One of the greatest things about living in the United States is that, while we’re a relatively young country in terms of the world, we value our heritage and our history. There are historical sights to see in every state in the nation. Whether you’re on the East Coast and near such amazing historical places as Philadelphia and Washington, or whether you’re on the West Coast near San Francisco, or whether you’re in the Midwest, there’s always something to see.
Unfortunately, our kids don’t always see history in as interesting a light as we do. If you suggest your family take a historical tour of sites near your home, you’ll probably be met with a lot of skepticism.
Still, these kinds of trips can be fun for all, if you plan them right. Just make sure you purchase your travel insurance ahead of time, so that if things go wrong you’re not out a bunch of cash for a vacation you didn’t get to take.
Here are some steps you can take to turn family historical journeys into hysterical ones:
- 1. Read ahead. If you’re going to Gettysburg, read a little bit ahead about the famous Civil War battle that took place there. Look at some pictures from the period that show specific parts of the battlefield. When you arrive, make sure to visit those same places.
- 2. Explore reenactments. Some of the best historical trips will be to places that have reenactors. Consider, for example, Historic Williamsburg. If you’re in the Midwest, take a trip to Mackinac Island and watch real revolutionary-war era cannons fired (and enjoy some famous Mackinac Island Fudge!)
- 3. Choose destinations with a family connection. If you are descended from someone who was a private in the Army of Northern Virgina, visit some of the battlefields that Lee’s army fought on. If your grandfather was a farmer in Illinois, consider a visit to the historic stockyards in Chicago. Find something that your kids can connect with.
History-based vacations aren’t for every family, but you’ll never know if they work for yours until you try.
Similar Posts:
- The Quirky Traveller’s Favourite Travel Destinations
- It’s a Long Walk From Guatemala to Honduras
- Best Beaches in the U.S.
- Spain from a different point of view.
- State Farm Pays $5 Billion to Cover Weather Damages
