Famous historical places can be captivating experiences, even though some of them can be difficult to visit. For instance, visiting the Great Pyramids could prove frustrating if you go at the wrong time or on an ineffective tour.
Paul Revere House in Boston provides visitors with an authentic understanding of this renowned silversmith’s role in the American Revolution, while in New York City there’s the African Burial Ground National Monument which was only discovered recently (1991).
Independence Hall
Independence Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of American democracy. Serving as the seat of government for Pennsylvania colony until 1776 and later the meeting place for two continental congresses (the Second Continental Congress adopting Declaration of Independence and then Constitutional Convention creating US Constitution), Independence Hall also hosted numerous meetings between 1787- 1788.
Andrew Hamilton and Edmund Woolley collaborated on designing this building that opened as the State House of Pennsylvania Assembly in 1732. It features marble keystones, carved wooden cornices, and a Palladian window in its exterior design.
Inside, rooms have been restored to their late-18th-century appearances, featuring George Washington’s “Rising Sun” chair and Benjamin Franklin’s inkwell used to sign both the Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution.
Ford’s Theatre
Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC is an historic site that commemorates the day President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth. It includes a museum and theatre to continue Lincoln’s legacy through art, history, and education.
On April 14, 1865, Lincoln was fatally wounded by John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theatre, his favorite place of entertainment. Lincoln frequently attended performances and showed great appreciation for theatrical productions.
Building construction began in 1833 as a church; later bought by theatre entrepreneur John T. Ford who renovated it into a theatre known as Ford’s New Theatre/George Christy Opera House.
Ford’s Theatre is committed to making sure all visitors can fully experience its exhibitions, performances, and events. As part of this goal it offers Sensory-Friendly shows as well as audio described and GalaPro captioned performances for closed captioning audiences.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg is one of America’s most significant historical landmarks, marking an inflection point in our country’s development. During the American Civil War, this small town of only 2,400 residents played host to its largest battle and inspired President Abraham Lincoln’s iconic Gettysburg Address.
Today, visitors to the battlefield can explore it all on self-guided driving tours and visit over 1,300 monuments, markers, and memorials, such as Pennsylvania Memorial, Soldiers National Monument, Eternal Light Peace Memorial.
Visitors looking to increase their knowledge about the American Civil War will discover several educational venues, such as Shriver House Museum and Gettysburg Diorama. The latter features an extraordinary model of the battlefield with incredible attention to detail – this experience provides something meaningful for people of all ages!
Fort McHenry
Fort McHenry is most well-known for its role in protecting Baltimore Harbor against an attack by British naval ships from Chesapeake Bay on September 13 and 14, 1814, during a pivotal point in the War of 1812. This battle inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star Spangled Banner”, now considered our national anthem.
This wheelchair-accessible historical site provides numerous exhibits to explore American history and its influence on culture. Begin at the visitor center with an informative introductory film before exploring interactive displays.
Spend an hour exploring Fort Hill either by yourself or joining one of its guided tours to learn about its history. The park also hosts concerts, special events and educational programs tailored specifically towards children. Plus the fort’s seawall trail provides an ideal place for viewing wildlife such as red foxes, river otters and snapping turtles!
Women’s Rights National Historical Park
In 1848, a group of women gathered at Wesleyan Chapel and issued the Declaration of Sentiments as a call to arms that formalized their fight for equality. Since that momentous event occurred at Wesleyan Chapel, National Park Service has preserved several key participants as part of Women’s Rights National Historical Park.
Visitors to the park can tour Wesleyan Chapel, M’Clintock House and Elizabeth Cady Stanton House (Hunt House is currently closed for renovations), plus visit the Visitor Center which houses a theater showing Dreams of Equality film screening, museum exhibits, statue displays and a bookstore – kids can even become Junior Rangers by completing the park workbook!
Visitor center is open daily and historic homes seasonally; check website for further details and outdoor ranger talks.
