age: Around 2,300 years old 

Reason for importance: Petra is one of the oldest cities in the world

Cost of visiting: $$-$$$

Top tip: Visit the famous ‘lookout spot’ on the nearby cliff which will allow you to look down onto Petra

Petra is one of the most famous historical places in the world and it’s not hard to see why! 

With its otherworldly appearance and secluded location, Petra is quite the sight and it’s on many people’s bucket lists. 

This iconic place is half-carved into red sandstone and is surrounded by mountains and gorges alike. Due to its location, Petra became the ‘Lost City’ for around 500 years until it was rediscovered in 1812!

It was once the capital of the Nabataean Empire between 400 B.C. and A.D. 106, and for this reason, is considered one of the oldest cities in the world. 

Although not related to its history, you might actually recognize Petra from its appearance in ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’. The film put this historical wonder on the map for many people! 

This 2-day tour from Amman also includes a visit to the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum, as well as Petra.

8. The Citadel of Aleppo

Country: Syria

Age: Around 5,000 years old

Reason for importance: The Citadel of Aleppo is one of the oldest castles in the world

Top tip: It’s currently advised not to travel to Syria, but we couldn’t miss this incredible place off the list!

The Citadel of Aleppo is one of the most unknown historical places in the world, and that’s mainly due to its location.

Unfortunately, Syria has been worn-torn since 2011 and there’s continuous conflict and civil unrest there. That means people haven’t had the chance to visit this incredible country and the beautiful city of Aleppo!

In this city, you’ll find the Citadel of Aleppo which is one of the most impressive buildings you’ll ever see. Dating back around 5,000 years, it’s one of the oldest castles in the world.

The majority of the structures in the citadel were built between the 12th-13th centuries, and there are Ottoman-period structures here too.

Located in the center of the city, seeing this historical place will feel like you’re entering another time period! 

Here's some information about the Citadel of Aleppo if you're looking to learn more...

Country: Italy

Age: Around 1,943 years old 

Reason for importance: The city’s burial in volcanic ash has preserved it for centuries 

Top tip: Make sure you purchase tickets in advance, which you can do through Get Your Guide

The ancient city of Pompeii is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy, with around 3 million people visiting every year.

Pompeii was one of the most sophisticated cities of its time, until 79 A.D when the towering Mount Vesuvius erupted! Because of this, the whole city was destroyed killing around 16,000 people.

Finally, Pompeii was unearthed in the 1700s and to everyone’s amazement was incredibly well preserved considering its age!

This is because it had been covered in ash for centuries.

What’s interesting about this event is that the Mount Vesuvius eruption is the first-ever recorded volcanic eruption in history!

During your time in Pompeii, you’ll want to head up to the crater of Mount Vesuvius during your visit too. After all, it’s the volcano that made this ancient city so historic.

Many people choose to visit Pompeii on a day trip from Rome , but in my opinion, you need more than one day to explore this incredible place.

A good way to do that is to base yourself in Naples, which is only a 20 minute car journey away from Pompeii, and you can also combine it with other historical sites in the areas such as Herculaneum

10. Valley of the Kings

Age: Around 500 years old

Reason for importance: This place is an ancient burial ground for Egyptian Kings

Top tip: You can choose three tombs to visit with your entrance ticket, or you can add on extra tombs for a price

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most important historical places in Egypt which is saying a lot! The reason for this is that It’s a burial ground for many ancient Egyptian Kings. 

This historical site was founded by King Tuthmosis of the 18th dynasty, who was considered to be one of the greatest rulers that Egypt had ever seen! 

In fact, he was the first ruler to be buried in the Valley of the Kings.

‍ Other famous Egyptian Kings buried here include Tutankhamun, Seti I, Merenptah, and Ramses VI. There are over 60 tombs in total although only a few are accessible to the public.

Inside, you’ll get to witness hieroglyphics, unique passageways, and of course, the burial chambers. 

There’s also a visitor center here where you can view a large 3D map of the Valley of the Kings. 

Those who are short of time often visit here on a day trip from Hurghada , but if you can, allow at least 2-3 days in Luxor for the best experience.

11. The Great Wall of China

Country: China

Age: Around 2,200 years old 

Reason for importance: The wall was built to defend China from invaders

Top tip: Avoid visiting the Great Wall during the weekends as it gets extremely busy! 

The Great Wall of China is perhaps one of the most famous historical places in the world! 

It was built by Qin Shi Huang (known as the ‘First Emperor’), whose mausoleum is surrounded by the famous Terracotta Army. The purpose of this army was to protect him in the afterlife (but more on this later).

Covering an impressive length of over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall of China is located along the country’s Northern border.

The most well-preserved section of the wall is the Mutianyu section which is extremely popular with tourists. However, if you’re after a less crowded experience then maybe head to Jinshanling!

One of the best places to visit along the wall has to be Jiankou as it’s untouched by tourism and is full of character and rugged beauty.

There are so many options so just make sure you do a bit of research before your trip! 

This day tour from Beijing will take you to the Badaling section of the wall, as well as the Chang Ling Tomb.

12. The Taj Mahal

Country: India

Age: Around 390 years old 

Reason for importance: The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the remains of his beloved wife

Top tip: You can go on a guided tour of the Taj Mahal if you’re looking to learn more about this world wonder

Seeing the Taj Mahal for the first time is an unreal experience and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime! 

Attracting around 7-8 million tourists every year, this is one of India’s most famous attractions and it doesn’t disappoint.

Built entirely of white warble, this impressive building is one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World'.

I’d recommend getting there as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds as this place gets super busy! Just make sure you take your photos early on! 

No matter how you decide to visit, this isn’t a place you want to leave off your India itinerary .

So, we’ve got an in-depth guide on our website about visiting the Taj Mahal to help you out.

The biggest tip we can possibly give you is to make sure you're one of the first people to walk through those gates, and get your pictures first, then sightsee.

There are plenty of hotels within walking distance to the Taj Mahal to make this possible.

13. Ayutthaya

Country: Thailand

Age: Around 670 years old 

Reason for importance: Ayutthaya was the second Siamese capital city after Sukhothai 

Top tip: To make the most of our visit, you’ll want to spend at least one full day here, preferably two!

There are plenty of fantastic world heritage sites to visit, but make sure you don’t miss out on the historic city of Ayutthaya ! 

Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 and became the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom. Due to its quick growth, it became one of the largest urban areas in the world during the 14th to 18th centuries!

Unfortunately, in 1767 Ayutthaya was attacked and destroyed by the Burmese Army who burnt most of it to the ground. Today, the archaeological remains are all that’s left of this once mighty city! 

Now, this historical site is huge so you won’t be able to see all of it unless you’ve got a ton of time. For that reason, make a list of your ‘must-sees’ and head to them first.

Ayutthaya is easy to visit as it’s just a 1.5-hour drive from the popular city of Bangkok and can be visited on a day tour !

For this reason, it's not a place you want to miss off your Thailand itinerary .

14. Mesa Verde

Country: Colorado, United States

Age: Around 700 years old 

Reason for importance: This historical site was the home of the Ancestral Pueblo people

Top tip: During your visit to Mesa Verde, make sure you hit some of the nearby hiking trails

If you’re looking for historic places to visit in the USA then make sure you head to Mesa Verde . 

This unique destination offers a window into the past where you’ll get to see cliff dwellings that were home to the Ancestral Pueblo people!

Some of these cliff dwellings can be found at an altitude of over 2,600m, and consist of over 100 rooms which is pretty impressive.

In total, there have been around 4,400 archaeological sites recorded at Mesa Verde making it an important site of historical significance. Some of the most popular spots to visit include the Cliff Palace, Square Tower House, and Balcony House.

If you’re road-tripping through the United States and the state of Colorado in particular, then you don’t want to miss out on this place!

For us, this entire place was a surprise, we had never heard of it before we visited, but the history was so interesting, and it was even more exciting to find something so historical in the USA, which is quite "new".

15. Ggantija Temples

Country: Malta

Age: Around 5,700 years old

Reason for importance: Ggantija Temples is a unique prehistoric monument 

Top tip: The Temples are located on the island of Gozo , so you’ll need to catch a ferry there!

Ggantija is even older than Stonehenge which is an impressive feat in itself. Dating back around 5,700 years, the Ġgantija Archaeological Park complex is primarily made up of two temples!

The name is derived from the word ‘giant’ as the Maltese believed that these temples were built by giants. Once you see the size of them, you’ll understand why this theory came about! 

It’s thought that the temples and surrounding areas were used for ceremonial gatherings, liquid offerings, and animal sacrifices, as there’s evidence to suggest this. 

However, during 2500 BC the Ggantija Temples fell into disuse and weren’t really known about until the 19th century! 

Today, this archaeological park is one of the more unique historical sites and not many people know about it. This makes it a great place to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds!

This Gozo day trip from Malta includes a visit to the Ggantija Temples, as well as the Citadel of Rabat and the Bay of Xlendi.

16. Tikal Ruins

Country: Guatemala

Age: Around 3,000 years old 

Reason for importance: Tikal City was once the capital city of the Mayan Classic Period

Top tip: You’ll need your passport with you to purchase entrance tickets so don’t forget it!

The Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala are undoubtedly one of the most impressive historic travel destinations, as it’s like visiting another planet! 

These ruins are located deep in the jungle within Tikal National Park, and they were once a city that was considered to be the beating heart of the Mayan Empire.

It’s thought that around 10,000 people lived here as it was the Mayan capital, with the first records of the city dating back to around 1000 BC.

There are plenty of incredible temples to visit at Tikal, with some of the most popular being The Temple of the Great Jaguar, the Temple of the Double-Headed Serpent, and The Temple of the Mask.

However, there’s so much more to see so allow at least one full day here! To make the visit easier, you can head to these ruins on a day trip from the town of Flores .

Start your trip early, and make sure you drink plenty of water, the park is big and the sun is strong.

17. Lascaux Cave

Country: France

Age: The paintings are estimated to be around 17,000 years old! 

Reason for importance: These caves are home to art from the Upper Paleolithic period

Top tip: Only 30 people are allowed in at a time so book your tickets in advance! 

Lascaux Cave may not be one of the most well-known historical places in the world, but it’s definitely one of the most unique! 

It was discovered in the 1940s when paintings were found that had been left by our Cro-Magnon ancestors. These paintings typically depict animals such as bulls and horses, and they’re absolutely breathtaking! 

Dating back around 17,000 years, these paintings are some of the best examples we have of artwork from the Upper Paleolithic period.

The key thing to remember about this place is that you won’t be exploring the actual cave, as it’s been closed to the public since 1963 . This was due to the degradation of the paintings! 

Instead, there’s a replica cave that’s right next to it which you’ll get to go inside and explore. You can actually visit this replica cave on a day tour from Sarlat-la-Canéda if you're short on time.

Lascaux Cave is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in France so what are you waiting for?

18. The Old City of Jerusalem

Country: Israel 

Age: Around 2,000 years old 

Reason for importance: It’s one of the oldest cities in the world 

Cost of visiting: $ 

Top tip: The Old City is free to visit, but there are plenty of places to enter inside that require a fee

The Old City of Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world and is a small area located in the center of Jerusalem itself.

It’s one of the most important religious destinations in the world for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, and there are many reasons for this!

Firstly, the Old City of Jerusalem is home to the Western Wall which is all that remains of the Jewish Temple that once stood there. This makes it one of the holiest places in the world for Jewish people!

Secondly, this is also where you’ll find the Dome of the Rock which is where the prophet Muhammed is thought to have risen to heaven.

And lastly, the Old City of Jerusalem is home to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Some people believe that this is where Jesus was crucified and buried, although this opinion differs!

For the best experience, take a guided tour of the Old City as you'll get to learn so much about its history and the buildings that are found here.

19. Skara Brae

Country: Scotland

Age: Around 5,000 years ago

Reason for importance: One of the best-preserved Neolithic settlements in Europe.

Top tip: Skara Brae is located on the Orkney Islands rather than the Scottish mainland, so you’ll need to catch the ferry over

Skara Brae is one of the best historical places to visit in the world, although it may not look like much to some!

It’s one of the oldest settlements in the world dating back around 5,000 years, so it was present long before the likes of Stonehenge or Angkor Wat.

Skara Brae was once a thriving Neolithic village but had long been forgotten until the site was accidentally discovered during a storm in 1850!

Today, nine Neolithic houses have survived to some extent, and you can see inside them to see how they would have looked all those years ago!

You’ll even get to marvel at original ‘fitted furniture’ and artifacts such as tools and jewelry, which can be seen in the visitor center.

This Orkney Islands day trip from John O'Groats includes your entrance fee to Skara Brae, and you'll get to visit other spots too!

For those with more time, you'll also want to explore the Scottish mainland as there are plenty of fantastic places to visit in Scotland .

20. Gobekli Tepe

Country: Turkey

Age: Around 11,500 years old 

Reason for importance: Gobekli Tepe is home to some of the oldest monument structures in history!

Top tip: Make sure you head to the visitor center and archaeological Museum during your visit 

There are plenty of fascinating mysteries on this planet, and Gobekli Tepe is one of them! 

This historical site in Turkey is home to over 20 stone circle enclosures, with many of these stones dating back around 11,500 years.

This makes them one of the oldest monumental structures in Human History!

The big question is how did these stones get here? Especially, as some of them weigh up to 10 tons which is a pretty big feat considering these people had no access to machinery.

Further excavations showed no evidence of domesticated animals either!

Although archaeologists can’t be sure of the purpose of Gobekli Tepe, it’s thought that hunter-gatherers came together to live off the land. If this is the case, it’s a rather unique point in our history! 

Here's some more information about Gobekli Tepe ...

21. Easter Island

Country: Chile

Age: Around 1,300 years old 

Reason for importance: These statues show the unique culture of the ancient Polynesians

Cost of visiting: $$$

Top tip: Easter Island is one of the most remote islands in the world and there’s only one airline that flies here!

Easter Island has to be one of the most amazing historical sites in South America , if not the world! 

If you’re a fan of unique destinations then you’ve most likely already seen pictures of the giant Moai statues that are found here.

Some of which stand an impressive 13 feet tall and weigh up to 14 tons. What’s even more impressive is that these statues have been hand-carved! 

The Easter Island statues were carved by the Rapa Nui people and no one’s entirely sure of why they were created. However, it’s thought that they were constructed to honor an ancient ancestor or chief.

The funny thing about this place is that most people only associate the Moai statues with heads, but they do in fact, have bodies! 

Visiting this incredible place is one of the best things to do in South America , and certainly isn't something you want to leave out while exploring the continent.

This full-day highlights tour will show you the best of Easter Island and you'll get to ask the guide plenty of questions.

22. The Alhambra, Spain

Country: Spain

Age: Around 1,100 years old 

Reason for importance: It’s one of the best-preserved Muslim citadels in Spain

Top tip: You’ll want to purchase your tickets way in advance as this place is very popular

The Alhambra of Granada is one of the most impressive buildings in the world, well actually it’s a palace and fortress complex!

It’s thought that The Alhambra was built as a military zone in the beginning which is why it’s still known as a fortress. However, throughout the years it’s also been a Royal Residence and the Court of Granada. 

The Alhambra was actually home to the sultan at one point, so it’s got quite the history.

The first historical documentation of The Alhambra is in 889 , as it refers to an individual called Sawwar ben Hamdun who had to seek refuge in the fortress at this time. 

If that’s the case, then this fascinating building is over 1,000 years old! 

To see the entire complex, you’ll want to allow at least three hours although that would probably be a rush. Just make sure you purchase your entrance ticket in advance if you can!

23. L’Anse aux Meadows

Country: Canada

Age: Around 1000 years old 

Reason for importance: It’s the first recorded Viking settlement in North America

Top tip: Head to the Viking Encampment to try blacksmithing or weaving for the full experience!

If you’re looking for historical places to visit then don’t miss out on L’Anse aux Meadows ! It’s a national historic site in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and for good reason.

L’Anse aux Meadows is actually home to the first (and only) recorded Viking settlement in North America. Pretty special right?

The site dates back around 1,000 years and the excavated remains have been compared to those in Iceland and Norse Greenland!

This area was only discovered in 1968 when two archaeologists came across a single cloak pin. That tiny item changed the course of North America’s history and the role that European settlers played in it! 

There are eight timber-framed structures at L’Anse aux Meadows today, and these structures include dwellings, a forge, and workshops.

Trust me if you’re heading to Canada , then this isn’t a place that you want to miss! 

24. Stöð Viking Settlement

Country: Iceland

Age: Around 1,200 years old 

Reason for importance: Thought to be the oldest Viking settlement in Iceland 

Top tip: It’s not clear whether excavations have finished at Stöð so it’s not a guarantee that you’ll get to see this settlement if you head to Iceland (just yet anyway)

Leading on from L’Anse aux Meadows, you’ve got Stöð Viking Settlement which is thought to be the oldest Viking settlement in Iceland! 

In discovery terms, the Stöð Viking Settlement is relatively new as it was only discovered a couple of years ago. It’s made up of two buildings, with one thought to date back to 870 A.D and the longhouse, that’s thought to be even older!

The longhouse is thought to date back to 800 A.D which would make it a crucial piece of history when it comes to Icelandic settlements. Why do you ask?

Well, it means that everything we knew about Iceland is wrong as this site dates back decades before the official ‘settlement’ of the country. 

If you want to explore the amazing settlements here, then we'd highly recommend hiring a car .

25. Robben Island

Country: South Africa 

Age: The island has been a prison for around 600 years

Reason for importance: Has played an important role in the history of South Africa

Top tip: It's best to book a Robben Island tour in advance that includes your ferry ticket too

Robben Island is most famous for being the prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. For this reason, it became a symbol of freedom over oppression during the apartheid. 

However, it’s got a much longer history than that! 

People who resisted oppression and apartheid rule were sent to this prison as early as the 1400s. Although the people here were subjected to harsh conditions, they always continued to fight for their freedom! 

Not only was this place used for prisoners, but it was used as a general infirmary to isolate those with leprosy, the chronically ill, or those who were deemed ‘insane’.

The only time Robben Island hasn’t been used as a prison of some sort was between 1931 and 1960 when it became a military base.

26. The Terracotta Army

Age: Around 2,200 years old

Reason for importance: This army was built to accompany the First Emperor of China into the afterlife

Top tip: You’ll want to visit before 10 am as this is generally when the large tour groups start to arrive!

As I briefly touched upon earlier, the Terracotta Army was built to protect the ‘First Emperor’ Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.

This Army is thought to consist of over 8,000 soldiers, around 130 chariots, and over 600 horses. The majority of which are still buried near the mausoleum in deep pits!

Building this Terracotta army was no easy feat, and it took around 700,000 builders to get the task done. Unfortunately, many of them were buried alive with Qin Shi Huang to keep the tomb’s location hidden!

The site of the mausoleum and its army is considered to be one of the best historical places of the world, so is a must-visit. 

There’s a museum at the site which is home to three separate vaults and an exhibition hall! 

This 2.5 hour guided tour is a great way to visit, as you'll be able to learn so much more about this incredible archaeological wonder.

27. Chichen Itza

Country: Mexico 

Age: Around 1,500 years old 

Reason for importance: Chichen Itza was used as a ceremonial center for the Mayan people

Top tip: You can get an exclusive admission ticket if you want to be one of the first people to enter the site

Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico , and one of the most popular attractions in the country in general.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site seems to be engulfed by the forest and covers an area of four square miles so there’s a lot to see. 

It’s one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ and is the most visited archeological site in Mexico, attracting over 2.5 million visitors every year! 

Boasting over 1,500 years of history, a magnificent design, and an interesting past, it’s no wonder that Chichen Itza is so popular.

If you’re looking to visit these famous Mayan ruins, then you can reach them by bus, car, or by guided tour! Just to note, you can’t walk up the temple anymore as that’s been prohibited! 

28. Port Arthur Historic Site

Country: Australia

Age: Around 190 years old 

Reason for importance: Port Arthur is Australia’s best-preserved convict site

Top tip: There are lots of fantastic tours available here including the Port Arthur Ghost Tour

There are plenty of historic places to visit in the world, and Port Arthur Historic Site is arguably one of the youngest, and most underrated! 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers an impressive area of 100 acres and you’ll find over 30 historic buildings on-site. But, what was the purpose of this place you ask?

Well, Port Arthur has had many uses, but the most famous of which is a prison! After 1788, the United Kingdom used to send some of their prisoners over to Australia and this is where they’d go.

Conditions were notoriously poor, and prisoners were forced to carry out labor during their time here!

Unfortunately, this historic site has another rather tragic event in its history; that being the Port Arthur gun massacre in 1996. This mass shooting killed 35 people and left another 18 wounded.

You can book your entrance ticket in advance to ensure you get to visit this interesting historic site.

29. The Tomb of Emperor Nintoku

Country: Japan

Age: Around 2,500 years ago

Reason for importance: It’s believed to be the tomb of Emperor Nintoku

Cost of visiting: You can’t visit inside the tomb at the minute as it’s not been excavated yet

Top tip: There are other paid attractions in the area including The Sakai City Museum! 

There’s no shortage of historical places to visit in Japan, but you won’t find many places like this one!

This tomb is located in Osaka and is the largest tomb in the country with a width of over 300 meters. Not only that but it’s surrounded by its own moat of water! 

Although archaeologists can’t be certain, they believe it to be the tomb of Emperor Nintoku , who was the 16th Emperor of Japan.

This three-tiered tomb has platforms for religious ceremonies, and although it’s the largest tomb here it’s not the only one! There are, in fact, several dozen but they’re not open to the public.

For the best view of these tombs, head to the observation deck which can be found on the 21st floor of the Sakai City Hall!

30. Gunung Padang

Country: Java, Indonesia 

Age: Around 20,000 years old 

Reason for importance: It’s believed to be one of the oldest human sites on Earth

Top tip: The best way to visit Gunung Padang is on a tour as it’s very remote! 

Gunung Padang has to be one of the most ‘unknown’ historical travel destinations as until recently, not many people knew about it.

This site rose to fame with history buffs on the new Netflix show ‘Ancient Apocalypse’, and trust me it’s a fascinating watch! 

Gunung Padang is a relatively new discovery, and yet scientists are starting to believe that it could be one of the oldest human sites on the planet .

Across the hilltop of Gunung Padang, you’ll find endless monuments and rocky structures that seem to be the remains of a huge complex.

In fact, it’s thought that there’s an ancient pyramid hidden underneath the surface, with parts of it dating back over 20,000 years. Now, that’s crazy! 

If these findings turn out to be true, it changes the whole idea of humans during the prehistoric age!

Here's some more information about Gunung Padang ...

Where will you visit?

There are endless historical places to visit in the world, but which one has caught your eye?

Popular destinations like the Pyramids of Giza, Angkor Wat, and the Great Wall of China are often the first places to make it onto people’s bucket lists.

However, there are so many more fascinating places to visit that have a wealth of history! 

Where you travel will all depend on what you’re after, so…

Are you looking to experience a historical destination away from the crowds?

Or, would you prefer to tick off a world wonder?

Either way, you’ll have a fantastic time visiting any of these destinations! 

If you’ve enjoyed this lengthy guide then we’ve got plenty more where that came from:

• The Best Places to Travel [Top Tourist Destinations]
• The Best Cheap Places to Travel
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe

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13 Time Travel Vacation Ideas in the U.S.

Alene Laney

Alene Laney is a freelance writer covering real estate, personal finance, and travel. She lives in the Southwest with her husband, four boys, and German Shepherd.

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Some places offer an incredible glimpse into history. If you want to feel like a time traveler, put one of these unforgettable places in the U.S. on your bucket list. 

66 Million Years Ago: Dinosaur National Monument, Utah & Colorado

Want to go back to the time of the dinosaurs? Dinosaur National Monument is absolutely worth the trip. The fossils are so well-preserved and you’ll be able to see dinosaur tracks. The Quarry Exhibit Hall is a new visitor’s center that was built around a rock embedded with over 1,500 dinosaur bones. There’s even a place where you can touch a 149-million-year-old dinosaur fossil. 

13 Best Dinosaur Vacation Spots for Kids

1,400 Years Ago: Bluff, Utah 

The coolest thing about the area surrounding Bluff, Utah, is the feeling of discovery when you come across petroglyphs, dwellings, and artifacts of the Ancestral Puebloan people. The raw, authentic experience you’ll have in this under-the-radar destination makes you feel like you found something very few others have, much like Mesa Verde before paved roads brought tourists in. With the designation of Bears Ears National Monument , the secret’s out, so you’ll want to visit before the crowds come. 

1,000 Years Ago: Taos, New Mexico

The Taos Pueblo of Taos, New Mexico will take you back nearly 1,000 years. The multi-storied adobe dwellings tell the story of Native Americans whom Spanish explorers encountered in 1540. They believed Pueblo was one of the mythical golden cities of Cibola. The dwellings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark. The city is also known for the Historic Taos Plaza and San Francisco de Asis Church.

1521: San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you want to go back to the time of the Spanish Empire, Puerto Rico should be on your list. The oldest city under United States sovereignty, San Juan served as an important port city along trade routes between the new and old worlds after its establishment in 1521. The Spanish protected it with imposing military fortifications, including the massive fort, Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro). The Spanish Colonial architecture and cobblestone streets are great for exploring, photographing, and soaking in the history.

1699: Williamsburg & Jamestown, Virginia

The greater Williamsburg area will transport you back to the 17th century. You can visit the Jamestown Settlement and see where American Independence was won at the Yorktown Battlefield. Guided tours tell the stories of the people who lived hundreds of years ago and historic restaurants serve popular foods from colonial times.  

1700s/1800s: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s zeal for historic preservation is evident throughout the city. Its past stretches back to 1669 , and buildings from architectural styles from every century survive. It’s an incredible city to explore on foot. There are also an abundance of excellent tours that tell the story of this beautiful city.

The 17 Best East Coast Family Vacations

1870s: De Smet, South Dakota 

Have you ever wondered what homesteader life was like? You can jump right into the novel, “Little House on the Prairie” in the small town of De Smet, South Dakota . You can camp in a covered wagon, grind wheat, make rope, attend a one-room schoolhouse, ride on a wagon or even attend the Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in July. 

1876: Deadwood, South Dakota

Want to experience the history of a gold rush? An old mining town in the Black Hills of South Dakota called Deadwood has preserved its gold rush roots and mining town vibe. Theatre troupe characters from the Wild West roam the streets and produce reenactments from historical events. The shops lining the street maintain a historical feel. In fact, the entire town of Deadwood, South Dakota is a National Historic Landmark. 

1879: Tombstone, Arizona

There’s no better place to travel back to the American Old West than Tombstone , Arizona. The main drag is still a dusty street flanked by two-story, western-style buildings housing saloons, shops, and other entertainment venues. Re-enactments, celebrations, and historical sites depict life in the mining town during the 1800s. You’ll want to take a ride in stagecoach and watch a reenactment of the famous gunfight between Wyatt Earp and “Doc” Holliday at the O.K. Corral. This gunfight was the basis for the “Tombstone” movie. 

1900: Kennecott, Alaska

Trek on over to the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark , one of the best preserved relics in mining history, to experience mining life on the frontiers of Alaska. The distinctive, rust-red buildings are carved into the steep mountainside. The National Park Service has stabilized many of them, including a post office, general store, schoolhouse, recreation hall, railroad depot, residential cottages, and more. You can also go inside the tunnels, tramways, and trails of the mining operations. 

The 7 Least-Visited National Parks

19th Century: Mackinac Island, Michigan 

If you want a glimpse into the Victorian era, Mackinac Island in Michigan will steal your heart. There are no cars on the island and being transported by horse-drawn carriage only adds to the charm. Victorian homes with wraparound porches invite lazy afternoons with a classic book. You may also want to take a fudge-making class downtown. 

20th Century: Cumberland Island, Georgia

Cumberland Island will take you back to the turn of the 20th century when the Carnegies took ownership of the island. The Carnegies used the island as a winter retreat and built mansions for members of their family. Their private ownership of the island also meant the island escaped commercial development. Now a national park with over 9,800 acres of congressionally-designated wilderness and a limit of 300 visitors admitted per day, Cumberland Island’s pristine beaches and mystical forests will make you feel as if you’re in a new land.

1960: Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs has been called a mecca for mid-century modern architecture and design. The popularity of the city as a getaway for the rich and famous coincided with the rise of this distinctive style in the 1950s and 60s. As a resort town rising in the post-war era, many of the city’s residents were willing to take risks building second homes with the new building methods and materials of mid-century modern style. Recent, surging interest in the architectural style has resulted in restorations that bring the style (and the past it represents) back to life.

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12 Must-Visit Historical Sites Around the World

If you’ll travel far and wide to be awed by a unesco world heritage site, make sure you have these major attractions on your list..

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The 450-foot-tall Great Pyramid at Giza is made of an estimated 2.3 million blocks of stone cut by hand.

Photo by Mustafah Abdulaziz

Certain sites capture the world’s imagination not only because of their beauty and the human ingenuity they exemplify but also because of their unique window into the past. These 13 UNESCO-protected spots, including many of the New Seven Wonders of the World, are among the most sought-after tourist attractions around the globe.

Whenever you visit a new place, you should take special care to carry out what you bring in, stick to assigned trails, and leave the environment better than you found it (even if that means grabbing trash another visitor left behind). But this rule is particularly important when it comes to these protected spaces. Many are vulnerable for a whole list of reasons, including climate impact and fragility due to very old age. Treading carefully and showing respect will ensure that these life-changing places remain for as many generations as possible.

All right, now on to the list. And don’t worry: You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate these great, historical places around the world.

What kid wouldn’t love a real-life castle that is as colorful as Sintra just outside of Lisbon?

Photo by Shutterstock

1. Cultural Landscape of Sintra

Sintra, Portugal

You probably assume Sintra is on this list for the fairy-tale–inspiring National Palace of Sintra overlooking the city—but that’s only part of it. The city is home to some of the best (and first) examples of Romantic architecture anywhere in the world. The castle at the top of the hill once served as a monastery before Ferdinand II repurposed it as a castle mixing Moorish, Egyptian, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural and design elements. Also very notable is the maze of parks and gardens, which blend local and non-native plant species. You’ll never know what to expect next, whether it’s an intricate wall of azulejos (locally made tiles), a set of mock ruins tucked among the landscaping, or a massive dome overhead.

How to visit

Sintra is easy to reach from Lisbon—two trains make the one-hour journey every day. The most popular route is to take the train from the Rossio Station to the Sintra Station. It’s not recommended to explore the city by car; many of the roads are very narrow and not built for modern transportation, and parking in the surrounding area can be tough during tourist high season (May through October).

Chichén Itzá is located in close proximity to two cenotes (deep limestone sinkholes that expose groundwater).

Photo by Filip Gielda/Unsplash

2. Chichén Itzá

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Chichén Itzá , a complex of pre-Columbian ruins on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, thrived as one of the largest Mayan cities from 400 C.E. to the 1400s. It’s thought to have had the most diverse population in the Mayan world due to the variety of Mesoamerican architectural styles on-site. Chichén Itzá’s most famous structures include the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and El Castillo (also known as the Temple of Kukulkan), a step pyramid that towers over one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Chichén Itzá is a three-hour drive from Cancún and about 30 minutes from Valladolid. Tickets to Chichén Itzá can be purchased on-site. Entry costs approximately $36 for adults; entry for children 12 and under is free. The 16th-century colonial city has a baroque cathedral and a variety of accommodation options, from hotels with cenotes to the Coqui Coqui guesthouse and perfumery.

Jaipur’s magnificent Hawa Mahal palace was built in 1799 by a maharaja.

Photo by Annie Spratt/Unsplash

3. Jaipur City

Jaipur, India

The walled city of Jaipur is eye-catching for many reasons. At the top of the list is its rosy hue—the entire town was painted pink to welcome King Edward VII (then Prince Albert) in 1876, as pink was a color associated with hospitality. The prince supposedly deemed Jaipur the “Pink City,” and it stuck. In 1877, Maharaja Ram Singh took it a step further by passing a law ordering all future buildings to have the same pink exterior, from temples to private residences. Jaipur was the first planned city in India, known for its grid design and symmetrical buildings with even patterns and rows of chhatri (elevated domes sitting atop buildings).

It’s easy to get to Jaipur by train, car, or airplane from major cities in India. Jaipur is part of the Golden Triangle , a route that also includes New Delhi and Agra. You need at least a week to enjoy all that the Golden Triangle cities have to offer.

Rainy season is no joke at Machu Picchu—plan accordingly.

Photo by Stock for you/Shutterstock

4. Machu Picchu

Peru Located in the Peruvian Andes at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu cascades down a dramatic mountain spine surrounded by the Sacred Valley’s jagged peaks. Millions of visitors flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site each year to see the terraces and classical dry-stone buildings of the citadel. While it is recognized as one of the top historic, World Heritage sites, Machu Picchu had a short life span. It was built by the Incas around 1450 but abandoned a century later during the Spanish conquest.

You can reach Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu, by train from Cusco. Inca Rail, PeruRail, and the more luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train have daily service between the two destinations; the journey takes more than three hours. The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a four-minute walk from the train station and looks like a village with terraced gardens, stone pathways, and guest rooms in adobe casitas.

Another way to visit Machu Picchu is to go on a guided hike of the famous Inca Trail, which can be booked through various tour operators in Cusco. Entry tickets cost approximately $23 for adults and $20 for students and must be purchased in advance for a specific date and time slot.

Angkor Wat is one of the world’s largest religious monuments, with five iconic towers that represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu mythology.

5. Angkor Wat

Siem Reap, Cambodia

With its wide moat and drip sand castle-like towers, Angkor Wat is one of the most scenic World Heritage sites and recognizable religious structures. King Suryavarman II, ruler of Southeast Asia’s former Khmer Empire, directed the construction during the 12th century. The Hindu temple complex, a network of stone temples decorated with intricate carvings of devatas (Hindu deities), is even more impressive when you consider it’s just one of the attractions at the UNESCO-designated Angkor Archaeological Park . Spread across approximately 400 acres in northwestern Cambodia, the complex has many other architecturally significant jungle-intertwined ruins and temples, including a temple featured in Angelina Jolie’s 2001 Tomb Raider film, as well as inhabited villages.

The park entrance is approximately three miles north of the center of Siem Reap. A convenient way to visit Angkor Wat is to hire a tuk-tuk driver for about $20 a day. Visitors can buy tickets at the main entrance to the temple. One-day passes cost approximately $37 for adults; entry for children 12 and under is free.

There are many affordable hotels in Siem Reap, but book a safari-style tent at The Beige (where even the floating forest pool has views of the World Heritage site) for a slight splurge.

The ancient city of Petra is just one of many notable historic sites across Jordan.

Courtesy of Visit Jordan

Wadi Musa, Jordan During its zenith, Petra , Jordan’s most famous archaeological site, was a bustling commerce center where citizens traded Arabian incense, Chinese silks, and Indian spices. Nabateans built the ancient city in the country’s southwestern desert in 400 B.C.E., but it was unknown to the Western world until the 1800s. Accessed via a narrow canyon and with towering temples and tombs carved into pink sandstone cliffs (earning it the name “The Red Rose City”), it feels otherworldly. Perhaps that’s why Petra’s treasury stood in for the temple housing the Holy Grail in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade .

How to visit This UNESCO World Heritage site is about 150 miles south of Jordan’s capital, Amman. Most visitors access Petra Archaeological Park through Wadi Musa, a nearby town with a handful of luxurious hotel offerings for travelers who make the trip to the rock-wall crypts. One-day tickets for visitors who spend at least a night in Jordan cost approximately $70 for adults; entry for children 12 and under is free.

The somewhat mysterious Stonehenge monument is located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire in southwest England.

Photo by M.J. Parker/Shutterstock

7. Stonehenge

Wiltshire, United Kingdom

While experts agree that Stonehenge , a circle of stone megaliths in the English countryside, dates to 2500 B.C.E., the reason for its creation remains mysterious. Some archaeologists think ancient Britons built it for religious ceremonies, while others believe the structures were used to study the movements of the sun and the moon. Either way, the construction was an engineering feat. (To shape Stonehenge’s megalithic structures, workers hammered wooden wedges into cracks in the stone and then used rope to pull each mass upright.)

Travelers can take a 2.5-hour train ride from London or an hour-long trip from Bath to get to Stonehenge. From the Wiltshire visitor center, a free shuttle bus makes frequent trips to the ruins. Tickets purchased in advance cost approximately $33 for adults and $20 for children. Tickets purchased on-site cost slightly more.

The Parthenon was built from limestone and Pentelic marble.

Photo by Pamela Loreto Perez/Shutterstock

8. The Parthenon

Athens, Greece Perched atop a rocky outcrop known as the Acropolis , in Athens, this classical and partly intact temple has presided over Greece’s capital city since the Athenian Empire was at the peak of its power. In 447 B.C.E., the Athenians constructed the Parthenon—dedicated to the goddess Athena—to celebrate their victory over Persian invaders. It has since served as a city treasury, a Christian church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and, after the Ottoman conquest, a mosque. At the foot of the hill, the Acropolis Museum showcases the Parthenon frieze (although some sections are still controversially on display at London’s British Museum), artifacts discovered on the Acropolis, and even the remains of an ancient neighborhood uncovered during the museum’s construction.

Located in the center of Athens, the Parthenon is easy to visit thanks to metro and city bus stops nearby. The nearest metro stop is Acropoli. Tickets to the Acropolis can be purchased online or at the entrance. During high season, tickets to the Acropolis cost approximately $35 for adults and half that during the winter; entry is roughly $11 for students with ID.

Many sections of the Great Wall of China were constructed during the Ming Dynasty between 1368 and 1644.

Photo by Hung Chung Chih/Shutterstock

9. The Great Wall of China

China It took more than 2,500 years to build the Great Wall , China’s most recognizable symbol, which snakes through the northern part of the country for more than 13,000 miles. During the 8th century B.C.E., the Zhou dynasty–era state of Chu began construction on the wall to protect against foreign invaders. Most tourists explore a section or two of the stone-and-brick fortification; it would take approximately 177 days of nonstop walking to see the entire wall.

Frequently visited sections of the wall include Mutianyu and Jinshanling. The former is a 90-minute drive from Beijing and an easy day trip; the latter takes twice as long to reach but is one of the wall’s most well-preserved sections and is popular with hikers. Each section of the wall requires its own entry ticket. The cost is typically about $6 to $8, although prices vary.

The Taj Mahal was built on the banks of the River Yamuna on the orders of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth.

Photo by age fotostock

10. Taj Mahal

Agra, India

The perfectly symmetrical Taj Mahal features a 240-foot-tall central dome and an exterior with inlaid semiprecious stones. Widely considered the most beautiful existing example of Mughal architecture, the white marble mausoleum was erected between 1631 and 1648 after Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan ordered its construction to honor his late wife. (He tapped approximately 20,000 of the best craftsmen from Central Asia to complete the project.) Jahan intended to build a second mausoleum for himself, but the building never came to fruition. After he passed away in 1666, the emperor was buried next to his wife. Visitors to this World Heritage site can explore the grounds’ vast garden featuring long reflecting pools of water and a red sandstone gate.

Most people visit the Taj Mahal on a day trip from Delhi. There are many high-speed trains to Agra from Delhi, Varanasi, and cities across northern India’s Rajasthan state. Tickets cost approximately $13 for adults; entry for children 15 and younger is free.

Dutch explorers gave Easter Island its name in 1722 after spotting the landmass on Easter Sunday, but the Indigenous name is Rapa Nui.

Photo by Thomas Griggs/Unsplash

11. Easter Island

Chile Located 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile, this remote island was named by 18th-century Dutch explorers who spotted the landmass on Easter Sunday. It’s famous for its approximately 1,000 mammoth statues, which the Indigenous Polynesian inhabitants created from the 10th through 16th centuries to represent their ancestors. Rapa Nui National Park , which covers half of Easter Island, is the best place to see the carved figures, or moai . There are about 400 moai at the ancient quarry Rano Raraku, including a 70-foot-tall statue that was never raised upright. The most famous site, Tongariki, features 15 moai beside the ocean. Made from a soft volcanic rock called tuff, the monuments are vulnerable to the elements, and archaeologists believe one day they may disappear.

Latam operates two daily flights from Santiago de Chile to Hanga Roa, Easter Island’s capital. The trip takes about 5.5 hours. The entrance fee to Rapa Nui National Park is $80 for adults, $40 for children.

Egypt’s pyramids are one of the most iconic—and enduring—destinations in the world.

Photo by Lyndsey Matthews

12. The Pyramids at Giza

Cairo, Egypt The Pyramids at Giza arose during a construction frenzy from 2550 to 2490 B.C.E. Egyptian pharaohs believed they would become gods in the afterlife, so they filled these elaborate tombs with everything they would need in the next world, including jewelry, furniture, and sculptures of servants. Pharaoh Khufu ordered the building of the first and largest of the three structures, known as the Great Pyramid. His son Pharaoh Khafre built the second pyramid with a necropolis (burial place) that includes the Great Sphinx, a limestone sculpture of a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. Pharaoh Menkaure built the third and final temple. Each massive pyramid is part of a larger tomb complex that includes a palace, temples, and other features.

The pyramids are located on the Giza Plateau, about 11 miles southwest of Cairo. There isn’t an easy way to get there using public transportation, so travelers typically take a taxi, use Uber, or hire a car and driver. A few hotels like the posh Marriott Mena House are within walking distance of the pyramids. (Tickets cost approximately $17 per person.)

This article was originally published in May 2019 and was updated in March 7 2024 with new information. Erika Owens contributed to the reporting of this story.

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

Each year, millions of travelers visit America’s historic places. The National Trust for Historic Preservation defines heritage tourism as “traveling to experience the places, artifacts, and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present.”  A high percentage of domestic and international travelers participate in cultural and/or heritage activities while traveling, and those that do stay longer, spend more, and travel more often. Heritage tourism creates jobs and business opportunities, helps protect resources, and often improves the quality of life for local residents.

The ACHP has encouraged national travel and tourism policies that promote the international marketing of America’s historic sites as tourism destinations. The ACHP also engages in ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive preservation program, reaching out to diverse communities and groups and engaging them in dialogue about what parts of our national legacy should be more fully recognized, preserved, and shared. 

The ACHP developed Preserve America , a national initiative to encourage and support community efforts for the preservation and enjoyment of America’s cultural and natural heritage. In partnership with other federal agencies, the initiative has encouraged the use of historic assets for economic development and community revitalization, as well as enabling people to experience and appreciate local historic resources through heritage tourism and education programs. These goals have been advanced by an Executive Order directing federal agencies to support such efforts, a community designation program, and a recognition program for outstanding stewardship of historic resources by volunteers.

From 2004-2016, over 900 Preserve America Communities   were designated in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and two territories, as well as nearly 60 Preserve America Stewards . Many Preserve America Communities are featured in “Discover Our Shared Heritage” National Register on-line travel itineraries . From 2006 through 2010, the National Park Service (in partnership with the ACHP) awarded more than $21 million in Preserve America Grants   to support sustainable historic resource management strategies, with a focus on heritage tourism. 

These links are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; if they are not ACHP links, they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by the ACHP of any of the products, services or opinions of the corporation or organization or individual. The ACHP bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Please contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content, including its privacy policies.

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Home » Historic Getaways » 50 Historical Sites For The American History Buff

50 Historical Sites For The American History Buff

As the region that saw the first European settlers, the Northeast US holds many of the most fascinating historical sites in America.

Colonial era, Revolutionary War, Civil War, Victorian and Gilded Age: much of what shaped our country happened on the Eastern Seaboard.  Choose one or more of the following 50 escapes to be immersed in American History.

Click on each town to find the best attractions, restaurants and inns for educational and enlightening getaways, Virginia to Maine.

Table of Contents

Historic Sites In Connecticut

New London CT

New London, a shipbuilding port during the American Revolution, was burned down by the Brits in 1781. It’s also home to the oldest continuously operating Customs House in the nation, where The Amistad was towed to after being found off the coast of Long Island, NY.

You’ll find the country’s last remaining Whaling Ship, the Charles Morgan, at Mystic Seaport.

Hartford CT

Discover why Connecticut is considered The Constitution State. The Fundamental Orders, adopted by the Connecticut Council on January 15, 1639 are considered by some to be the basis of the US Constitution.

Historical Sites In Delaware

Wilmington DE

It’s all about the DuPonts here. Improving on gunpowder in the late 1700’s, this French expat family established the chemical company that still bears their name. Its dynasty of wealth still supports hospitals and cultural programs.

The “First State” to ratify the US Constitution,  home of the only Founding Father to abstain from signing the Declaration of Independence, and site of Dover Air Force Base, Delaware’s Capital City has a cornucopia of historic attractions.  

Historic Sites In Maryland

St. Mary’s County MD

Deeply historic, St. Mary’s County drew early European settlers, most notably, a group of Catholics escaping persecution and execution in Protestant England. As Catholics were being slaughtered in England, 140 faithful arrived here in 1634. Finally free to worship as they chose, they built the first Catholic Church and settlement in Colonial America. Historic St. Mary’ City grew for sixty years, then vanished into the cornfields and was lost for 200 years. It is now one of the most exciting archeological digs in the US.

Dorchester County MD  

Birthplace of Harriet Tubman and site of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor’s Center.

Washington County MD  

Antietam Battlefield. Bloodiest one day battle of the Civil War.

Annapolis MD

This “oldest in the nation” State House is where George Washington tendered his resignation as Commander In Chief of the US Army. Also, tour the US Naval Academy! 

St. Michaels MD

The excellent Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum tells the story of this bountiful body of water.

Baltimore MD

Oh Say Can You See? Yes, you can see where our National Anthem was written.  The flag that served as muse to Francis Scott Key flew from Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.

Historic Sites In Massachusetts

Provincetown MA

The Pilgrim Monument stands in commemoration of the Mayflower passengers who made the voyage from England to this Land’s End community. While they didn’t settle here, some of the “Strangers and Saints” set foot first on land here to search for a water source. Finding none, they sailed on to the more protected Plymouth.

Plymouth MA

Plymouth Rock is just the beginning. 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s landing.

One if by land, two if by sea …..Paul Revere,The Old State House celebrated its 300th year anniversary in 2013. Walk the Freedom Trail to discover our country’s revolutionary stirrings.

Lexington  –  Concord MA

The “Shot Heard Around the World” in Concord, and the accidental battle that preceded it by a few hours in Lexington.

Learn about “Mill Girls,” immigrant workers, and the forces of the Industrial Revolution in America. A monument to American Industry and Ingenuity, Lowell National Historical Park, in Lowell MA, 30 miles from Boston, is unlike any other U.S. National Park in that it takes up sections of a still thriving (or, as the case may be, reviving) city.

Deerfield MA

This tiny prep-school burg fleshes out stories of Colonial New England life on the fringes of civilization in the 17th and 18th centuries. 

Springfield MA

The Springfield Armory commissioned by President George Washington is a National Historic Site open for tours. Springfield is also hometown to Dr. Seuss and where the game of Basketball was invented.

Fall River MA

Battleship Cove comprises the largest collection of WWII warships in the world. It’s also where Lizzy Borden was arrested for, but never convicted of, whacking her parents with an ax.

Known primarily for the Witch Trials, Salem is also home to the Peabody Essex Museum, one of the oldest and best all-encompassing museums in the country.

Historic Sites In New Hampshire

One of the many misconceptions about the  Declaration of Independence and US Constitution is that they emerged from the minds of our Founding Fathers fully-fledged. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Both were works in progress, with many reworked drafts. The American Independence Museum illuminates this better than any other historical museum.

Portsmouth NH

The Strawbery Banke Living History Museum showcases Coastal New Hampshire history. With costumed docents, it’s one of the best of its kind in the country.

As Primary Central, Concord crawls with every Presidential hopeful every four years.

Historic Sites In New Jersey

Morris County NJ

George Washington was headquartered here. And it’s where Alexander Hamilton fell in love. Plus you can explore the laboratory where Thomas Edison invented modern America at the national historical park.

Princeton NJ

Albert Einstein escaped Germany with a $5000 Nazi bounty on his head. He lived in Princeton from 1933 until his death in 1955.

Historic Sites In New York

The Million Dollar Staircase, Modernist Empire State Plaza, and Alexander Hamilton history are huge draws to New York State’s Capital City. 

Chautauqua Institution NY

Founded by the father in law of Thomas Edison in 1874, Chautauqua continues to be a summer camp for the intellectually curious. 

Seneca Falls NY

In the mid-1800’s, Seneca Falls NY was drawing Abolitionists, Suffragists, proponents of Temperance, and other agitators. This whirlwind of evangelical fervor was so hot, this corner of Northwestern NY was known as “The burned over District.” Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglas and Harriet Tubman all lived in the area. And they spurred on movements that gained national attention. 

Hyde Park NY

Home to Franklin D. and Eleanore Roosevelt and Culinary Institute of America. See the bed FDR was born in and the wheelchair that the public never saw – plus a terrific new multi million dollar museum.

West Point NY

The Military Academy was established by Thomas Jefferson in 1802 at West Point. And yes, you can take a sanctioned bus tour. And even stay in a luxury hotel on campus.

Explore significant stops on the Underground Railroad.

Historical Attractions In Pennsylvania

Harrisburg PA

Pennsylvania arguably has the most spectacular Capitol Building in the USA. The Harrisburg-set National Civil War Museum is a can’t miss.

Find the bloody flag that cradled Abe Lincoln’s head after he was shot in this unlikely place. Milford PA was also home of Gifford Pinchot – “Father of the National Forest Service.” 

Bradford PA

The “PA Wilds” encompassed the country’s first “Billion Dollar Oil Field.” It’s also where Zippo Lighters were invented and still made.

Johnstown PA

Site of the most deadly flood in American history. (And fourth deadliest natural disaster of all time). Two museums interpret the event: a National Memorial at the site. And another in town.

For Railroad History fans and trainspotters – site of the engineering marvel, Horseshoe Curve.

Carlisle PA

Where the controversial Indian Industrial School was located, and the current must-see Army Heritage Center.

Bucks County PA

Where George Washington crossed the Delaware on that fateful Christmas Day 1776. See Washington Crossing Historic Park.

Gettysburg PA

Battlefield, Town, Eisenhower’s only home.

Philadelphia PA

Philly is “philled” with historic attractions. Museum of the U.S. Constitution. Liberty Bell. Grave of Benjamin Franklin. Museum of the American Revolution. With over eighteen historic sites, Philly is the best city for learning about our country’s origins.

Historical Sites In Rhode Island

History of the Gilded Age in full force. Also – home to the Touro Synagogue, the country’s oldest, established in 1763.

Providence RI

Roger Williams, founder of the Rhode Island colony, defected from the Puritans, sanctioning freedom of conscience and religion. See the original State Charter in the Capitol building.

This small bucolic peninsula town has some dark Slave Trade history.

Historic Sites In Virginia

Orange County VA

What world events influenced the Architect of the U.S. Constitution, James Madison? This Founding Father lived in Orange VA, and his home is a revelation. 

Yorktown VA

The fledgling US Army effectively won the Revolutionary War when Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown. The Yorktown’s Victory Center is among America’s best Living History Museums.

Southwestern VA

Birthplace of Country Music with the “Bristol Sessions.” Clog with other dancers at the Carter Family Fold.

Charlottesville VA

Don’t miss Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.

Winchester VA

During the Civil War,  town allegiance to Union and Confederate sides changed a whopping 72 times. The Old Courthouse served as a Civil War prison where you can see anti-Jefferson Davis graffiti.

Richmond VA

Patrick Henry bellowed the immortal “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Edgar Alan Poe also lived here.

Newport News VA

Another best of its kind in the USA, the Mariners Museum is a can’t miss attraction. The $30 Million Monitor Center highlights Civil War Ironclad warships.

First slaves brought to US here in 1619. Hampton is also home to one of country’s first African American colleges. Langly AFB was site of NASA Mercury Project.

Arlington VA

Cemetery, Pentagon and yes, a DEA Museum showcasing the history of Drug Enforcement in the USA.

Williamsburg VA

The entire town lives and breathes the colonial era, joining with Jamestown and Yorktown to form the “Historic Triangle.”

Malerie Yolen-Cohen is the Author of the cross-country travel guide, Stay On Route 6; Your Guide to All 3562 Miles of Transcontinental Route 6. She contributes frequently to Newsday, with credits in National Geographic Traveler, Ladies Home Journal, Yankee Magazine, Shape.com, Sierra Magazine, Porthole, Paddler, New England Boating, Huffington Post, and dozens of other publications. Malerie’s focus and specialty is Northeastern US, and she is constantly amazed by the caliber of restaurants and lodging in the unlikeliest places.

1 thought on “50 Historical Sites For The American History Buff”

This is a great round-up of locations in the USA! Visiting the home of the US Naval Academy would be neat.

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History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

101 Epic History Travel Ideas to Help Plan Your Next Adventure

Last Updated on: 26th September 2021, 11:33 pm

It’s super common for travelers to have a list of places they want to see or a bucket list for a specific continent or country.

If you’re like me, you want to see as many historic places as you can squeeze in! Looking for ideas for an epic history travel inspired adventure?

Wondering what kinds of historical sites people are visiting after hitting the famous spots like the Roman Forum and the Acropolis ?

Whether you want an around-the-world adventure or are looking for something in your own backyard, here’s a giant list of 101 ideas for your next history-inspired trip.

(Looking for more history travel inspiration? Check out the episodes of The History Fangirl Podcast for in-depth overviews of the history of some of the world’s most amazing and interesting places).

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These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

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Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

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For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

North America

• Tour the White House.
• Host historians John Meecham and Doris Kearns Goodwin for afternoon tea.
• Take a driving tour of Gettysburg.
• Walk across the Selma Bridge to commemorate the fight for Voting Rights, then pop over to Birmingham to learn about its role in the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama.
• Go on a volunteer archeological dig at Cahokia.
• Take a bike tour of Mexican haciendas.
• Cruise the Northwest Passage in Canada.
• Visit the monuments to freedom erected by former slaves in Haiti after the revolution.
• Take a sunset walk around La Fortaleza and Old San Juan in Puerto Rico.
• Tour the earliest settlements by Europeans in the New World at St. George in Bermuda.
• Play old-school Oregon Trail while driving the Oregon Trail.
• Recover the lost history of America’s Black Pioneers and learn about the early stages of the Underground Railroad in Ohio and Indiana.
• Drink coffee at the first coffee plantations in southeastern Cuba.
• Visit the Mayan Ruins of Tikal in Guatemala at sunrise.
• Sail to Tayasal, the last Mayan city which wasn’t conquered until 1967 in Guatemala.
• Take in the Templo Mayor, the Aztec site dedicated to the God of Rain, mid rainstorm, in Mexico City.
• Hike San Antonio’s Mission Trail, seeing all five of the UNESCO-protected San Antonio Missions , including the famed Alamo.

South America

• Trek one of these six alternative routes at Machu Pichu in Peru.
• See the tug of war between the Spanish and the Portuguese Colonial styles in Colonia del Sacramento  in Uruguay.
• Have a low-key evening with Evita on Netflix and a bottle of Malbec in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• Ride the century-old cable cars up to the top of the Sugar Loaf as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rio de Janeiro , Brazil. (Don’t worry, the actual machinery was updated in the 1970’s).
• Sail (or fly) to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands and see the lands and animals that inspired Darwin to pen his theory of evolution.
• Taste history at the  Mercado del Puerto , where parrillas  have been serving Uruguayan barbeque cooked on open wood stoves for over a hundred and thirty years in Montevideo, Uruguay.
• Fly to Chile’s Easter Island to explore Orongo, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the ruins of the Birdman cult.
• Visit the politely named Court of the Holy Office, the torture house with a dark past that served as the Palace of the Inquisition in Cartagena, Colombia.
• See the shipwrecked Lady Elizabeth  which left Vancouver for Mozambique in 1912 but became stranded en route near the Falkland Islands and has been stuck in Whalebone Cove since 1936.
• Visit Ile du Diable , also called Devil’s Island, the French penal colony famed for abhorrent conditions, located on a jungle island circled by sharks, off the coast of French Guiana.
• See the Dutch influences on the continent with a visit the to seventeenth-century Dutch historic district in Paramaribo, Suriname.
• Envision life during the age of the dinosaurs with a visit to Dinosaur Dance Floor, which boasts six different kinds of dinosaur footprints including a section made by a baby Tyrannosaurus Rex nicknamed “Johnny Walker” near Sucre, Bolivia.
• Explore the central historic district in Quito, Ecuador , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best-preserved Spanish colonial neighborhood in Latin America.
• Visit Coro, the early sixteenth-century colonial city that is the only remaining example of the fusion of Carribean, Spanish, and Dutch colonial architectural in Falcon, Venezuela.
• See over ten thousand years of human history at Quebrada de Humahuaca, which was a site for some of the earliest human settlements in South America. The site also served as an important caravan route for the Inca Empire, a communication link between the Viceroyalties of Peru and the Rio de la Plata, and was the site for important battles in the Spanish War of Independence in northern Argentina.
• See the monuments and pyramids of the Norte Chico culture at Caral-Supe, one of the earliest settlements in the Americas, near Lima, Peru.
• See the stunning fusion of European and Indigenous architecture in the sixteen wooden Churches of Chiloe on the Chiloe Archipelago in Chile.

