A trip to the east coast calls for a visit to some of the best historical sites. With plenty of things to see on the coast, if you are looking to see more of the history of the area, these are some of the best historical sites to visit on the east coast.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center – Cambridge, Maryland
Harriet Tubman needs no introduction, and this visitor center, located in Maryland, tells her story and how she helped fight to bring enslaved people to freedom.
What makes this visitor center special is that the national historic park preserved the landscapes to the same level that Tubman used to help those she was able to save. The center offers educational programs for children, museums that are focused on the fight for freedom, exhibits, a research library, and more.
Salem Witch Museum – Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts, is full of history that revolves around the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. In addition to the museums in the area, Salem offers travelers a chance to learn about everything from witches to colonial history.
As you enjoy the history-rich area, Salem offers a variety of different restaurants, cafes, and shops that you can enjoy during your stay. While in the area, you can also visit the Derby Wharf Light Station, Dead Horse Beach, and Charlotte Forten Park.
Pennsylvania Hospital – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Founded in 1751, the Pennsylvania Hospital is known as the “teaching hospital.” The hospital is also noted to be the nation’s first medical library and the oldest hospital in America.
While you are visiting the hospital, you can take a self-guided tour to see some of the world’s oldest surgical artifacts and medical artifacts that have forever changed the medical field.
The Library of Congress – Washington, D.C.
There is so much to see and do in Washington, but history buffs are sure to be impressed with the Library of Congress. Serving as the official library for the United States Congress, it is one of the largest libraries in the world and allows visitors to view a collection of books that spans from the earliest years.
It is worth mentioning that a few miles north of the library, there is an International Spy Museum, which houses the largest collection of spy artifacts that you can learn more about.
Lewes History Museum – Lewes, Delaware
Lewes is probably best known for its summer beach destination, but there is so much more too that quaint little town.
The Lewes History Museum is the first stop you should make while visiting the city. The museum offers a ton of insight on how Lewes played a part in the War of 1812 and other interesting facts. One of the most interesting facts about Lewes is that at one time it was raided by pirates and is rumored to still have a gold chest that was buried by Captain Kidd, the infamous pirate.
The Old South Meeting House – Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is known for it’s many historical sites but is also the location of the famous Boston Tea Party. The Old South Meeting House is a destination for history buffs who are looking to explore more about the hub of free speech.
When it was built, it was the largest building in Boston and soon became a center of meetings where people could speak freely. Today, you can see the re-enactments of the Boston Tea Party as you learn more about the area and its rich history.
The Biltmore Estate – Asheville, North Carolina
The Biltmore Estate is one of the largest privately owned homes in the United States. Over the years, it has been perfectly preserved and has become a historical treasure. The estate sits on hundreds of acres of land, and visitors can take historical tours of the area, enjoy the excellent cuisine from the local cafe, and take a tour of the winery that is located on the property.
Oconaluftee Indian Village – Cherokee, North Carolina
Another historic location in North Caroline, the Oconaluftee Indian Village is an authentic working village that offers hands-on activities and classes that teach the Native American way of life.
Not far from Oconaluftee, visitors can travel to see the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. This historical museum features replicas of the Cherokee Indians and showcases their way of life.
With both destinations, visitors will be able to see the demonstrations that are put on, take part in the guided tours, or interact with many of the activities offered.
The east coast is full of historic landmarks and attractions that are important to those who want to preserve and learn about the history of our nation.
These are just a tiny sliver of the different attractions you can visit while taking a trip along the east coast. If you have planned a vacation to the east coast, it would be well worth it to visit some of these key historic sites that have played an important role in our history.
If you’re planning a trip to the West Coast, then check out these historical sites to see on the West Coast.
