In California

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip — Northern California Itinerary

May 20, 2019 No Comments

From the dazzling and rocky seascapes of the Northern Coast to the sun-drenched beaches of Southern California, this road trip is filled with scenic vistas, sandy beaches, majestic cliffs, and ancient forests. Pacific Coast Highway, California State Route 1, runs north to south along the coast through (sometimes unnerving) twists and turns that curve through seascapes, mountain roads, and redwoods. SR 1 starts near Interstate 5 (I-5) near Dana Point, California up to its northernmost part near Leggett as its intersections with US Highway 101.

At times, parts of the road are closed by frequent landslides, especially during seasonal rains. Check the weather and to see if the route along SR 1 is open. [Want to try something different? Take Amtrak’s Coast Starlight up the coast and avoid the traffic issues.]

This road trip is broken up into three parts—Northern California, Central California, and Southern California. I recommend heading north to south as you get closer and better views of the water. Feel free to mix it up! The endpoint is Dana Point, where Highway 1 ends.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip — Northern California Itinerary

This portion of the Pacific Coast Highway focuses on northern California and works its way down to the Marian Headlands and San Francisco.

How long? 200 miles, around 5 hours without stops. If you plan on stopping for camping or trails, make it a two-day trip.

When to go? Without much winter weather, it’s popular all year long. Winter, spring, and fall are optimal as summer can bring in fire season. Summers are also really foggy going down the coast.

Fort Bragg

MacKerricher State Park

24100 Mackerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

MacKerricher State Beach [J.smith [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]] — MacKerricher State Beach

Start at this spectacular 2,200-acre preserve, with more than 10 miles of ocean frontage, cliffs, beaches, and headland. Playful seals bask on the rocks below Laguna Point, and you can find fields of tall grass, and poppy in the park as well. For people interested in preservation, you can find a wetland ecosystem and native dunes at the Ten Mile Dunes complex. The park is also home to more than 90 species of birds. Walk down the Haul Road Trail, which hugs the coast for several miles.

Jug Handle State Reserve

CA-1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

The next stop on the Pacific Coast Highway, Northern California Itinerary journey is Jug Handle State Reserve, another dream for geology-geeks (like me). Coastal erosion and shifting land masses have led this 776-acre park to have five marine terraces of sediment. Each terrace has its own history, and each layer of sediment is 100 feet higher and about 100,000 older than the one beneath it. The lowest terrace supports prairie, followed by a redwood forest, followed by a pygmy forest of cypresses and pines. You can walk along a well-marked 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail that explores flora and fauna at three wave-cut terraces. There is also a sandy beach where you can stop and view both the terraces and the ocean.

Mendocino

Russian Gulch State Park

CA-1, Mendocino, CA 95460

South of Point Cabrillo, you’ll cross the Russian Gulch Bridge, where you can stop and view the bridge, take the North Trail Trailhead or visit Russian Gulch, State Park. Beaches, coves, tide pools, and woodland forests make this park. You can find 15 miles of trails, with five miles open to bicycles, with the Headlands Trail offering different views of the Pacific Ocean and the Devil’s Punch Bowl sinkhole. This point of interest is a 200-foot-long sea cut tunnel that collapsed at its inland end. Going deeper into the park, you can find woodlands of pine, maple, alder, and laurel trees along with a 36-foot waterfall. Swimming is allowed from the beach at the mouth of Russian Gulch Creek, along with SCUBA diving and tide pool exploring.

Little River

Van Damme State Park

8001 CA-1, Little River, CA 95456

Van Damme State Park is a 1,831-acre park where the forest meets the sea. The park offers a lush fern-filled forest, scenic beach, and ten miles of hiking trails that lead into the mature forest with Douglas firs, Pacific hemlocks, and redwoods. Walk along the Fern Canyon Scenic trail, into Fern Canyon with its growth of assorted wildflowers, rhododendrons, and trees. The trail itself is east of the beach while the parking lot is to the west. Don’t try to swim at this beach, however, as like most of the northern coastal beaches, the waves are cold and swift. Also, it gets fairly chilly and foggy even during the summer, so bring a light jacket.

If you only have an hour at this stop, the state park suggests taking Airport Road out to the pygmy forest. A 5-mile walk through the redwoods and ferns is another amazing trail with beautiful views.

Point Arena

Point Arena Light Station

45500 Lighthouse Rd, Point Arena, CA 95468

Pointe Arena Lighthouse [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/12019-12019/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=1599168">David Mark</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=1599168">Pixabay</a>] — Point Arena Light Station

Point Arena Lighthouse is two miles north of Point Arena, once a busy logging port. The 115-foot Lighthouse Tower and its 1896 Fog Signal Building can be toured by climbing up its 147 steps. You’ll also take in stunning views of the sea and coastline, including the 23 acres of coastline nearby. Museum and tower tours are currently $8 per person for ages 12 and up, $1 for ages 5 to 11, and free for those under 5.

Gualala

Gualala Point Regional Park

42401 CA-1, Gualala, CA 95445

Gualala Point Regional Park is where the Gualala River meets the sea. You can stop and walk the 2.9 miles of trails that connect the beach to the coastal bluffs and estuary. Rarely ever crowded, this beach is popular for whale watching, beachcombers, and day hikers.

Jenner

Fort Ross Chapel [By User:Introvert - Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=525364] — Fort Ross Chapel

Salt Point State Park

25050 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450

Salt Point State Park is a 6,000-acre state park with over 20 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of rocky coastline. It’s a beautiful place to stop on the ride for a (stony) walk along the shore. Stump Beach is a great little beach with lots of driftwood and mountains on both sides. You will also have limited cell service, so be sure to print out directions when going in. It’s also close to the next stop, Fort Ross State Historic Park.

Fort Ross State Historic Park

19005 Coast Hwy, Jenner, CA 95450

This 3,400-acre park offers unspoiled natural landscapes in addition to a reconstruction of an Imperial Russian-era fur trading outpost. Surrounded by redwood forests and sandy beaches, the park was established in 1090. Fort Ross itself was active from 1812 to 1841, built by representatives of the Russian-American Fur Company. The park includes the 1836 Rotchev House, the Kuskov House, a weathered redwood blockade, a commander’s headquarters, and a Russian Orthodox chapel, crowned by two towers.

Guerneville

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446

One of the first virgin redwood preserves, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve preserves 805 acres of coastal redwoods. Twenty miles of trails with varying difficulty lead you dense forests of pine and oak into the slopes of McCray Mountain, and fields of wildflowers. The tallest tree in the park is the Parson Jones Tree, which is more than 310 feet in height and is less than a mile from the park’s entrance. Also, less than 0.5-mile from the park entrance is the Colonel Armstrong Tree, estimated to be over 1400 years old. One of the easiest one-mile is the Pioneer Nature Trail that leads from the park entrance to the Armstrong Tree and Forest Theater.

Bodega Bay

Sonoma Coast State Park, Bodega Head Trail Beach

3799 Westshore Rd, Bodega Bay, CA 94923

Sonoma Coast State Park on Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/abalboa-8748544/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=3335157">Angelito Balboa</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=3335157">Pixabay</a>] — Coastline at Sonoma Coast State Park

Moving through the village of Bodega Bay, famous for its seafood and harborside views, you’ll find Bodega Head, which marks the start of the Sonoma Coast State Beach. This chain of parks spans 17 miles from Bodega Head down to Vista Trail. Bodega Head itself is the rocky headline that forms the entrance to the harbor. There are many hiking trails on the ocean side. Picnicking beneath the cliffs of Schoolhouse Beach is another great option.

Inverness

Tomales Bay State Park, Heart’s Desire Beach

Protected by winds by Inverness Ridge, this park covers the 13-mile inlet that separates Point Reyes from the mainland. The park is divided into three distinct park areas, with Heart’s Desire Beach which offers a gently sloping, surf-free relaxing seashore that is the heart of the state park. Hiking trails lead to Indian Beach, Pebble Beach, and Shell Beach. In addition to the beaches, you will also find forests, grassy meadows, and marshes with a variety of trees, wildflowers, and wildlife.

Point Reyes National Seashore

1 Point Reyes-Petaluma Rd, Inverness, CA 94937

The Point Reyes National Seashore extends around the Point Reyes Peninsula, a craggy stretch of shoreline that extends for some 70 miles. Expansive sandy beaches, open grasslands, grassy hillside, and forests cover this park. You can also walk a short paved loop that explores the San Andreas Fault Zone. Take a leisurely drive through Inverness Ridge to the beaches and wildlife viewing areas. Whale watching is a popular activity as you can watch gray whale migrations from the Chimney Rock and Lighthouse areas. It is a huge park, so stop by the Bear Valley Visitor Center to get different itineraries for your stay.

In 2019, the National Park Service is restoring the Lighthouse so there will be closures. Check the state website for specific dates.

Mill Valley

Muir Woods National Monument

1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941

The last remaining strand of redwoods in the Bay Area, Mui Word’s Cathedral Grove soar up to 250 feet above the forest floor. Over six miles of trails lead visitors along the banks of Redwood Creek and into the heart of the grove. The trails include a 1/2 hour loop, a 1-hour loop, and a 1 1/2 hour loop. Longer trails lead up into surrounding Mount Tamalpais State Park. Climb up the Ben Johnson and Dipsea trails for views of the treetops, Mount Tamalpais and the Pacific Ocean.

There is no cell phone service or WiFi at or around the monument. Be sure to print your directions (or Atlas), reservation or shuttle ticket in advance. What shuttle? You might want to get a hotel in Sausalito and then take the shuttle up to Muir Woods. Will save you the headache of getting a reservation for personal vehicles. Plus you’ll already be in town for the next and last stop. Also, reservations are now required for private vehicles and shuttle riders going into the park, so plan ahead.

After visiting Muir Woods, you’ll head south on SR 1 to where it merges with 101 down into Sausalito.

Sausalito

Marin Headlands

Fort Barry, Building 948, Sausalito, CA 94965

View of San Francisco from Sausalito on Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip [Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/fortechsol-391099/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=859244">Kathryn Fortin</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=859244">Pixabay</a>] — Marin Headlands overlooking San Francisco Bay

Just north of San Francisco, lies the Marin Headlands, a 5-mile stretch of coastal basalt headland, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. White sand beaches, rounded hills, and seaside cliffs. Before you head to the coastline, stop at the Marin Headlines Visitor Center at the intersection of Field and Bunker Roads. Take in the astonishing views of the Pacific Coast and drive along Conzelman Road to the northern foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. You can access the Marin Headlands off Highway 101 from Rodeo Avenue Exit and Trailhead. While in Sausalito, check out some of the area’s other attractions.

Vista Point (Us-101, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, CA 94965) or Battery Spencer (Conzelman Road, Sausalito, CA 94965). With magnificent views of the bridge, these are two of the places to get a fantastic view of San Francisco. It does get very crowded at the Vista Point so Battery Spencer may be the better bet.
Sausalito Boardwalk (Sausalito Yacht Harbor, Sausalito, CA 94965). Walk along the harbor and enjoy the beautiful boats along with restaurants, shops, parks, and cafes.
Sausalito Ferry (Anchor St & Humboldt Ave, Sausalito, CA 94965). Wanting to venture into San Francisco (without the drive)? The Sausalito Ferry drops you off at the end of Market street within walking distance of Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square.

Ready to keep going? Here are the two other itineraries for following the Pacific Coast Highway.

How long does the full route take? From MacKerricher State Park in Northern California to the southern point in Dana Point, the drive takes just a little over 12 hours without stopping. I highly recommend breaking this up into three portions and taking your time. The dramatic sweeping views of the ocean to the West and the mountains to the east are meant to be traveled slowly. This portion covers the Northern California part from Fort Bragg down to San Francisco.

What time of year? Summers are the busiest time of year, and you can honestly spend half of the day on the road going between Malibu and Santa Monica as everyone heads to the beaches. Spring and the Fall are the best time of years, especially with the weather. Winter is the rainy season and is more likely to have mudslides and other issues along the route.

Finally, What to Pack?

Disclosure: The links below contain affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Ready to hit the road? Be sure to pack along some must needed items for your trip.

Road Trip Essentials - Cooler Weather

Roadside Assistance Kits

Backup Battery Chargers

Looking for national and state parks in California? Click here

Going hiking (or during the rainy season)? Check out some ideas for rain gear

In Alaska

Alaska National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

October 2, 2018 No Comments

With its staggering mountain ranges, old mining towns, and arresting natural attractions, Alaska is often dubbed as the Last Frontier. Both the largest and the most sparsely populated state, Alaska is filled with heavy crowds from May to September as tourists flock to see everything from the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve to the Black Sands Beach State Marine Park. The Fall and Spring months can be excellent times to visit without the crowds, especially in October when you can view the whale-filled waters near Anchorage and the colorful fall foliage. Over 2.7 million visitors per year venture north to visit the national and state parks in the Land of the Midnight Sun. This list of parks in Alaska includes 24 national parks, 9 national historic landmarks, 16 national natural landmarks, and a multitude of state parks. For history lovers, there are 430 places on the National Register of Historic Places along with 634 places on the Heritage Documentation Program.

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National Parks & Historic Sites

Alagnak Wild River

King Salmon, AK 99613

The headwaters of Alagnak Wild River lie within the rugged Aleutian Range of neighboring Katmai National Park and Preserve. Meandering west towards Bristol Bay and the Bering Sea, the Alagnak traverses the beautiful Alaska Peninsula, providing an unparalleled opportunity to experience the unique wilderness, wildlife, and cultural heritage of southwest Alaska.

Alaska Public Lands

Information Center: 605 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501

Alaska’s parks, forests and refuges are rich and varied. The Anchorage Interagency Visitor Center helps visitors and residents to have meaningful, safe, enjoyable experiences on public lands, and encourages them to sustain the natural and cultural resources of Alaska. This center and three others statewide provide trip-planning, interpretation, and education for all ages.

Aleutian World War II National Historic Area

Unalaska/Dutch Harbor, AK; Unalaska, AK 99692

During World War II the remote Aleutian Islands, home to the Unangax^ (Aleut) people for over 8,000 years, became a fiercely contested battleground in the Pacific. This thousand-mile-long archipelago saw invasion by Japanese forces, the occupation of two islands; a mass relocation of Unangax^ civilians; a 15-month air war; and one of the deadliest battles in the Pacific Theater.

Aniakchak National Monument & Preserve

King Salmon, AK 99613

Given its remote location and challenging weather conditions, Aniakchak is one of the most wild and least visited places in the National Park System. This landscape is a vibrant reminder of Alaska’s location in the volcanically active “Ring of Fire,” as it is home to an impressive six mile (10 km) wide, 2,500 ft (762 m) deep caldera formed during a massive volcanic eruption 3,500 years ago.

Bering Land Bridge National Preserve

214 E Front St, Nome, AK 99762

Imagine a place of whimsical beauty and larger-than-life landscapes: an ancestral home to ice-age giants and turbulent volcanic activity. A land that holds secrets to the intriguing history of human migration, sustains people that have lived here before its establishment as a preserve and continues to be part of a wide breadth of traditions. Bering Land Bridge is unlike any other place on Earth.

Cape Krusenstern National Monument

171 Third Ave, Kotzebue, AK 99752

North of the Arctic Circle, the monument forms 70 miles of shoreline on the Chukchi Sea. More than 114 beach ridges provide evidence of human use for 5,000 years. The Inupiat continue to use the area today. Vast wetlands provide habitat for shorebirds from as far away as South America. Hikers and boaters can see carpets of wildflowers among shrubs containing wisps of qiviut from muskoxen.

Denali National Park & Preserve

Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK

Denali is six million acres of wild land, bisected by one ribbon of road. Travelers along it see the relatively low-elevation taiga forest give way to high alpine tundra and snowy mountains, culminating in North America’s tallest peak, 20,310′ Denali. Wild animals large and small roam un-fenced lands, living as they have for ages. Solitude, tranquility and wilderness await.

Gates of The Arctic National Park & Preserve

Airport Rd, Bettles, AK 99726

This vast landscape does not contain any roads or trails. Visitors discover intact ecosystems where people have lived with the land for thousands of years. Wild rivers meander through glacier-carved valleys, caribou migrate along age-old trails, endless summer light fades into aurora-lit night skies of winter. It remains virtually unchanged except by the forces of nature.

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

Gustavus, AK

Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of Alaska’s Inside Passage and part of a 25-million acre World Heritage Site—one of the world’s largest international protected areas. From sea to summit, Glacier Bay offers limitless opportunities for adventure and inspiration.

Iñupiat Heritage Center

5421 North Star Street, Utqiagvik, AK 99723

On the rooftop of the world, the Iñupiat Heritage Center in Barrow, Alaska, tells the story of the Iñupiat people. They have thrived for thousands of years in one of the harshest climates on Earth, hunting the bowhead, or “Agviq.” In the 19th century, these lonely seas swarmed with commercial whalemen from New England, who also sought the bowhead for its valuable baleen and blubber.