• Hike the length of Hadrian’s Wall in northern England.
• See a Shakespearean play at the Globe Theater in London, England.
• Sift through the Archives of the Crown of Aragon, one of the oldest in Europe, in Barcelona, Spain.
• Tour the beaches of Normandy and see where the Allies started the Liberation of Europe in northern France .
• Find the lock of Lucrezia Borgia’s hair preserved at the Biblioteca Ambrosiana in Milan, Italy.
• Sail a fjord in a replica Viking Ship in at the Viking Museum in Roskilde, Denmark .
• Tour the secret Soviet bunker hidden beneath a spa in Ligatne, Latvia.
• Make a special appointment to see the skull of Kara Mustafa Pasha, the grand vizier of the Ottoman Empire who lost the Siege of Vienna. On display for centuries, it has since been pulled from the exhibitions and sits in storage in Vienna, Austria.
• Eat a delicious lunch in the restaurant where Julius Caesar was assassinated (although it wasn’t a restaurant 2,000 years ago…) in Rome, Italy.
• Track every point on the Struve Geodetic Arc  that Friedrich Georg Wilhelm von Struve used to calculate the exact size and shape of the earth in Eastern Europe.
• Walk the Comino de Santiago to the grave of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
• See one of the only monuments to Trans history in Barcelona’s Parc de la Ciutadella  in Barcelona , Spain.
• Explore the history and art of Orthodox Monasteries  in Rila, Bulgaria , Meteora, Greece , and Bucovina, Romania .
• Learn about Soviet life and photograph   Chernobyl disaster  with a day trip from historic Kiev to  tour the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and the Atomic Town of Pripyat in Ukraine .
• Go for a swim at Petrou tou Romiou, one of Cyprus’s prettiest beaches and the spot where Cypriots believe that Aphrodite emerged from the sea.
• Go on a pub crawl through the literary pubs of Dublin in Ireland.
• Climb to the top of the Acropolis to appreciate the achievements of the Golden Age of Athens , and then head to the Acropolis Museum to learn about millennia worth of destruction at the hands of Greece’s invaders in Athens , Greece.
• Explore the historic center of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque , the Grand Bazaar , and the Theodosian Walls , to appreciate how the city has been at the center of history and politics for over seventeen hundred years. In Istanbul, Turkey.

• See the ruins of Carthage outside of Tunis, Tunisia.
• Take a Tunisian Louage south to the Great Mosque in Kairouan , the fourth holiest city in Islam, in Kairouan, Tunisia.
• Tour the Egyptian Pyramids and take a cruise on the Nile while pretending you’re Egyptian royalty.
• Think about the enormous span of human history in Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, which covers human evolution all the way back to 2.1 million years ago.
• Visit one of the most interesting and unique mosques in the world at the Larabanga Mosque in Ghana.
• Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela and other South African anti-apartheid protestors were imprisoned in South Africa.
• See the remains of Arab and Portuguese influence on the UNESCO World Heritage protected Island of Mozambique.
• Visit Mali’s famed Timbuktu and then challenge your friends to name the country you’re in. Count how many think the place isn’t real.
• Pick out which palace you prefer at the Royal Palaces of Abomey in Benin, where each of the twelve reigning kings built their own.
• Peer outside the Door of No Return on Goree Island in Senegal. Contemplate the horrors faced by millions of Africans being forced into generations of slavery and the lingering effects of slavery today.
• Explore Great Zimbabwe, the capital of the Queen of Sheba and important medieval ruins, near Masvingo, Zimbabwe.
• See the political and spiritual capital of the Kingdom of Kongo and see how African kingdoms had to change and adapt after incursions by European explorers began in the fifteenth century, in Mbanza-Kongo, Angola.
• See the Tin Mal Mosque , now abandoned, along one of the most spectacular drives in northern Africa, the Tizi n’Test, near Tinmel, Morocco.
• Visit the virgins who guard the Ark of the Covenant at the Chapel of the Tablet in Askum, Ethiopia.
• Head out to Man and Woman Lakes, two crater lakes on Mount Manengouba, believed to contain the spirits who control the weather and create local storms. Bathing in Man Lake is reserved for local Bakossi ceremonies, but foreigners are permitted to swim in Woman Lake. Near Bangem, Cameroon.
• Visit the shrines and sanctuaries dedicated to the Yoruba fertility goddess Osun at the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove in Osogbo, Nigeria.
• Scuba dive the Pharos Lighthouse in Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, in Alexandria, Egypt.

• Enjoy sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia before heading off to explore the rest of Angkor’s historic temples.
• Take a floating tour of Trang An, called the Halong Bay on Land, to see the gorgeous Confucian temples in Vietnam.
• Visit the eleventh century Temple of Literature, the oldest university in Vietnam located in Hanoi.
• Spend a day checking out the famous Buddhist temples in Bangkok , Thailand including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Temple of Dawn.
• Take a walking pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo Trail in Japan .
• Climb the 1200 steps to the top of Sigiriya to see the ancient palace ruins in Dambulla, Sri Lanka.
• Explore the city-state of Singapore to learn about its unique history after independence from Malaysia.
• Hike the Baekdu Daegan Trail, the spiritual center of Korean mountain spirit worship and an important area for all local prominent religions. The trail runs the length of the Korean peninsula, but one of the highlights, the temples on Mount Jirisan, is located on the South Korean portion and is reachable to outsiders.
• Visit all four pilgrimage sites of the Char Dham, a pilgrimage route that all Hindus are required to undertake, located in the far north, south, east, and west of India.
• Explore the history of the Silk Road by traveling through Azerbaijan  and seeing fire temples, crude oil spas, and Shia pilgrimage sites, all of which had elevated prominence due to the numerous travelers spreading the word after traversing the ancient route.
• Take a trek through the steppe, staying in yurts and riding horseback, to see what life was like as a  nomad in rural Mongolia.
• Attend the biennial World Nomad Games , to see how modern nomads carry on the sporting traditions of their Central Asian ancestors, including horseback riding, falconry, and Kok-Boru, a sport where riders battle for a goat carcass. Held in various locations, the games in 2018 were held in Kyrgyzstan . They are expected to move to Turkey in 2020.
• Visit the secret underground printing press that Joseph Stalin used to create his propaganda in Tbilisi, Georgia.
• Explore the Russian Far East by train via the Trans-Siberian and Trans-Mongolian railway systems in Siberia, Russia.
• Tour the Forbidden City, where the Chinese emperors lived for over 500 years, in Beijing, China.

The Middle East

• Celebrate Christmas at the Church of the Nativity , where Christians believe Jesus was born. Pick between the three different Christmas celebrations held there annually due to the different calendars used by different Christan sects. In Bethlehem, West Bank , Palestine.
• See the ruins of the lost city of Petra in southern Jordan and see its sister site Mada’in Saleh in Saudi Arabia.
• See how Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are literally layered on top of each other while exploring the Old Town in Jerusalem.
• Visit the architecturally unique ninth-century Great Mosque of Samarra in Iraq.
• Remember the victims of the Ottoman Turks by visiting Martyr’s Square, named for the Lebanese nationalists executed in 1916. The square also served as the dividing line for the two sides during the Lebanese Civil War. In Beirut, Lebanon.
• Feel like you are in a life-sized sand castle with a trip to the sixth-century historic city of Arg-e Bam in Kerman Province, Iran.

• Visit the eleven penal colony sites spread across Australia which collectively comprise the UNESCO World Heritage site Austrailian Convict Sites.
• Take the long drive from Alice Springs to Uluru, the famous rock site which is sacred to the local Aboriginal Pitjantjatjara Anangu. The site includes important rock art and ancient paintings. In the Northern Territory, Australia.
• Visit Tamaki Maori, a village where Polynesians have lived since the thirteenth century, in Rotorua, New Zealand.
• Visit the three sites associated with Chief Roi Mata’s Domain, one of the most remote UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, in Shefa, Vanuatu.
• See the civilization that was created by the surviving mutineers of the HMS Bounty on Pitcairn Island.

• Visit the South Pole Flag Mast like the true badass you are, remembering all the people who fought to see the South Pole and the team that planted it in 1965.
• Find the bust of Vladimir Lenin, placed by a team from the USSR, in 1958.
• Journey to the Inexpressable Island Ice Cave to see the seal bones and other remains from the 1912 team that was forced to erect the ice cave and winter on the island.
• See where Shackleton’s crew waited four brutal months to be rescued at Point Wild on Elephant Island.
• Observe for signs of paranormal activity at Whalers Bay on Deception Island, where abandoned buildings and a buried cemetery give the uninhabited island an extra spooky flair.
• Sail from South America to Antarctica by passing through Drake’s Passage, named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake.

You Might Also Enjoy:

• The 50 Most Beautiful Castles in the World
• 9 Gorgeous Orthodox Monasteries You Need to See to Believe

Have You Undertaken any Epic History Travel or History-Inspired Trips? Leave the Destination and a bit about it in the Comments so other History Travelers can get inspired!

Pin this article for your next history travel adventure.

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1 thought on “101 Epic History Travel Ideas to Help Plan Your Next Adventure”

Waouh !!! All many interesting informations ! First of all, I want to thank you for your experiences told to everybody in all your articles ! I am a french woman and actually, as I start a travel blog focused on France, I’m trying to get into the world of blogging. But it’s not easy… Your blog is wonderfull and I am not sure mine will be as beautifull as yours !

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The 29 Best Historical Places in the World to Visit

If you’re looking for an adventure, then consider visiting some of the world’s most historical sites! These locations are steeped in history and offer a unique opportunity to learn about our past.

From ancient ruins to palaces and cathedrals, there is something for everyone when it comes to historical landmarks. In this article, we will explore some of the best historical places in the world. So pack your bags and get ready for a journey through time!

The Most Impressive Historical Places In the World

There are some historical places in the world that should be on everyone’s bucket list. These historical sites are so much more than just old buildings or ruins.

They offer a glimpse into history, and let travelers walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and famous people.

1. Petra, Jordan

Our list begins with Petra, Jordan – one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This ancient city is located in a narrow gorge and was built by the Nabataeans more than 2000 years ago.

This historic place became an important stop on the caravan route between Africa and Arabia. Petra was largely abandoned after a major earthquake in 363 CE. However, shepherds used the ruins for shelter for centuries afterwards.

Petra is carved into the side of a cliff and most of it is still hidden underground. The only entrance is through a narrow gorge, called the Siq , which opens onto the city’s main square, or piazza. Petra was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

It’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East. Many movies have been shot at Petra including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, The Mummy Returns and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

Next up is Machu Picchu, Peru. This Inca city was built around 1500 AD and abandoned just over 100 years later.

This incredible site remained unknown to the western world until 1911 when it was discovered by the explorer Hiram Bingham III. It’s estimated that there were more than 140 structures at one point in time.

These buildings were constructed using dry-stone walls, with no mortar. Although the purpose of this Inca citadel is unknown, some believe that it was a ceremonial site or the estate of the Inca emperor Pachacuti.

Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . To access the impressive ruins, visitors must take a train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where they can explore the bustling markets, enjoy delicious cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture

3. The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most iconic historical places in the world. This iconic amphitheater was completed in 80 AD and is a marvel of engineering.

This ancient structure was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and took over a decade to complete. The Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles.

It is estimated that over 500,000 ancient Romans lost their lives in the Colosseum. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.

4. Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Tucked away in the dense jungles of Cambodia lies the magnificent city of Angkor Thom. This ancient city, which translates to “Great City,” was once the capital of the Khmer empire and home to over one million people.

Built in the 12th century, Angkor Thom boasts stunning architecture and intricate carvings that will leave visitors in awe. Its most notable structure is the breathtaking Angkor Wat , a massive Hindu temple complex dedicated to Vishnu. The site later became a Buddhist temple, but today it is visited by people from all over the world regardless of their religion.

As one of the largest religious monuments in the world, Angkor Wat is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Khmer people. A visit to Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.

5. The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is an ancient defensive barrier that spans over 13,000 miles. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in China and a must-see for anyone visiting Asia.

This series of fortifications was built to protect the northern border of China from invaders. It was constructed in several phases during the Qin dynasty (221 BC to 206 BC) and rebuilt during the Ming dynasty.

The wall was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. You can visit this historical site by taking a guided tour or walking around on your own.

6. The Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is an ancient mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was built by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1632-1649 to honor his wife Mumtaz Mahal after her death from childbirth.

The elaborate mausoleum was constructed using white marble and precious stones such as jade, sapphire and turquoise. It’s considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and a must-see for any traveller visiting India.

7. The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza are some of the oldest and most famous monuments in the world. These ancient Egyptian pyramids were probably built in the 26th century BC.

They were part of a funerary complex and were constructed as tombs for three pharaohs: Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. The Great Pyramid of Giza (also known as the Great Pyramid) is the largest and oldest of these pyramids. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one still standing.

There are many mysteries surrounding this structure, such as how the ancient Egyptians were able to move such large stones and how they managed to build the pyramids so precisely.

8. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is an ancient stone circle located in Wiltshire, England. It’s one of the most mysterious and popular tourist destinations in the United Kingdom.

There are two prehistoric stone circles surrounded by chalk pits known as Aubrey holes . The stones are thought to have been brought here from Wales and Cornwall.

The stone circles are thought to have been erected between 3000-2000 BC and their purpose is still unknown to this day. It is thought that astronomical rituals may have taken place here.

9. The Great Sphinx of Giza, Egypt

The Great Sphinx of Giza is an ancient statue that was built between 2500 BC and 2400 BC. It’s located near Cairo in Egypt and is one of the oldest known monumental sculptures from antiquity.

The massive structure stands 73 metres high and is thought to have been built for Pharaoh Khafre. Based on a mythological creature, it was carved from one giant piece of stone.

10. The Forbidden City, Beijing, China

The Forbidden City was the Imperial Palace of the Chinese emperors from 1420 to 1912. This amazing historical place is located in central Beijing and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are 980 buildings and over 8,000 rooms, making it the largest palace complex in the world. In fact, this colossal structure is spread over 7.75 million square feet .

This is one of the best preserved wooden buildings in the world, and a must-see for anyone visiting China. As access was barred to most citizens, it was named The Forbidden City. However, it is now a museum and you can visit with a tour guide or explore on your own.

11. The Acropolis, Athens, Greece

The Acropolis is a hilltop complex in Athens that contains some of the most famous historical sites in Greece. The most famous structure on the Acropolis is the Parthenon , an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Built between 447 BC and 432 BC, it’s considered one of the greatest achievements in classical architecture. The Parthenon has been admired throughout history by many renowned architects such as Le Corbusier.

Other structures on the Acropolis include the Propylaea (a gateway), and The Erechtheion (also known as the Temple of Athena Polias). One of the best ways to see these historic sites is by taking a guided tour.

12. Easter Island

This ancient site in the southeastern Pacific Ocean is famous for its huge statues. Known as moai, they were carved by early inhabitants.

Easter Island, whose native name is Rapa Nui , measures around 64 square miles. Estimates on when the island was settled range from around 300 to 1200 CE by people from Polynesia. The moai are almost all carved from tuff, a volcanic tuff rock native to the island.

Most of the statues are around 13 feet high (four meters), although the tallest completed moai was 33 feet high (12 meters). The moai statues that you see today have been re-erected by archaeologists.

Today, Rapa Nui National Park is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.

13. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. Construction began on a marshy site in 1173 and only finished in 1399!

After the first three stories were built out of the 8 that were planned, it was noticed that the tower was leaning. This was due to the soft ground on which it was constructed, and the tower has been leaning ever since!

The tower leans at an angle of about five and a half degrees, which is enough to make it seem like it might topple over any moment, although it’s perfectly safe. You can visit this historical site in the city of Pisa, which is located in Tuscany.

14. The Terracotta Army, China

The Terracotta Army in China dates back to 210 BC, when Emperor Qin Shi Huang ordered more than 700,000 men to build his army. It is thought that he believed the warriors would one day protect him in the afterlife.

The site was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers who were digging a well on their land. This famous archaeological site is now a popular tourist attraction. There are over 8,000 known terracotta figures here.

15. The Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

This ancient structure was built between AD532-AD537 as a Greek Orthodox cathedral in Constantinople, which is present-day Istanbul. It was converted into a mosque after the city was conquered by the Ottomans in 1453.

In 1935, this famous Turkish landmark became a museum and has since been open to visitors from all over the world. The interior of this historical site is covered in mosaics that depict the Virgin and Child and other religious figures.

16. The Palace of Versailles, France

The Palace of Versailles is considered to be one of the most spectacular palaces in Europe . It was built in the French Baroque style of architecture.

Louis XIII built a hunting lodge on the site of the Palace of Versailles in 1623. It was replaced with a chateau which was expanded by Louis XIV in the late 17th century to become one of the grandest palaces in Europe.

The palace grounds include a maze, parkland and several other historical sites such as Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet (a rustic retreat). Versailles is located just outside Paris and can be visited on day trips from the city.

17. The Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali

The Great Mosque of Djenne is the largest mud-brick building in the world. On this site, an ancient mosque was built in the 13th century by King Mansa Musa.

The mosque has been rebuilt around a dozen times. It is made from sun-dried earth bricks coated with plaster.

The architecture features three towers with mud brick domes and a spacious prayer hall inside. The local community takes part in an annual festival to help to repair any erosion to this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.

18. The Palace of Westminster, London, United Kingdom

Also known as the Houses of Parliament, parts of the Palace of Westminster have been used for legislative purposes since the 13th century. A fire destroyed much of the original complex in 1834, and the new palace was constructed in its place.

The most well known part of this historical building is the Big Ben clock tower, which was named after Benjamin Hall (the first commissioner of works). This famous London landmark was renamed Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II in 2012.

Visitors can take guided tours of the Houses of Parliament or simply enjoy the views from outside. However, these tours don’t include Big Ben. It’s a fun activity for couples in London .

19. Old City of Jerusalem

If you visit Jerusalem, you can’t help but be amazed by the number of historical places. The Old City and its Walls have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.

Located on a plateau in the Judean Mountains, Jerusalem has also been home to many faiths, such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall is where many people come to place prayer notes in the cracks of the wall.

According to the Bible, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is where Jesus was crucified and buried. Temple Mount is another important historic site, where the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are located.

20. The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower in Paris was constructed for the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle. Originally intended to be temporary, this iconic French landmark was never removed from its site due to popular demand.

It has since become one of the most recognizable buildings in France and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites since 1989.

Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the groundbreaking structure was the tallest building in the world at the time. Made from wrought iron, La Tour Eiffel is 300 meters high.

