All Posts in "HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS"

Time Travelers in Training: Fun for the Whole Family at National Historical Parks

National Historical Parks often conjure images of solemn battlefields and quiet, reverent museums, but for a family with curious kids, they are much more. The National Park Service has perfected the art of making history interactive and engaging, turning a trip to a historical site into a hands-on adventure. From earning badges to exploring recreated villages, here’s how to make the most of your family’s visit to these remarkable places.

The Junior Ranger Program: The Ultimate Mission

The single best way to engage children at any National Park Service site is to enroll them in the Junior Ranger Program. This nationwide program is designed to transform young visitors into park stewards. Here’s how it works:

  • Pick up a Booklet: At the park’s visitor center, ask for a free Junior Ranger activity booklet. The booklets are often tailored to the specific park, with activities ranging from scavenger hunts to creative
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Mia Sanchez by — April 11, 2025 in Historical Parks
Beyond the Beaten Path: Uncovering New England’s Less-Visited National Historic Sites

New England is a treasure trove of American history, from the rocky shores of Plymouth to the hallowed battlefields of the Revolutionary War. While sites like the Freedom Trail and Plimoth Patuxet draw large crowds, the region is also home to a collection of lesser-known national historic sites that offer equally compelling stories without the typical tourist crush. For those looking to delve deeper into the past and find a more intimate connection with history, these hidden gems are a must-visit.

1. Weir Farm National Historical Park (Connecticut)

Tucked away in Wilton, Connecticut, Weir Farm is a unique park dedicated to American painting. It preserves the country home and studio of J. Alden Weir, a leading American Impressionist painter of the 19th century. Visitors can tour the artist’s home and studios, which have been meticulously preserved to look as they did when Weir and his contemporaries lived and worked there. … Continue reading >>>>

Mia Sanchez by — March 9, 2025 in Historical Parks
Stepping into the Past: A Guide to Colonial National Historical Park

Colonial National Historical Park is a journey through the very origins of the United States. Spanning two pivotal locations—Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America, and Yorktown, the site of the final major battle of the Revolutionary War—this park offers a unique and comprehensive look at the founding and securing of the nation. Connected by the scenic Colonial Parkway, a visit here is a step back in time.

Here’s a guide to what to do and see at this essential historical park.

At Jamestown: The Birthplace of a Nation

Jamestown Island is where the story of English Colonial America began in 1607. Visitors can explore the preserved site, which is a joint effort between the National Park Service and Preservation Virginia.

  • Explore Historic Jamestowne: Walk through the archaeological site of the original 1607 James Fort. Ongoing excavations by the Jamestown Rediscovery Project are constantly unearthing new artifacts, and
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Mia Sanchez by — February 7, 2025 in Historical Parks
A Journey Through Hallowed Ground: The Best U.S. Historical Parks for Civil War Buffs

For those fascinated by the pivotal and often bloody conflict that shaped the United States, a pilgrimage to the nation’s Civil War historical parks is a must. These sites, preserved by the National Park Service and other organizations, offer a chance to walk in the footsteps of soldiers, witness the landscapes of historic battles, and gain a deeper understanding of the war’s immense human cost and lasting legacy. From the first shots to the final surrender, here are some of the best historical parks for Civil War history buffs.

1. Gettysburg National Military Park (Pennsylvania)

Widely considered the most famous battlefield of the Civil War, Gettysburg is the ultimate destination for any enthusiast. The three-day battle in July 1863 was a major turning point, and the park is a meticulously preserved testament to the epic struggle. Visitors can explore iconic locations like Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, and Cemetery Ridge, … Continue reading >>>>

Mia Sanchez by — January 5, 2025 in Historical Parks
Uncovering the Historical Significance of National Parks in Virginia

Virginia, known as the birthplace of America, is steeped in history and boasts a rich heritage that is reflected in its national parks. From colonial settlements to pivotal Civil War battlefields, these national parks in Virginia offer visitors a glimpse into the state’s historical significance. Here is an exploration of the historical importance of national parks in Virginia:

Historical Significance of National Parks in Virginia by State

1. Colonial National Historical Park

  • Location: Williamsburg/Yorktown/Jamestown, Virginia
  • History: This park preserves and interprets the historic sites of Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, and Yorktown, representing the birthplace of America where the first permanent English settlement was established in 1607.

2. Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

  • Location: Appomattox, Virginia
  • History: This site marks the location where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War and leading to the beginning of the reunification of the nation.
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Mia Sanchez by — October 17, 2023 in Historical Parks