Katmai National Park & Preserve

King Salmon, AK 99613

Katmai National Monument was established in 1918 to protect the volcanically devastated region surrounding Mount Katmai and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Today, Katmai National Park and Preserve remains an active volcanic landscape, but it also protects 9,000 years of human history as well as important habitat for salmon and thousands of brown bears.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Seward, AK

At the edge of the Kenai Peninsula lies a land where the ice age lingers. Nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Icefield, Kenai Fjords’ crowning feature. Wildlife thrives in icy waters and lush forests around this vast expanse of ice. Sugpiaq people relied on these resources to nurture a life entwined with the sea. Today, shrinking glaciers bear witness to the effects of our changing climate.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

291 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840

Headlines screamed “Gold!” The dream of a better life catapulted thousands of people to Alaska and the Yukon Territory. Their journey shaped them, and changed the people they encountered and the north forever. Today, the park remembers the trails, boomtowns, and stories of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Kobuk Valley National Park

171 3rd Ave, Kotzebue, AK 99752

Caribou, sand dunes, the Kobuk River, Onion Portage – just some of the facets of Kobuk Valley National Park. Half a million caribou migrate through, their tracks crisscrossing sculpted dunes. The Kobuk River is an ancient and current path for people and wildlife. For 9000 years, people came to Onion Portage to harvest caribou as they swam the river. Even today, that rich tradition continues.

Lake Clark National Park & Preserve

Port Alsworth, AK 99653

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is a land of stunning beauty. Volcanoes steam, salmon run, bears forage, and craggy mountains reflect in shimmering turquoise lakes. Here, too, local people and culture still depend on the land and water. Venture into the park to become part of the wilderness.

Noatak National Preserve

Kotzebue, AK

As one of North America’s largest mountain-ringed river basins with an intact ecosystem, the Noatak River environs features some of the Arctic’s finest arrays of plants and animals. The river is classified as a national wild and scenic river, and offers stunning wilderness float-trip opportunities – from deep in the Brooks Range to the tidewater of the Chukchi Sea.

Sitka National Historical Park

103 Monastery St, Sitka, AK 99835

On an island amid towering spruce and hemlock, Sitka National Historical Park preserves the site of a battle between invading Russian traders and indigenous Kiks.ádi Tlingit. Park visitors are awed by Tlingit and Haida totem poles standing along the park’s scenic coastal trail, and the restored Russian Bishop’s House speaks of Russia’s little known colonial legacy in North America.

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

Honolulu, HI, AK, CA

At World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, home of the USS Arizona Memorial, learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history: the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II. The monument preserves and interprets the stories of the Pacific War, from the internment of Japanese Americans to the battles in the Aleutians.

Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve

Copper Center, AK

Wrangell St. Elias is a vast national park that rises from the ocean all the way up to 18,008 ft. At 13.2 million acres, the park is the same size as Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Switzerland combined! Within this wild landscape, people continue to live off the land as they have done for centuries. This rugged, beautiful land is filled with opportunities for adventure.

Yukon – Charley Rivers National Preserve

Eagle, AK

Located in Interior Alaska, Yukon-Charley Rivers offers exploration in a largely untouched landscape. Whether you float the mighty Yukon River or paddle the Charley River’s whitewater, your memories will last a lifetime. Geology, cultural history, gold rush remnants, wildlife, and vast scenery will be a part of your experience. But, the strongest element will be solitude. Your adventure awaits.

For more attractions, visit Travel Alaska.

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In Hawaii

Hawaii National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

October 1, 2018 No Comments

Over 6 million visitors enjoy paradise in Hawaii through its 8 national parks, 2 world heritage sites, and 7 national natural landmarks. The list of parks in Hawaii includes numerous state parks, over 400 named beaches, and 750 miles of shoreline. The famous weather in Hawaii keeps visitors coming year-round to surf at the beautiful beaches, walk through ancient lava forests, or be greeted with the infamous “Ahola spirit.” Historical attractions include pre-Columbus settlements and palaces of the Hawaiian Kings and Queens. Over 1600 years of Hawaiian history can be explored on the major islands. Go can go surfing or beach-combing on white sand, black sand, red sand, or even green sand.

There are six main Hawaiian islands and each of them offers something different. Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and the Big Island all have their own different and unique landscapes. From beautiful waterfalls and lush rainforests to Volcanic craters and majestic mountains, find your year-round adventure in the Aloha State.

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National Parks & Historic Sites

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

73-4786 Kanalani St #14, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Established in 2000 for the preservation, protection, and interpretation of traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175 mile corridor and trail network of cultural and historical significance. It traverses through hundreds of ancient Hawaiian settlement sites and over 200 ahupua’a (traditional land divisions). Connect now!

Haleakalā National Park

Kula, Maui, HI 96790

This special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. The park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place – renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on Hawaii Island (the Big Island). At its heart are the Kīlauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes. The Crater Rim Drive passes steam vents and the Jaggar Museum, which features volcanology exhibits and a viewpoint overlooking Halema’uma’u Crater. Thick ferns mark the entrance to the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku). The Chain of Craters Road weaves over lava. Trails crisscross the park.

Honouliuli National Monument

Waipahu, HI 96797

Although not yet open to the public, Honouliuli National Monument (NM) will tell the history of internment, martial law, and the experience of prisoners of war in Hawai‘i during World War II. Honouliuli NM will be a place to reflect on wartime experiences and recommit ourselves to the pursuit of freedom and justice.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

189 Kaiulani St, Kalaupapa, HI 96742

When Hansen’s disease (leprosy) was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands, King Kamehameha V banished all afflicted to the isolated Kalaupapa peninsula on the north shore of Molokai. Since 1866, more than 8000 people, mostly Hawaiians, have died at Kalaupapa. Once a prison, Kalaupapa is now refuge for the few remaining residents who are now cured, but were forced to live their lives in isolation.

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

To survive in a hot and arid environment the native Hawaiians (kanaka maoli) used ancient fishing skills, including the building of fishponds, and the knowledge of the location of precious fresh water (wai) that flows into the many brackish pools throughout the park. The spirit of the people (poe) and the knowledge of the elders (kupuna) created a tradition of respect and reverence for this area.

Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

State Hwy 160, Hōnaunau, HI 96726

Imagine you had just broken the sacred laws, the kapu, and the only punishment was death. Your only chance of survival is to elude your pursuers and reach the Pu’uhonua, a place of refuge. The Pu’uhonua protected the kapu breaker, defeated warriors, as well as civilians during the time of battle. No physical harm could come to those who reached the boundaries of the Pu’uhonua.

Pu`ukoholā Heiau National Historic Park

62-3601 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743

How many places in America can you walk in the footsteps of a king? Where else has a stranded sailor risen up to become a great chief over an entire island? Where else can you experience the culminating event of a people, foretold from centuries past? Where else can you stand on a beach and watch as sharks pass over a submerged temple? Experience all this and much more – only at Pu’ukohola Heiau!

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

At World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, home of the USS Arizona Memorial, learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history: the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II. The monument preserves and interprets the stories of the Pacific War, from the internment of Japanese Americans to the battles in the Aleutians.

For more attractions, visit Go Hawaii.

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In National and State Park

South Carolina National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 27, 2018 No Comments

Known for its sandy beaches, islands, and historical coastal cities, South Carolina is home to a variety of attractions for outdoor adventurers and history buffs. Charleston is often voted as the number #1 city in the U.S. with its historic Southern Charm and coastal culture. Take in the scenic view at Caesars Head, where a 400-million-year-old granite outcropping looks over the Blue Ridge Escarpment. The Wingington Overlook on the Oscar Wingington Scenic Byway between SC 107 and 103 offers views of the waters of Lake Jocassee and the 2,000-foot “Blue Wall.” The list of parks in South Carolina include 7 national parks, 2 national heritage areas, a national trail, and 76 national natural landmarks. State parks include sandy beaches, forests, and historical attractions. History buffs can also find over 1,500 places on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

1254 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Charles Pinckney was a principal author and a signer of the United States Constitution. This remnant of his coastal plantation is preserved to tell the story of a “founding father,” his life of public service, the lives of enslaved African Americans on South Carolina Lowcountry plantations and their influences on Charles Pinckney.

Congaree National Park

100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061

Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support the growth of national and state champion trees.

Cowpens National Battlefield

4001 Chesnee Hwy, Gaffney, SC 29341

“…our success was complete…” — Daniel Morgan to Nathanael Greene, January 19, 1781, A pasturing area at the time of the battle, this Revolutionary War site commemorates the place where Daniel Morgan and his army turned the flanks of Banastre Tarleton’s British army. This classic military tactic, known as a double envelopment, was one of only a few in history.

Fort Sumter National Monument

Charleston Harbor, SC; Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina 29412

Decades of growing political tension around the issue of slavery between North and South erupted in civil war on April 12, 1861, when Confederate artillery opened fire on this Federal fort in Charleston Harbor. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later. Union forces would try for nearly four years to take it back.

Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor

2817 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455

Designated by Congress in 2006, the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor extends from Wilmington, North Carolina in the north to Jacksonville, Florida in the south. It is home to one of America’s most unique cultures, a tradition first shaped by captive Africans brought to the southern United States from West Africa and continued in later generations by their descendants.

Kings Mountain National Military Park

2625 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702

Thomas Jefferson called it “The turn of the tide of success.” The battle of Kings Mountain fought October 7th, 1780, was an important American victory during the Revolutionary War. The battle was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, SC in May 1780. The park preserves the site of this important battle.

Ninety Six National Historic Site

1103 SC-248, Ninety Six, SC 29666

Settlers struggled against the harsh backcountry to survive. Cherokee Indians hunted and fought to keep their land. Two towns and a trading post were formed then abandoned to the elements. And two Revolutionary War battles claimed over 100 lives. Come to discover the 18th-century history of South Carolina.

Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

NC, SC, TN, VA; 2635 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702

Stretching 330 miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow the campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route which uses existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 87 miles of walkable pathways.

Reconstruction Era National Monument

Penn Center Cir W, St Helena Island, SC 29920

The Reconstruction era,1861-1898 the historic period in which the United States grappled with the question of how to integrate millions of newly freed African Americans into social, political, economic, and labor systems, was a time of significant transformation. The people, places, and events in Beaufort County, South Carolina, reflect on the most important issues of this tumultuous time period.

South Carolina National Heritage Corridor

Edgefield, SC

Designated in 1996, the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor is committed to promoting and preserving the cultural, natural and historic resources of the state. The corridor stretches across 17 counties from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.

For more attractions, visit Discover South Carolina.

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North Carolina National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 25, 2018 No Comments

From the white sand beaches of North Carolina’s outer banks to the Appalachian Mountains to the east, the natural wonders of North Carolina draw over 19 million visitors annually. The list of parks in North Carolina includes 10 national parks, 2 national heritage areas, 2 wild and scenic rivers, 3 national trails, and a multitude of state parks. As one of the original 132 colonies, history buffs will enjoy seeking out historic sites and parks from colonial times through today. Drive down Blue Ridge Parkway or view the lighthouses along the coast, still shining their beacons for distant ships.

Note: Due to recent flooding (September 2018), check the park’s website for closings before heading out. Some have already re-opened but do have warning notes for visitors. The southeastern part of the state was hit the hardest, but along the northern coast and up into the Great Smoky Mountains, many of popular tourist attractions are still open. For more information on closings, go to Visit North Carolina.

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National Parks & Historic Sites

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Maine to Georgia, CT, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV; one site is Appalachian Trail Conservancy Regional Office, 160-A Zillicoa Street, Asheville, NC 28801

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937, today the trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies and thousands of volunteers.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, NC,VA; one site is Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, 364 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Black Mountain, NC 28711

A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special.

Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area is a place unlike any other on Earth, where ancient landscapes enchant the eye and age-old traditions warm the heart. The distinctive landscape of the North Carolina mountains and foothills combined with the region’s living traditions of craft, music, agriculture and Cherokee heritage create a wealth of natural and cultural treasures unmatched in our country.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Nags Head, Buxton, Ocracoke, NC

The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Cape Lookout Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531

A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages–there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches.

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

1800 Little River Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the park, 1968-2018. Carl Sandburg provided a popular voice for the American people of the twentieth century and still speaks to us through his words, activism, music and the beauty and serenity of Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site. Explore Sandburg’s legacy and Experience Your America!

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

1401 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site protects and preserves known portions of England’s first New World settlements from 1584 to 1590. This site also preserves the cultural heritage of the Native Americans, European Americans and African Americans who have lived on Roanoke Island.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

the states of NC, TN; one site is Icewater Shelter Spring, Appalachian Trail, Cherokee, NC 28719

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park.

Guilford Courthouse National Military Park

2332 New Garden Rd, Greensboro, NC 27410

“I never saw such fighting since God made me. The Americans fought like demons.” -Lt. General Charles, Earl Cornwallis The largest battle of the Revolutionary War’s Southern Campaign was fought at the small North Carolina backcountry hamlet of Guilford Courthouse. The battle proved to be a turning point for British military operations in the Revolutionary War.

Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor

FL, GA, NC, SC; 2817 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455

Designated by Congress in 2006, the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor extends from Wilmington, North Carolina in the north to Jacksonville, Florida in the south. It is home to one of America’s most unique cultures, a tradition first shaped by captive Africans brought to the southern United States from West Africa and continued in later generations by their descendants.

Moores Creek National Battlefield

40 Patriots Hall Dr, Currie, NC 28435

In the early morning hours of February 27, 1776 Loyalist forces charged across a partially dismantled Moores Creek Bridge. Beyond the bridge, nearly 1,000 North Carolina Patriots waited quietly with cannons and muskets poised to fire. This battle marked the last broadsword charge by Scottish Highlanders and the first significant victory for the Patriots in the American Revolution.

Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

NC, SC, TN, VA; one location is Overmountain Victory Trail, Rutherfordton, NC 28139

Stretching 330 miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow the campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route which uses existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 87 miles of walkable pathways.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

AL, AR, GA, IL, KY, MO, NC, OK, TN; one site is 589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719

Remember and commemorate the survival of the Cherokee people, forcefully removed from their homelands in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee to live in Indian Territory, now Oklahoma. They traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat in 1838-1839.

Wright Brothers National Memorial

1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

Wind, sand, and a dream of flight brought Wilbur and Orville Wright to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina where, after four years of scientific experimentation, they achieved the first successful airplane flights on December 17, 1903. With courage and perseverance, these self-taught engineers relied on teamwork and application of the scientific process. What they achieved changed our world forever.

For more attractions, go to Visit North Carolina.

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Tennessee National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 21, 2018 No Comments

Whether it’s hiking the Appalachian Trail or rafting down the Big South Fork National River, Tennessee offers a variety of outdoor activities year-round. Over 9.3 million people visit the 12 national parks, 30 national historic landmarks, ad 13 natural landmarks every year. Hike one of the four national trails or one of the multiple trails that lead out of its 56 state parks. History buffs can find something new to discover at one of the 2,126 places listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The list of parks in Tennessee is varied. Big Ridge State Park’s 3,687 acres along the Appalachian Ridge is a great place to canoe, kayak, and paddleboats during the summer month. Swimming holes with sandy beaches can also be found throughout the state.

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National Parks & Historic Sites

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site

101 N College St, Greeneville, TN 37743

The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site and National Cemetery interprets the life and legacy of the 17th President. Andrew Johnson’s presidency, 1865-1869, illustrates the United States Constitution at work following President Lincoln’s assassination and during attempts to reunify a nation torn by civil war. His presidency shaped the future of the United States and his influences continue today.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Maine to Georgia, CT, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV; one site is 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937, today the trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies and thousands of volunteers.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

4564 Leatherwood Rd, Oneida, TN 37841

Encompassing 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries. The area boasts miles of scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs, is rich with natural and historic features and has been developed to provide visitors with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.

Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park

Fort Oglethorpe, GA,TN; 3370 Lafayette Rd, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

In 1863, Union and Confederate forces fought for control of Chattanooga, known as the “Gateway to the Deep South.” The Confederates were victorious at nearby Chickamauga in September. However, renewed fighting in Chattanooga that November provided Union troops victory and control of the city. After the fighting, a Confederate soldier ominously wrote, “This…is the death-knell of the Confederacy.”

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Middlesboro, KY, TN, VA; 91 Bartlett Park Road, Middlesboro, KY 40965

At Cumberland Gap, the first great gateway to the west, follow the buffalo, the Native American, the longhunter, the pioneer… all traveled this route through the mountains into the wilderness of Kentucky. Modern day explorers and travelers stand in awe at this great gateway and the many miles of trails and scenic features found in the park. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park lies along the borders of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia. Pinnacle Overlook has views of Cumberland Gap, a pass in the Cumberland Mountains once used by pioneers headed west. In Gap Cave are stalagmites and bats. Park trails include the Ridge Trail, running the park’s full length. The restored structures of the early 20th-century Hensley Settlement perch on Brush Mountain.

Fort Donelson National Battlefield

120 Lock D Rd, Dover, TN 37058

Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant was becoming quite famous as he wrote these words following the surrender of Confederate Fort Donelson on Sunday, February 16, 1862. The Union victory at Fort Donelson elated the North, and stunned the South. Within days of the surrender, Clarksville and Nashville would fall into Union hands. Grant and his troops had created a pathway to victory for the Union.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

the states of NC, TN; Cable Mill Visitor’s Center, Cable Mill Rd, Townsend, TN 37882

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park.

Manhattan Project National Historical Park

Manhattan Project National Historical Park, NM, WA, TN; Manhattan Project National Historical Park X-10 Graphite Reactor, Oak Ridge, TN 37830

This site tells the story about the people, events, science, and engineering that led to the creation of the atomic bomb, which helped end World War II.

Natchez Trace Parkway

the states of AL,MS,TN

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile recreational road and scenic drive through three states. It roughly follows the “Old Natchez Trace” a historic travel corridor used by American Indians, “Kaintucks,” European settlers, slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. Today, people can enjoy not only a scenic drive but also hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping along the parkway.

Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail

Tupelo, AL,MS,TN

The 450-mile foot trail that became known as the Natchez Trace was the lifeline through the Old Southwest. You can experience portions of that journey the way earlier travelers did – on foot. Today there are five separate trails totaling over 60 miles and they are administered by the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Obed Wild and Scenic River

208 Maiden St, Wartburg, TN 37887

The Obed Wild and Scenic River looks much the same today as it did when the first white settlers strolled its banks in the late 1700s. While meagerly populated due to poor farming soil, the river was a hospitable fishing and hunting area for trappers and pioneers. Today, the Obed stretches along the Cumberland Plateau and offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

NC, SC, TN, VA; one location is 760 Hampton Creek Rd, Roan Mountain, TN 37687

Stretching 330 miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow the campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route which uses existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 87 miles of walkable pathways.

Shiloh National Military Park

1055 Pittsburg Landing Rd, Shiloh, TN 38376

Visit the sites of the most epic struggle in the Western Theater of the Civil War. Nearly 110,000 American troops clashed in a bloody contest that resulted in 23,746 casualties; more casualties than in all of America’s previous wars combined. Explore both the Shiloh and Corinth battlefields to discover the impact of this struggle on the soldiers and on the nation.

Stones River National Battlefield

3501 Old Nashville Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129

The Battle of Stones River began on the last day of 1862 and was one of the bloodiest conflicts of the Civil War. The battle produced important military and political gains for the Union, and it changed forever the people who lived and fought here. Stones River National Battlefield, a 570-acre park along the Stones River in Rutherford County, Tennessee, three miles northwest of Murfreesboro and twenty-eight miles southeast of Nashville, memorializes the Battle of Stones River.

Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area

1416 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

Experience the powerful stories of military conflict in a divided state, the demands of the homefront and occupation, the freedom of emancipation, and the enduring legacies of Reconstruction at sites across the entire state of Tennessee.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

AL, AR, GA, IL, KY, MO, NC, OK, TN; one site is Brainerd Mission Cemetery, Chattanooga, TN 37411

Remember and commemorate the survival of the Cherokee people, forcefully removed from their homelands in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee to live in Indian Territory, now Oklahoma. They traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat in 1838-1839.

For an additional list of attractions, visit Vacation Tennessee.

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Kentucky National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 21, 2018 No Comments

From hiking the multiple rails of the Appalachian Mountains to the numerous heritage and historic sites, Kentucky has a rich history and landscape. Historical trails like the Cumberland Gap and the Wilderness road give hiking and backpacking enthusiasts with multiple opportunities for adventure. Over 1.8 million people visit the 5 national parks, 32 national historic landmarks, 7 natural landmarks, and one national trail. The list of parks in Kentucky also includes 49 state parks, with multiple trails that lead to everything from kayaking vacations to rock climbing. Explore the multiple, clear lakes and streams and find multiple secluded swimming holes or beaches. Go stargazing by staying overnight at one of the many camping sites. Known as the Horse Capital of the World, Kentucky also has a variety of riding trails for equine enthusiasts.

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Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

2995 Lincoln Farm Rd, Hodgenville, KY 42748

For over a century people from around the world have come to rural Central Kentucky to honor the humble beginnings of our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. His early life on Kentucky’s frontier shaped his character and prepared him to lead the nation through Civil War. The country’s first memorial to Lincoln, built with donations from young and old, enshrines the symbolic birthplace cabin. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park preserves two separate farm sites in LaRue County, Kentucky where Abraham Lincoln was born and lived early in his childhood.

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Oneida, KY, TN; 4564 Leatherwood Rd, Oneida, TN 37841

Encompassing 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries. The area boasts miles of scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs, is rich with natural and historic features and has been developed to provide visitors with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area preserve the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries in northeastern Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky. In addition, the former mining community of Blue Heron is preserved and interpreted via signage.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

91 Bartlett Park Road, Middlesboro, KY 40965; Middlesboro, KY, TN, VA

At Cumberland Gap, the first great gateway to the west, follow the buffalo, the Native American, the longhunter, the pioneer… all traveled this route through the mountains into the wilderness of Kentucky. Modern day explorers and travelers stand in awe at this great gateway and the many miles of trails and scenic features found in the park.

Fort Donelson National Battlefield

Dover, KY,TN; 120 Lock D Rd, Dover, TN 37058

Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant was becoming quite famous as he wrote these words following the surrender of Confederate Fort Donelson on Sunday, February 16, 1862. The Union victory at Fort Donelson elated the North, and stunned the South. Within days of the surrender, Clarksville and Nashville would fall into Union hands. Grant and his troops had created a pathway to victory for the Union.

Mammoth Cave National Park

1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Mammoth Cave National Park preserves the cave system and a part of the Green River valley and hilly country of south-central Kentucky. This is the world’s longest known cave system, with more than 400 miles (643 km) explored. Early guide Stephen Bishop called the cave a “grand, gloomy and peculiar place,” but its vast chambers and complex labyrinths have earned its name – Mammoth. Mammoth Cave National Park is in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It’s home to the Mammoth Cave, a long cave system of chambers and subterranean passageways. Sites include the Frozen Niagara section, known for waterfall-like flowstone formations, and Gothic Avenue, its ceiling covered in 19th-century visitors’ signatures.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

AL, AR, GA, IL, KY, MO, NC, OK, TN; one location is River Discovery Center, 117 S Water St, Paducah, KY 42001

Remember and commemorate the survival of the Cherokee people, forcefully removed from their homelands in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee to live in Indian Territory, now Oklahoma. They traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat in 1838-1839.

For additional attractions, visit Kentucky Tourism.

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Virginia National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 21, 2018 No Comments

History. Mountains. History. Beaches. Virginia has such a variety of state and national parks that the slogan “Virginia is for lovers” makes perfect sense. If you love outdoor adventures, you’ll love the multiple national and state parks and 10 natural landmarks. The list of parks in Virginia includes 22 national parks, 37 state parks, 5 undeveloped parks, and 63 natural areas. The state parks include more than 127,000 acres and more than 600 miles of parks. Over 25 million visitors explore these parks every year, especially its deep colonial history and close proximity to the nation’s capital. Virginia has over 3,000 places on the National Register of Historic Places, from Williamsburg to Mount Vernon.

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Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

111 National Park Dr, Appomattox, VA 24522

On April 9, 1865, the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in the McLean House in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia signaled the end of the nation’s largest war. Two important questions about its future were answered. Could the nation survive a civil war intact, and would that nation exist without slavery? The answer to both was yes and a new nation was born.

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

321 Sherman Dr, Fort Myer, VA 22211

Arlington House is the nation’s memorial to Robert E. Lee. It honors him for specific reasons, including his role in promoting peace and reunion after the Civil War. In a larger sense it exists as a place of study and contemplation of the meaning of some of the most difficult aspects of American History: military service; sacrifice; citizenship; duty; loyalty; slavery and freedom.

Assateague Island National Seashore

MD, VA; 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811

Want to live on the edge? Visit a place recreated each day by ocean wind and waves. Life on Assateague Island has adapted to an existence on the move. Explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays. Rest, relax, recreate and enjoy some time on the edge of the continent.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, NC, VA; one site is Mabry Mill, Burks Fork, VA 24120

A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special.

Booker T Washington National Monument

12130 Booker T Washington Hwy, Hardy, VA 24101

Booker T. Washington was born a slave in April 1856 on the 207-acre farm of James Burroughs. After the Civil War, Washington became the first principal of Tuskegee Normal and Industrial School. Later as an adviser, author and orator, his past would influence his philosophies as the most influential African American of his era. Come explore his birthplace.

Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Cape Henry, Virginia Beach, VA

English colonists first landed here in April 1607, erected a wooden cross and gave thanks for a successful crossing to a new land. In 1781, Americans could watch from these same sand dunes the largest naval battle of the Revolutionary War. Our French Allies defeated a British fleet just off this shore to set the stage for General George Washington’s victory at Yorktown.

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

Various States VA, MD, DE, DC, PA, NY

Four hundred years ago Englishman John Smith and a small crew of adventurers set out in an open boat to explore the Chesapeake Bay. Between 1607 and 1609 Smith and his crew mapped nearly 3,000 miles of the Bay and rivers and documented American Indian communities. Smith’s map and journals are a remarkable record of the 17th-century Chesapeake. Come join the adventure on the Chesapeake Bay!

Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park

Middletown and Strasburg, VA

The Shenandoah Valley invites you to learn about its rich heritage, from Native Americans who first shaped the land, to pioneers of this frontier; this fertile area became one of the most important wheat producing regions of the entire South. The Valley also witnessed some of the most dramatic events of the Civil War, including the Battle of Cedar Creek, a decisive October 19, 1864 Union victory.

Chesapeake Bay

Chesapeake Bay Watershed, DC, DE, MD, NY, PA, VA, WV; one good place is Newport News, VA area

NPS helps you learn about and enjoy the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in North America. Here, you can visit major league cities, colonial towns, American Indian landscapes, farms and fishing villages. You can learn to kayak, pick crabs, go fishing, tour a lighthouse, slurp oysters, and slow down to enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake.

Civil War Defenses of Washington

Washington, DC, MD, VA; one site is Fort Marcy in McLean, VA 22101

On forested hills surrounding the nation’s capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. Built by Union forces, these strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world’s most fortified cities. This month, we will feature Fort Totten, part of the Northern Defenses and engaged during the Battle of Fort Stevens.

Claude Moore Colonial Farm

6310 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA 22101

Step back in time and experience life on a small farm in northern Virginia. Living history programs and demonstrations offer a glimpse of what life was like for a poor farm family, just before the Revolutionary War.

Colonial National Historical Park

Jamestown and Yorktown, VA

On May 13, 1607, Jamestown was established as the first permanent English settlement in North America. Three cultures came together – European, Virginia Indian and African–to create a new society that would eventually seek independence from Great Britain. On October 19, 1781, American and French troops defeated the British at Yorktown in the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Middlesboro, KY, TN, VA; 91 Bartlett Park Road, Middlesboro, KY 40965

At Cumberland Gap, the first great gateway to the west, follow the buffalo, the Native American, the longhunter, the pioneer… all traveled this route through the mountains into the wilderness of Kentucky. Modern-day explorers and travelers stand in awe at this great gateway and the many miles of trails and scenic features found in the park.

Fort Monroe National Monument

Fort Monroe, VA

Fort Monroe National Monument spans the American story through the 21st century: American Indian presence, Captain John Smith’s journeys, a safe haven for freedom seekers during the Civil War, home of the US Army Artillery School, and a bastion of defense for the Chesapeake Bay. Visit this young national park with a centuries-old tradition and see on-going preservation work in action.

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania–this is America’s battleground, where the Civil War roared to its bloody climax. No place more vividly reflects the War’s tragic cost in all its forms. A town bombarded and looted. Farms large and small ruined. Refugees by the thousands forced into the countryside. More than 85,000 men wounded; 15,000 killed–most in graves unknown.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

DC, MD, VA

The George Washington Memorial Parkway was designed for recreational driving. It links sites that commemorate important episodes in American history and preserve habitat for local wildlife. The parkway and its associated trails provide a scenic place to play and rest in the busy Washington, DC metropolitan area.

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

1732 Popes Creek Rd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443

In the heart of the Northern Neck of Virginia stands a tribute to America’s founding father, George Washington. Although only here a short time, the ideas that Washington learned here, helped shape the man he would become and forever alter the destiny of the United States of America.

Great Falls Park

9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102

At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country. Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation’s Capital.

Green Springs

Louisa, VA 23093

Green Springs National Historic Landmark District in Virginia’s Piedmont encompasses over 14,000 acres. Its farmsteads offer a continuum of rural vernacular architecture in original context with minimal alteration. Landscapes and buildings, many predating the Civil War and connected to one another visually and through family relationships of early occupants, are today preserved through easements.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry, WV, VA, MD; 767 Shenandoah St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

A visit to this quaint, historic community, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, is like stepping into the past. Stroll the picturesque streets, visit exhibits and museums, or hike our trails and battlefields. Spend a day or a weekend. We have something for everyone, so come and discover Harpers Ferry!

Historic Jamestowne

1368 Colonial Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081

Walk in the steps of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas where a successful English colonization of North America began. Despite early struggles to survive, the 1607 settlement evolved into a prosperous colony. As the colony expanded, the Virginia Indians were pushed out of their homeland. In 1619, the arrival of Africans was recorded, marking the origin of slavery in English North America.

Maggie L Walker National Historic Park

600 N 2nd St, Richmond, VA 23219

https://www.nps.gov/mawa/

Maggie Lena Walker devoted her life to civil rights advancement, economic empowerment, and educational opportunities for Jim Crow-era African Americans and women. As a bank president, newspaper editor, and fraternal leader, Walker served as an inspiration of pride and progress. Today, Walker’s home is preserved as a tribute to her enduring legacy of vision, courage, and determination.

Manassas National Battlefield Park

6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109

On July 21, 1861, two armies clashed for the first time on the fields overlooking Bull Run. Heavy fighting swept away any notion of a quick war. In August 1862, Union and Confederate armies converged for a second time on the plains of Manassas. The Confederates won a solid victory bringing them to the height of their power.

Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

NC, SC, TN, VA; one location is the Town of Abingdon Segment in Abingdon, VA

Stretching 330 miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow the campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route which uses existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 87 miles of walkable pathways.

Petersburg National Battlefield

5001 Siege Rd, Petersburg, VA 23875

Nine and a half months, 70,000 casualties, the suffering of civilians, thousands of U. S. Colored Troops fighting for the freedom of their race, and the decline of Gen. Robert E. Lee’s Army of No. Virginia all describe the Siege of Petersburg. It was here Gen. Ulysses S. Grant cut off all of Petersburg’s supply lines ensuring the fall of Richmond on April 3, 1865. Six days later, Lee surrendered.

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Potomac Heritage Trail, Virginia 20165

Linking the tidal Potomac and upper Youghiogheny river basins, the evolving Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network lies within a corridor rich in historic pathways and waterways. You can travel this historic corridor today—on foot, bicycle, and horse and by boat—exploring contrasting landscapes between the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Plateau.

Prince William Forest Park

18170 Park Entrance Rd, Triangle, VA 22172

Prince William Forest Park is an oasis, a respite of quiet and calm. In 1936, Chopawamsic Recreation Area opened its gates to house children’s ‘relief’ camps during the Great Depression. Renamed Prince William Forest Park in 1948, these fragrant woods and trickling streams have welcomed generations of campers, hikers, bikers and nature lovers. Discover Northern Virginia’s best-kept secret!

Richmond National Battlefield Park

8761 Battlefield Park Rd, Richmond, VA 23231

The hub of Confederate manufacturing fueled a modern war, one of the South’s largest hospitals gave care to the sick and wounded, violent clashes of massive armies on open fields and miles of formidable defensive earthworks meant that from 1861 to 1865, Richmond’s fate would determine America’s future.

Shenandoah National Park

Blue Ridge Mountains near Luray, VA

Just 75 miles from the bustle of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is your escape to recreation and re-creation. Cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, quiet wooded hollows—take a hike, meander along Skyline Drive, or picnic with the family. 200,000 acres of protected lands are haven to deer, songbirds, the night sky…and you. Plan a Shenandoah escape today!

Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

DC, MD, VA; 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230

For three years the young United States was embroiled in the War of 1812 and the Chesapeake Bay region felt the brunt of it, choked by shipping blockades and ravaged by enemy raids. Through sites and landscapes in Virginia, the District of Columbia, and throughout Maryland, the Trail tells the stories of the events, people, and places that led to the birth of our National Anthem.

Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail

MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, DC; various locations. One is the Yorktown Battlefield or Prince William Forest Park

In 1781, General Rochambeau’s French Army joined forces with General Washington’s Continental Army to fight the British Army in Yorktown, Virginia. With the French Navy in support, the allied armies moved hundreds of miles to become the largest troop movement of the American Revolution. The effort and cooperation between the two sides led to a victory at Yorktown and secured American independence.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182

No matter what your age or taste in shows, you’ll find something you like onstage at Wolf Trap. From May through September, multiple amphitheaters in the park present performances such as musicals, dance, opera, jazz, and popular and country music. A good time to explore the beauty and history of the park without the crowds is October – April.

Yorktown Battlefield

1000 Colonial Pkwy, Yorktown, VA 23690

Discover what it took for the United States to be independent as you explore the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Here at Yorktown, in the fall of 1781, General George Washington, with allied American and French forces, besieged General Charles Lord Cornwallis’s British army. On October 19, Cornwallis surrendered, effectively ending the war and ensuring independence.

For more attractions, go to Virginia is For Lovers Travel Site

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Washington D.C. National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 17, 2018 No Comments

Washington D.C isn’t as much of an outdoor oasis as it is a history and art lover’s dream. The United State capital entertains over 43 million visitors annually to its 25 national parks, 4 national trails, 74 national historic landmarks, and 137 archeological sites. The National Register of Historic Places lists 621 buildings in its 68 square miles. The District of Columbia is also home to 11 of the 19 Smithsonian Museums. The best thing about Washington D.C.? There are a ton of free things to do. From the Smithsonian Museums to the national mall and memorials to the U.S. Capitol Building. One big tip is to ignore the driving directions and take the subway. It’s safe and extremely convenient for getting around the city at a low rate!

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National Parks & Historic Sites

African American Civil War Memorial

1925 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

Over 200,000 African-American soldiers and sailors served in the U.S. Army and Navy during the Civil War. Their service helped to end the war and free over four million slaves. The African American Civil War Memorial honors their service and sacrifice.

Anacostia Park

1900 Anacostia Dr, Washington, DC 20020

Whether you exercise along the river trail or relax by the water, Anacostia Park is a breath of fresh air and a space to unwind amid a bustling city.

Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument

144 Constitution Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Home to the National Woman’s Party for nearly 90 years, this was the epicenter of the struggle for women’s rights. From this house in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, Alice Paul and the NWP developed innovative strategies and tactics to advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment and equality for women. President Barack Obama designated the national monument on April 12, 2016.

Capitol Hill Parks

Washington, D.C.; See list of parks in the map above

The Capitol Hill Parks include several park areas east of the U.S. Capitol. Included in this group are Folger, Lincoln, Stanton, and Marion Parks, the Eastern Market and Potomac Avenue Metro stations, and several smaller land parcels such as Seward Square, Twining Square, the Maryland Avenue Triangles, the Pennsylvania Avenue Medians, and 59 inner-city triangles and squares.

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

Various States VA, MD, DE, DC, PA, NY

Four hundred years ago Englishman John Smith and a small crew of adventurers set out in an open boat to explore the Chesapeake Bay. Between 1607 and 1609 Smith and his crew mapped nearly 3,000 miles of the Bay and rivers and documented American Indian communities. Smith’s map and journals are a remarkable record of the 17th-century Chesapeake. Come and join the adventure on the Chesapeake Bay!

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site

1538 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Before Dr. Carter G. Woodson, there was very little accurate written history about the lives and experiences of Americans of African descent. Today a National Historic Site, Dr. Woodson’s home served as the headquarters for the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Dr. Woodson established Negro History Week here in 1926, which we celebrate today as Black History Month.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Potomac River, DC, MD, WV; one site is Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20418

Preserving America’s early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures.

Chesapeake Bay

Chesapeake Bay Watershed, DC, DE, MD, NY, PA, VA, WV

NPS helps you learn about and enjoy the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in North America. Here, you can visit major league cities, colonial towns, American Indian landscapes, farms and fishing villages. You can learn to kayak, pick crabs, go fishing, tour a lighthouse, slurp oysters, and slow down to enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake.

Civil War Defenses of Washington

Minnesota Ave SE, Washington, DC 20019; Washington, DC, MD, VA

On forested hills surrounding the nation’s capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. Built by Union forces, these strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world’s most fortified cities. This month, we will feature Fort Totten, part of the Northern Defenses and engaged during the Battle of Fort Stevens.

Constitution Gardens

Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20024

Officially established in 1965, National Mall and Memorial Parks actually protect some of the older parklands in the National Park System. Areas within this premier park provide visitors with ample opportunities to commemorate presidential legacies; honor the courage and sacrifice of war veterans, and celebrate the United States commitment to freedom and equality.

Ford’s Theatre

511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Explore Ford’s Theatre NHS, discover Abraham Lincoln’s life in Washington, D.C., the struggle for a united country, and the motivation behind Lincoln’s assassination. The National Park Service and the Ford’s Theatre Society present a variety of programs year round.

Fort Dupont Park

Minnesota Ave SE, Washington, DC 20019

Welcome to Fort Dupont Park in Washington DC! At 376-acres, the wooded park was once home to earthen fort built to protect the capital during the Civil War. Today, visitors can see the fort’s earthworks and escape to the great outdoors. Activities include picnics, nature walks, biking, gardening, environmental education, music, and ranger-led programs.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

1850 West Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20242

These words by President Roosevelt ushered the United States into World War Two and defined what it is to be an American. Stop by this secluded memorial and begin to understand the Roosevelt legacy in the park’s largest memorial.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020

Frederick Douglass spent his life fighting for justice and equality. Born into slavery in 1818, he escaped as a young man and became a leading voice in the abolitionist movement. People everywhere still find inspiration today in his tireless struggle, brilliant words, and inclusive vision of humanity. Douglass’s legacy is preserved here at Cedar Hill, where he lived his last 17 years.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

DC, MD, VA

The George Washington Memorial Parkway was designed for recreational driving. It links sites that commemorate important episodes in American history and preserve habitat for local wildlife. The parkway and its associated trails provide a scenic place to play and rest in busy Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens

1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019

In an age-old dance wind, water, and land combine here. Sparkling in the sun on a breezy day, this natural area of Anacostia Park has origins in a 1926 act of Congress to preserve the forests, water quality, and recreation value of the waterways of Washington, DC. The park reflects the policies that affect rivers and wetlands. Come, join the dance.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

900 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024 https://www.nps.gov/kowa/

Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.

LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac

George Washington Memorial Pkwy, Washington, DC 20037

https://www.nps.gov/lyba/

From this distance, the seat of national power appears pristine across the river, so President Johnson came here often when he needed to escape from the stresses of building a Great Society. After he died, his wife chose this place for his memorial. A landscape of serpentine paths, white pines, a granite monolith, and an open meadow honors his legacy of social justice and conservation legislation.

Lincoln Memorial

2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037

“In this temple, as in the hearts of the people for whom he saved the Union, the memory of Abraham Lincoln is enshrined forever.” Beneath these words, the 16th President of the United States.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

1964 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024 https://www.nps.gov/mlkm/

Located in downtown Washington, D.C., the memorial honors Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy and the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice.

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

1318 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005 https://www.nps.gov/mamc/

Mary McLeod Bethune achieved her greatest recognition at the Washington, DC townhouse that is now this National Historic Site. The Council House was the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and was Bethune’s last home in Washington, DC. From here, Bethune and the NCNW spearheaded strategies and developed programs that advanced the interests of African American women.

National Capital Parks-East

1900 Anacostia Dr, Washington, DC 20020

Welcome to National Capital Parks-East. We invite you to journey to parks Beyond the Capital of Washington, D.C. National Capital Parks-East is 13 park sites, parkways and statuary covering more than 8,000 acres of historic, cultural, and recreational parklands from Capitol Hill to the nearby Maryland suburbs

National Mall and Memorial Parks

900 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024 https://www.nps.gov/nama/

Each year, millions of people visit National Mall and Memorial Parks to recreate, to commemorate presidential legacies, to honor our nation’s veterans, to make their voices heard, and to celebrate our nation’s commitment to freedom and equality. Note: The Washington Monument is currently closed for modernization of the elevator.

Pennsylvania Avenue

Washington, DC 20001

A street unlike any other. It is known the world over as the heart of the Nation’s Capital. America’s history has marched, paraded, promenaded, and protested its way along the Avenue.

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

The corridor between the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Highlands, DC, MD, PA, VA; one site is Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge

Linking the tidal Potomac and upper Youghiogheny river basins, the evolving Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network lies within a corridor rich in historic pathways and waterways. You can travel this historic corridor today—on foot, bicycle, and horse and by boat—exploring contrasting landscapes between the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Plateau.

President’s Park (White House)

1450 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20230

Every president except George Washington has called the White House and its surrounding grounds his place of work, rest, and solitude. Recognizable around the world, the White House stands as a symbol of democracy. The White House and its park grounds serve not only as the seat of the executive branch of the government of the United States of America but also as an iconic place for civil discourse.

Rock Creek Park

Washington, DC 20008

Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation’s capital. This 1,754-acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history.

Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

DC, MD, VA

For three years the young United States was embroiled in the War of 1812 and the Chesapeake Bay region felt the brunt of it, choked by shipping blockades and ravaged by enemy raids. Through sites and landscapes in Virginia, the District of Columbia, and throughout Maryland, the Trail tells the stories of the events, people, and places that led to the birth of our National Anthem.

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Washington, DC

In the 1930s, landscape architects transformed Mason’s Island from neglected, overgrown farmland into Theodore Roosevelt Island, a memorial to America’s 26th president. They conceived a “real forest” designed to mimic the natural forest that once covered the island. Today miles of trails through wooded uplands and swampy bottomlands honor the legacy of a great outdoorsman and conservationist.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

701 E Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20242

Author of the Declaration of Independence, statesman, and visionary for the founding of a nation.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

5 Henry Bacon Dr NW, Washington, DC 20245

Honoring the men and women who served in the controversial Vietnam War, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial chronologically lists the names of more than 58,000 Americans who gave their lives in service to their country.

Washington Monument

2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024

Built to honor George Washington, the United States’ first president, the 555-foot marble obelisk towers over Washington, D.C. The Washington Monument is currently closed to visitors to allow for modernization of the elevator.

Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail

MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, DC

In 1781, General Rochambeau’s French Army joined forces with General Washington’s Continental Army to fight the British Army in Yorktown, Virginia. With the French Navy in support, the allied armies moved hundreds of miles to become the largest troop movement of the American Revolution. The effort and cooperation between the two sides led to a victory at Yorktown and secured American independence.

World War II Memorial

1750 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024

Through stone architecture and bronze sculptures, the World War II Memorial recognizes the ways Americans served. The memorial also honors those who fell and recognizes the victory they achieved to restore freedom and end tyranny around the globe.

For more sites and attractions, visit the Official Washington D.C. tourism site.