21. Chichen Itza, Mexico

Chichen Itza is one of the most famous historical places in Mexico. It’s not known exactly when it was built but it’s thought to be at least 1,500 years old.

Built by Mayan people, it also has elements from other cultures including the Toltecs and the Aztecs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is best known for its Pyramid of Kukulkan which is also known as El Castillo.

The Mayans practised astronomy at Chichen Itza and these Mayan ruins are thought to have been used as a solar calendar. Also on the site, there are several cenotes, sinkholes that are found in Mexico.

22. The Alamo, San Antonio, United States

The Alamo is a famous historical site located in San Antonio, Texas. It was originally built as the chapel of a Spanish mission in the 18th century.

However, it’s most famous for being the site of a major battle during the Texas Revolution. A small group of Texans fought for independence against the Mexican army. This led the rest of Texas to fight and eventually declare victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.

23. Pompeii, Italy

Built around 2,000 years ago during the Roman empire, Pompeii was rediscovered in 1748. The preserved ruins are protected as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Near Naples, Italy, this historical site was buried under rock and ash by the eruption of the volcano Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Around 20 feet (6m) of ash fell on Pompeii, causing roofs to collapse under its weight but leaving walls intact.

The eruption preserved everything from jars of preserved fruit to paintings on the wall to bodies believed to be of the victims. Despite this, only two thirds of the site have been excavated and much remains buried beneath the ash to this day.

24. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, United States

Located on Navajo land near Chinle, Arizona, Canyon de Chelly is one of the best historical sites in the world. It was protected by the Navajo tribes for centuries. During the American Civil War, the Navajo refused to leave their ancestral home. The US Army forced them out of these canyon lands in 1864. The Navajo were finally allowed to return to their lands in 1868.

Nowadays, Canyon de Chelly National Monument preserves more than 5,000 years of human occupation. The Monument protects over 800 archaeological sites! This includes cliff dwellings like Mummy Cave, Antelope House, and White House.

25. Efes, Turkey

Efes is a historical place near Izmir on the western coast of Turkey. Once an ancient Greek city known as Ephesus, it is one of the best preserved classical sites in the world today.

Built in the 10th century BC, the site has many impressive ruins, including an amphitheater which had seating for 25,000 people. Originally a thriving community, Ephesus was eventually abandoned when silt clogged up the harbor and no ships could reach the city.

In 1863, a British architect began searching for the Artemision or Temple of Artemis at Efes. He discovered the pavement of the temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, in 1869.

The preserved ruins are protected as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Efes is open today for tourists with guided tours allowing them to visit the amphitheater, theater, stadium and other ruins. Along with the Ephesus Archaeological Museum that has artifacts from Efes’ long history in their collection, this makes it one of the best historical places in the world.

26. Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is a true masterpiece of medieval architecture. It is without a doubt one of the most renowned landmarks in France.

The sheer grandeur of the structure is breathtaking, with its intricate carvings and stained glass windows that tower above visitors. Its history, extensive symbolism, and the intricate details that adorn the interior and exterior are nothing short of fascinating.

This magnificent cathedral was sadly decimated when its roof caught fire in April 2019. Currently being restored, this iconic landmark is expected to reopen in December 2024.

27. Ta Prohm, Cambodia

Located near Siem Reap, Cambodia, Ta Prohm is an ancient temple was built in the late 12th century. Its towering trees growing out of the ancient ruins create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels both serene and mysterious.

As you wander the temple’s winding paths, you can’t help but feel a sense of authority from this historical site. The beautiful carvings and intricate details of the temple are truly a sight to behold, and it’s no wonder why Ta Prohm draws in thousands of visitors annually.

28. The Alhambra, Granada, Spain

The Alhambra , located in the enchanting city of Granada, Spain, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in existence. Its magnificent architecture is a testament to the legacy of the Moors, who built this fortress and palace complex during their reign in Spain.

Every corner of the Alhambra reveals a stunning display of intricate details, from the towering arches to the tranquil courtyards. Visitors cannot help but be awed by the elegance and sophistication of this historical landmark, which has stood for centuries as a symbol of Spain’s rich cultural heritage.

29. Bagan, Myanmar

In the heart of Myanmar you’ll find an incredible historical landmark that’s worth adding to your travel bucket list – Bagan. This historic city is known for its stunning temples and pagodas that date back to the 11th and 13th centuries.

A visit to Bagan is like stepping back in time, where history comes alive through its monumental architecture and rich cultural heritage. The temples of Bagan are adorned with intricate carvings and precious gems that reflect the skilled craftsmanship of the past.

For the sophisticated globetrotter who craves more than just resorts and beaches, Bagan is a must-see destination that will captivate your senses and enrich your knowledge of Southeast Asia.

In Conclusion: Best Historical Monuments in the World

There are so many amazing historical places in the world to visit that it’s hard to know where to start. These are just a few of our favorite ancient structures.

We hope that this article will inspire you to travel and experience some of these ancient places for yourself! Traveling is the best way to learn first hand about different cultures and traditions around the globe. Which site do you think should be next on this list?

You might also enjoy:

• The Best Gothic Cities in the World
• The Most Beautiful Cities in the World
• The Most Expensive Buildings in the World

Like this guide to the best historical places in the world? Pin for later or share with friends.

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Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

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History Buffs Should Add This Travel Destination To Their Bucket List ASAP

A beach-y vacation is practically always a welcome getaway — especially this time of year — but for true history buffs, choosing a destination is typically about a whole lot more than getting your toes in the sand: Landmark sites, art, architecture, and even traditional local fare are all just as an important part of the journey as getting some R&R. And there's good news if you're the type to put historical travel activities at the top of your vacation to-do list: With a little help from Airbnb's curated list of experiences , it's both easy and affordable to go back in time and explore a city like the those of eras gone by.

One of the biggest travel trends in the past few years involves focusing your journey on experiences and, according to Airbnb, a historical slant is especially popular of late. The popular travel site says that not only have homes with historic keywords already been booked 50,000 times this year, but bookings for historical experiences have increased 116 percent globally. Additionally, the site's research showed that 32 percent of Americans resolved to learn more about history and culture in 2020, making these types of vacations a great alternative to the typical and traditional ones — and just as worthy of a place on your bucket list .

In case you need a little help planning your next historically focused getaway, just take a look at some of Airbnb's most popular experiences (which also happen to take place in some seriously vacation-worthy cities) which will give you an intimate look at back at the sites, the stories, and even some of the food that defines a destination .

Historical Travel Destination: Culture Walk In Teotihuacán

For those planning a trip to Mexico City, don't skip out on this guided tour of the City of Gods . The early morning walk includes a little trip to the iconic pyramids, as well taking in sights like murals, museums, and habitacional compounds. This experience starts at $69 per person, making it quite the bargain.

Historical Travel Destination: Walking Tour of Old Town Havana

These "free" tours are common in Havana, Cuba but take note: Tips are highly encouraged. This one will take you to see all the landmarks in Old Town (like art, architecture, and religious monuments), plus the local guide will open up a dialogue that will offer insider tips and answer your burning cultural questions.

Historical Travel Destination: Explore the Dutch Countryside

If Amsterdam has been on your radar , but you also want to explore some of the traditions of the old country, this bus tour will be right up your alley. It kicks off with a visit to the traditional windmills in Zaanse Schans, followed by an exploration of the cheesemaking process courtesy of a master producer near Volendam. After that you'll tour a clog factory and finish the day off by perusing the cozy fishermen houses in Marken. The tour starts at $32.

Historical Travel Destination: See the Castles of Sintra

A trip to Lisbon, Portugal just wouldn't be complete without a visit to the castles and palaces of Sintra, just a 30-minute drive away. This guided tour takes you through the labyrinth of streets (where you'll stop to sample the area's signature pastry), explore the Palace of Quinta da Regaleira, the coastal village of Azenhas do Marthe, and of course get an epic view of Pena Palace. Rates starts at $70.

Historical Travel Destination: Tour Hidden Rome's Bone Crypts

Get a peek into ancient Roman civilization with a visit to the Capuchin Crypts and the Basilica of San Clemente. Rates start at $41.

Historical Travel Destination: Wine Tour of Tbilisi

Wines from Georgia may be one of the biggest booze trends at the moment, but in this capital city winemaking is a historic practice. So if you're an enthusiast, this atypical route is perfect for you, as you'll explore the town and learn some of the winemaking traditions. And yes, you'll stop for a sip or two at a cellar as well as sample some signature Georgian bread. Rates start at $22.

Historical Travel Destination: Medieval Trip to Bruges

This tour goes beyond just a look at the architecture with an in depth look at what life was like during the 13th to 15th centuries in this Belgian city . Rates start at $19.

This article was originally published on Feb. 24, 2020

30 East Coast Historical Sites You Need to Visit

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Learn about the best historic sites, landmarks, attractions on the East Coast of the United States!

The East Coast of the United States is full of some of the best historical sites in the US. The East Coast is special as it features historic sites and landmarks that chronicle the country’s earliest history from colonization to social and political conflict. These historic sites in the US demonstrate how early American history and culture were shaped and developed throughout the centuries into what we know today. Because there are so many interesting historical sites on the East Coast, you can easily make a historical vacation out of them!

Come explore the best historical sites on the East Coast with us and plan your historical vacation!

Top East Coast Historical Sites, Attractions, and Landmarks

Acadia national park.

You may think that Maine’s  Acadia National Park  is nothing more than beautiful granite mountaintops and a dazzling coastline sprinkled with lush forests and ponds, but you’d be mistaken. The park boasts incredible history in addition to its stunning scenery.

Before Acadia became the first national park east of the Mississippi River, Mount Desert Island was known for its ritz and glamor. After seeing paintings of the scenery, wealthy New England families built vacation homes here and would spend their holidays and weekends on the island shores. Families included the well-known Carnegies, Astors, Morgans, Fords, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers. Unfortunately, a great fire in 1947 consumed most of the extravagant estates.

Other than the impressive houses you will still find on the island, my favorite historical element of the park is the carriage roads.  There are approximately 45 miles of these rustic, unpaved roads throughout the park. The roads were gifted to the park by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. who desired to travel Mount Desert Island on motor-free roadways. They’re popular for cycling and hiking today. My favorite aspect of the road system is the marvelous stone bridge.

For hikers who consider themselves historians, Acadia is one of the best places to visit. By 1915, there were already 200 miles of trails established on Mount Desert Island. If you walk on any of Acadia National Park’s trails, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of American Indians, early European settlers, and the wealthy elite in addition to outdoor enthusiasts like yourself

In addition to the historic elements of the park, there are plenty of  things to do in Acadia . The park is popular for hiking and camping as well as auto touring and biking in addition to boat tours that focus on history and wildlife. To visit, bring your national park pass or $30 to admit your party for the week. 

While most come to Acadia for the scenic views, those coastlines are layered with stories of perseverance and preservation. Every grain of sand provides insight into the lives that came before and transformed Acadia National Park into what it is today.

Contributed by Riley of the Parks Expert

Boone Hall Plantation

When visiting Charleston in South Carolina make sure you venture out of town a few miles. Just outside the city in a peaceful parkland in Mt. Pleasant, you can visit one of the oldest American plantations that still grow crops to this very day. Boone Hall Plantation is significant in American history because the plantation was lucrative and the descendants of the first owner were influential in the politics of the colonies as well as the whole country for many decades.

Boon Hall Plantation is open all year and offers tours of the property as well as the grand mansion. They also offer seasonal activities so check their website for details and dates. The cost for a single ticket is around $26 and $12 for children. Take your AAA card for discounts.

As you drive towards the grand mansion, slow down to a minimum speed to fully enjoy the ride under the majestic canopy of live oaks. It took them over two centuries to grow and connect their tops into a tunnel.

The current Boon Hall Plantation owner still lives on the top floor of the mansion, which means you’ll enjoy the guided tour of the ground level only. Besides the grand house, there is more to see. Check out the slave quarters, boathouse, crop garden, and flower garden. Don’t forget to take a selfie under the live oak trees – you’ll never forget that view.

Learn more about the Boone Hall Plantation in this awesome video by Slavka from  On2Continents.com

First African Baptist Church in Savannah, GA

Founded in 1773, First African Baptist Church stands proudly in the Historic District of Savannah, Georgia, only a few steps away from the popular City Market.

The church has a long and fascinating history as both a congregation and a cultural touchstone and is one of the oldest Black congregations in the United States.

First African Baptist Church was founded and built–literally and figuratively–primarily by enslaved people, and the building itself was finished in 1859, just two years before the outbreak of the American Civil War.

Since then, the church has survived not only the Civil War, but the Reconstruction Era and the Civil Rights Movement, just to name a few.

During the 19th century, the church served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, carefully concealing people escaping slavery beneath its floorboards–today, you can still see the holes drilled into the floor that allowed those on the run to breathe while remaining concealed.

Tours of First African Baptist Church are given three times a day on Tuesday-Saturday (11am, 2pm, and 4pm), and once at 1pm on Sundays. Tours cost $10 USD.

It’s not possible to visit the interior of the church without a tour, but it’s well worth including First African Baptist Church in your Savannah itinerary , as it is a fascinating historic landmark and home to an important piece of the city’s history.

Contributed by Kate of Our Escape Clause

Learn more about some of the awesome National Parks on the East Coast !

Walter Gropius House

Significance

The home of German architect Walter Gropius and his family was built in 1938 in Massachusetts. Gropius was a revolutionary architect who founded the Bauhaus school in Germany. When he came over to the US to teach at Harvard, he designed his home himself. Gropius had a big impact on modern architecture. 

What you can expect

Today, you can tour the fully furnished house. You can see the terrace he designed so his daughter could sleep under the stars and the dining room table lit by a single spot light from above so as to encourage people leaning in for lively conversation and so much more. 

Even the library is still filled with Gropius’ books. They also host events, such as recitals and theme parties. For upcoming events see the Gropius House website . 

Planning your visit 

At the time of writing, admission for adults is $25. The Gropius House is located at 68 Baker Bridge Road, Lincoln, Mass. 01773 which is roughly a half hour drive from Boston. As of 2019 there is an app you can use to learn more about Gropius and his house, available from the website. 

I visited the house in the fall, when the foliage in New England is beautifully colored. It’s a very scenic drive out from Boston through the forests, so I can highly recommend visiting during that time of year. Walter Gropius paid a lot of attention to the connection between the house and its environment, so best to go in a season when you can take full advantage of that. 

Contributed by Christin of Christin has Fernweh Follow along on her Pinterest  for more travel tips!

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Of all of the historical vacation destinations on this list, the Outer Banks is our personal favorite! The Outer Banks in North Carolina is home to many adorable (and historic!) lighthouses, but one of the most interesting and beautiful is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse which is located in the town of Buxton. It is in the middle of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and reachable as an easy trip from almost any Outer Banks town. The lighthouse protects an especially dangerous portion of the coastal waters where the Virginia Drift meets the Gulf Stream. Because of the dangerous waters, this is also an interesting place to scuba dive as there are many shipwrecks from the Colonial era through World War II. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1794 and completed in 1802. The current tower was built in 1868 after the original was damaged during the Civil War.

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse no longer is in use and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The National Park Service operates the Hatteras Island Visitor Center and Museum of the Sea in the old lighthouse keeper’s quarters. You can also climb to the top and enjoy fabulous sea vies. The lighthouse is located at 46379 Lighthouse Road in Buxton. Tickets for entry to climb to the top are $8 for adults and $4 for children and seniors.

Contributed by Stephanie of the History Fangirl

The Freedom Trail

Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best cities to visit that contains so many historical sites. The Freedom Trail is one of Boston’s main historical sites. This 2.5-mile long path connects 16 historical sites across Boston. These 16 sites had a great impact on the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. There is no cost to walk the Freedom Trail and many of the sites are also free or inexpensive to get into. One of the paid sites, the Paul Revere House, charges a $5 admission fee. To get around to the stops, visitors just need to follow the brick path that easily links the sites.

I recommend starting the trail at the Bunker Hill Monument. This ensures you can climb the tower when it is less busy and you are less tired when you climb the 294 steps to the top. Make sure not to miss the museum that covers the history of the Battle of Bunker Hill. Although the Americans lost this battle, the British suffered devastating losses, thus impacting them in the war. Other must-see sites along the Freedom Trail include the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship in the United States, and the site of the Boston Massacre. At the end of the Freedom Trail is the present-day state capitol building and the Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States. These sites along the Freedom Trail represent the foundations of America and portrays to visitors the process it took to become the country the United States is today.

Contributed by Francesca of Homeroom Travel. Follow along with her on Instagram

Castillo de Dan Marcos

Castillo de San Marcos is right on Matanzas Bay in St. Augustine, Florida , the oldest city in the US.  It is $15 per person since it’s a walk-in park, but if you have a national park pass, that will get you in, too.  There is parking at the fort, it can be used to explore the town which is very convenient, and it is $2.50 per hour.  During your visit, you can do a self-guided tour of the fortress with a map and brochure, watch a demonstration by re-enactors, or do a ranger program if there is one going on.  I would plan for 1-2 hours here, depending on what is going on during your visit.

So, what’s up with the fort?  Well, it’s the oldest masonry fort in the US with construction beginning in 1672.  107 years after the city was founded, and while Florida was still under Spanish rule.  It is made up of Coquina stones and passed through many hands and was besieged twice.  However, in 1924 it was named a National Monument and after 251 years of continuous military possession, it was deactivated in 1933 and turned over to the National Park Service.  Even if you’re not a huge history buff, this is a great place to visit and offers wonderful views of the bay and the city.  

Contributed by Megan of Red Around the World. Follow along with her travels on Instagram

Gettysburg National Battlefield

Gettysburg is a small town located in Pennsylvania that was a key player in the American Civil War. The town dates back to 1761 when Samuel Gettys laid ground to a small tavern in the area for soldiers and merchants to rest. Gettysburg gets its true place in history as the location for one of the American Civil War’s largest battles that is known as the turning point in the war. The battle was fought July 1st to the 3rd in 1863 and saw the largest loss of life in one battle for the entire war. The battle was a win for the union and inspired the “Gettysburg Address” by President Lincoln

Gettysburg has much to offer in the form of American history. You won’t want to miss the Gettysburg National Military Park, the site of the battle. The area is largely an open field, but it has so many stories to tell. Throughout the park, you will see a number of different statues and monuments commemorating the lives lost during the battle. Tops sights to see within the Military Park include Seminary Ridge, Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and Cemetery Ridge.

Aside from the Military Park, Gettysburg has much to offer. Visit the Jennie Wade home, the home of the only civilian killed in the battle, visit one of the many museums such as the Gettysburg Museum of History, take a ghost tour of the battlefield,  or stroll main street for quaint, cute shops and great food. Be sure to try some Philly Cheesesteak while there! Gettysburg is a fairly inexpensive destination as many of the top sights have no entrance fee. The National Military Park is free to enter as well as many of the top historical sites within the town. Many of the museums do have entrance fees, but are inexpensive. If you want to bring home some unique souvenirs the costs may add up, but a trip to Gettysburg can be done on any budget.

Contributed by Melissa of Navigation Junkie Follow along with her on Pinterest for her latest travel tips!

Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter, located on a small island in Charleston, South Carolina, was the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Commonly known as the location where the Civil Wat began, a visit to Fort Sumter is perfect for those who love history. 

To get to Fort Sumter, you will need to take a short (ten minute) ferry ride. Fort Sumter Tours is the only form of transportation available to the island. You can take them from Patriot’s Point (in Mount Pleasant), or Liberty Square (where the Visitor’s Center is located). While it is free to visit the National Monument, the ferry does cost $24 per adult and $16 for kids.

Once you are at the fort, there is plenty to see and explore. The fort itself is in good shape and there are many artifacts from the time (including cannons and artillery). The park rangers are there to answer any questions and sometimes offer tours. When our family visited Charleston, the rangers were very helpful and explained what happened on April 12, 1861, and Lincoln’s role during the battle. The kids participated in the  Junior Ranger program  and the whole family was involved in helping them complete the activities. It was a great learning experience for the entire family and a unique thing to do during our East Coast trip. 

Contributed by: Margie of DQ Family Travel. Follow along with their adventures on Instagram

Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a must-see historic site along Virginia’s Potomac River, and is famous for being home to American’s first president.  George Washington lived here starting in 1754, and was later joined by his wife, Martha, and her two children.  During Washington’s residence at Mount Vernon, he served in the French and Indian War, helped America win its independence from Great Britain, and eventually was sworn in as President of the United States.

A visit to Mount Vernon provides an intimate look into the lives of the Washington family, while also showing how people lived in 18 th  century America.  While the property consisted of 3,000 acres of land and a 3,500 square foot home when Washington first moved in, throughout his residence, he helped expand it to 7,600 acres with an 11,000 square foot mansion.  A lot of this labor was done by enslaved workers living at Mount Vernon, of which there were 317 by the time of Washington’s death in 1799.

There is much to do during a visit to Mount Vernon. You can tour the Washington home, visit the Washington family tomb, explore the grounds, and learn about the slaves who lived and worked there.  If you have extra time, watch the 4D film featured in the Revolutionary War Theatre, tour the museum to see the Washingtons’ personal belongings, such as George’s dentures, or dine at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. 

Entry to Mount Vernon costs $20 for adults, $12 for kids age 6 to 11, and free for children younger than that. It is smart to buy tickets in advance, since you will be assigned a time slot to tour the house.  The earlier you book your tour the better, especially on a weekend, as crowds will swell by the afternoon.

Contributed by Theresa of   Fueled By Wanderlust Follow along with her adventures on Instagram!  @fueledbywanderlust

Valley Forge

It isn’t much of an exaggeration to say that if it wasn’t for that winter of 1777 in Valley Forge , the United States may not exist. At the time the Continental Army was reeling from losses, including their capital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was in December of 1777 that General George Washington and 12,000 troops encamped at a then-unknown village just outside of the capital for what would be a six-month stay.

Over that winter, the troops trained and gained new confidence. By June, the Americans were in pursuit of the British and defeated them at a battle in New Jersey. Valley Forge was, indeed, a turning point in the American Revolution.

Today, 3,500 acres are preserved at Valley Forge National Historic Park for visitors to experience just want those soldiers experienced more than two centuries ago. The park is a mix of wooded areas and rolling meadows with trails meandering throughout.

Visitors can get an overview of the history at a museum that is home to artifacts found at the site. Then you can explore the site by car for the self-guided 10-mile Encampment Tour. There are parking lots throughout so that you can get on foot for a closer look at monuments (such as the massive National Memorial Arch) and reproduction log cabins. Occasionally you’ll see reenactors pop up around the park.

But don’t forget to simply enjoy this beautiful suburban park, too. Tourists tend to congregate around the historic sites but there are plenty of wooded trails to enjoy.

Entrance to Valley Forge National Historical Park is free. Trolley or bicycle tours of the site do charge a fee.

Contributed by Corinne of Reverberations. Follow along with her on Instagram !

Charleston, South Carolina

Best known for its cobblestone streets and palmetto-tree-lined streets, the city of Charleston, South Carolina is a true gem of the Southeast. Here, it’s not uncommon to hear the hooves of a horse-drawn carriage in the morning silence, or smell the scent of freshly, hand-baked buttermilk biscuits. Pastel antebellum homes contrast against clear blue skies, while visitors stroll through a city stuck back in time. Read below to find out why Charleston is consistently ranked as one of the top cities in the world.

Charleston’s Role in US History

Today, Charleston’s famous Battery Park promenade and Waterfront Park welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors to its banks each year. However, more than 150 years ago, the area was a key component of South Carolina’s defense strategy during the Civil War. Here, Confederate soldiers placed cannons to protect against possible Union invasions. While they were were never fired, they still stand today to remind travelers of course-altering eras in American history. Across the junction of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, one can see Fort Sumter, the spot where the first shots of the Civil War rung out. 

Where to Eat, Stay, & Play in Charleston

Charleston is no stranger to great southern grub. In fact, there are so many top-ranked restaurants there, that it would be impossible to visit them all even in one week. Two hot-spots that are a must to visit are Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit (get the pimento cheese), and Husk (the menu changes based on what local farmers produce). After a good meal, stroll through downtown to Rainbow Row. Keep going straight and catch Waterfront Park at sunset — look for dolphins splashing around!

Visiting Charleston: Know Before You Go

As one of the oldest southern cities in the United States, there are endless opportunities to learn about the city’s rich cultural history just by walking. Expect to pay a bit more for accommodation and meals ($35 per day on average). Visit the official  Charleston.com  for information on travel restrictions and openings. 

Contributed by Alexandra of East Coast Contessa .

Plimoth Plantation

Of all the places to visit on the east coast, Massachusets has the most historical vacation destinations! Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, MA, is one of the most significant historic sites to visit on the East Coast of the United States. About 40 miles south of  Boston , the town of Plymouth is the site of the famous Plymouth Rock, where the pilgrims first arrived from England in 1620 on their ship, the Mayflower.  The nearby Plimoth Plantation is where they set up a village, friending the local Wampanoag residents, and where the first Thanksgiving celebration took place as a celebration of friendship and the bountiful harvest.  That celebration has gone on to be one of the most important holidays in America each November.

A perfect place for kids of all ages, visitors first learn about the site in the visitor center after watching a short film about the site’s history and what they will see.

From there, visitors experience the Wampanoag Homesite and structures that were typical of the Wampanoags, the Native People, whose descendants are still living in the area to this day. In fact, the Wampanoags you will meet in the Homesite are not actors.  They are modern-day Native People of the Wampanoag community dressed in traditional clothing but who will speak from a modern perspective. It is a great way to interact, get an idea of what life was like for the Wampanoags during the 1600s, and ask interactive questions, but it is important to be respectful of their culture. 

You can then venture into the historic 17 th  century English Village, which contains numerous houses you can enter. The village houses host role-playing guides dressed in period clothing acting as an English colonists of the time. The English colonists ARE actors who remain in character, though they do not perform a script. They interact as if they are in the time period and share a variety of fascinating information specific to the questions asked by the visitors. From what they are cooking to the religious beliefs of the group to all about what led to the first Thanksgiving, it is a fascinating way to learn more about such an important event in American history.  My kids absolutely loved our visit, which interestingly enough was a bitterly cold day in November, giving us a first-hand experience of what life was like for the Pilgrims.  

Tickets cost $32 for adults, $19 for kids ages 5-12, and $29 for seniors.

Following your visit to Plimoth Plantation, head over to see the actual Plymouth Rock and tour the Mayflower ship in downtown Plymouth. Tickets for the Mayflower are $15 for adults, $12 for kids ages 5-12, and $13.50 for seniors.

Contributed by By Keri of Bon Voyage With Kids and follow along with her on Facebook ! Learn more about visiting the Boston Freedom Trail with kids !

Pilgrim Monument

One of the many  things to do in Provincetown, Massachusetts  is to pay a visit to the Pilgrim Monument. This historic site commemorates the first landing of the  Mayflower  Pilgrims in Provincetown in November 1620. What many people don’t realize is that the Pilgrims landed in Provincetown five weeks before they landed on now-famous Plymouth. Additionally, the  Mayflower Compact , the first written document that referred to how the new colony would be governed, was signed aboard the ship while docked at Provincetown Harbor.

The Pilgrim Monument was built from 1907 to 1910 and can be seen from miles away. It is 252 feet tall and it is the tallest all granite structure in the US. You can climb to the top in about 10 minutes. The views from the top are quite incredible and you can almost see the  Mayflower  off in the distance.

The monument also has the Provincetown Museum at its base. Inside are exhibits that showcase the history of the area, including more information on the Pilgrim landing and Native American artifacts. Admission is $17 for adults and includes access to the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum. It is located in downtown Provincetown. It does have its own parking lot, but if you’ve already found a parking spot in town we suggest walking to the monument.

Contributed by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling and follow along with her on Instagram .

Harper’s Ferry West Virginia

One historical site on the East Coast that is worth a visit is Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in West Virginia. Located at the junction between the Shenandoah River and the Potomac River, Harpers Ferry is also at the crossroads of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Because of its advantageous location, as well as the railroad that went through it, this site was a hot commodity during the Civil War, changing hands eight times in four years.

Even before the Civil War, Harpers Ferry was historically significant as the site of John Brown’s Raid in 1959. John Brown was an abolitionist who attempted to start a revolt across the South by raiding the arsenal. Colonel Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson were among the troops that ended the raid. For non-Civil War history, Harpers Ferry is a great place to learn about the Niagara Movement, which held its first meeting in America here, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, headquartered here, and even a visit from Thomas Jefferson.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park consists of the lower part of Harpers Ferry, while the Historic District is above it. Both the park and the district are laid out to mix recreations of historic buildings, events, and people with regular small-town businesses and restaurants. This, along with the free guided tours and historical markers throughout, allow for a history-rich atmosphere no matter where you are. Combine this with river views, fewer tourists, and no chain restaurants or hotels in sight, and this is the perfect historical getaway.

If you plan a visit, make sure to stay in a Bed and Breakfast, historical of course, and be aware that parking is limited. Whether you want to learn more about its history or a chance to just get away for a bit,  Harpers Ferry  is well worth a visit.

Contributed by Jordan of The Solo Life

Day Trip Guide to Cooper’s Rock State Forest West Virginia

Guide to visiting blackwater falls state park, unique airbnbs, treehouses, cabins, and places to stay in west virginia, the perfect day trip to valley falls state park west virginia, historic jamestown.

Jamestown, Virginia, was the site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World, founded in 1607. From that tiny colonial foothold in North America came so much of the good (representative government) and the bad (slavery, conflict with Native Americans) that makes up American history. This is where it all started. 

Historic Jamestowne, unlike the Jamestown Settlement living history museum nearby, is the actual site of the original colony at Jamestown, Virginia. It is part U.S. National Park (Colonial National Historical Park) and part active archaeological site managed by Preservation Virginia. Plan to allow half a day for your visit to Historic Jamestowne. To get the full Jamestown experience, spend the morning at Jamestown Settlement and use the afternoon for your  visit to Historic Jamestowne . 

You can purchase tickets ahead of time online or at the Visitor Center, and make sure you pick up a map. The guest services representative will tell you when the next showing of the orientation film is starting (recommended) and what tours or activities are available. National Parks Service rangers are excellent tour guides. They are great at setting the scene and providing important historical context, especially if you’re at a site that requires a bit of imagination, like Historic Jamestowne, where not much remains of the original town.  

Regardless of whether you do the tour, use the official map to help you with your visit. It will guide you to important stops such as the hundred-year-old Memorial Church, statues of Pocahontas and John Smith, archaeological dig sites, the site of James Fort, the Voorhees Archaerium, and the Ambler Mansion. The Archaerium displays many artifacts unearthed from the digs around Jamestown Island.  

Contributed by Darcy Vierow from Plan, Ready, Go and Follow along on Pinterest  

Manassas National Battlefield

The Manassas National Battlefield Park is the site of two major American Civil War Battles.  The town of Manassas just to the north of the battlefield was of strategic importance during the Civil War as it was where the Manassas Gap and Orange and Alexandria railroads joined, providing for a direct connection from the Shenandoah Valley and the Washing Richmond Railroad.  The Confederate forces won the First Battle of Bull Run and the Second Battle of Bull Run in 1861 and 1862 respectively.  It was during the first battle that General Thomas Jonathan Jackson received the nickname ‘Stonewall”, having been compared to one by a fellow officer.  The first battle of Bull Run was the first major land battle of the Civil War.

The Manassas National Battlefield Park was established in 1940 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.   There is a visitor centre (open from 0830 until 1700) on Sudley Road near the south entrance to the park which includes exhibits Civil War-era uniforms and weapons and a map of the battle areas.  The 45 minute Manassas orientation film is a must-see.  The site has been preserved much as it was in Civil War times.  Entrance to the site and guided tours are free and it is best to experience the site through a guided tour–  details here .  

Contributed by Sarah Carter of Lets Grow Cook

West Quoddy Lighthouse

Though you wouldn’t guess it from its name, the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse is the easternmost building in the continental United States.

Perched on a peninsula on the northeastern tip of Maine, West Quoddy Headlight is half an hour’s drive from  Lubec , a charming fishing town on the Canadian border. The little lighthouse (and its predecessors) have guided ships through the Quaddy Narrows strait dividing the US and Canada since 1808. Lighthouses are essential in any coastal town, but this one was particularly important: thick fog engulfs the area for more than half of the summer. The original lighthouse’s foghorn logged more hours than any other lighthouse in the US in 1885!

Even if you’re not a sailor, there’s more than one reason to navigate your way to the lighthouse. Show up early enough, and you’ll be one of the first people in the US to see the sunrise. Even better, you won’t have to deal with the crowds at the US’ most popular sunrise spot, nearby Acadia National Park. Try to show up at least half an hour before sunrise; the blue hour is almost as beautiful as the golden hour after the sun rises. The entrance to the area is free.

Contributed by Alex of Lost With Purpose Follow along with her on Instagram !

Capitol Building in Washington DC

A list of the top historic sites on the East Coast cannot be complete with one of the most important buildings when it comes to political history. The Capitol.

The Capitol is the meeting point of the House of Representatives and the Senate, and a symbol of the American people and their government.  The building was finished in 1800 and has witnessed many historic events ever since. For example, the inauguration of every president, independence day celebrations, or national memorial day concerts.

After Washington D.C. was chosen as the new capital of the US design competition was held for the U.S. Capitol too. Of about 10 entries, the design by William Thornton won. Thornton’s design was inspired by the French Louvre and Pantheon, which explains why the Capitol is a characteristic neoclassic building.

You can learn more about the Capitol, the design, history, and US politics by joining one of the free tours, which you can book in advance if you please or arrange at The Capitol Visitor Center. Besides a tour, you can also explore the visitors center and check out one of the exhibitions, as the Capitol is also a center for American art. Again, visiting these exhibitions and the visitor center are free of charge.

The Capitol Visitor Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with the last tour leaving at 3.20 p.m.

Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes before the time of the tour as you need to go through The Capitol security, which may take some time!

Contributed by Lara from Both Feet On The Road , a solo female travel blog written by the clumsiest and worst photographer on earth to give practical and realistic tips on how to travel the world! Follow along with her on Facebook !

Brookgreen Gardens Sculpture Garden

Especially when the display of that art is so unexpected, refreshing, and new to us. Honestly, we’d never heard of most of the American sculptors whose work is displayed at Brookgreen Gardens near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and we were so glad to make the introductions. Brookgreen Gardens, which is designated a National Historical Landmark, contains the largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculpture in the country, with over 2,000 works by 425 artists. It contains almost exclusively figurative art–that is, human and animal figures from nature, history, and mythology. I’m especially fond of figures from the classical mythology field, and there are plenty of those. Oh, and the gardens and fountains that surround the sculptures are spectacular.

Brookgreen Gardens was founded by railroad heir Archer Milton Huntington and his wife Anna Hyatt Huntington to feature sculptures by Anna and her sister, Harriet Randolph Hyatt Mayor. The sisters made sure the works of other significant American sculptors were also included in the collection. Brookgreen Gardens was opened in 1932, and is built on four former rice plantations.

The famed Huntington Museum, Library, and Gardens in Los Angeles were founded by the same family. Allow at least several hours to walk the gardens and see the sculpture. If you do it justice, it may even take more than a day. If you have children, or if you’re a child at heart, don’t miss the special exhibits of charming animals and figures designed especially to amuse the young ones.

Adult admission is $18; seniors are $16; children 4-12 are $10; younger children are free. When you arrive, you can exchange tickets purchased online for seven-day passes so you can come back if you miss anything.

Contributed by Tom of Travel Past 50. Follow along with his travels on Facebook

Ellis Island, New York

Ellis Island is one of the most popular historic sites to visit when visiting New York City . Just a short ferry ride away from New York City and Liberty Island is Ellis Island, known as the gateway through which many new immigrants from Europe entered the United States. 

The island’s immigration station was in operation and processed immigrants from 1892 to 1954. During this time period, over 12 million immigrants arrived on the island, detained, and questioned before proceeding to their final destination in the United States. It has been said that over half of the American population have at least one person in their family history that has passed through Ellis Island. 

Ellis Island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and you can visit both Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty during the same trip. If you’re leaving from Battery Park in New York City, your ferry ticket to Ellis Island covers both with Liberty Island being your first top and Ellis Island the second. Ferry tickets are offered through Liberty Cruises and include admission to Ellis Island as well as the Statue of Liberty. They range between $19 and $22.25 for adults and $9 and $12 for children depending upon which Statue of Liberty admission ticket you chose. 

There is so much to see and learn at Ellis Island, it is definitely worth the trip to see! 

Contributed by Constance of Adventures of Panda Bear. Follow along with her on Instagram

Best Summer Weekend Getaways on the East Coast

Best cities on the east coast, discover the best east coast waterfalls, 10+ best hikes on the east coast you need to experience, best winter weekend getaways on the east coast, best east coast national parks you needs to visit, women’s rights national historic park.

The many exhibits in the Women’s Rights National Historical Park paint the picture of women’s place in US history. The park is a tribute to the suffragists who fought to secure women’s voting rights in the United States. It’s located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region in Seneca Falls, New York. The park is a perfect stop off the New York Thruway when headed to Niagara Falls.  

A gathering of animated life-size bronze statues is the first thing you see when you enter the Visitors Center. The statues depict people prominent in the women’s rights and abolition movements.  More exhibits upstairs on the political life of women can fascinate for hours.

The informative ranger-led tour is worth taking. It takes you past the stunning stone water wall inscribed with the Declaration of Sentiments, a women’s rights take on the Declaration of Independence.  Next you will visit the Wesleyan Methodist Church.  You will learn about the first Women’s Rights Convention held here in 1848. The convention was the first step in a long journey ending in 1920 with the passage of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. 

The home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who many consider the main sparkplug for the first convention for women’s rights, is another site to visit. There is also an interesting self-guided walking tour of the historic village of Seneca Falls.

The Women’s Rights Park is a fee-free national park with free entrance and tours.  It’s a wonderful place to bring the whole family. The achievements of women striving to gain equality for all promise to inspire everyone.

