Elizabeth is an experienced traveler and writer with bylines in several popular travel publications. She currently co-owns a small digital travel publication and spends her free time writing, taking photos, and traveling.
If you’re tired of the typical tourist spots, we suggest exploring the United States’ rich and underexplored heritage sites. These unique historical havens offer a glimpse into the country’s fascinating past, from ancient civilizations to modern cultural movements.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
The ancient ruins of Cahokia, located near present-day St. Louis, Missouri, represent the largest pre-Columbian city north of Mexico. At its peak, its influence likely extended across much of what is now the Midwest. Today, you can walk around the site’s mounds and learn about the culture and daily life of the indigenous peoples who once called Cahokia home.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
The San Antonio Missions are a group of four Spanish colonial missions built in the 1700s and located in present-day San Antonio, Texas. These missions were established as part of Spain’s efforts to spread Christianity and colonization throughout the region. A tour will allow you to explore the architecture and learn about the lives of the Native Americans who lived and worked at the missions.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Ohio is home to several earthworks, mounds, and artifacts left behind by the Hopewell people. These ancient sites offer a glimpse into the mysterious culture of this prehistoric civilization. Take a day trip from Cincinnati to learn about the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve these valuable historical resources.
Molokai Historic Sites
The island of Molokai in Hawaii is home to several historic sites that offer a window into the island’s unique cultural and religious history. You can explore ancient temples, burial grounds, and other cultural landmarks, as well as learn about the modern-day challenges facing the people of Molokai.
Ruby Falls Cave
Located deep within the Tennessee mountains, Ruby Falls Cave offers visitors the chance to witness a natural wonder as they explore underground caverns and waterfalls. In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty, the cave also offers a glimpse into the region’s geologic history and the forces that shaped this unique landscape.
Taos Pueblo
The Taos Pueblo in New Mexico is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. This UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site offers visitors the chance to learn about the centuries-old traditions and rich cultural heritage of the Native American Pueblo people. Tour the pueblo’s impressive adobe architecture and witness traditional dances and ceremonies.
Bannack State Park
The town of Bannack in Montana was once a thriving gold rush settlement, but today it stands as a well-preserved ghost town that offers a glimpse into the early days of Montana’s mining industry. You can explore the town’s historic buildings, including the old schoolhouse, hotel, and jail, and learn about the lives of the miners and settlers who made their homes in Bannack during the gold rush era.
El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail
Follow in the footsteps of Spanish explorers on the El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail in Texas. This historic route traces the path of Spanish explorers and colonizers as they ventured into new territories and established missions throughout the Southwest.
Manzanar National Historic Site, California
The Manzanar National Historic Site in California serves as a reminder of the country’s past injustices and government’s wrongdoings. This site safeguards the memory of the Japanese-Americans forced to live in internment camps during World War II and serves as a sentinel to future generations.
Fort Snelling State Park, Minnesota
Head over to the Fort Snelling State Park in Minnesota and discover the rich cultural heritage of the state. The park is home to historic structures and buildings from the Civil War and fur trading eras, with a variety of exhibits showcasing the history and tales of Minnesota.
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Are you looking for the perfect summer adventure? Look no further than these top national parks to visit in June! From the stunning wildflower displays at Lassen Volcanic National Park to the world-class whitewater rafting at New River Gorge National Park, this article provides insider tips and recommendations for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore these breathtaking natural wonders during one of the best months of the year!
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Are you planning a summer trip to a national park but want to avoid the crowds? Look no further than this article, which provides insider tips on which popular national parks to avoid and offers recommendations for six alternative destinations that offer unique experiences and stunning natural beauty. From exploring rugged peaks and pristine lakes at North Cascades National Park to discovering the geological history of Capitol Reef National Park, this article has everything you need to plan an unforgettable outdoor adventure this summer.
Best 16 Utah Vacation Spots
Are you looking for an unforgettable vacation spot with breathtaking natural beauty? Look no further than Utah! With stunning national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, as well as unique attractions like the Homestead Crater and Dead Horse Point, Utah has something for everyone. This article provides insider tips and recommendations for the best places to visit in Utah, from hiking to skiing to soaking in natural hot springs. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this incredible outdoor playground!
5 Waterfalls in Zion National Park For A Fabulous Day Out
Are you a nature enthusiast looking for an outdoor adventure that will take your breath away? Look no further than Zion National Park in southwestern Utah! This article explores the park’s stunning waterfalls, including the moderate hike to Archangel Falls and the more challenging Upper Emerald Pools. But that’s not all – the article also highlights other natural attractions in the park, such as The Great White Throne and the Court of the Patriarchs. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this gorgeous landscape and experience the beauty of Utah’s unique natural wonders!