Are you planning your next family road trip and looking for something beyond the usual tourist spots? While national parks often steal the spotlight, America’s national historic sites offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich tapestry of our nation’s past.
From the bustling cities of the Pacific Coast to the quiet plains of the Midwest, these hidden gems are perfect for spontaneous day trips or well-planned family adventures.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked 17 must-visit national historic sites across the U.S. that should be on every history lover’s bucket list. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just looking for a fun and educational day out with the kids, these sites are sure to inspire and amaze.
Plus, don't forget to bring along your National Historic Sites & Parks Bucket Journal to capture every memorable moment of your journey!
Pacific Region
The Pacific Region is not just about stunning landscapes; it's also filled with a rich history that has profoundly shaped the nation.
- Visit Seattle’s Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to uncover the city’s pivotal role in one of history's most famous gold rushes.
- In Northern California, step into the world of America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright at the Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site.
- Learn about the vital contributions on the home front during WWII at the Rosie the Riveter / WWII Home Front National Historical Park.
- For those intrigued by military history, the War in the Pacific National Historical Park commemorates the bravery of those on the frontlines during the Pacific campaigns of WWII.
Each site offers a unique perspective on the diverse and dynamic history of the Pacific Region.
Mid West Region
The Midwest holds a special place in American history, and the historic sites in this region reflect that importance.
- Walk in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Illinois, where you can gain insights into the life of the 16th president before he led the nation through its most trying times.
- Discover the landmark court case that changed the face of American education at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Kansas.
- In Missouri, explore the life of another U.S. president at the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site, which offers a look at Truman’s journey from his early years to the presidency.
These sites provide an intimate look at the individuals and events defining the American Midwest.
Rocky Mountain Region
The Rocky Mountain region is steeped in history, from the trails of pioneer travelers to the transcontinental railroad construction.
- Visit Idaho’s City of Rocks National Historic Reserve, where towering granite formations create a “silent city” that has captivated travelers and geologists alike.
- In Nebraska, the Chimney Rock National Historic Site stands as one of the most iconic landmarks of the Oregon Trail, marking the journey of thousands of settlers heading west.
- Utah’s Golden Spike National Historical Park marks the spot where the final spike was driven to complete the transcontinental railroad, forever linking the east and west coasts of the United States.
Each site in the Rocky Mountain region tells a story of exploration, perseverance, and the pioneering spirit of the American frontier.
Southwest Region
The Southwest is a region of ancient cultures and significant historical events that continue to influence the nation today.
- Visit the Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico to marvel at the advanced engineering of the Ancestral Puebloan people, whose impressive buildings still stand as a testament to their ingenuity.
- In Texas, explore the life of the 36th president at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, where you can learn about LBJ’s impact on the nation.
- Also in Texas, the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park offers a deep dive into the causes and consequences of the battle that sparked the U.S.-Mexican War, shaping the borders of both nations.
These sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and historical richness of the Southwest.
North East Region
The Northeast is where many of the nation’s foundational events took place, and its historic sites offer a window into the United States' early years.
- In Boston, the Boston African American National Historic Site celebrates the city’s role in the Abolition Movement with stories of the leaders who fought tirelessly for freedom.
- Explore the early life of one of America’s most iconic presidents at the John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site in Massachusetts, where JFK’s childhood home has been preserved.
- The Longfellow House – Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site in Massachusetts offers a unique dual history, as both the home of the famous 19th-century poet Henry W. Longfellow and the headquarters of General George Washington during the Siege of Boston.
- Finally, visit the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in New York to honor the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest leaders in the fight for equality.
These sites in the Northeast provide a powerful connection to the ideals that shaped the nation’s history.
Capture Your Journey Through History
Visiting national historic sites is more than just a travel experience—it's an opportunity to connect with the stories, people, and events that have shaped our nation. Whether you're exploring the bustling ports of the Pacific Coast, walking in the footsteps of presidents in the Midwest, or uncovering ancient cultures in the Southwest, these historic sites offer a rich and diverse tapestry of American history.
But don't let those memories fade with time. Make each visit count by documenting your adventures in our National Historic Site Bucket Journal. This journal is more than just a keepsake; it's a place to capture your experiences, reflect on what you've learned, and plan future trips. With sections for trip planning, journaling, and storing mementos, it’s the perfect companion for history buffs and travel enthusiasts.
Ready to embark on your next historical adventure? Get your National Historic Site Bucket Journal today and start making your own history, one site at a time.
Don’t forget to share your journey with us on social media using #MyBucketJournals —we’d love to see where your adventures take you!