Contributed by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler and follow along with her on Facebook .

Statue of Liberty, New York

Of all of the East Coast landmarks and attractions, the Statue of Liberty is among the most famous and recognizable symbols of the United States. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, the Statue is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The Statue depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty, breaking out of her chains and striding forward. Interestingly, the statue was actually a gift to the United States from the government of France, where it was designed by sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and constructed by Gustav Eiffel (who would later build the Eiffel Tower). The statue opened in 1886 and now stands as an icon of freedom. New migrants arriving by boat to the United States would pass directly under the statue, and it came to represent the hopes and dreams of a new generation of Americans.

To visit the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need to buy tickets from the National Parks Service which administers the area. From the NPS you’ve got three options: a ferry ticket which provides access to Liberty Island (currently $19.25 for adults, cheaper for children and seniors), a Pedestal ticket which provides access to the statue’s stone pedestal, or a Crown ticket to access the viewing platform inside Lady Liberty’s crown (extra $3). Note that Pedestal and Crown tickets require advance reservations, particularly for Crown tickets. It’s strongly recommended to reserve tickets in advance from the National Parks Service, as many dishonest and aggressive third-party sellers hang around the ferry departure point at Battery Park. 

If you’re on a super tight budget and don’t mind just having a close-up view of the statue, there’s also a free option: the Staten Island Ferry which departs every 30 minutes from Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan. The ferry runs directly past Liberty Island and provides an excellent vantage point.

Contributed by Joel of World Heritage Journey

Art Deco Historic District of Miami

The Art Deco Historic District in Miami’s South Beach neighborhood combines vibrant buildings with an equally vibrant atmosphere. The mixture of quirky, colorful buildings built in a combination of iconic Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and MiMo (Miami Modern) styles is an architectural feast for the eyes – and a must on any  Miami bucket list .

With over 900 buildings, the District boasts the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture in the country. Built between 1923 and 1943, the unique building styles feature ornate statues, geometric fountains, porthole windows, chrome accents, and exotic flora motifs dotting their whimsical pastel walls. In 1979, the District became the first 20th-century neighborhood to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.

You can see the colorful District and all of its splendor by walking along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue between 5th and 23rd streets. To explore the Art Deco Historic District, you can either take a guided walking tour or discover the area on your own. If you choose the latter option, I recommend passing by the Art Deco Museum and Welcome Center on Ocean Drive for more insight on the architectural styles and cultural heritage of the neighborhood.

Be sure not to miss famous buildings such as party central the Clevelander Hotel, the Spanish-style mansion Villa Casaurina – the former home of fashion designer Gianni Versace – and the oceanliner-inspired curves of Señor Frog’s.

If you decide on a walking tour, the Miami Design Preservation League offers a variety of tours depending on your preference. You can choose from the official Art Deco walking tour, a self-guided audio tour, or private group tours.

If you’re looking for something unique in Florida, add the Miami Art Deco Historic District onto your bucket list. With tons of things to see and do, you won’t only learn about Art Deco architecture; you’ll also be inspired by the neighborhood’s buzzing atmosphere.

Contributed by Rosalie of Coastlines to Skylines . Follow along with her on her Instagram !

Kennedy Space Center

Not viewed as a historical site by most people, Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral is absolutely packed with awesome history. For those interested in the history of America’s space exploration, there isn’t a better location to visit in the whole country. Even better, you can still catch rockets blasting off from the launch pads!

You’ll easily be able to see all that Kennedy Space Center offers over the course of a single day. Get there early to avoid some of the crowds and potentially hot or rainy afternoon weather. I’d advise catching the earliest bus tour of the launch sites. This also takes you out to the Apollo/Saturn V museum which is absolutely massive. The sheer size of the Saturn V rocket stored here will leave you speechless and in awe. The Saturn V is the marvelous machine that propelled our brave explorers to the surface of the Moon. The bus tour itself is super informative as well, so enjoy the ride!

Once you’re finished being stunned by the Saturn V, you’ll get the opportunity to explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis. The shuttle program was an amazing feat of American engineering and served to solidify NASA as the premier space agency. Atlantis is a marvel and the fact that you can get so close to something that spent hundreds of days in space is amazing. You’ll also want to pay your respects at the memorial dedicated to the astronauts who lost their lives in the Challenger and Columbia disasters which is located here.

I’ve barely scratched the surface of what you need to see at Kennedy Space Center. Admission prices are $57 for adults and $47 for children. You can also add on the extended bus tour for just $25 which is a great value if you want to extend your day. Kennedy Space Center is a great combination for anyone who loves science and history! 

Contributed by Zack of Florida Man on the Run. Follow along with his adventures on Facebook . And read more about responsible heritage tourism on his blog!

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island in south Georgia was once the most home to “the richest, most inaccessible club in the world”. From 1886 to 1942, the Jekyll Island Club operated during the winter month, aka Club Season. The club roster consisted of the most wealthy families in America, like the Rockefellers,  Vanderbilts, and Morgans. All winter long, the families would gather in rolling parties, creating powerful alliances, strategic marriages, and countless backroom deals. Two of the most historical events at the Jekyll Island Club were the first transcontinental phone call (along with San Francisco and New York) and the secret meetings to form the Federal Reserve.

During WWII, the club fell into disrepair and ultimately disbanded. In 1947, Governor Melvin E. Thompson gained control of the island for the good of the people of Georgia. The artifacts and furniture from the wealthy homes disappeared, and between mismanagement and human rights complaints about the use of convict labor, the project was a complete failure.

In the mid-eighties, a project began to preserve the history by promoting tourism.  Today, the former Club grounds comprise a 240-acre site with 34 historic structures. The Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark, one of the largest ongoing restoration projects in the southeastern United States, maintains the 240-acre former Club grounds 240-acre with 34 historic structures. Most of these structures were the winter mansions of the club members.

Visitors today can enter the island for an $8 fee, which gives them access to the historic district. However, a trip to Jekyll Island can be so much more. You can dine in the historic grand dining room or stay as a guest at the Club House or one of several cottages. The Jekyll Island Museum offers a guided tour including entrance to several of the historic structures. Another great way to see Jekyll Island is by bike. There are over 20-miles of  Jekyll Island bike trails  all through the historic district, as well as the natural areas, which inspired the club’s formation in the first place.

Contributed by Jenn and Ed of Coleman Concierge. Follow along with their adventures on Instagram !

Newport Rhode Island Gilded-Age Mansions

The Gilded Age historical mansions in Newport were built as lavish summer “cottages” in the late 1800s to early 1900s by some of the wealthiest Americans. Families like railroad tycoons, the Vanderbilts designed their 70-room “Breakers” mansion in 1893 with fixtures, furniture, art, and décor from around the world. Ten of these historical sites have been lovingly preserved and are open to the public. They’re all near each other, and many overlook the Atlantic Ocean. When you visit, you’ll see a snapshot of life in the Gilded Age when the upper class went to great lengths to create extravagant displays of wealth. If you take a servant-life tour, you’ll also see the stark contrast between the wealthy owners and the servants that lived, worked and depended on them to survive.

Whatever your interests, you’ll find a variety of tours, exhibits and events covering architecture, landscapes, social life, fashion, design, fine arts, and history at the Newport Mansions. You can purchase tickets online or at any of the homes. Adult tickets start at $18 for 1 property and go up from there, depending on which property or tours and how many you’d like to visit. Allow a minimum of 1 to 2 hours for each one, to enjoy the home tour, grounds and gift shop. Most of the houses are in the Bellevue Avenue-Ochre Point neighborhood of Newport.

Tips: The operating schedule for each house varies seasonally, so plan ahead and check the website to see which homes, tours and hours are available. If you love Christmas, then late November through January 1st is the perfect time to visit and see the homes lit up and decked out in their holiday glitter.

Find out more about Newport Mansions here .

Contributed by Nancy Hann. Follow Nancy Hann at Traveling with Purpose on Instagram

The Museum at Eldridge Street

There is no better place to explore the Jewish history of New York City than the Museum at Eldridge Street! The museum is housed in the historic Eldridge Street Synagogue, one of NYC’s most stunning cultural and historical landmarks. Eldridge opened in 1887 as the first grand synagogue built by the Eastern European Jewish community in the United States. Now, over 125 years later, the museum shares the story of the millions of Jewish immigrants who moved to New York in search of a better life and new opportunities in a new land. Eldridge offers guided tours starting hourly. The guides are true subject matter experts and many actually have a personal connection to the museum or neighborhood! Even better: the tour is already included in the admission price! 

On the ground floor of the museum is a small permanent exhibit and digital tables showcasing the building’s history and an introduction to Jewish beliefs and practices. More than just a history museum, Eldridge is truly an architectural masterpiece. Walk into the main sanctuary and take a step back in time to the turn of the 20th century. Meticulously restored walls painted in a trompe l’oeil marble design, original pine floorboards and even stained glass windows that the NY Times have described as ‘gasp-inducing’. The star of Eldridge Street is actually one of the newest additions to space: the contemporary stained glass window designed by artist Kiki Smith and architect Deborah Gans. Like the dynamic nature of New York’s ever-changing cityscape, the vibrance of this window reminds us that even historic sites like Eldridge are still alive and vivacious over 100 years later! If you’re on a budget,  Mondays are ‘Pay As You Wish’. Visitors of all backgrounds and faiths are welcomed with open arms, and visiting is a great opportunity to learn more about Jewish practice and synagogue architecture. Note the museum is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Check the website before planning your visit. 

Adults: $15

Students & Seniors: $10

Children 5-17: $8 (under 5 are free) 

Contributed by Courtney of Courtney in the Middle Seat

Fort Jefferson, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote National Parks in the US. It is located around 80 miles southwest of Key West, Florida.

Within the Dry Tortugas National Park lies an imposing Fort Jefferson, one of the most strategic fortress to defend the United States of America. Its location was chosen to protect both the Gulf of Mexico and Straits of Florida from approaching enemies ships. Even though it has never seen a battle, Fort Jefferson has assisted many ship routes, including the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Construction started in 1846 for the next thirty years with bricks brought from both sides of the US during the Civil War. Upon completion, Fort Jefferson holds the title of the largest brick masonry structure in the Americas.

You can join in the complimentary guided tour of Fort Jefferson, led by the Parks Ranger. Or, if you opt to enjoy the natural beauty of Dry Tortugas, you can do some popular water and beach activities, including snorkeling in some of the most pristine environments Florida can offer.

There are only two common ways  to get to Dry Tortugas National Park  from Key West. Fly with a seaplane costs around $356-625 roundtrip, or the most popular one with a Yankee Freedom III ferry for $180. Both will require you at least half a day to do.

Contributed by Halef and Michael of Around the World Guys. Check out their adventures on their Youtube Channel !

Are you ready to plan your trip to some amazing historical sites on the East Coast?

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Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

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North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

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Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

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View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

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More From Forbes

Your history: heritage tourism is poised to take off this summer.

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Now that the pandemic is almost history, travelers are poised to discover their own. After two years of being locked down and quarantined, Americans are embarking on ambitious trips to discover history — and it's taking them to some remarkable places.

A survey by Priceline predicts a banner year for historical tourism, also called heritage tourism. If you've ever traveled anywhere to experience artifacts and activities representing the stories and people of the past and present, then congratulations — you're a heritage tourist. (And by the way, that's the textbook definition given to heritage tourism by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, an independent federal agency.)

One-third of Americans say heritage travel is a meaningful way to travel, according to Priceline. Interestingly, the younger crowd (18-34 years old) shows the highest interest in heritage tourism this year.

I've met many of them in the last few weeks as the tourism season gets underway in Europe. I'm traveling through Turkey in April and I'll be in Greece next month, both known for their rich histories.

The Forbidden City in Beijing, the most visited historical attraction in the world.

Here are a few examples of historical tourism

If you've ever been to a place that deepens your understanding of world history, then you've been a heritage traveler.

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• The most visited historical site is the Forbidden City in Beijing. It attracted close to 20 million visitors in 2019, the last normal year for tourism. The remnants of Covid could threaten its top spot in 2022. The Palace of Versailles comes in second (8 million annual visits), followed by the Lincoln Memorial and Rome's Colosseum. Both received slightly less than 8 million yearly visitors.
• People visit historical sites for different reasons. If you're a spiritual or faith-based tourist, you might look to other famous historical sites. The holy city of Mecca is considered the number one destination for faith tourists (20 million annual visitors). Also on the list is the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India, Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica in Mexico City, and the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Istanbul. I'll be exploring faith-based tourism in a future story.
• Every country has its own list of top destinations for heritage travel, some of which are not as well known. In Turkey, they include awe-inspiring places such as Nemrut Dag and its five enormous limestone statues created by King Antiochos in the late Hellenistic period, as well as Cappadocia's underground cities, the subterranean shelters where the natives hid from the merciless Hittite invaders.

If you want more than sun and fun on your next getaway, you can find a quick list of the best historical tourism sites by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage List . Of course, there are many more sites worth seeing, but this list is one of the best starting points.

Ancient Lycean tombs along the Dalyan Çayı River in Dalyan, Turkey.

Historical destinations are bracing for more visitors this summer

Although places of interest for heritage tourism are everywhere, some areas — especially Turkey — are experiencing a particular surge in demand.

At the Dalyan Resort & Spa Hotel , for example, history frames your entire experience. From the banks of the Dalyan Çayı River, visitors can see the famous Lycian Rock Tombs. These impressive facades, built in the 4th century, are all that remain of a once-thriving civilization. Fulya and Yucel Okutur, the resort's owners, say the region has attracted an increasing number of history enthusiasts who charter boats to sail down the curving river and take pictures of the crumbling rock facades.

Olympos Lodge , a boutique hotel on the Mediterranean coast, is also a stone's throw from Mt. Olympos, another Lycian city. Co-owner Ayşen Özkan Şimşek says the pandemic has given visitors an opportunity to consider a deeper meaning behind travel, so visiting a place that has a rich history makes it all the more appealing. Properties like Olympos Lodge tend to get a fair number of visitors from Eastern Europe, but with the war going on, she says Western Europe and North America are picking up the slack this summer.

In Antalya, the Tuvana Hotel is also in the right place at the right time. Its location, in the central district of Kaleiçi, puts guests within walking distance of the city's main historical attractions. These include the famous Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque, the ancient harbor and Hadrian's Gate, according to Nermin Tankut, who manages the Ottoman-style boutique hotel.

"People are looking for an experience," she says. "They want to take a walking tour and see the gates — but they are also looking for more from their vacation."

The restored amphitheater in Aspendos, an ancient Greco-Roman city in Turkey's Antalya province.

Is this the summer for a heritage tour?

If you haven't booked your summer vacation yet, and are looking for a heritage vacation, there's still time, although you're cutting it close. International airfares are still down from 2019 levels — they were 19 percent below pre-pandemic levels during spring break — but some destinations have more than bounced back. The average roundtrip economy class airline ticket to Italy costs over $1,300. Maybe the Colosseum can wait until the summer of 2023.

Airlines are scrambling to meet demand. European airlines, eager to serve hot Turkish Riviera destinations like Antalya, haven't been able to find enough staff to add new flights, according to tourism insiders. Turkish Airlines will operate 388 direct weekly flights to 47 cities in 29 countries from Antalya, Dalaman, Bodrum-Milas and İzmir, according to the carrier.

For all the interest in heritage tourism, there's still plenty of room for more visitors. But it depends where you want to go. Ali Şafak Öztürk, president of Regnum Carya Golf & Spa Resort , an all-inclusive resort in Antalya, recalls a recent conversation with director Guy Ritchie, who was visiting his property to make the upcoming movie Operation Fortune . Ritchie, like many visitors, was captivated by the ancient city of Aspendos, with its well-preserved Roman amphitheater. "He was saying that it's so beautiful and we have so much history, but it's not well known," he says.

That's the dilemma faced by destinations with historical attractions. If you improve marketing, you risk being overrun by visitors. For now, properties like Regnum are happy to have their guests stay there for the golf and take a day tour of the Roman ruins. But what if they all came for the history? That would fundamentally change the way these historical destinations operate.

Pelin Tanca, the co-founder of TAY Istanbul , a travel and event management company, says historical tourism is more complicated than it looks. Most visitors come with more than one thing on their to-do list. They're here for a destination wedding and they want to see the Roman ruins. Or they want to play nine holes and then see Hadrian's Gate. Pulling that off takes some expertise.

"Within the same trip, you can hike on The Lycian Way, visit ancient ruins, taste delicacies, and at the end, lie on the beach," she says.

What if you want to do a historical tour this summer?

Find a qualified travel advisor. You'll probably need an expert to help you plan a heritage vacation. Check the American Society of Travel Advisors site and look for someone who specializes in the destination you plan to visit.

Consider a tour. Historical tours are difficult to plan and execute. There are so many moving parts, and there are often language barriers. A tour operator can help you cut through that, and you might also get a better deal since tour operators buy their trip components in bulk. You can find a list of vetted tour operators at the United States Tour Operators Association site.

Get a guide. If you don't join a tour, then at least consider hiring a professional guide. You can stroll around the ruins on your own and Google every site, but you're better off finding someone who can show you around. That's particularly true for sites that could be dangerous, with rock outcroppings or cliffs. You can check Viator or Getyourguide for details. But find a pro. Seriously.

One thing is clear: The summer of 2022 will be one for historical discovery. And for many Americans, it isn't a question of if they will take a heritage tour in the coming months, but which one.

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Why Heritage Tourism Is More Popular Than Ever

In the years before every waking moment of our lives was documented online, knowledge of our ancestors was far more limited, with stories of one's heritage more often reserved to the confines of family lore. But now, today's access to technology is actually increasing our curiosity about the past—and making it easier than ever to physically retrace our heritage in destinations around the world.

For some travelers, turning to their family tree for inspiration has become the latest—and most interesting—way to plan a trip. And while the idea of traveling to investigate your legacy and culture isn’t exactly something new, there are more tools now to make it a reality. “Once pegged as the stereotypical Irish Americans pursing their lips to kiss the Blarney Stone, Americans are spreading far and wide to experience their cultural and spiritual roots and catalyzing the rise of operators, agencies, and guides dedicated to this segment,” Christina Tunnah, Regional Manager for the Americas at World Nomads , told Condé Nast Traveler .

She added, “Not just for the bucket list boomer crowd, this theme serves as a significant thread of self-discovery amongst millennials who choose to study abroad and become digital nomads in places where they have a tendril of familial connection in search of generational sense of self.”

The rise in popularity of family genealogy as a TV genre (TLC’s Who Do You Think You Are , PBS’ Finding Your Roots and Genealogy Roadshow , and CNN’s Roots ) has helped spark this interest in family history, with people taking advantage of genealogy research via sites like Ancestry.com and even DNA testing companies like 23andme and National Geographic’s Genographic project. In fact, according to a multi-country study done by Ancestry.com in November 2014, online family history research in the U.S. has grown fourteen-fold in the past decade.

