New York State offers an abundance of fascinating history that awaits discovery, from world-class museums and historic homes to the site where World Trade Center collapsed – there’s much to take in!
Start your tour at Independence National Historical Park to view the Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross House where Betsy reportedly created the original American flag.
1. Independence Hall
As the birthplace of American government, this modest early 18th-century Georgian building is widely considered the “birthplace”. Delegates convened here for debate and approval of both the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution – both approved by Congress Hall. Furthermore, from 1790-1800 both bodies met here regularly for meetings of their respective legislative chambers.
Visit the Assembly Room inside this building, where original copies of both the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution can be seen. Tours are available, while you can also see the Liberty Bell in its modern pavilion nearby.
2. Colonial Williamsburg
Enjoy exploring this meticulously restored 18th century town and experience history come to life! Play justice or witness at the courthouse while learning more about early American trades at Public Armory and Magazine.
Visitors to Williamsburg can also experience more complex aspects of American history through educational programs that explore women, African Americans and slavery; however, no clear explanation of Williamsburg’s role in the American Revolution exists within its historic district.
3. Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is an iconic symbol of American freedom that attracts millions of visitors each year. Situated in South Dakota’s Black Hills, this landmark pays homage to four presidents–George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln–for their contributions towards shaping and protecting America.
Mount Rushmore boasts more than just 60-foot sculptures; there’s also a Hall of Records and other activities awaiting visitors, from hidden chambers and optical illusions to even an unexpected secret about Elvis himself! Don’t miss this chance for fun at Mount Rushmore!
4. Gettysburg
Gettysburg is one of the nation’s premier historic destinations, offering state-of-the-art museums and tours of its magnificent battlefield. Culture that can’t be found elsewhere abounds here as well; one such highlight is Shriver House Museum which takes visitors back in time to the 1860s by showcasing artifacts like Civil War bullets as well as furniture that belonged to one family from that era.
Explore the three-day Battle of Gettysburg through this iconic attraction’s 11 galleries and theaters, then stop by Gettysburg’s Beyond the Battle Museum to complete your experience.
5. Washington’s Headquarters
Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site, commonly referred to as Hasbrouck House in Newburgh, was acquired by the state of New York in 1850 and became its inaugural publicly operated historic site. From April to August 1783, General George Washington used this fieldstone farmhouse as his military HQ from April to August.
Explore full-scale replicas of sleeping marquee, dining tent and baggage tent. Don’t miss visiting the museum building constructed in 1910 for further historical insights!
6. Saratoga National Historical Park
The park features the sites of two pivotal battles that helped America secure independence. Take an auto tour or self-guided walk of the battlefield before visiting the Saratoga Monument – an obelisk standing at 155 feet to commemorate America’s victory!
The Schuyler House served as General Philip Schuyler’s residence both before and after the Battle of Saratoga. A short stroll north leads to Victory Woods where John Burgoyne surrendered in 1777.
7. Thomas Cole National Historic Site
Discover Thomas Cole, the 19th-century landscape artist whose paintings helped launch America’s first major art movement. Enjoy changing exhibitions of his works, guided tours of his generous 1815 home and studio, breathtaking Catskill Mountain views and an extensive museum collection.
View new innovative art installations, explore the grounds, and step inside 1839 Old Studio where Cole painted with his original paint box and easels.
8. George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, the estate owned by George Washington and home to over one million visitors annually, stands as America’s most visited historic estate and serves as a testament to Washington’s legacy as Surveyor, Revolutionary War General and President.
Visit this mansion filled with original furnishings. A gallery employs futuristic forensics to produce wax models of George Washington at three distinct ages. An education center documents his life and legacy.
9. George Mason’s Mount Vernon
George Washington’s Mount Vernon, known as America’s most historic home, stands as an outstanding example of 18th century architecture and provides a glimpse into life during that era in Virginia.
Tour guests can explore Washington’s estate, which houses both a distillery and gristmill. Here, they can learn about whiskey production while also seeing his original land.
10. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Mount Rushmore is one of America’s most iconic monuments. Carved into a granite mountainside of Black Hills mountain range in South Dakota, its 60-foot-tall busts of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt commemorate 150 years of American history.
Doane Robinson, a historian for South Dakota, proposed this sculpture. Borglum decided on presidents as memorialized figures since these are likely to have more broad-based appeal than figures such as Lewis and Clark or Oglala Lakota leader Red Cloud.