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In National and State Park

Maryland National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

September 17, 2018 No Comments

Defined by its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland is a state with a long maritime history and abundant parklands. Over 6.7 million visitors per year gather at one the state’s 18 national parks, 74 national historic landmarks, 6 national historic landmarks, or 637 archeological sites. Hike one of the 5 national trails or multiple trails throughout the state, from the edge of Pennsylvania down to the Potomac River. The list of parks in Maryland includes the Appalachian Trail as well as the slightly lesser known Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. A state forest or park is often within miles of every city, so go out and explore one of the state’s many state park or forests. You are a history buff? There are over 1500 places on the National Register of Historic Places.

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National Parks & Historic Sites

Antietam National Battlefield

302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782

23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia’s first invasion into the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Maine to Georgia, CT, GA, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937, today the trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies and thousands of volunteers.

Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore MD, VA

Want to live on the edge? Visit a place recreated each day by ocean wind and waves. Life on Assateague Island has adapted to an existence on the move. Explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays. Rest, relax, recreate and enjoy some time on the edge of the continent.

Baltimore National Heritage Area

100 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21202

For nearly three centuries, Baltimore has stood as a center of commerce and culture for the Chesapeake Bay. The city has seen the incredible transformation of American identity, shaped by war, prosperity, and struggles for freedom and civil rights. Visit the Baltimore National Heritage Area to experience the places and people that shaped the nation and forged the American identity.

Baltimore-Washington Parkway

Washington D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland, MD

This 29-mile highway connects Baltimore, MD and Washington, D.C. The parkway has carried visitors to and from the capital city since 1954.

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

Various States VA, MD, DE, DC, PA, NY; 716 Giddings Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403

Four hundred years ago Englishman John Smith and a small crew of adventurers set out in an open boat to explore the Chesapeake Bay. Between 1607 and 1609 Smith and his crew mapped nearly 3,000 miles of the Bay and rivers and documented American Indian communities. Smith’s map and journals are a remarkable record of the 17th-century Chesapeake. Come to join the adventure on the Chesapeake Bay!

Catoctin Mountain Park

14707 Park Central Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788

President Franklin D. Roosevelt created programs to give people a chance to rebuild their lives from the Great Depression. The Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps gave this land a second opportunity and through re-growth, a new role as a recreation area.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

205 W Potomac St, Williamsport, MD 21795

Preserving America’s early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures.

Chesapeake Bay

Chesapeake Bay Watershed, DC, DE, MD, NY, PA, VA, WV

NPS helps you learn about and enjoy the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in North America. Here, you can visit major league cities, colonial towns, American Indian landscapes, farms and fishing villages. You can learn to kayak, pick crabs, go fishing, tour a lighthouse, slurp oysters, and slow down to enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake.

Civil War Defenses of Washington

Washington, DC, MD, VA

On forested hills surrounding the nation’s capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. Built by Union forces, these strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world’s most fortified cities. This month, we will feature Fort Totten, part of the Northern Defenses and engaged during the Battle of Fort Stevens.

Clara Barton National Historic Site

5801 Oxford Rd, Glen Echo, MD 20812

Clara Barton dedicated her life and energies to help others in times of need – both home and abroad, in peacetime as well as during military emergencies. Glen Echo was her home the last 15 years of her life and the structure illustrates her dedication and concern for those less fortunate than herself.

Fort Foote Park

8626 Fort Foote Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744

Fort Foote was constructed in 1863 atop Rozier’s Bluff to strengthen the ring of fortifications that encircled Washington, D.C. Two of the Guns that protected Washington are still there along with the remains of the fort’s earthworks.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230

Fort McHenry is a historical American coastal pentagonal bastion fort located in the Locust Point neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland. It is best known for its role in the War of 1812, when it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British navy from the Chesapeake Bay on September 13–14, 1814.

Fort Washington Park

13551 Fort Washington Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744

Built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, Fort Washington has stood as a silent sentry for over 200 years. As technologies advanced so did Fort Washington, from the brick and stone of the 19th century to the concrete and steel of the 20th century. Joining the National Park Service in 1946, the park continues to protect the Potomac River.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

DC, MD, VA

The George Washington Memorial Parkway was designed for recreational driving. It links sites that commemorate important episodes in American history and preserve habitat for local wildlife. The parkway and its associated trails provide a scenic place to play and rest in busy Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Glen Echo Park

7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812

Glen Echo Park began in 1891 as a National Chautauqua Assembly “to promote liberal and practical education.” By 1911, it transformed into DC’s premier amusement park until it closed in 1968. Since 1971, the National Park Service has owned and operated the site and today, with the help of the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture, offers year-round cultural and recreational activities.

Greenbelt Park

6565 Greenbelt Rd, Greenbelt, MD 20770

The park and campground are open year round. Greenbelt Park is located in suburban Greenbelt, Maryland. Starting April 1, Specific site Reservations will be required at the Greenbelt Park campground year round. The park features a 174 site campground with specific site reservations, nine miles of trails, and three picnic areas. Enjoy the affordability, peaceful surroundings and NPS hospitality

Hampton National Historic Site

535 Hampton Ln, Towson, MD 21286

Once possibly the largest private home in America by 1790, the Hampton mansion serves as a grand example of late-Georgian architecture in America. Hampton is also the story of its people, as the estate evolved through the actions of the Ridgely family, enslaved African Americans, European indentured servants, and paid laborers within a nation struggling to define its own concept of freedom.

Harmony Hall

13551 Fort Washington Rd., Fort Washington, MD 20744

The 18th century Harmony Hall mansion is located on a 62.5-acre open pasture land estate along the Potomac River. This estate was purchased by the National Park Service in 1966, to preserve southern Maryland cultural heritage. Surrounded by a rich landscape, it offers visitors many chances to connect with Colonial History. The park is also home to the remains of the Want Water House and canal.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

767 Shenandoah St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425; Harpers Ferry, WV, VA, MD

A visit to this quaint, historic community, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, is like stepping into the past. Stroll the picturesque streets, visit exhibits and museums, or hike our trails and battlefields. Spend a day or a weekend. We have something for everyone, so come and discover Harpers Ferry!

Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park

4068 Golden Hill Rd, Church Creek, MD 21622

Harriet Tubman was a deeply spiritual woman who lived her ideals and dedicated her life to freedom. She is the Underground Railroad’s best-known conductor and before the Civil War repeatedly risked her life to guide nearly 70 enslaved people north to new lives of freedom. This new national historical park preserves the same landscapes that Tubman used to carry herself and others away from slavery.

Monocacy National Battlefield

5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD 21704

During the summer of 1864, the Confederacy carried out a bold plan to turn the tide of the Civil War in their favor. They planned to capture Washington, DC and influence the election of 1864. On July 9, however, Federal soldiers outnumbered three to one, fought gallantly along the banks of the Monocacy River in an effort to buy time for Union reinforcement to arrive in Washington, DC.

Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm

6411 Oxon Hill Rd, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

The diverse history of Maryland and our national heritage can be experienced at Oxon Cove Park. Through hands-on programs and other activities, you can experience farm life and how its changed over time. Explore how the park evolved from a plantation home during the War of 1812, to a hospital farm, to the park you can visit today.

Piscataway Park

3400 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek, MD 20607

Piscataway Park is home to bald eagles, beavers, deer, foxes, ospreys, and many other species. To complement the surroundings, the park has, in addition to a public fishing pier and two boardwalks over freshwater tidal wetlands, a variety of nature trails, meadows, and woodland areas. The Park is also home to National Colonial Farm.

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

The corridor between the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Highlands, DC, MD, PA, VA, McLean, VA 20175

Linking the tidal Potomac and upper Youghiogheny river basins, the evolving Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network lies within a corridor rich in historic pathways and waterways. You can travel this historic corridor today—on foot, bicycle, and horse and by boat—exploring contrasting landscapes between the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Plateau.

Star-Spangled Banner National Trail

2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230; DC, MD, VA

For three years the young United States was embroiled in the War of 1812 and the Chesapeake Bay region felt the brunt of it, choked by shipping blockades and ravaged by enemy raids. Through sites and landscapes in Virginia, the District of Columbia, and throughout Maryland, the Trail tells the stories of the events, people, and places that led to the birth of our National Anthem.

Thomas Stone National Historic Site

6655 Rose Hill Rd, Port Tobacco, MD 20677

Prior to the Revolutionary War, Thomas Stone led a very comfortable life as a planter and lawyer. After realizing war with Great Britain was inevitable, he risked everything he held dear– life, fortune, and sacred honor– to safeguard American rights. To that end, Thomas Stone became one of 56 men to sign one of the most important documents in World History; the Declaration of Independence.

Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail

MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, DC

In 1781, General Rochambeau’s French Army joined forces with General Washington’s Continental Army to fight the British Army in Yorktown, Virginia. With the French Navy in support, the allied armies moved hundreds of miles to become the largest troop movement of the American Revolution. The effort and cooperation between the two sides led to a victory at Yorktown and secured American independence.

For more attractions, visit the Official State of Maryland Tourism Site.

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