Travel Through Time: US Historic Sites You Can’t Miss

The United States of America is one of the youngest countries in the world, but it’s full of incredible historic sites that you should visit with your family.

Understanding history is an important part of ensuring we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past and find ways to build on the victories of our ancestors. A fantastic way to help the next generation understand history and what took place at different locations is to visit some of the many historic sites strewn across this great nation. Although the USA doesn’t have the longevity of Europe, Asia, or the Middle East, there are many great places to take your kids to teach them about the country’s history.

The Alamo (San Antonio, Texas)

The 1836 Battle of the Alamo represents one of the many failures in American history. A small force of Texas independence fighters held off the large forces of the Mexican Army for thirteen days but was eventually overwhelmed by the larger force. The Alamo stands tall as one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the area, with options for guided and self-guided tours of the mission to learn about the events that took place on the grounds.

American Civil War Museum (Richmond, Virginia)

One of the most tragic events in American history was the Civil War. During this war, brothers killed brothers and fought on either side of the line, with the North battling the South. One of the best historic sites to visit to learn about this war is the American Civil War Museum in Richmond. This is where you can learn about the war from all sides of the battle and hear voices from soldiers who wore both Confederate and Union garb.

Bunker Hill Monument (Charlestown, Massachusetts)

The Bunker Hill Monument actually stands on Breed’s Hill, which is where the Battle of Bunker Hill took place. This is one of the first monuments in the United States, and it’s where you can learn about the British victory that took place on this hill. Although a win for the British, it was costly and became a major turning point for the colonies during the Revolutionary War. Visitors can learn about the muskets used by soldiers during this battle.

Colonial Williamsburg (Williamsburg, Virginia)

If you want to experience a living history, then you’ve got to visit Colonial Williamsburg. This is one of the best historic sites in the country and has become a tourist attraction where you can learn about the life and times of the people who lived in this city during colonial times. Some of the buildings date back to the 18th century, giving you a peak back in time to enjoy the simplicity of life before much of the technology we have today was ever created.

Ellis Island (New York City, New York)

Many Americans can trace their ancestry back to Ellis Island, where many immigrants entered the country between 1892 and 1924. During this time, more than 12 million people were processed through Ellis Island and then became Americans. Today, this site is a museum where you can see the names that were logged in. Many have visited the American Family Immigration History Center and found ancestral names that came into the country at this location. It’s pretty amazing to think of how many people are here today because their ancestors came through Ellis Island.

Freedom Trail (Boston, Massachusetts)

Boston is home to many of the most incredible historic sites in the country and where many events that shaped our country took place. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile path across downtown Boston, which takes you to many historical locations. Along this path, you’ll see the Old South Meeting House, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, the USS Constitution, and burial locations of many of the most famous people in American history, including Samuel Adams and Paul Revere.

Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)

The Battle of Gettysburg was one of the bloodiest battles of the entire Civil War. This is where the Union Army repealed a Confederate invasion but where more Americans died than in several other battles combined. This is also the site where President Lincoln gave his famous Gettysburg Address in tribute to those who fell during this battle. Every weekend from April to October, demonstrations are performed across the park to show how the people lived and fought during Civil War times.

These seven historic sites are just a few of the places you could take your family to give them a better understanding and appreciation of our nation’s history. Which one is at the top of your list?