Kesha Robertson, 30, an Amsterdam-based blogger, told Traveler her reasons for visiting Slovakia. “I was always enchanted by my grandfather. There was no one else I knew quite like him. I grew up in New Zealand, a world away from Europe,” she said. “I was the only person I knew with Slovakian heritage. It seemed like such an exotic faraway place, I couldn't even fathom what it would be like. The lure to go there was always strong, it was like the piece of a puzzle I needed to put in place.”

In particular, destinations with large diaspora populations in the U.S., such as Ireland, Italy, and China, have seen an uptick in visitors looking to connect with their ancestral homes directly, according to World Nomad. Whole countries like Scotland have fully embraced this concept calling 2017 the Year of History, Heritage, and Archaeology, encouraging visitors to uncover their Scottish roots all the way back to the Neolithic era.

Touring companies are seeing a boom as well. Audley Travel revealed to Traveler that they've been getting increased requests for custom itineraries exploring family ties to different destinations. In particular, they've worked with a lot of second generation Japanese Americans heading back to Japan, especially to Okinawa . And World Nomads just partnered with Ancestry.com to offer one winner (and a guest) the opportunity to trace their family history and take a trip to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors with their Relative Distance campaign .

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is launching a Jewish Heritage cruise down the Danube later this year with stops in Wertheim, Germany (pictured).

So, how can you take advantage of this growing trend and embark on a journey of your own? Here are some tips.

1. Do some research beforehand

Don’t get overwhelmed at the daunting prospect of having to tackle a tidal wave of family information, archives, photos, or talks with your immediate and extended family members (though it helps to have that all as a starting point). At a most basic level, a little bit of search engine snooping can identify the basics: country, province/state and towns where you know for a fact you have a connection.

Assemble maiden names of parents and grandparents and search on maps for any street names that may have the family name, you’d be surprised at what you find. For more robust family tracing, you can pay for more access to records on sites like Ancestry.com, or join the National Geographic’s Genographic project where you have the option to be connected with people who share your DNA and family name.

2. Rent a car and make your own itinerary

It’s best for adventures like this to build out spots where you want to stop and rent a car to visit on your own time. It allows you to detour and take as much time as you need in any particular destination. Historical societies of that town are a great source as well, so set up an appointment or set aside a few hours to rummage through the artifacts. Also, try to book through Airbnb or local lodges as much as possible. This gives another opportunity to meet locals who may offer some insight into your family background.

3. Or use a tour company for a more general background

If you’re not so focused on the details of your family history, but would rather have a deeper understanding of your heritage, then consider a themed tour. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is launching its  Jewish Heritage themed cruises in May, where guests will travel from Munich to Cologne, passing through Dachau, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Wertheim, towns and cities renowned for their centuries-old Jewish legacy. Andy Fraser, the Tartan Butler at The Balmoral , helps guests with ancestral ties to Scotland trace their heritage during their stay by chatting with the city’s foremost experts before your arrival. And those who have traced their roots to South Africa can explore them in-depth on South African Airways Vacations’ 12-Day Cultural Roots of South Africa tour , which visits Johannesburg and KwaZulu-Natal Province, where Durban (home to the largest Indian population outside of India) is situated.

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Excellent way to tour the 5 stans. The guides were good (Hamid in Tajikistan and Nazghul in Kyrgyzstan were the best!), things were well organized, and we even got to visit some extra sights in Tajikistan. I do have two suggestions: 1- Replace the extra day in Bukhara with an extra day in Kazakhstan. We decided to go on our own visit kazakhstan before this trip, and i'm glad we did, as one day in Almaty feels almost like a crime for such a beautiful country (my favorite from the 5). I understand it is impossible to include it in this tour as kazakhstan is huge, but the extra day in Bukhara was pretty much useless (we visit Chor Minor and then just "commercial breaks" - guide trying to sell stuff from random shops - and ended up the day before lunch), so i do feel (and the rest of the group did as well) that the day could be used in Kazakhstan to visit, for example, Kolsai lakes or/and charyn canyon, which we did - on our own, before the trip - and truly recommend. If not, for anyone reading this: go to Kazakhstan on your own before/after the trip if you want to really see the 5 stans. It REALLY worths it! 2- Have one single guide for Uzbekistan. I know this one might be impossible, since we leave to turkmenistan in Bukhara and return far away in Khiva, but reason for this suggestion is that the city guides were the least good among all of country guides, and i believe is because on the other countries, since the guides were with us multiple days, we would connect more and end up knowing stories not just about history but about "how is is living there" and other interesting facts that made us love the guides we had. In any case, in summary, it was a very good trip and well organized, so thank you Odil!

This tour is a great way to see all the main sites in a short time. The guides were very knowledgeable and our driver Rajat was friendly and drove safely! The only thing that would have improved this tour would be information on what to do at night. We felt like the driver dropped us off each day after site seeing and then it was up to us to work out where to eat etc. Aahil was great with recommendations though when we did ask.

I could not have wished for a better experience. Senol from Turkey Tours could not have been more helpful. He attended to every detail and checked in to ensure everything had gon

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USA TODAY 10Best

Wallet-friendly wonders: 10 best free attractions in the US

Best Free Attraction (2024) June 26, 2024

When you visit one of these 10 free attractions — selected by a panel of travel experts and voted by readers as the best in the U.S. — you can save big travel budget bucks for other things. Even though they come at no cost, in each case, you get way, way more than you pay for.

No. 10: Independence National Historical Park - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Enjoy a visit to Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, where you can learn about the history of the American Revolution and the nation's founding. It includes iconic landmarks, such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, as well as the Liberty Bell.

No. 9: Freedom Trail - Boston, Massachusetts

Starting at the Boston Common, but easily picked up at any point along the way, the Freedom Trail offers historical insight into the city and its surroundings. Easy to hop on and off, the Freedom Trail weaves throughout the city and highlights some of Boston's most special places, including Park Street Church, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution.

No. 8: Great Smoky Mountains National Park - North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, and there are many free things to do within this massive, preserved space that spans the North Carolina-Tennessee border. Cades Cove is one of its most popular places to visit with its abundant wildlife and historical buildings. Biking and hiking trails lead to scenic marvels across the Smokies, and picnic pavilions and campsites can be found throughout much of the park.

No. 7: National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center - Columbus, Georgia

At the National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center, guests start their visit by walking through "The Last 100 Yards" exhibit that depicts significant battles throughout the Infantry's history. Beyond that, the Infantry's history is divided into galleries covering different eras, from the Revolutionary War through today. 

No. 6: JC Raulston Arboretum - Raleigh, North Carolina

The JC Raulston Arboretum welcomes visitors to come stroll through the grounds, learning about flora on display that's specifically adapted for use throughout the Southeast. Visitors can also take part in the many events and educational programming offered to explore more about gardening and plants. 

No. 5: Golden Gate Bridge - San Francisco, California

Easily recognizable to many people as the symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is a historically significant suspension bridge across the Golden Gate, the strait that connects the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It’s between Golden Gate National Recreational Area and Golden Gate Park — both great for outdoors lovers — and no visit to the Golden City is complete without crossing the bridge.

No. 4: U.S. Mint Philadelphia - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

At the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, visitors can learn the history of the nation's coins through a 45-minute, self-guided tour. During the tour, you can see the first coining press from 1792, meet Peter the Mint Eagle (a real bald eagle!), and watch the coining operations in progress. 

No. 3: Cape May County Park & Zoo - Cape May Court House, New Jersey

At Cape May County Park and Zoo, you can check out your favorite animals including giraffes, zebras, lemurs, and many more. Check out the zoo's calendar for a full schedule of year-round events to enhance your visit. Both admission and parking are free.

No. 2: TECO Manatee Viewing Center - Apollo Beach, Florida

Situated in Apollo Beach, Florida, the TECO Manatee Viewing Center is a protected marine sanctuary that offers visitors the rare opportunity to see manatees up close. You can also enjoy beautiful butterfly gardens, an impressive observation tower, a boardwalk, and walking trails. The park is open seasonally, from November to April.

No. 1: Loggerhead Marinelife Center - Juno Beach, Florida

Situated in Juno Beach, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center is focused on ocean and sea turtle conservation, and it’s free and open to the public each day. Since the goal is to rescue and return wildlife to their natural habitats, the number of resident sea turtles will vary when people visit. Additionally, there are plenty of other sea creatures to observe, and volunteers are helpful and willing to answer questions from visitors.

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Cheryl rodewig.

Cheryl Rodewig is an award-winning journalist...   Read More

Cheryl Rodewig is an award-winning journalist specializing in travel. When she’s not planning her next trip — preferably to a waterfall or garden — she’s putting her MBA to use crafting marketing stories for brands. You can read her words in Thrillist, AARP, USA Today, Insider, The Guardian, and all over  cherylrodewig.com . She loves it when people reach out on  Twitter  and sometimes  Instagram .

Imani Bashir

Imani Bashir is a travel journalist who has lived...   Read More

Imani Bashir is a travel journalist who has lived in five countries across four continents. Her work has been in major magazines and focuses on destinations, culture, family, and accommodations.

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Larissa Milne

Larissa Milne has been traveling the world...   Read More

Larissa Milne has been traveling the world full-time with her husband Michael since 2011 in search of historic and quirky spots around the world and to date has visited nearly 80 countries and all 50 states. She's passionate about food and can often be found seeking out local flavors at a destination--whether it's a fancy restaurant, local market or the best hot dog stand. Learn more about the Milnes' global adventures on their award-winning travel blog, Changes In Longitude  and their recommendations on Arizona at Arizona Journey . 

Melissa Curtin

Melisa Curtin is a travel and food writer who has...   Read More

Melisa Curtin is a travel and food writer who has documented her globetrotting adventures for over a decade. A Connecticut girl madly in love with California, her work has appeared in Lonely Planet, LA Weekly, Canadian Traveler, AAA, Roadtrippers, JohnnyJet, Travel Awaits, and many southern California print publications. Melissa is always on the hunt for the best local bites and destinations with few tourists, splitting her non-travel time between Malibu and Palm Springs with her husband and ever-growing collection of plants.    Traveling around the world at age 20 on Semester at Sea sparked Melissa's desire for learning about other cultures. As a 20+ year educator and new travel advisor with Fora, she inspires others to reach their goals and pursue their travel dreams. Some of her recent favorite jaunts include a Viking river cruise from Paris to Normandy with her mom, truffle hunting in Tuscany, and eating her way through Florence. Get to know the Best of L.A. and California by checking out her website  LaLaScoop.com  or following the @lalascoop on Instagram .

Skye Rodgers

Skye Rodgers is a seasoned travel writer who fell...   Read More

Skye Rodgers is a seasoned travel writer who fell in love with Tampa, Florida over a decade ago and has since made it her home base. Originally from Canada, Skye traded snowy winters for sunny beaches and now enjoys sharing her adventures with readers worldwide. Whether she's uncovering hidden gems in Tampa Bay or jetting off to exotic destinations, Skye's passion for exploration shines through in her engaging travel narratives. Follow her journeys and discover the best of Tampa and beyond on her Facebook page @BestofTampa.

Wendy O'Dea

Born and raised in western New York, Wendy O'Dea ...   Read More

Born and raised in western New York, Wendy O'Dea moved to L.A. to attend the USC graduate School of Journalism and stayed for the innovative and creative lifestyle the city offers. Other than the traffic, there's not much about California she doesn't love. You can track her gallivanting ways on Instagram via @WendyTravels . 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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How to spend a day in Barcelona, from artisan shops to tapas bars

The capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is hardly a city you can experience in one day, but this action-packed itinerary provides an introduction to the variety of activities on offer — a taster that will keep you coming back for more.

When it comes to the visitor experience, Barcelona runs the full gamut. This Spanish icon has some of the country’s most important cultural centres and fabled architecture; access to hilltop views and beaches alike; and a culinary scene that straddles the inventive and the traditional. Here’s an itinerary for a day that takes in a bit of it all — from an early-morning hike to a visit to an art museum, and from sunset by the Mediterranean to a mandatory tapas dinner.

8am: Morning hike up Mount Tibidabo

On the ungroomed slopes of the nearby Pyrenees, skiers talk of earning their turns; in Barcelona the same might be true of cocktails. Blow the cobwebs off the previous night’s indulgence, and set yourself up for another day of the same, with an invigorating, hour-long hike along the trails threaded through the foothills of Mount Tibidabo, which overlooks the city. Your target is the summit church, set, incongruously, amid a retro funfair. Depart on the trail that starts at the Tibidabo Funicular base station, then ride the train back to your starting point.

10am: A mooch in the art museum

With its hillside perch on the flanks of Montjuïc hill, grand sweep of steps, and domes and towers inspired by St Peter’s in the Vatican and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya isn’t exactly a model of restraint. That exuberance extends to a collection of (mostly Catalan) art as dazzling as an Iberian sunset. Fortify yourself with a tallat (espresso with a splash of steamed milk) in the cafe tucked in one corner of its vast Sala Oval banqueting space.

12.30pm: Drinks and a bite by the pool

So galvanising was the 1992 Olympics for the city, you’ll still hear it spoken of fondly to this day. The seminal images of the games were divers twisting and piking high above the skyline from the purpose-built facilities on Montjuïc . The site has morphed into an informal open-air bar with a loyal local following. Grab a sangria or Aperol spritz, order a walnut and goat’s cheese salad or jamón ibérico sandwich and take your place in the banked seats from which the crowds once cheered. The two pools below open during the summer.

3pm: Dive into the Gothic Quarter

Fanning out from the 13th-century Catedral de Barcelona and corralled by the thoroughfares of La Rambla and Via Laietana, the Barri Gòtic is an endlessly browsable maze of artisan shops, craft boutiques and indie clothing stores. Narrow lanes and high footfall rule out anything more rushed than museum pace. Search out Sombrerería Obach , a century-old, family-run hat shop specialising in fedoras and traditional Catalan barretinas; and, of 1941 vintage, Granja Dulcinea chocolate shop.

4pm: Coffee in Plaça Neri

If the frenzy gets too much, retreat to Plaça de Sant Felip Neri. It’s an atmospheric little square (more of a trapezoid, in fact), with a central fountain sheltered by a towering rosewood, and an eponymous church whose facade is pockmarked by blast damage from the Fascist bombing raids of the 1930s. Dip into the thick-stoned cool of the Hotel Neri , order a coffee and ask to take it on the compact roof terrace among the terracotta pots and banana plants.

5pm: Hit the beach

It may not feel like it when you’re deep in the Gothic Quarter but one of Europe’s great urban seafronts is just a gargoyle’s spit away. Early evening it’s at its best, as the sun retreats behind Montjuïc and beachgoers disperse. It’s a stroll of a little over a mile along the expansive promenade from the sail-shaped W Hotel at one end to Frank Gehry’s 115ft-high, iridescent Peix (fish) sculpture at the other. The route traces the full expanse of Playa de la Barceloneta, which is studded with wood-framed chiringuito beach bars.

7pm: Tapas at Quimet & Quimet

Behind triple-height crimson doors on a quiet lane a short walk from the centre of the lively neighbourhood of Poble-sec, this is the city’s most sought-after tapas bar. It’s standing-room only in a high-ceilinged room decoratd wall-to-wall with wine and vermouth bottles. The faux bickering between sixth-generation brother and sister Quimet and Neus is a delight, as are the heaped montaditos (open sandwiches); salmon, yoghurt and honey is the pick.

9.30pm: Cocktails at the Nobu

Nul points for nominative inspiration, but Rooftop — set on the 24th floor of the Nobu Hotel in western Eixample — can lay claim to being the city’s loftiest bar. It’s possibly its coolest, too, with soft-lit, low-slung tables, four-poster day-beds and panoramic views stretching from mountain to Med. A signature jalapeño and ginger martini is the best way to round off your day. Check in to one of the hotel’s 259 elegant rooms and suites, and you can return the following morning for a wallow in that inviting pool.

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You Can Save 30 Minutes at the Airport With This Simple Change, According to a United Executive

Plus other ways to prepare for July 4th weekend.

Courtesy of United Airlines

United Airlines recently revealed a prediction that this will be their busiest Fourth of July weekend ever, as more than 5 million people will fly with over 4,400 flights per day. In order to make things run smoothly for the millions of passengers, United's Chief Customer Officer Linda Jojo has been hard at work. The executive, who has been at United nearly a decade with previous roles leading Digital and Technology, recently spoke with Travel + Leisure about the airline's busiest season so far, and tips for travelers.  The busiest locations that United will be flying to include Orlando (MCO), London (LHR), Seattle (SEA), Honolulu (HNL), and Boston (BOS). The busiest travel days for United over the holiday week are June 29, 2024 and July 7, 2024. For travelers still looking for a last-minute dea l this Fourth of July weekend, T+L spotted discounted flights from United’s Newark hub to Boston for $337, Nashville for $364, and Austin for $490. Travelers can also fly from  Chicago to Philly for $296.  With millions of travelers packing planes and airports, Jojo shared some of her top tips to make travel smooth and efficient: 

Update Your App and Use Live Activities

While many expert travelers always download an airline’s app, Jojo shared some tips to help make the experience even better.  “If there is some type of a disruption, we've had all kinds of thunderstorms this past weekend, you really want to have the app, and you want to have the latest version. And, you want to enable Live Activities. If you've got an Apple iPhone, this puts a dynamic island right on your screen,” Jojo says. The live activities feature a countdown clock until the boarding time, seat, and gate information in a real-time view.  The airline recently updated their app to include new features such as turn-by-turn navigation inside of the airport to get travelers through the airport sooner. Jojo shared that the technology team at United has become energized to find ways to make the app help minimize anytime a passenger spends in the airport, and that the app saves travelers 30 minutes per airport trip versus non-app users. One example: the airline estimates people can save 5-7 minutes if they use baggage shortcut instead of waiting in the normal checked bag line.

Start Checking The Weather 2 Days In Advance, Monitor Any Traffic or Construction Delays

The airline says they are doing everything it can to keep passengers moving with things they can control, there are several things that aren’t so easy to control which can snarl travel plans - such as weather and traffic.  Jojo encourages all passengers to closely monitor the weather several days in advance of a flight’s departure, and also any changes in road conditions or traffic closures. Many airports received $1 billion for critical infrastructure upgrades in 2023, and those projects are kicking off construction or underway, which could delay traffic in and around the airport. For example, Seattle's SeaTac airport currently has `120 projects underway and has shared that travelers may see traffic jams or delays during peak times.  “If you haven’t been to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) for a while, be prepared to see things you haven’t seen before. Construction is noticeable with 120 projects underway as part of Upgrade SEA, which is investing $5 billion over the next five years,” the Port of Seattle shared in a release . 

Be On The Lookout for "Line Busters"

United will also increase the amount of "line busting," where United staff members will quickly go through the line to see if they can help troubleshoot customer problems before they even get to a counter, to make lines move quickly. Jojo revealed that many of the customer problems can be quickly solved in the app without seeing an agent.  "We actually line bust - we go in the line and ask you why you are there, and often times they don't realize that the information is in the app, we show them, and off they go," Jojo shared about the experience.  For Jojo, she'll be spending the Fourth of July in the Adirondacks region in Upstate New York. The executive says she’ll be flying United, and allowing for plenty of time to make her flight. 

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