5 Amazing Places to Learn About American History
This Fourth of July will mark 247 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. These many years include countless historical events and figures that have shaped the United States as a nation. In celebration, we’re looking at several places that make amazing classrooms to learn about American history and the beginnings of the U.S. as a country — let’s dive in!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Any discussion about United States history would be incomplete without a mention of Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love is home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. Philadelphia is also near to Valley Forge and Trenton, New Jersey, where Washington won a key battle of the American Revolution.
Interested in visiting Philadelphia and learning about it firsthand? Embark on our learning adventure: The American Revolution from Philadelphia to Trenton
Boston, Massachusetts
An exploration of Boston means walking in the footsteps of historic figures and Founding Fathers like Samuel Adams, John Hancock and Paul Revere. Further exploration of sites like the Old North Church, Bunker Hill and Old South Meeting House lend even more understanding and context for events of the American Revolution. Walk along the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail to connect some of these historic sites with the modern sights and sounds of downtown Boston.
Interested in visiting Boston and learning about it firsthand? Embark on our learning adventure: Boston: Birthplace of American Liberty
The “Historic Triangle” of Virginia
Virginia offers a rich look at colonial history, from the first British colony established in Jamestown in 1607 to the last major battle of the American Revolution at Yorktown in 1781. In between the two, Colonial Williamsburg provides a window into life hundreds of years ago. This “historic triangle” of sites is an excellent classroom for learning about the early years of colonial history in America, including its impacts on slavery, indigenous people and the future of the United States.
Interested in visiting Virginia and learning more firsthand? Embark on our learning adventure: From Colony to Revolution: Jamestown, Williamsburg, Yorktown
New York
New York City holds many relics of America’s revolutionary history, but a major one lies outside of the city on the Hudson River. West Point was considered the most important strategic location in America by George Washington, who had a fort built at that spot. Benedict Arnold attempted to turn the fortress over to the British, but this act of treason failed, and West Point remains the oldest continuously occupied regular army post in the U.S.
Interested in visiting West Point and learning about it firsthand? Embark on our learning adventure: On the Road: Autumn in the Berkshires and Hudson Valley
Charlottesville, Virginia
Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe shared many similarities — their homes were all located near Charlottesville, Virginia, they all played significant roles in the American Revolution and, most importantly, they all served as President of the United States. A visit to their homes reveals much more about each of these men and the lives they led.
Interested in visiting these homes and learning more firsthand? Embark on our learning adventure: Three Friends: Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe