Article Summary: White Sands National Park Facts

White Sands National Park Facts! In this article, we provide you with 10 surprising facts about one of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand.

And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Facts About White Sands National Park

Some Basic Facts About White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is located in southern New Mexico and is known for its vast expanse of white gypsum sand dunes. The park was established in 1933 and covers over 275 square miles. The white sands are the result of gypsum deposits that were formed when an ancient sea evaporated.

Over time, the gypsum deposits were covered by sand and then exposed again by natural forces, creating the unique landscape of the park.

• Location: New Mexico
• Acreage: 145,800 acres
• Visitation: White Sands National Park is the most visited NPS site in New Mexico, visited by 782,469 people in 2021.
• Elevation: The elevation at White Sands is 4,235 feet.
• Climate: June through August, daytime temperatures average 95ºF (35ºC), with some days reaching as high as 110ºF (38º). Evenings are much cooler, ranging from 50-65ºF (10-18ºC).
• When Did It Become A National Park? White Sands was established as a national monument in 1933 and re-desginated as a national park in 2019.

White Sands National Park Facts

Top 5 White Sands National Park Facts

1. The First People Came To The Park Over 10,000 Years Ago

As a retired history teacher and lifelong history buff, I have always been fascinated with origin stories. Who were the earliest peoples and where did they come from?

For me, one of the more interesting White Sands National Park Facts is that over 10,000 years ago the first people came in search of food, water, and shelter.

According to the National Park Service, little is known about these first people because so much of their culture was not preserved in the archaeological record. However, we do know that the first groups to enter the Tularosa Basin were exceptional stone tool makers and hunters.

They used stone from the nearby mountains craft intricate spear, projectile points, known as the Folsom and Plano traditions. Evidence of Paleoindian occupation in the form of projectile points and other stone tools have been found in the Tularosa Basin associated with ancient shorelines, streams, and hill top rises above playas where they could track the movements of game animals drinking from watering holes below.

2. Hearth Mounds Represent The Most Amazing Evidence Of Human Occupation At White Sands

Another of the fascinating White Sands National Park Facts has to do with the story of the hearth mounds.

The hearth mounds found in the First State National Historical Park are unique archaeological sites that provide valuable insights into the lives of the people who lived in the area thousands of years ago.

The hearth mounds are the remains of fires that were built by prehistoric peoples, and they contain charcoal and ash that have been preserved over time. These mounds are surrounded by other artifacts, such as tools and pottery, that were used by these ancient people.

The dune hearth mounds in the park are particularly significant because they are the result of a chemical reaction between gypsum, heat, and moisture. When gypsum is heated to a certain temperature, it turns into plaster of Paris, which hardens when moisture is added. This process cements the hearth features in place, preserving them for thousands of years.

Radiocarbon dating methods have been used to date the charcoal found in these hearth mounds, and they have been found to range from the middle of the Archaic period to recent history. This means that the hearth mounds provide a chronological record of human occupation in the area over a period of several thousand years.

These hearth mounds are an important part of the archaeological heritage of the park, and they offer a unique opportunity to learn about the lives of ancient people and how they interacted with their environment.

3. A Beautiful Spanish Maiden Is Reported To Haunt The Dunes At White Sands

The most intriguing White Sands National Park Fact which I came across in my research has to do with the legend of a Spanish maiden who is said to haunt the glistening dunes.   

The Legend of Pavla Blanca is a fictional story that is said to be based on a real event, but it has been passed down through time as a tale and is not historically accurate.

The story is about a Spanish conquistador named Hernando de Luna, who is ambushed and killed by Apaches, and his betrothed, Mañuela, who sets out to find him but is never seen again. The legend says that Mañuela’s ghost haunts the Great White Sands and can be seen in the form of a ghostly figure, dressed in a flowing white wedding gown, appearing in the dunes after sunset.

The legend is popular among people with imagination who strolling in the silent shimmering dunes after a fiery sunset, may be fortunate enough to witness for themselves the unusual sight. But it is important to note that the story is a legend and not a true historical event. Some people believe in the legend and find it fascinating, while others view it as a fanciful tale.

4. The Park Was Part Of A “Salt War”

Another of the fascinating White Sands National Park Facts has to do with the story of a “Salt War.”

The “Salt War” which took place in the late 1800s. At that time, the area around the park was a vast desert and the only source of salt for the region was a salt lake located within the park. The salt lake was a vital resource for the local population, and it was used for both human consumption and as a preservative for food.

However, the salt lake soon became the center of a dispute between the local population and the federal government, which claimed ownership of the land and the salt. The local population, consisting of ranchers, farmers, and Native Americans, refused to relinquish control of the salt lake and began to extract salt illegally.

This led to a series of confrontations, known as the “Salt War” between the local population and the federal government, which lasted for several years.

The conflict eventually came to an end when the government agreed to lease the salt lake to the local population for a nominal fee. The Salt War of White Sands National Park is a reminder of the importance of natural resources to human society and the potential for conflict when those resources are scarce.

5. The History Of White Sands National Park Is Closely Tied To The History Of The American Frontier

White Sands National Park has a rich history that is closely tied to the American frontier. In the 1800s, the area became part of the American Frontier, famously romanticized as the Wild West.

However, the story of the Tularosa Basin, where the park is located, is better told by the lives of the people who settled the land and raised their families.

In the 1880s, a brief period of heavy rainfall supported the return of lush grasslands in the Tularosa Basin, which attracted the attention of goat, sheep, and cattle grazers, predominately from Texas, seeking to make their fortune in livestock.

Large cattle drives pushed into the Tularosa Basin, and family homesteaders were establishing ranches throughout the basin. For sixty years, ranching was the dominant economy of the Tularosa Basin.

The Most Prominent Ranchers In The Area

Several ranches were homesteaded on White Sands National Park before it was established, including Walters Ranch, Watson Ritch Ranch and the Lucero family ranches on the Lake Lucero shoreline.

The Lucero family, which were among the most prominent ranchers in the area, had several ranches on the south shore of the lake that would eventually come to bear their name.

In 1940, the National Park Service took over ownership of the Lucero family properties with the appropriation of Lake Lucero and Alkali Flat.

Today, the remnants of the Lucero family legacy are still evident on the landscape, such as stock pens, watering trough, a water well, and a fallen windmill, which visitors can experience on a ranger-led tour to Lake Lucero during the year’s cooler months.

Top 10 White Sands National Park Facts

6. White Sands Has The Largest Gypsum Dune Field In The World

Another of the fascinating White Sands National Park Facts has to do with the white sands.

White Sands National Park is home to the largest gypsum dune field in the world. The gypsum sand forms as a result of rainwater and snowmelt that dissolve the gypsum from nearby mountains and flow into the Tularosa Basin.

Evaporation causes selenite crystals to form and strong winds break these crystals into small grains that form the gypsum sand dunes. The gypsum is naturally clear but appears white due to the reflection of sunlight on the crystals’ scratches.

7. Many Species Make Their Home At The Park

Another amazing Whites Sands National Park Fact has to do with the park’s wildlife. You wouldn’t expect there to be a lot given the prevalence of the white sands. But you would be wrong.

Many species of mammals make their home in White Sands National Park, including foxes, rodents, coyotes, bobcats, badgers, rabbits, and porcupines.

There are seven species of amphibians and one species salamander at White Sands National Park.

White Sands National Park has recorded over 220 recorded species of birds, including wrens, mockingbirds, larks and ravens, as well as larger species like roadrunners and raptors. Learn more about the most commonly seen birds in the park.

There are even fish! The White Sands pupfish is the only species of fish endemic to the Tularosa Basin, and it is the only fish found in White Sands National Park. It has dark eyes, silver scales, and grows from 1.75 inches to 2.5 inches in length. (Source: NPS)

8. The Sand Remains Cool Despite The Weather

If you have spent any time on a beach in the summer then you’re likely to reminder to bring your sandals. The hot sand can scorch one’s feet, but not at White Sands National Park.

The White Sands National Park’s gypsum sand is known for being pleasant to the feet. It is unique because it does not absorb heat from the sun as silica sand does, making it a cool surface to walk on even on hot days. This makes it a perfect place to visit during summer.

9. White Sands Sits On One Of The Largest Military Bases In The U.S.

Just when you thought that we couldn’t come up with more fascinating White Sands National Park Facts we do.

White Sands National Park sits on one of the largest military bases in the United States, the White Sands Missile Range.

The park shares its land with the missile range and the U.S. government uses most of the 275 square miles as a missile testing site. As a result, only a small section of the park is available for visitors to enjoy.

It’s important to check the schedule of the missile test range before planning a visit to the park.

10. White Sands Is A Popular Locations For Photographers & Filmmakers

White Sands National Park is a popular location for photographers and cinematographers due to its unique and striking white dunes.

The park has been used as a filming location for over 40 movies, documentaries, music videos, and TV commercials. Due to its distinctive appearance and remote location, it has been a sought after location for many film and video productions.

Visitors to the park may recognize some of the iconic locations from films and TV shows that have been shot here.

Among the films that have had scenes shot at the park are the following:

• Transformers (2007)
• Independence Day (1996)
• Hang ‘Em High (1968)
• The Mule (2018)
• Young Guns II (1990)
• The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
• Tank Girl (1995)

Why Trust Us About White Sands National Park?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

Map Of White Sands National Park

List Of White Sands National Park Facts

1. The First People Came To The Park Over 10,000 Years Ago
2. Hearth Mounds Represent The Most Amazing Evidence Of Human Occupation At White Sands
3. A Beautiful Spanish Maiden Is Reported To Haunt The Dunes At White Sands
4. The Park Was Part Of A “Salt War”
5. The History Of White Sands National Park Is Closely Tied To The History Of The American Frontier
6. White Sands Has The Largest Gypsum Dune Field In The World
7. Many Species Make Their Home At The Park
8. The Sand Remains Cool Despite The Weather
9. White Sands Sits On One Of The Largest Military Bases In The U.S.
10. White Sands Is A Popular Locations For Photographers & Filmmakers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 

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Article Summary: Historic Sites In Wyoming

Historic Sites In Wyoming. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the 15 Historic Sites In Wyoming that you’ll want to see.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as well as national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

If you’re planning a trip to the Cowboy State then one book that I highly recommend is: Wyoming Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!

The Top 15 Historic Sites In Wyoming

15. Governors’ Mansion

Wyoming is known for its rich aboriginal folklore, beautiful nature, and stunning National Parks including Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The state’s population density is among the lowest in the nation. Wyoming is famous for bull riding, cowboy culture, and the home to several of the world’s most magnificent rangelands.

And it also features some amazing historic sites. More Than Just Parks is excited to share our list of the Top 15 Historic Sites In Wyoming with you. We’re kicking off our list at #15 with the Governors’ Mansion.

It’s historic building that served as the residence for the governors and their families from 1905 to 1976.

It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the people who lived there.

Visitors to the Wyoming Historic Governors’ Mansion can expect to see a piece of history and learn about the lives of the governors and their families who lived there.

There may be exhibits on display showcasing the history of the mansion and its residents, as well as guided tours that provide further information and insight. Some activities that visitors can participate in may include:

• Guided tours of the mansion and grounds
• Viewing of exhibits and displays related to the history of the mansion and its residents
• Learning about the architecture and design of the mansion
• Participating in educational programs and events
• Exploring the grounds and gardens of the mansion.

It’s best to check the specific information and activities offered by the mansion for current visitors.

14. Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum

At #14 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum.

The Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Wyoming and its pioneers.

The museum was established in the 1950s and has since been dedicated to collecting, preserving, and displaying artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the history of Wyoming and its pioneers.

The museum is located in Douglas, Wyoming and is housed in a former armory building. It features exhibits on the history of the state, including its indigenous people, homesteaders, settlers, cowboys, and miners. The museum also features exhibits on the geological and natural history of Wyoming, as well as the state’s cultural and social history.

Visitors to the museum can expect to learn about the challenges and triumphs of the pioneers who settled in Wyoming, as well as the role that the state has played in the development of the American West.

The museum offers educational programs and events, as well as guided tours, to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the history of Wyoming and its pioneers.

13. Piedmont Charcoal Kilns

We move on to #13 with a fascinating site located in Piedmont, Wyoming. It’s the Piedmont Charcoal Kilns State Historic Site.

The Piedmont Charcoal Kilns State Historic Site is overseen and maintained by Fort Bridger State Historic Site.

The Piedmont Charcoal Kilns were built by Moses Byrne in 1869 to supply charcoal for the iron smelting industry in Utah. These conical limestone kilns measure 30 feet across and 30 feet high. Only three and a half of the original four kilns remain.

Wood burned in the kilns came from the nearby Uinta Mountains. It was estimated that during 1873 the kilns could produce 100,000 bushels of charcoal. Most of the charcoal was sent to Utah on the UP railroad.

The Union Pacific railroad ran through Piedmont and carried most of the charcoal produced by the kilns to Utah.

Things To Do

At The Piedmont Charcoal Kilns State Historic Site in Wyoming, visitors can:

1. Explore the historic charcoal kilns and learn about their role in the region’s history.
2. Hike or take a scenic drive in the surrounding area and enjoy the natural beauty of Wyoming’s Piedmont Valley.
3. Take guided tours and attend interpretive programs to gain a deeper understanding of the site and its history.
4. Have a picnic and enjoy the outdoor spaces.
5. Participate in events and activities, such as campfires, workshops, and ranger-led tours.

12. Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site

Our next amazing historic site is a historical and cultural landmark located in Wyoming. It is a 400 meter long (1,312 feet) near vertical cliff that features over 92 prehistoric petroglyph panels and more than 300 petroglyph figures. Welcome to Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site.

These petroglyphs are believed to date back thousands of years and were created by Native Americans who lived in the region.

The site is considered sacred by the local Native American communities and was acquired by the state of Wyoming in 1973 to preserve and protect the petroglyphs for future generations. It was also placed on the National Register of Historic Places the same year.

Things To Do

At Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site in Wyoming, visitors can:

1. View and admire the prehistoric petroglyph panels and figures, some of which date back thousands of years.
2. Take guided tours or self-guided tours and learn about the cultural and historical significance of the petroglyphs.
3. Hike in the surrounding area and enjoy the natural beauty of Wyoming’s landscape.
4. Participate in interpretive programs and events to gain a deeper understanding of the site and its history.
5. Respect the fragile nature of the site and follow preservation guidelines to help protect the petroglyphs for future generations.

11. Ames Monument

At #11 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is a structure located in southeastern Wyoming that was built in the late 19th century to honor two brothers who played a significant role in the construction of the first transcontinental railroad. It’s the Ames Monument.

The monument is located near the summit of Sherman Hill, which was a challenging section of the railroad to construct.

The Ames brothers, Oliver and Oakes, were wealthy industrialists who had close ties to the administration of President Ulysses S. Grant. They were major investors in the Union Pacific Railroad, which was tasked with building the western portion of the transcontinental railroad. The brothers played a key role in financing the railroad and were also involved in the construction process.

The Ames Monument was built in honor of the brothers’ contributions to the railroad. It was designed by renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson and built between 1880 and 1882. The monument consists of a granite pyramid that stands 60 feet tall and weighs over 700 tons.

The Monument Is Also Important For Its Architectural Value

The Ames Monument is significant not only for its historical importance but also for its architectural value. Richardson, who designed the monument, was a pioneer of the Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture, which was popular in the late 19th century.

The monument is considered one of the best examples of this style, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

Today, the Ames Monument is a popular tourist attraction and a reminder of the important role that the transcontinental railroad played in the development of the American West. The monument is located near the town of Laramie, Wyoming, and visitors can access it by car or by hiking a short trail from nearby parking areas.

Top 10 Historic Sites In Wyoming

10. Historic Fort Phil Kearny

We’re on to the Top 10 Historic Sites In Wyoming. If you love military history then you’ll enjoy our next site.

Fort Phil Kearny is a historic military outpost located in northern Wyoming that was established in 1866 to protect travelers along the Bozeman Trail. The fort was named after General Philip Kearny, a Union officer who was killed during the Civil War.

The Bozeman Trail was a major route used by travelers and gold seekers traveling from the Oregon Trail to the gold fields of Montana. However, the trail passed through traditional hunting grounds of the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes, who fiercely resisted the influx of settlers and miners. In response to this, the United States government built several military forts along the trail to protect travelers and maintain control over the area.

The Fort Was Strategically Located

Fort Phil Kearny was one of these forts, and it was strategically located near the Powder River, which was a key source of water for travelers and their livestock. The fort was built using local materials, including logs and adobe, and consisted of several buildings, including barracks, a hospital, a commissary, and a sawmill.

Despite the fort’s strategic location and robust defenses, it was repeatedly attacked by Native American forces, who saw the fort as an intrusion on their land. One of the most famous battles at Fort Phil Kearny was the Fetterman Massacre of 1866, in which a group of soldiers was ambushed and killed by a large group of Native American warriors.

In 1868, the United States government negotiated a peace treaty with the Lakota and other tribes, and the Bozeman Trail was abandoned. Fort Phil Kearny was abandoned shortly after the treaty was signed, and the buildings were dismantled or destroyed.

Today, the site of Fort Phil Kearny is preserved as a historic site and museum, and visitors can explore the remains of the fort and learn about its fascinating history through exhibits and interpretive programs.

9. Connor Battlefield

At #9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is a place with a fascinating history. The Battle of Connor took place in Wyoming in 1866. It was a conflict between the US military and the Cheyenne and Sioux Native American tribes. Welcome to Connor Battlefield.

The battle was part of the larger conflict known as Red Cloud’s War, which was a result of tensions over the US government’s encroachment on Native American lands in the Powder River Country of Wyoming and Montana.

The Battle of Connor resulted in a victory for the Native American tribes, which forced the US military to withdraw from the area.

The conflict had significant consequences for US-Native American relations, and is considered a key moment in the history of the American West.

Things To Do & See

Connor Battlefield is now a historical site and is part of the larger Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site.

Visitors to the site can learn about the history of the battle and the larger conflict through interpretive signage and educational materials.

There are also hiking trails that take visitors through the site, providing opportunities to see the historic terrain and gain a deeper understanding of the events that took place there.

Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site, which includes the remains of a Native American medicine lodge, as well as an interpretive center that provides information on the cultural and historical significance of the area.

Overall, the Connor Battlefield in Wyoming offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the American West and the interactions between the US government and Native American tribes.

8. Quebec 01 Missile Alert Facility

We move from a place which commemorates a 19th century battle to a Cold War era military installation. At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is the Quebec 01 Missile Alert Facility.

The Quebec 01 Missile Alert Facility, also known as the Q-01 Site, was one of many sites that were built by the United States Air Force to monitor and control the country’s nuclear weapons arsenal.

The Q-01 Site was built in 1962 and became operational the following year. Its primary purpose was to monitor the status of Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) located in silos throughout the area.

The facility was equipped with advanced technology, including radar and communication systems, which allowed its operators to track missile launches and respond quickly to any potential threats.

The Q-01 Site was manned by a team of military personnel who worked around the clock to monitor the missiles and ensure that they were ready to launch if necessary. The site was also equipped with living quarters, a mess hall, and other amenities to accommodate the personnel stationed there.

It Was Designed To Prepare Military Personnel For The Possibility Of A Nuclear War

In addition to its monitoring and control functions, the Q-01 Site was also involved in a number of training exercises and simulations designed to prepare military personnel for the possibility of a nuclear war. These exercises were often conducted in collaboration with other military installations in the area, including nearby missile silos.

With the end of the Cold War in the early 1990s, the Q-01 Site and many other similar installations became obsolete. The site was decommissioned in 1997 and its equipment was removed.

Today, the site is largely abandoned, although some of the buildings and structures still stand as a reminder of the tense and often frightening history of the Cold War.

7. Independence Rock

At #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is a rock that has played an important role in the history of the American West, particularly as a landmark and rest stop for travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Pioneer trails in the mid-19th century. It’s Independence Rock.

Independence Rock is a granite outcropping located in central Wyoming.

The rock is approximately 130 feet high and covers an area of about 24 acres. It was named by early travelers who observed that it was usually reached by July 4th, and thus it became a symbol of independence and progress for the pioneers who traveled across the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains.

Beginning in the 1840s, Independence Rock became a popular stopping point for travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Pioneer trails, as it marked the halfway point of their journey. The rock provided a place for pioneers to rest, take stock of their supplies, and leave their names or messages in the soft granite surface.

Many travelers left inscriptions on the rock, and today, thousands of these inscriptions can still be seen. The inscriptions provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives and experiences of the pioneers who traveled across the country, including their hopes, fears, and dreams.

Independence Rock also played a strategic role in the history of the American West. During the mid-19th century, it was often used as a landmark by explorers, trappers, and military expeditions, including the famous Fremont Expedition of 1843.

Today, Independence Rock is preserved as a state historic site, and visitors can explore the rock and its surroundings, as well as view the many inscriptions left by early travelers.

6. Oregon Trail Ruts

Our next historic site is quite an unusual one. It fact, it’s a series of deep grooves that were carved into the rocky landscape of central Wyoming by the wagons of pioneers traveling westward on the Oregon Trail during the mid-19th century.

At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming are The Oregon Trail Ruts.

As pioneers crossed the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains on their journey west, they faced numerous obstacles, including steep terrain, harsh weather, and dangerous river crossings. One of the most notable obstacles was the crossing of the Continental Divide, which presented a formidable challenge to even the most experienced pioneers.

In order to navigate the steep and rocky terrain, pioneers often had to use special techniques to guide their wagons safely through the mountains. One of these techniques was to follow the tracks of previous travelers, which had been worn into the rock by the wheels of their wagons.

Over time, these tracks became deep grooves in the rock, which are now known as the Oregon Trail Ruts. The ruts are up to six feet deep in some places and extend for hundreds of feet along the side of a hill.

The Oregon Trail Ruts are a fascinating historical artifact and provide a vivid reminder of the challenges that pioneers faced as they traveled westward in search of a better life.

Today, the site is preserved as a National Historic Landmark, and visitors can walk along the ruts and imagine what it must have been like to travel along the Oregon Trail during the mid-19th century.

Top 5 Historic Sites In Wyoming

5. Fort Bridger

We’re on to the Top 5 Historic Sites In Wyoming. At #5 is Fort Bridger. It’s a fur trading post and military outpost in what is now southwestern Wyoming.

The fort was established in 1843 by Jim Bridger and Louis Vasquez, two mountain men and fur traders, as a place to trade with indigenous peoples and travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails. During the mid-1840s, the US Army used the fort as a supply depot for emigrants traveling west.

In 1857, the US Army took over the fort and established a permanent military presence there, which lasted until 1890. During the American Civil War, the fort played a key role as a military and supply center for the Union Army in the western territories.

After the war, it was used as a supply base for US Army campaigns against the indigenous peoples of the Great Basin and the Rockies.

In the late 1800s, as the population of the western territories grew, the fort’s significance as a military outpost diminished, and it was decommissioned and sold to private owners. Today, Fort Bridger is a Wyoming State Historic Site, open to visitors for tours and interpretive programs.

4. Heart Mountain Relocation Center

We’re on to the “Final Four.” At #4 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is a site which commemorates a dark chapter in American history. It’s the Heart Mountain Relocation Center.

The Heart Mountain Relocation Center was a Japanese American internment camp located in Wyoming during World War II.

It was one of ten camps established by the U.S. government to detain Japanese Americans, who were forcibly removed from their homes on the West Coast and deemed a security risk due to their ancestry.

The camp was in operation from August 1942 to November 1945 and housed over 10,000 Japanese Americans at its peak. Life at the camp was difficult, with cramped living quarters, inadequate facilities, and poor working conditions. Despite these conditions, the internees established a vibrant community, including a newspaper, schools, and religious organizations.

The Heart Mountain Relocation Center became a site of resistance to the internment, as some internees resisted the draft and refused to sign loyalty oaths required by the U.S. government. This resistance culminated in the famous Heart Mountain Fair Play Committee draft resistance case, which challenged the constitutionality of the internment and the loyalty oath requirement.

The legacy of the Heart Mountain Relocation Center remains significant in the history of Japanese American internment and serves as a reminder of the U.S. government’s unjust treatment of its citizens during a time of war.

Things To Do

The Heart Mountain Relocation Center has been preserved as a historic site, and there are several things to see for those interested in learning about the history of Japanese American internment during World War II.

1. Interpretive center: An interpretive center provides information about the history of the camp, including exhibits on daily life, the draft resistance movement, and the legacy of the internment.
2. Original buildings: Some of the original camp buildings, including barracks and administrative buildings, have been preserved and are open to visitors.
3. Memorials and monuments: There are several monuments and memorials at the site, including a rock garden and a stone marker, which commemorate the experiences of those who were interned at Heart Mountain.
4. Historical artifacts: Visitors can see historical artifacts, including original camp uniforms, furniture, and photographs, which help to bring the history of the camp to life.
5. Guided tours: Guided tours of the site are available, offering visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history of the Heart Mountain Relocation Center from knowledgeable guides.

3. Fort Laramie National Historic Site

If you enjoy military history then you’ll love our next site. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wyoming is Fort Laramie.

Fort Laramie was established as a private fur trading fort in 1834. As Americans migrated west, it evolved into the largest and best known military post on the Northern Plains.

As far as Wyoming National Parks go, this one tells the story of America’s Westward Migration.

The fort played a significant part in America’s goal to expand its boundaries from sea to shining sea. It was a base of operations for efforts to make sure that the Native Americans did not jeopardize this westward migration.

Things To See And Do At Fort Laramie

At the visitors center, you can see an 18-minute film highlighting the history of the fort and the important role it played. You can also see uniforms, weapons, and artifacts relating to the history of the19th century western frontier.

While you’re there you might also want to check out the Fort Laramie Historical Association Bookstore. So many books, so little time!

The Confluence Trail allows you to explore history and nature. It’s a 1.6 mile loop that takes you from the Old Army Bridge to the confluence of the North Platte and Laramie Rivers.

2. Yellowstone National Park

We’re on to the final 2 historic sites. And in the runner-up spot at #2 is America’s oldest national park. Welcome to Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 as the first national park in the world.

The area that is now Yellowstone National Park has a long history of human use and habitation. Native American tribes, including the Crow, Blackfoot, and Shoshone, have lived in the region for thousands of years.

European explorers and fur trappers began to arrive in the area in the early 1800s, and by the mid-19th century, the region had become a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and sightseeing.

RELATED: 15 BEST Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

Interesting Facts About Yellowstone

Before it became America’s first national park, people explored this fantastic place. They told tales of its magnificent beauty and amazing natural wonders. Few believed them however.

Then, in 1869, C.W. Cook saw some of Yellowstone’s incredible geysers with two traveling companions. Cook was so moved by his experience that he submitted an article to Lippincott’s magazine.

He received a curt reply from them which read as follows: “Thank-you, but we do not print fiction.” Aren’t publishers wonderful.

CHECK OUT: 18 (FASCINATING) Yellowstone National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Realize

Things To Do At Yellowstone

There are so many wonderful things to see and do at Yellowstone National Park.

10. Go Camping-There are many campsites inside the park though you should check availability before you arrive.

9. Go Fishing-Try the trout waters north, south and west of Cody. They’re filled with native brown trout, rainbow trout and brook trout.

8. Check Out The Local Culture-See the Plains Indian Museum or visit one of five museums at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

7. Explore The Rocks & Fossils-Inside Yellowstone you will find basalt columns formed by lava and a petrified forest.

6. Go Rafting-Raft down one of the nearby rivers or check out the information on rafting trips which is available at the park entrances.

For a complete list, check out our article on all of the Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park

Top 5 Things to Do at Yellowstone

5. Take A Hike-There’s a 1,300 mile trail system. Some of the most popular hikes are Bunsen Peak, Fairy Falls and Uncle Tom’s Trail.

4. Visit The Grand Canyon Of The Yellowstone-This incredible place includes three glorious waterfalls. The overlook of the lower falls offers a breathtaking view.

3. See The Incredible Wildlife-Yellowstone is home to more wild animals than anyone else in America. There are are Bears, Wolves, Moose, Elk, Bison, Badgers, Otters, Fox and so much more to see inside the park.

2. See The Geysers Erupt– What would a visit to Yellowstone be without a trip to the Old Faithful Geyser. You don’t have to stop there, however, as Yellowstone is home to the most active geyser field in the world.

1. Sit Back, Relax & Soak It All In-After all, you’re on vacation. You can do as little or as much as you want. I tend to lean towards the as little side, but we’re all different.

Want to learn about some of the classic films and television series that were made at Yellowstone and America’s other national parks? Check out our articles: Look Familiar? 25+ CLASSIC Movies Filmed In The National Parks & Look Familiar? 10+ CLASSIC Television Shows Filmed In The National Parks

1. Grand Teton National Park

As the #1 Historic Site In Wyoming, More Than Just Parks has selected Grand Teton National Park.

Wyoming includes some of the most magnificent national parks in the world. And that having been said, Grand Teton National Park is one of our all time favorites.

We first visited Grand Teton National Park back in 2016 and have been back many, many times since.

Grand Teton is truly one of those places that anywhere you look seems to be postcard worthy. Be sure to bring your camera.

Grand Teton Is A Family Affair

In recent years, the park has seen a massive influx in folks (like the Pattiz Family) who want to get a glimpse of this breathtaking destination. Who can blame us! In 2016, all four of us managed to make the trek. It’s one amazing trip that I will certainly never forget.

However, one question we’ve been getting asked more and more lately is “is it still worth it to visit Grand Teton despite the crowds?”

The answer is, yes. It just requires a bit more due diligence and planning these days to have the best possible time at the park.

About Grand Teton National Park

Located in the spectacular Jackson Hole Valley and encompassing nearly 500 square miles, Grand Teton National Park boasts an awe-inspiring array of pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, winding rivers, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Teton Range.

This is a land dominated by towering peaks, apex predators, and majestic mountain beauty.

The park derives it’s name from the mighty Teton Range popularly known as simply the Tetons, or the Grand Tetons.

The park’s creation and eventual scale (in terms of acreage) was largely made possible by John D. Rockefeller Jr., son of the famous oil tycoon.

Things To Do

Here are some things to do during your visit:

1. Hiking: Grand Teton National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in the country, with scenic views of the Teton Range and its surrounding landscape. Popular hikes include the Cascade Canyon Trail, Jenny Lake Trail, and Hidden Falls Trail.
2. Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive through the park’s many picturesque roads, including the Teton Park Road, Moose-Wilson Road, and Signal Mountain Summit Road.
3. Wildlife Viewing: Grand Teton National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, moose, bison, grizzly bears, and wolves. Be sure to bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures.
4. Boating: Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the pristine waters of Jackson Lake, Snake River, or Jenny Lake.
5. Fishing: The park is home to several lakes and rivers that offer excellent fishing opportunities. Jackson Lake, Snake River, and Gros Ventre River are popular spots for trout fishing.
6. Mountaineering: For the adventurous, climbing Grand Teton is a must-do activity. You’ll need some mountaineering experience and the right equipment, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
7. Camping: There are several campsites within the park, including the popular Jenny Lake Campground, that offer a great opportunity to experience the beauty of the park up close.
8. Ranger Programs: Join a ranger-led tour or program to learn more about the park’s wildlife, geology, and history.
9. Winter Sports: During the winter months, Grand Teton National Park is a great destination for skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports.
10. Photography: With its breathtaking scenery, Grand Teton National Park offers countless opportunities for stunning photography. Don’t forget your camera!

Check Out Our Amazing Grand Teton Film

GRAND TETON 8K is the culmination of nearly a month spent filming in the spectacular Jackson Hole Valley and the foothills of the Teton Mountain Range.

Encompassing nearly 500 square miles, Grand Teton National Park boasts an awe-inspiring array of pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, winding rivers, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Teton Range. Journey with More Than Just Parks as we explore a land dominated by towering peaks, apex predators, and majestic beauty. This is Grand Teton. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

To make this film happen we spent nearly a month in Grand Teton National Park during June & July. Of all the films we’ve shot this one features the most wildlife. We captured bison, elk, moose, bears, foxes, beavers, and more.

Grand Teton is situated just South of Yellowstone and while it still sees a significant amount of visitors each year it is far less than its northern counterpart. As one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world Grand Teton is in a class of its own.

Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, jaw-dropping vistas, and high-alpine beauty comprise this western wonderland.

List Of Historic Sites In Wyoming

1. Grand Teton National Park
2. Yellowstone National Park
3. Fort Laramie National Historic Site
4. Heart Mountain Relocation Center
5. Fort Bridger
6. Oregon Trail Ruts
7. Independence Rock
8. Quebec 01 Missile Alert Facility
9. Connor Battlefield
10. Fort Phil Kearny
11. Ames Monument
12. Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site
13. Piedmont Charcoal Kilns
14. Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum
15. Historic Governors’ Mansion

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Wyoming?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 

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The post 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Wyoming (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Historic Sites In Utah

Historic Sites In Utah. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the Top 15 Historic Sites In Utah that you’ll want to see.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

Now if you’re planning a trip to the Beehive State then one book that I highly recommend is: Utah Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal: Explore 50 Natural Wonders You Must See!

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Top 15 Historic Sites In Utah

15. St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral

Utah is considered one of the greatest outdoor states in the nation. The western state has top-rated ski resorts, incredible state and national parks, and unique natural wonders. It’s also known for its history, culture, and a variety of popular festivals.

And, the state has some amazing historic sites. More Than Just Parks is excited to share our list of the Top 15 Historic Sites In Utah with you. We’re kicking off our list at #15 with St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral.

St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral is a historic church located in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was founded in 1870, just three years after Utah became a state. The church was originally known as St. Mark’s Chapel and was located in downtown Salt Lake City.

The first permanent building for St. Mark’s was constructed in 1874 on the corner of 200 East and 200 South in Salt Lake City. The building was designed by the famous Utah architect, Truman O. Angell, who was also responsible for designing many of the buildings in Salt Lake City’s Temple Square.

Over the years, St. Mark’s Cathedral has undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1907, the original wooden building was replaced with a new brick structure that included a bell tower and a chancel. In 1917, a large pipe organ was installed, which remains in use today.

St. Mark’s Cathedral & The Civil Rights Movement

During the 1960s and 1970s, St. Mark’s Cathedral was involved in the Civil Rights Movement, hosting several events and speeches by civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy.

In 1994, St. Mark’s Cathedral was designated as the cathedral church of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah. This meant that it became the official seat of the bishop of the diocese.

In 2010, St. Mark’s Cathedral underwent a major renovation and expansion project. The project included the construction of a new wing that houses classrooms, offices, and meeting spaces. The project also included the installation of new stained glass windows and a new organ.

Today, St. Mark’s Cathedral remains an important religious and cultural landmark in Salt Lake City. It is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant community of worshippers.

14. Alkali Ridge

At #14 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is an archaeological site located in the southeastern corner of Utah, near the town of Bluff. Welcome to Alkali Ridge.

The site is known for its well-preserved ancient ruins and artifacts, which provide important insights into the lives and cultures of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the region over a thousand years ago.

The history of Alkali Ridge dates back to around 700 AD when the Ancestral Puebloans began to build their homes and communities in the area. The site is situated near a natural spring, which would have provided a reliable source of water for drinking, farming, and other activities.

Over time, the Ancestral Puebloans built a network of homes, storage structures, and ceremonial buildings on the site, creating a thriving community that lasted for several centuries.

The Ancestral Puebloans Abandoned The Site

By the late 1200s, the Ancestral Puebloans had largely abandoned the Alkali Ridge site and other settlements in the region. It is believed that a combination of factors, including drought, resource depletion, and social conflict, contributed to the decline and eventual abandonment of the communities.

In the 1800s, European settlers began to explore and settle the region around Alkali Ridge, but it was not until the 1900s that the archaeological significance of the site was recognized.

In the 1930s and 1940s, archaeologists from the University of Utah and other institutions conducted extensive excavations at the site, uncovering a wealth of artifacts and structures that shed new light on the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.

Today, Alkali Ridge is a protected archaeological site that is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans through interpretive exhibits and guided tours.

The site is also an important research site for archaeologists and other scholars who are interested in studying the prehistoric cultures of the American Southwest.

13. Temple Square

The history of Utah is inextricably linked to the history the the Mormon Church and our next historic site is a case in point. At #13 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is the Temple Square.

Temple Square is a historic site located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. It is the spiritual and administrative center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Utah.

The history of Temple Square dates back to 1847 when Brigham Young and a group of Mormon pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley after a long journey from Illinois. Young selected the site for the temple and the city center, and construction on the Salt Lake Temple began in 1853.

Over the years, other important buildings were constructed on Temple Square, including the Tabernacle, the Assembly Hall, and the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.

It’s Known For Its Unique Oval-Shaped Dome

The Tabernacle was built between 1864 and 1867 and is known for its unique oval-shaped dome and remarkable acoustics. The Assembly Hall was built in 1882 and is used for smaller meetings and events.

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building was originally constructed in 1911 as the Hotel Utah, but it was later renovated and converted into a multipurpose building that includes a restaurant, offices, and meeting spaces.

In addition to the historic buildings, Temple Square is also known for its gardens and landscaping. The gardens were first planted in the 1850s and have since become a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city.

Today, Temple Square remains an important spiritual and cultural center for members of the LDS Church and a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world. It is home to many important events and gatherings, including the annual Christmas Lights display and the General Conference of the LDS Church.

12. The Place Heritage Park

Our next historic site is a collection of restored pioneer-era buildings and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the lives and cultures of the early settlers of Cache Valley. At #12 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is the Place Heritage Park.

The history of this site dates back to the mid-1800s when Mormon pioneers began to settle the Cache Valley region of Utah. The park includes several historic buildings, including a log cabin, a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a granary. Many of these buildings were moved to the park from their original locations in the surrounding area and have been carefully restored to their original condition.

The park also includes a number of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the skills, tools, and lifestyles of the early settlers. Visitors can learn about early farming techniques, cooking methods, and crafts such as weaving, quilting, and pottery.

Check Out The Brigham Young College Museum

One of the most popular attractions at the site is the Brigham Young College Museum. The museum is housed in the former administration building of Brigham Young College, a private college that operated in Logan from 1877 to 1926. The museum features exhibits on the history of the college, as well as displays on local history and culture.

The Place Heritage Park is also a popular venue for events and activities, such as pioneer reenactments, concerts, and festivals. The park is open year-round and offers guided tours, educational programs, and other special events.

Today, it’s a cherished cultural and educational resource for the people of Logan and Cache Valley. It provides a valuable connection to the past and helps to preserve the rich history and heritage of the region for future generations.

11. Topaz War Relocation Center

Our next historic site commemorates one of the darkest chapters in American history. At #11 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is the Topaz War Relocation Center.

The Topaz War Relocation Center was a Japanese American internment camp established during World War II by the U.S. government.

It was located in Millard County, Utah and was one of ten internment camps where Japanese Americans were forcibly relocated and detained after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The camp was in operation from September 11, 1942, to October 31, 1945.

The internment of Japanese Americans was a result of widespread anti-Japanese sentiment during World War II. The government believed that Japanese Americans posed a security threat, and as a result, over 120,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed from their homes and sent to internment camps throughout the country.

At Topaz, approximately 11,000 Japanese Americans were housed in tar paper-covered barracks surrounded by barbed wire. The living conditions in the camp were harsh, with limited privacy and basic necessities like food and clothing being in short supply.

Attempting To Maintain A Sense Of Normalcy

Despite the difficult living conditions, the Japanese Americans at Topaz attempted to maintain a sense of community and normalcy by forming organizations, hosting cultural events, and participating in sports leagues. After the war ended, the internees were released from the camp and many returned to their homes on the West Coast.

The Topaz War Relocation Center is now a historical site, and its remains serve as a reminder of the injustice and discrimination faced by Japanese Americans during World War II.

The site is a symbol of the power of the US government to violate civil liberties in the name of national security, and serves as a warning to future generations against similar actions.

The legacy of the Topaz War Relocation Center continues to be felt by Japanese American communities, and it remains an important part of American history.

Top 10 Historic Sites In Utah

10. Rainbow Bridge National Monument

We’re on to our Top 10 Historic Sites In Utah. At #10 is a geologic wonder. It’s considered one of the world’s longest natural bridges. Welcome to Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

The bridge spans the span of 275 feet (84 meters) and is up to 290 feet (88 meters) high.

The Rainbow Bridge is sacred to many Native American tribes, including the Navajo, Hopi, and Paiute, and has been considered a place of spiritual significance for thousands of years.

The monument was created by President William Howard Taft in 1910 and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1963.

Visitors to the monument can take guided boat tours or hike to the bridge for views of the surrounding landscape and to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of this natural wonder.

Rainbow Bridge Has Had Some Notable Visitors

After the initial publicity, a few more adventurous souls journeyed to Rainbow Bridge. Teddy Roosevelt and author Zane Grey were among those early travelers who made the arduous trek from Oljeto or Navajo Mountain to the foot of the Rainbow.

Visiting Rainbow Bridge was made easier with the availability of surplus rubber rafts after World War II, although the trip still required several days floating the Colorado River plus a 7-mile hike up-canyon. By the early 1950s, people could travel by jet boat from Lees Ferry, then make the hike—a trip totaling three days!

What Teddy Roosevelt and his contemporaries witnessed—evidence of the significance of Rainbow Bridge to early and present day Native American cultures—is difficult to discern today.

Since then, much archeological evidence has been lost as Lake Powell, along with thousands of visitors, arrived. The Glen Canyon Dam was authorized in 1956.

By 1963, the gates on the dam closed and rising Lake Powell began to engulf the river and its side canyons. Higher water made access to Rainbow Bridge much easier, bringing thousands of visitors each year. (Source: NPS)

CHECK OUT: 14 MIGHTY Utah National Parks & Monuments To Visit

9. Historic Beehive House

Our next site is a historic building located in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was built in 1854 and served as the official residence of Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and the first governor of the Utah Territory.

At # 9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is The Beehive House.

The history of the Beehive House is closely tied to the history of the LDS Church and its early leaders. Brigham Young played a crucial role in the settlement and development of Utah in the mid-1800s, and the Beehive House served as his home and center of operations for many years.

The house was designed in the Gothic Revival style and features a distinctive beehive-shaped structure on the roof, which is a symbol of industry and thrift in Mormon culture. The house originally had 20 rooms, including a large dining room, reception room, and private living quarters for the Young family.

The Beehive Was Used For Official Government Business

During Brigham Young’s tenure as governor, the Beehive House was also used for official government business. Young hosted many dignitaries and politicians at the house, including President James Buchanan, who visited Utah in 1858 in an attempt to resolve tensions between the federal government and the Mormon settlers.

After Brigham Young’s death in 1877, the Beehive House remained in the possession of the Young family for several decades. In 1911, the LDS Church purchased the house and began to use it as a museum and historic site. Today, the Beehive House is open to the public and offers guided tours, exhibits, and educational programs.

The Beehive House is an important symbol of Utah’s pioneer heritage and the early history of the LDS Church. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and achievements of the early settlers of Utah and the important role that Brigham Young and other Mormon leaders played in the development of the state and its institutions.

8. Bonneville Salt Flats

At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is a geologic wonder. It’s the Bonneville Salt Flats.

The Bonneville Salt Flats is a vast salt flat located in northwestern Utah, about 120 miles west of Salt Lake City. The history of the Bonneville Salt Flats dates back millions of years, when the region was covered by a large, shallow lake known as Lake Bonneville.

Over time, the lake began to recede, leaving behind a vast expanse of salt flats and other mineral deposits. The salt flats cover an area of approximately 30,000 acres and are made up of several layers of salt and other minerals, including gypsum, potash, and magnesium.

The Bonneville Salt Flats have long been an important site for scientific research and exploration. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, several expeditions were mounted to explore the region and study its unique geology and ecology.

The Site Began To Attract Attention From Speed Enthusiasts

Back in the 1920s, the Bonneville Salt Flats began to attract attention from speed enthusiasts who were drawn to the flat, straight stretches of salt for land speed racing. In 1935, the first Bonneville Speed Week was held, and since then, the salt flats have become a popular site for speed racing events and other motorsports.

In addition to land speed racing, the Bonneville Salt Flats have also been used as a filming location for movies and commercials, and as a site for testing new vehicles and equipment.

Despite its importance as a natural and cultural resource, the Bonneville Salt Flats have faced challenges in recent years, including concerns over the impact of salt mining and other industrial activities on the fragile ecosystem of the region. Efforts are currently underway to protect and preserve the salt flats for future generations.

CHECK OUT: 25 BUCKET LIST LANDMARKS IN AMERICA (MUST-SEE)

7. Jurassic National Monument

You don’t have to be a fan of the Jurassic Park film series to enjoy our next historic site. At #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is Jurassic National Monument.

According to the Bureau of Land Management, Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry (CLDQ) at Jurassic National Monument contains the densest concentration of Jurassic-aged dinosaur bones ever found. 

Over 12,000 bones (belonging to at least 74 individual dinosaurs) have been excavated at the quarry. 

Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry has helped paleontologists learn a great deal about the Jurassic period, yet the site presents at least as many mysteries as it helps to solve. 

Curiously, more than 75% of the bones come from carnivores, primarily Allosaurus fragilis. With more than 46 individual specimens of Allosaurus, scientists have been able to deduce much about how Allosaurus aged and compare individuals to better understand intraspecies diversity.

As a visitor to this amazing place, not only do you get to see the area where the dinosaurs roamed, but you also have the opportunity to take in a “wall of bones” and even touch a dinosaur bone that dates back millions of years.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Arizona

6. Natural Bridges National Monument

We’re on to another geologic wonder and Utah’s filled with them. At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is Natural Bridges National Monument.

Di you know that people repeatedly occupied and abandoned Natural Bridges during prehistoric times?

They first began using this area during the Archaic Period, from the year 7000 BCE (Before Common Era) to 500 CE (Common Era).

Only the rock art and stone tools left by hunter-gatherer groups reveal that humans lived here then.

According to the National Park Service, three hundred years after their ancestors left, the farmers returned. They built homes of sandstone masonry or mud-packed sticks, both on the mesa tops and in alcoves in the cliffs.

South facing caves provided passive solar heating and cooling. The farmers often chose sites near seep springs where water could be found.

Utah’s First National Monument

Natural Bridges National Monument is Utah’s first national monument and visitors to this incredible place will discover three majestic natural bridges.

Declared a National Monument in 1908, the bridges are named “Kachina,” “Owachomo” and “Sipapu” in honor of the ancestral Puebloans who once made this place their home.

Hiking At Natural Bridges

Among the incredible hiking trails at Natural Bridges are the following:

1. The Full Loop which is 12-miles (19.3 kilometers) and passes all three natural bridges as it winds through the canyons and over the mesa top. This trail is primitive and strenuous. Pets are not allowed on this trail (service animals are). Stop at the visitor center for updated conditions and detailed directions.
2. The Sipapu-Kachina Loop which is 5.7 miles (9.2 kilometers) and passes by Sipapu and Kachina Bridges, through canyons, and over the mesa top. This trail is primitive and strenuous. Pets are not allowed on this trail (service animals are). Stop at the visitor center for updated conditions and detailed directions.
3. Kachina-Owachomo Loop which is 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers) and passed by Kachina and Owachomo Bridges, through canyons, and over the mesa top. This trail is primitive and strenuous. Pets are not allowed on this trail (service animals are). Stop at the visitor center for updated conditions and directions. (Source: NPS)

Camping is available and campsites are first-come, first-served and open year-round. Each site has a fire grill, picnic table, and tent pad, but no running water, electricity, or hookups.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New Mexico

The Top 5 Historic Sites In Utah

5. Parowan Gap Petroglyphs

What’s so wonderful about our historic sites in Utah is that so many feature a history of long, long ago. We’re on to the Top 5 Historic Sites and at #5 is just such a place. Welcome to Parowan Gap Petroglyphs.

Now you might be someone who enjoys Revolutionary War or Civil War historic sites, but, in the case of this our next site, you can connect with a past which reaches back to the days of the dinosaurs.

Geologic History Of Parowan Gap

Approximately 15 million years ago, a long slender section of sedimentary rock sheared from the earth’s crust along parallel fault lines. This up-thrown block, later named the Red Hills, began to inch its way above the surrounding valley floor.

At the same time the block was rising, a stream was cutting a path perpendicularly across the ridge. For millions of years the uplifting of the ridge and the down-cutting of the stream remained in equilibrium.

The petroglyphs here are thought to be the work of several cultural groups and represent a long period of use by Native cultures. What these designs mean is still unknown.

Archaeologists debate that they represent concepts, ideas or actual happenings. Perhaps they were part of a religious activity or hunting ritual.

As for the local Native Americans, they consider them to be an important part of their cultural history relating stories of their ancestor’s lifeways.

A Superb Gallery Of Native American Rock Art

Parowan Gap is a nationally recognized extravaganza of petroglyphs–a superb “gallery” of Native American rock art. Here one can witness what is at least a 1,000 year accumulation of artwork pecked into the rock.

Geometric designs, images of lizards, snakes, mountain sheep, bear claws and human figures adorn the smooth canyon walls of the pass.

While we don’t know the precise age of these petroglyphs yet, we do know that the agriculturally based Sevier-Fremont lived in the area over a thousand years ago.

There is little doubt that some of the designs were made by this group, or perhaps even the earlier nomadic Archaic peoples.

Researchers believe that the semi-nomadic ancestors of the present day Southern Paiute also created some of these figures. (Source: Utah.com)

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Oklahoma

4. Dinosaur National Monument

We’re on to the “Final Four.” At #4 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is Dinosaur National Monument.

Dinosaur National Monument is a hidden gem straddling the remote northern corners of two states, Colorado and Utah.

The common refrain here is that if you’re interested in dinosaurs you’ll love this monument – which is true, but it vastly undersells this sprawling and immensely beautiful monument.

In addition to the famous dinosaur quarry and countless immaculately preserved dinosaur bones and skulls from various species, the park is home to over 200,000 acres of outdoor grandeur.

Here you can peer into the depths of stunning red rock canyons, whitewater raft the world-class Green or Yampa rivers, explore historic cabins and ponder ancient petroglyphs, camp out under a star-studded sky, and of course hike numerous trails venturing into the rugged and beautiful surroundings.

And while you’re there be sure to check out the Quarry Exhibit Hall which allows visitors to view the wall of approximately 1,500 dinosaur bones in a refurbished, comfortable space.

Here, you can gaze upon the remains of numerous different species of dinosaurs from the Late Jurassic period, including Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Camarasaurus, Diplodocus, and Stegosaurus along with several others.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Pennsylvania

3. Golden Spike National Historic Site

Our next historic site commemorates the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Utah is the Golden Spike National Historic Site.

The Golden Spike National Historic Site is located in Promontory, Utah.

The history of the site is closely tied to the construction of the railroad in the mid-1800s and the important role it played in the development of the American West.

In the early 1860s, the Central Pacific Railroad Company began construction of a railroad line eastward from Sacramento, California, while the Union Pacific Railroad Company began building a line westward from Omaha, Nebraska.

The two lines eventually met at Promontory, Utah, on May 10, 1869, where a golden spike was driven into the ground to mark the completion of the transcontinental railroad.

The ceremony at Promontory was a major event in American history, and thousands of people gathered to witness the occasion.

The golden spike, which was made of 17.6 karat gold, was donated by David Hewes, a California businessman, and was engraved with the words “May God continue the unity of our Country, as this Railroad unites the two great Oceans of the world.”

After The Completion Of The Railroad

After the completion of the transcontinental railroad, Promontory remained an important transportation hub for several decades, serving as a major junction for rail traffic and a center of commerce and industry in the region. However, with the decline of the railroad industry in the mid-20th century, the site fell into disuse and was eventually abandoned.

In 1957, the Golden Spike National Historic Site was established to commemorate the completion of the transcontinental railroad and to preserve the historic site for future generations.

The site includes a replica of the original golden spike, as well as several historic locomotives and other artifacts related to the construction of the railroad.

Today, the Golden Spike National Historic Site is a popular destination for tourists and railroad enthusiasts, who come to learn about the history of the transcontinental railroad and to witness reenactments of the driving of the golden spike. The site is open year-round and offers a variety of educational programs, exhibits, and special events.

The Last Spike Site

Visitors to the Golden Spike National Historic Site can see the location of the Last Spike Site, 1869 railroad construction features, walk or drive on the original railroad grade, and get an up close view of Victorian era replica locomotives.

While there you can also learn about the amazing people, places and stories which were a part of this incredible technological achievement.

To learn more, I recommend: Nothing Like It In the World: The Men Who Built the Transcontinental Railroad 1863-1869 by Stephen Ambrose.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Texas

2. Bears Ears National Monument

We’re down to our final 2 historic sites. In the runner-up spot at #2 is Bears Ears National Monument.

As one of the many premier outdoor destinations in the state of Utah, Bears Ears National Monument should be on the bucket lists of every public lands enthusiast.

It protects some of the most beautiful and unique lands in the southwest including both natural and cultural wonders.

Every year, visitors to the Bears Ears region enjoy many recreation activities, including hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, river rafting, and riding off highway vehicles.

The Battle To Preserve Bears Ears

The Bears Ears Cultural Landscape in Southeast Utah includes archaeological sites, cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and ancient roads that tell stories of diverse people over the course of 12,000 years.

After years of collaboration between the Bears Ears Intertribal Coalition and others, along with the public comment process, President Barack Obama named Bears Ears a national monument on December 28, 2016, and protected 1.35 million acres of land for one of the most significant cultural landscapes in our history.

Trump Threatens The Monument

On December 4, 2017, President Donald Trump announced his decision to revoke Bears Ears National Monument in southeastern Utah and replace it with two much smaller monuments.

This action removed protections from more than a million acres that include thousands of extraordinary archaeological sites vulnerable to looting and vandalism.

Joe Biden To The Rescue

On October 8, 2021, President Joe Biden issued a proclamation restoring Bears Ears National Monument in southeast Utah.

With this action, full protections are back in place for Bears Ears, an area rich with archaeological resources, prehistoric cliff dwellings, paleontological resources, and sites sacred to many Native American tribes. (Source: National Trust For Historic Preservation)

Three Main Areas To Visit In Bears Ears

However you choose to enjoy your visit to the Bears Ears region, remember to visit with respect, leave no trace, and know before you go.

There are three main areas on BLM-managed lands where you may consider recreating within Bears Ears National Monument: 

1. Indian Creek: It’s a scenic corridor along Highway 211 where visitors can enjoy a number of recreational activities. Climbers flock to this area in the spring and fall to test their skills on some of the best crack climbing routes in the country. Bird watchers keep their eyes peeled for raptors like Golden Eagles and Peregrine Falcons, which make their homes on Indian Creek’s sheer, dramatic cliffs.
2. Cedar Mesa & Comb Ridge: They are large landforms located in the southern portion of Bears Ears National Monument. These areas contain many cultural resources, which draw the attention and admiration of many recreationists. Backpackers and day hikers alike enjoy rugged routes through the deep gorges of Grand Gulch and the many canyons within Comb Ridge.
3. San Juan River: It winds through some of the most spectacular views in canyon country, abound with natural and cultural resources. Boaters enjoy the San Juan River by raft, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or packraft! A permit is required to float on the San Juan River year-round, including permits issued by lottery for launch dates from April 15th through July 15th. (Source: BLM)

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Vermont

1. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

As the #1 Historic Site In Utah, More Than Just Parks has chosen Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Now you have may have noticed that we have omitted Utah’s Amazing National Parks from our list of historic sites.

Have no fear, however, as we haven’t forgotten about them. As a matter of fact, More Than Just Parks does provide an excellent article on Utah’s National Parks.

If you’re interested in learning more then check out: 14 MIGHTY Utah National Parks & Monuments To Visit.

It’s Larger Than All Of Utah’s National Parks Combined

As for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, at 1.87 million acres it’s more than double the size of all 5 of Utah’s National Parks combined and every bit as spectacular.

This Rhode Island-sized national monument is a 200 million year old red rock cathedral of time.

Vast canyons, striking cliff-faces, rugged desert wilderness, and ancient history collide here making for an epic southwestern mecca.

The “staircase” steps thousands of feet over five different life zones from coniferous forests to low-lying desert revealing millions of years of truly awesome geological history.

Recreation opportunities here are seemingly endless including hiking, biking, fishing, canyoneering, climbing, rappelling, swimming, camping, backpacking, and so much more.

How Did It Get Its Name?

I don’t know about you, but that’s the first question I asked when I began researching this national monument.

The monument is named for the series of topographic benches and cliffs that, as its name implies, step progressively up in elevation from south to north.

As the landscape shifted over the millennia from lakes to sand dunes to rock, the Grand Staircase was formed by tectonic uplift along the Colorado Plateau, which fanned out and exposed the various layers of sediment and rock.

Restoring The Boundaries – Trump Strikes Again!

During his presidency, Donald Trump issued a proclamation slashing Grand Staircase–Escalante by roughly half.

This would leave nearly a million acres of federal public land open to harmful developments—such as mineral exploitation, coal mining, new road construction, the use of mechanized vehicles, and oil and gas drilling—that could ruin vital parts of this national treasure.

If you’re keeping score, The Trump Administration Rolled Back More Than 100 Environmental Rules. Here’s the Full List.

Over four years, the Trump administration dismantled major climate policies and rolled back many more rules governing clean air, water, wildlife and toxic chemicals.

Joe Biden Rescues Another National Treasure

On Oct. 8, 2021, President Joe Biden issued Presidential Proclamation 10286 restoring the boundaries for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument thereby rescuing another national treasure.

Way to go, Joe!

A Monument Which Spans Five Life Zones

The Monument now spans across nearly 1.87 million acres of America’s public lands in southern Utah, and is an outstanding biological resource, spanning five life-zones – from low-lying desert to coniferous forest.

When visiting, you’ll be traveling the land of the Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont people, who were experts at farming this rugged land and built granaries to store what they grew.

Their descendants, including people from the Hopi, Paiute, Zuni, Ute, and Navajo tribes, have strong ties to this land today, leaving behind rock art panels, occupation sites, campsites and granaries. (Source: BLM)

CHECK OUT: A Brief (& Informative) History Of America’s National Park Rangers

Map Of Historic Sites In Utah

List Of Historic Sites In Utah

1. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
2. Bears Ears National Monument
3. Golden Spike National Historic Site
4. Dinosaur National Monument
5. Parowan Gap Petroglyphs
6. Natural Bridges National Monument
7. Jurassic National Monument
8. Bonneville Salt Flats
9. The Beehive House
10. Rainbow Bridge National Monument
11. Topaz War Relocation Center
12. The Place Heritage Park
13. Temple Square
14. Alkali Ridge
15. St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Utah?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested joining the adventure, sign up below!

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Article Summary: Historic Sites In Mississippi

Historic Sites In Mississippi. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the Top 15 Historic Sites in Mississippi that you’ll want to see. These are our top 10 sites which we will provide in reverse order. We’ve got amazing monuments, fascinating exhibits, historic museums, legendary battlefields and so much more.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

If you’re planning a trip to the “Bayou State” then I recommend picking up a copy of Mississippi Travel Guide: Plan Your Dream Vacation To Mississippi by Johnson Tianka.

Now without further ado let’s dive in.

Top 15 Historic Sites In Mississippi

15. Natchez “On Top Of The Hill” Historic District

Mississippi is known for being the birthplace of American blues music and home to many talented musicians. It’s also home to some amazing historic sites. More Than Just Parks has complied our Top 15 List Of the Best Historic Sites In The Magnolia State.

And we’re kicking it off at #15 with the Natchez “On Top Of The Hill” Historic District.

The Natchez “On Top of the Hill” Historic District, also known as the Natchez Historic District, is a historic district located in Natchez, Mississippi.

It’s situated on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River and contains a collection of well-preserved antebellum homes and other structures dating from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The district got its name from the fact that it is situated on a high point of land, hence “On Top of the Hill”.

The district was established in the late 18th century and was a significant center of cotton production and trade during the antebellum period. Natchez was one of the wealthiest cities in the South during this time, and many of the homes and buildings in the district were built by wealthy planters and merchants.

Things To Do & See

Here are some things to do in this area:

1. Visit the historic homes: The Natchez “On Top Of The Hill” Historic District is known for its beautiful historic homes. Some of the most popular ones to visit include Stanton Hall, Longwood, and Rosalie Mansion.
2. Take a walking tour: There are several walking tours available that take you through the district and provide you with the history of the area. You can find guided tours or use a self-guided tour brochure.
3. Explore the Natchez Trace Parkway: The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic road that runs through the district. It’s a great way to see the area and take in the beautiful views.
4. Visit the Mississippi River Bridge: The Mississippi River Bridge is a historic bridge that connects Natchez to Louisiana. You can walk or drive across the bridge and take in the beautiful views of the river.
5. Visit the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture: The Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture is located in the district and provides visitors with information about the history and culture of African Americans in the area.
6. Attend a festival or event: There are several festivals and events that take place in the district throughout the year, including the Natchez Balloon Festival, the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, and the Natchez Food and Wine Festival.
7. Go shopping: The district is home to several unique shops and boutiques, where you can find everything from antiques to local crafts.
8. Enjoy the local cuisine: Natchez is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and there are several restaurants in the district that offer traditional Southern dishes, including fried chicken, catfish, and gumbo.

14. LQC Lamar House Museum

We move on to #14 on our list of the Top 15 Historic Sites In Mississippi. At #14 we’ve got a fascinating historic home with an amazing backstory. It’s the L.C.C. Lamar Hose Museum located in Meridian, Mississippi.

The house was built in 1858 and was the home of Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar, a prominent lawyer, politician, and statesman from Mississippi. Lamar was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, and he served as the United States Ambassador to Russia under President Grover Cleveland.

During the American Civil War, Lamar served as a Confederate States Army officer and later served in the Confederate Congress.

He Helped To Establish Mississippi State University

After the war, Lamar played a significant role in the rebuilding of the South and in the development of the Democratic Party in Mississippi. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Lamar School, now known as Mississippi State University.

The house was donated to the city of Meridian in 1964 by the Phillips family, who had owned it since the 1890s. The house was restored and converted into a museum, which opened to the public in 1968.

The museum features exhibits and artifacts that highlight the life and career of Lamar, as well as the history of Meridian and Mississippi during the 19th century. Visitors can also tour the house and see the original furniture and decor. The museum is open to the public, and it is managed by the city of Meridian.

13. Windsor Ruins

We move on to what was left of a magnificent antebellum mansion. At #13 we have the Windsor Ruins.

The Windsor Ruins are the remains of a large, antebellum Greek Revival mansion located near Port Gibson, Mississippi. The mansion was built in 1861 by Smith Coffee Daniell II, a wealthy planter and businessman, and was one of the largest and most impressive homes in the South at the time.

The mansion was a two-story, 23-room house with a portico supported by six massive columns. It was built with materials of the highest quality and craftsmanship and was said to be one of the most beautiful homes in the area.

The mansion was used as a hospital during the Civil War, and it was severely damaged by fire in 1890. The Daniell family was unable to afford the repairs, and the mansion fell into disrepair.

The house was abandoned, and over time, the roof and upper floors collapsed, leaving only the columns and the lower level walls standing. The ruins were acquired by the state of Mississippi in the 1960s, and it is now open to the public as a state park.

The Windsor Ruins are considered one of the most significant examples of antebellum architecture in the South and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The ruins are open to the public, and visitors can tour the site, see the remaining columns and walls, and learn about the history of the mansion and the Daniell family. It’s also a popular location for photography and special events.

12. Waverly Mansion

If you love old homes and historic mansions then Mississippi is a great place to visit, but we promise that it offers so much more than that. We’re just getting started with the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi. At #12, we’ve got yet another example of a magnificent southern home. It’s the Waverly Mansion.

Waverly Mansion is a historic antebellum home located in West Point, Mississippi. The mansion was built in 1852 by Colonel George Hampton Young and his wife Lucy. The construction of the home took two years and it was completed in 1854.

The mansion was designed in the Greek Revival style and featured many of the architectural elements popular during that time. The house was built with 26 rooms and boasted two sets of curved stairs in the front foyer, a formal dining room, and a large drawing room.

One Of The Most Influential Families In The Area

The Youngs were known for their wealth and were considered one of the most influential families in the area. They lived in the house until the start of the Civil War in 1861. During the war, the mansion was used as a hospital for Confederate soldiers. After the war, the Youngs moved to Memphis, Tennessee, and the house was rented out to various tenants.

In 1913, the mansion was purchased by Dr. David G. Lankford, who restored it to its former glory. Dr. Lankford was a prominent physician in the area and also served as a state senator. He and his wife lived in the house until their deaths in the 1940s.

In the 1950s, the mansion was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Snow, who opened it as a museum. The Snows restored the mansion and its grounds and opened it to the public for tours. They also added a gift shop and a restaurant on the property.

In 1973, Waverly Mansion was purchased by the state of Mississippi and is now maintained by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Today, visitors can tour the mansion and its grounds and learn about the history of the house and its former residents. The mansion is also a popular location for weddings and special events.

11. Emerald Mound Site

Now we’re turning our attention to much older history than the antebellum period. At #11 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi is a site that goes way back. It’s the Emerald Mound Site.

The Emerald Mound Site is a Native American archaeological site located in Natchez, Mississippi. It is a pre-Columbian ceremonial center built by the Mississippians, an indigenous culture that lived in the region from around 1200 to 1730 AD.

The Emerald Mound is the second largest ceremonial mound in the United States, measuring 770 feet by 435 feet at its base, and rising to a height of 35 feet. It is thought to have been built in stages, with the first stage of construction dating back to around 1200 AD.

The mound was likely used for religious and political ceremonies and was probably the center of a large Mississippian community. The Mississippians were known for their elaborate religious rituals, and the Emerald Mound was likely an important site for these ceremonies.

Today, visitors to the Emerald Mound Site can explore the mound and learn about its history and significance. The site features a walking trail that leads visitors up the side of the mound to the top, where they can see a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

In addition to the Emerald Mound, the site also features several smaller mounds and a museum that showcases artifacts and information about the Mississippians and their culture. The museum features exhibits on the daily life of the Mississippians, their religious beliefs, and their social and political systems.

Top 10 Historic Sites In Mississippi

10. Biloxi Lighthouse

If you enjoy places with an amazing story behind them then this one will not disappoint you. We’re on to the Top 10 Historic Sites In Mississippi and we promise that this site will provide you with some illumination (pun intended).

At #10 we have the Biloxi Lighthouse.

The Biloxi Lighthouse was one of three Mississippi Sound lighthouses authorized in 1847 by legislation sponsored by Mississippi Representative Jefferson Davis.

The light was civilian operated from 1848 to 1939, and is notable for its several female lightkeepers, including Maria Younghans, who tended the light for 53 years. In 1939, the U.S. Coast Guard assumed responsibility for the light’s operation.

It Was Maintained By Female Lighthouse Keepers

This lighthouse is truly unique in two ways. First, it was one of the earliest cast-iron lighthouses to be built in the south. Second, it has a lengthy history of being maintained by female lighthouse keepers. Today, the renowned landmark serves as a sign of perseverance as it has withstood two severe hurricanes, Camille and Katrina.

Visitors to this historic lighthouse can see a 12-minute documentary about the Biloxi Lighthouse, narrated by Biloxi native and Miss America 1959 Mary Ann Mobley.

There are guided tours daily from 9 to 10 a.m., weather permitting. No reservations are required for these tours, except for group tours, which can be arranged by calling (228) 374-3105.

CHECK OUT: 25 FAMOUS Bucket List Landmarks In America

9. Old Capitol Museum

At #9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites in Mississippi we’ve got another great historic site with another great story to tell. It’s Old Capitol and it’s Mississippi’s most historic building.

Built in 1839, it was the site of some of the state’s most significant legislative actions, such as the passage of the 1839 Married Women’s Property Act, Mississippi’s secession from the Union in 1861, and the crafting of the 1868 and 1890 state constitutions.

It’s A Free Museum

It’s a free museum which explores the distinguished history of the building and the events that have taken place in it. There are interactive multimedia exhibits exploring the roles of the legislature, governor, and high court, as well as the importance of historic preservation to the state.

It’s a National Historic Landmark, and one of the country’s premier examples of Greek Revival public architecture. When it was built in 1839, the massive limestone exterior, copper dome, and grand interior spaces made the Old Capitol the most distinguished building in Mississippi.

And while you’re there be sure to check out the Mississippi Hall of Fame. It honors distinguished Mississippians, including artist Walter Anderson, author Eudora Welty, civil rights hero Medgar Evers, Choctaw chief Pushmataha, and federal judge Burnita Shelton Matthews. 

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Alabama

8. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

When we prepare our list of the best historic sites we strive to include fascinating places which tells stories representative of different time periods and different events in American history. Our next site is a great example of a more recent story which still resonates today.

At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi is the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is dedicated to the history of the Civil Rights movement in Mississippi, located in Jackson, Mississippi. The museum was opened in 2017 and is a part of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History.

The museum features eight galleries that chronicle the history of the civil rights movement in Mississippi, beginning with the slave trade and ending with the present day struggle for civil rights.

The Exhibits Cover A Range Of Topics

The exhibits cover a range of topics, including segregation, the struggle for voting rights, the role of music in the movement, and the impact of the movement on the state of Mississippi and the nation as a whole.

The museum also features interactive exhibits, including a lunch counter where visitors can sit and experience what it was like to participate in a sit-in protest, and a voting booth where visitors can learn about the obstacles faced by African Americans in their struggle for the right to vote.

One of the highlights of the museum is a re-creation of the home of civil rights activist Medgar Evers, who was assassinated in front of his home in Jackson in 1963. The exhibit features artifacts from Evers’ life and a replica of his home.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Georgia

7. Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site

Of course, it’s impossible to prepare a list of the best historic sites in virtually any southern state and ignore the bloodiest conflict in American history. Have no fear. If you’re someone who loves the history of the American Civil War then Mississippi does not disappoint and our next site is a case in point.

At #7 we have Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site.

The Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site, located near Baldwyn, Mississippi, is a national battlefield site that commemorates the Battle of Brices Cross Roads fought during the American Civil War.

The battle was fought on June 10, 1864, between Confederate and Union forces. The Confederate army, led by General Nathan Bedford Forrest, was able to defeat a larger Union force, led by General Samuel D. Sturgis.

The Battle Was A Significant Victory For The Confederacy

The battle was a significant victory for the Confederacy, as it prevented the Union army from advancing further into Mississippi and protected important supply lines for the Confederate army. The battle also demonstrated Forrest’s tactical skills as a commander.

The battlefield site was established in 1929, and it includes a visitor center with exhibits and artifacts related to the battle and the Civil War. The site also includes a walking trail that takes visitors to the key areas of the battlefield and includes interpretive markers that provide information on the battle and the troops who fought there.

The Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site is managed by the National Park Service, and it is open to the public for tours and educational programs. The site is also a popular destination for history enthusiasts and for those who want to learn more about the Civil War and its impact on the people and communities of Mississippi.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In North Carolina

6. Tupelo National Battlefield

When it comes to the American Civil War, we’re just getting started. At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi is the Tupelo National Battlefield.

At Tupelo, visitors can walk the battlefield where history was made. The area is much smaller, however, than might be imagined. How did thousands of men manage to fit into this tiny space and fight a battle which inflicted hundreds of dead and wounded?

The actual battlefield was not preserved in its entirety so we may not know the real dimensions of physical space which the combatants had available during the battle.

What we do know is that the Tupelo National Battlefield is another place where history was made. It’s definitely worth seeing and experiencing.

Visit the Tupelo Veterans Museum

And while you’re in Tupelo, check out the Tupelo Veterans Museum.

It’s a local tribute to the brave men and women who defended our country in the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War and the modern Desert Storm and Iraqi Wars.

The museum is filled with wartime exhibits covering the heights and depths of the human experience. It reminds us that freedom isn’t free by honoring the men and women who have helped to keep us free.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Ohio

The Top 5 Historic Sites In Mississippi

5. Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum

We’re on to our Top 5 Historic Sites In Mississippi. Our #5 site is one where you can learn about royalty as Mississippi is the home of the “King of Rock & Roll.” At #5 we have none other than the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum.

In 1954, Elvis Presley kicked off a musical revolution by modernizing traditional genres such as blues, country and bluegrass for contemporary (and more youthful) audiences.

“If you’re looking for trouble,” Elvis Presley warned the audience at the opening of his December 3rd, 1968, television special, “you’ve come to the right place.” What Presley gave his audiences was a revolution which transformed Rock & Roll catapulting him to the top of the charts in the process.

He Made Rock & Roll The International Language Of Pop

His influence on this important genre cannot be overstated. According to Rolling Stone, “it was Elvis who made rock ‘n’ roll the international language of pop.”

The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll describes Presley as “an American music giant of the 20th century who single-handedly changed the course of music and culture in the mid-1950s”.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Pennsylvania

Things To Do

Here are some things to do at the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum:

1. Visit the Birthplace: Start your tour by visiting the small, two-room house where Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935. The house has been preserved and restored to its original state and contains period furnishings that reflect the Presley family’s lifestyle at the time.
2. Explore the Museum: The museum houses a collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and exhibits that showcase the life and career of Elvis Presley. It includes his childhood, early musical influences, his rise to fame, his movie career, and his impact on popular culture.
3. Walk the Walk of Life: Stroll through the Walk of Life, a pathway lined with bronze plaques that highlight key moments in Elvis’s life and career.
4. Visit the Chapel: The Chapel, built in memory of Elvis’s twin brother Jesse Garon, who died at birth, is a replica of the church the Presley family attended when Elvis was a child.
5. Check out the Gift Shop: The gift shop offers a wide range of Elvis Presley souvenirs, memorabilia, and merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and CDs.
6. Take a guided tour: The museum offers guided tours of the Birthplace, Museum, Chapel, and surrounding grounds. The knowledgeable tour guides will provide you with interesting facts and stories about Elvis’s life and legacy.
7. Attend a Special Event: The Birthplace hosts several special events throughout the year, including the annual Tupelo Elvis Festival, which celebrates the life and music of Elvis Presley. Other events include concerts, book signings, and artist exhibitions.
8. Enjoy the grounds: The Birthplace also features beautiful grounds, including a lake, walking trails, and a statue of Elvis as a young boy playing his guitar.

4. Natchez National Historical Park

We’re on to our “Final Four” and we’re going from the King of Rock & Roll to a different type of king. In the Antebellum South, Cotton was king. At #4 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi we have the Natchez National Historical Park.

Antebellum refers to the years prior to the Civil War. It was during this period that cotton emerged as the South’s major commercial crop eclipsing tobacco, rice, and sugar in economic importance.

By 1860, the region was producing two-thirds of the world’s cotton. How was the South able to produce so much? Excellent question.

In the eighteenth century, slavery appeared to be on the way out because the demand for slaves was decreasing. This was until 1793 and then everything changed.

Whitney & The Cotton Gin

1793 was the year Eli Whitney went to Cumberland Island to help a former college friend expand his cotton crop. It was there where Whitney revolutionized the production of cotton by inventing the cotton gin, a device which separates the seeds from raw cotton.

Suddenly, a process that was extraordinarily labor-intensive when done by hand could be completed quickly and easily.  While Whitney’s machine reduced the labor of removing seeds, it did not reduce the need for slaves to grow and pick the cotton.

In fact, cotton growing became so profitable for the planters that it greatly increased their demand for both land and slave labor. And this increased demand for slaves set the stage for the Civil War.

CHECK OUT: Whose Island Is It Anyway | A History & Guide To Cumberland Island

Natchez & The Cotton Economy

Natchez National Historical Park documents the role Natchez played in the creation of the Cotton Kingdom. The historical park is made up of three units, Fort Rosalie is the location of an 18th Century fortification built by the French and later occupied by the British, Spanish and Americans.

The William Johnson House was a house owned by William Johnson, a free African American businessman, whose diary tells the story of everyday life in Antebellum Natchez.

Melrose was the estate of John T. McMurran, a northerner who rose from being a middle class lawyer to a position of wealth and power in antebellum Natchez.

Visitors can capture a moment in history when people had built a lifestyle on the backs of an army of enslaved workers. A trip to this historic site helps visitors to understand life in the Antebellum South before the Civil War.

3. Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument

Mississippi was one of the pivotal states in the struggle for civil rights and social justice in America. In this regard, our next historic site has a powerful story to tell. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi is the Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument.

The Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument honors the legacy of civil rights activists Medgar Evers and his wife Myrlie Evers. Medgar Evers was an African American civil rights leader who worked to end segregation and discrimination in Mississippi.

He was a leader in the Mississippi NAACP and played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement, particularly in the areas of voting rights and school desegregation. He was assassinated in front of his home in Jackson on June 12, 1963.

Myrlie Evers, Medgar’s wife, was also a civil rights activist and continued the work of her husband after his death. She was the first woman to chair the NAACP and also served as an Ambassador to the United Nations.

A National Monument

The Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home was purchased by the National Park Service in 2017 and was officially designated as a national monument in 2020. The home, where Medgar Evers was assassinated, has been preserved as it was on the day of the assassination and is open for tours.

The site includes a visitor center that displays exhibits on the Evers’ lives and their contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. The site also includes an interactive garden, a mural and a replica of Medgar Evers’ office.

The Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument is a powerful reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by the Civil Rights activists and it is an important cultural and historical resource for education and reflection on civil rights and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in America.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Texas

2. Shiloh Military Park

Our final two historic sites in Mississippi tell the story of the bloodiest conflict in American history at two of its more important places. In the runner-up position at #2 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Mississippi is one of the bloodiest battles of the American Civil War. It’s Shiloh Military Park.

Shiloh Military Park is a national military park located in southwestern Tennessee that commemorates the Battle of Shiloh, which took place on April 6-7, 1862.

The battle, also known as the Battle of Pittsburg Landing, was one of the first major engagements of the Civil War in the Western Theater and resulted in a Union victory. The battle was fought between the Confederate Army of Mississippi, led by General Albert Sidney Johnston, and the Union Army of the Tennessee, led by General Ulysses S. Grant.

The battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, with over 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded or missing. The Union army was able to repel the Confederate attack, and the victory marked a turning point in the war in the Western Theater and helped establish General Grant as a significant military leader.

The Park Is Also Home To A National Cemetery

Shiloh Military Park was established in 1894, and it includes a visitor center with exhibits and artifacts related to the battle and the Civil War. It also includes a walking trail that takes visitors to the key areas of the battlefield and includes interpretive markers that provide information on the battle and the troops who fought there.

The park also includes several monuments, memorials, and markers dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the battle, including the Illinois Memorial, the Indiana Memorial and the Wisconsin Memorial.

The park is also home to the Shiloh National Cemetery, where many of the soldiers who died in the battle are buried.

Shiloh Military Park is managed by the National Park Service, and it is open to the public for tours and educational programs. It’s a popular destination for history enthusiasts and for those who want to learn more about the Civil War and its impact on the people and communities of the region.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Virginia

Things To Do At Shiloh

Here are some things to do at Shiloh military park:

1. Visit the Visitor Center: Start your tour by visiting the Visitor Center, where you can learn about the battle and the park’s history. The center has a museum that includes exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that depict the Civil War’s events and impact.
2. Take a Guided Tour: The park offers several guided tours led by knowledgeable rangers, including battlefield tours, interpretive walks, and living history demonstrations. These tours provide valuable insights into the battle’s events and the park’s history.
3. Explore the Battlefield: The park covers over 4,200 acres and includes hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. You can take a self-guided driving tour or hike through the park to explore the battlefield and its monuments, memorials, and historical markers.
4. Visit the Cemetery: The park includes the Shiloh National Cemetery, where thousands of Union and Confederate soldiers are buried. The cemetery is located near the Visitor Center and is a somber reminder of the human toll of the Civil War.
5. Attend Special Events: The park hosts several special events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations, reenactments, and commemorative ceremonies. Check the park’s website for a schedule of upcoming events.
6. Learn about the Civil War: Shiloh National Military Park is a great place to learn about the American Civil War’s events and impact. The park offers educational programs and resources for teachers, students, and history enthusiasts.
7. Enjoy Nature: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and bald eagles. You can also enjoy fishing and boating on the nearby Tennessee River.

To Learn More About Shiloh

So many books have been written about the Civil War and the various battles that took place. Of course, the big three authors when it comes to war are, in my humble opinion, Bruce Catton, Shelby Foote and James M. McPherson.

What these three have written are the best collections of books encompassing the war as a whole. You can’t go wrong with any of these authors.

My personal favorite is Shelby Foote. I have read his fabulous three volume history of the Civil War–twice!

When it comes to the Battle of Shiloh, however, I’m going to recommend three books none of which have been written by the three men mentioned above (please forgive me).

To gain an understanding of this battle, its strategic importance, and how it influenced the outcome of the war, I recommend:

To gain an understanding of this battle, its strategic importance, and how it influenced the outcome of the war, I recommend:

1. Shiloh and the Western Campaign of 1862, by O. Edward Cunningham
2. Shiloh, Bloody Shiloh by Wiley Sword
3. Shiloh: The Battle That Changed the Civil War by Larry J. Daniel.

1. Vicksburg National Military Park

Drumroll please. As the #1 Historic Site In Mississippi, More Than Just Parks has selected Vicksburg National Military Park.

Why? Because Vicksburg National Military Park is a site which commemorates what some Civil War Historians consider to have been the most significant battle of the American Civil War-The Battle Of Vicksburg.

It has been recognized around the world as one of the greatest military campaigns in history.

According to John Henry McCracken, Professor of History Emeritus at Lafayette College, it was at Vicksburg that Ulysses S. Grant learned that only hard, long fighting and logistics would win the war.

Cutting The South In Two

The victory cut the South in two and doomed their efforts in the West.

How did Grant do it? He moved his army along the west bank of the Mississippi River to get below Vicksburg, where he completed a well-planned amphibious crossing of the Mississippi and took a daring gamble to feed his army off the countryside.

There are some excellent books on the Battle of Vicksburg.

One of my favorites is Vicksburg: Grant’s Campaign That Broke the Confederacy by Donald L. Miller. Another is Vicksburg, 1863 by Winston Groom.

Things To Do At Vicksburg National Military Park

Here are some things to do at Vicksburg National Military Park:

1. Visit the Visitor Center: Start your tour by visiting the Visitor Center, where you can learn about the battle and the park’s history. The center has a museum that includes exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that depict the Civil War’s events and impact.
2. Take a Guided Tour: The park offers several guided tours led by knowledgeable rangers, including battlefield tours, interpretive walks, and living history demonstrations. These tours provide valuable insights into the battle’s events and the park’s history.
3. Explore the Battlefield: The park covers over 1,800 acres and includes hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. You can take a self-guided driving tour or hike through the park to explore the battlefield and its monuments, memorials, and historical markers.
4. Visit the USS Cairo Museum: The USS Cairo was a Union ironclad gunboat that played a significant role in the Vicksburg Campaign. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and a full-scale replica of the Cairo.
5. Learn about the Civil War: Vicksburg National Military Park is a great place to learn about the American Civil War’s events and impact. The park offers educational programs and resources for teachers, students, and history enthusiasts.
6. Enjoy Nature: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and bald eagles. You can also enjoy fishing and boating on the nearby Mississippi River.

List Of Historic Sites In Mississippi

1. Vicksburg National Military Park
2. Shiloh Military Park
3. Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument
4. Natchez National Historical Park
5. Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum
6. Tupelo National Battlefield
7. Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site
8. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum
9.  Old Capitol Museum
10. Biloxi Lighthouse
11. Emerald Mound Site
12. Waverly Mansion
13. Windsor Ruins
14. LQC Lamar House Museum
15. Natchez “On Top Of The Hill” Historic District

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Mississippi?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!

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Related Links

What Is A National Park? To learn more about the difference between the various National Park Service designations check out our article that explains everything!

Civil War Sites: Top 10 Best Civil War Sites & Battlefields

Mississippi National Parks: 9 EPIC Mississippi National Parks Worth The Visit

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Article Overview: Historic Sites In Minnesota

Historic Sites In Minnesota. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the 15 Historic Sites In Minnesota that you’ll want to see.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as well as national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

If you’re planning a trip to the Land of 10,000 Lakes then one book that I highly recommend is: The Seven States of Minnesota: Driving Tours Through the History, Geology, Culture and Natural Glory of the North Star State by John Toren.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Top 15 Historic Sites In Minnesota

15. James J. Hill House

Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 lakes, which is the highest number of any state in the United States. It’s also famous for being the home of Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the United States; and its outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and winter activities.

And the state has some amazing historic sites. More Than Just Parks is excited to share our list of the Top 15 Historic Sites In Minnesota with you. And we’re kicking off our list at #15 with the James J. Hill House.

The James J. Hill House is located in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was built between 1891 and 1892 for James J. Hill, a prominent businessman and railroad executive who was one of the wealthiest and most powerful men in the United States during the Gilded Age.

The home was designed by architect Clarence H. Johnston, Sr. and was known for its grand scale, fine craftsmanship, and advanced technological systems.

The James J. Hill House is a significant example of the French Renaissance Revival architectural style and is considered one of the most important and well-preserved homes of the Gilded Age.

It features a three-story stone and brick structure, with a steeply pitched slate roof, dormers, and a central tower. The interior is richly detailed, with intricate woodcarvings, ornate plasterwork, and intricate mechanical systems.

After the death of James J. Hill in 1916, the home was occupied by his family until the 1940s, when it was donated to the Minnesota Historical Society. The house was opened to the public as a museum in 1978 and has been open for tours since.

James J. Hill House | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

14. Rabideau CCC Camp

At #14 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is a place which celebrates one of the most successful government programs in American history.

The Rabideau CCC Camp is a historic site that was used as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp during the Great Depression in the 1930s.

The CCC was a federal program established in 1933 as part of the New Deal that employed young men to carry out conservation and development projects on public lands. It was located in the Chippewa National Forest in northern Minnesota, and was one of the many CCC camps that were established across the United States during this period.

The camp at Rabideau was established in 1933 and operated until 1942, and was used to provide work and training to young men from the area.

The camp consisted of several buildings, including barracks, a mess hall, administrative buildings, and a recreation hall. The CCC workers at the camp were involved in a variety of projects, including planting trees, building trails and roads, and fighting forest fires.

A National Historic Landmark

The camp was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992 for its well-preserved condition, it is one of the best-preserved CCC camps in the country. Today, the camp serves as an educational center, where visitors can learn about the history of the CCC and the work that was done at the camp.

It is currently owned by the Chippewa National Forest, which uses the camp to provide educational opportunities and interpretive information to visitors. The camp is open to the public during the summer months, and it offers tours, exhibits, and other programs to help visitors learn about the camp’s history and the legacy of the CCC.

13. Charles A. Lindbergh House

Our next historic site celebrates one of the greatest aviators of all time. Welcome to the Charles A. Lindbergh House.

It’s the childhood home of Charles A. Lindbergh is located in Little Falls, Minnesota.

Charles A. Lindbergh was an American aviator, inventor, and environmental activist who is best known for his historic solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. He was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1902, but his family moved to Little Falls when he was a child.

The Lindbergh family home is a two-story, Victorian-style house that was built in 1906. The home is now a museum, and visitors can take a tour to see where Lindbergh grew up and learn about his early life.

The museum features exhibits that highlight Lindbergh’s childhood, including photographs, artifacts, and personal items that belonged to the family.

Learn About Lindbergh’s Experiences In Little Falls

The museum also explores how Lindbergh’s experiences in Little Falls and his time spent on the Mississippi River shaped his character and influenced his later life. Lindbergh had a deep appreciation for nature, and his experiences living on the river likely contributed to his later work as an environmental activist.

The museum includes exhibits on his famous flight across the Atlantic, his inventions, and his environmental activism, which are displayed throughout the home. Visitors can also take a tour of the house and learn about the Lindbergh family’s life and Charles’s early experiences.

The Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site is open seasonally, usually from May through October, and offers guided tours of the house, an interactive exhibit, and an audio-visual presentation about Charles Lindbergh’s life.

12. Mountain Iron Mine

At #12 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is the Mountain Iron Mine.

The Mountain Iron Mine in Mountain Iron, Minnesota was the first mine to open on the Mesabi Range, which is one of the largest iron ore deposits in the United States.

It opened in 1892 and was in operation until 1956. The mine is notable for its historical significance, as it set in motion the extraction of iron ore on the Mesabi Range and helped make Minnesota the largest iron producer in the US and the US the largest steel manufacturer in the world.

The mine was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1968 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its importance to the industry.

The bottom of the open-pit mine has filled with water and the city maintains an overlook in Mountain Iron Locomotive Park.

Things To Do

1. Take a Mine Tour: The highlight of a visit to the Mountain Iron Mine is the underground mine tour. Visitors can ride a train into the mine and learn about the history and techniques of mining.
2. Visit the Museum: The Mountain Iron Mine Museum showcases the history of the Iron Range and the mining industry. Exhibits include mining equipment, artifacts, and photographs.
3. Walk the Trails: The mine site features a network of trails that wind through the forests and hills of the Iron Range. Visitors can hike, bike, or cross-country ski on the trails, depending on the season.
4. Pan for Gold: The mine site offers visitors the opportunity to pan for gold and other minerals. Visitors can learn about the techniques used to extract gold and other minerals from the ore.
5. Attend Events: The Mountain Iron Mine hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and special tours.
6. Explore the Town: Mountain Iron is a small town that grew up around the mining industry. Visitors can explore the town’s historic buildings and learn about the history of the region.
7. Visit Nearby Attractions: The Iron Range region is home to a variety of other attractions, including state parks, museums, and cultural centers. Visitors can explore the region and learn about its history and culture.
8. Shop for Souvenirs: The mine site has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and mining-related items.
9. Learn about Sustainability: The Mountain Iron Mine is now a reclaimed site, and visitors can learn about the efforts to restore the land and promote sustainability in the mining industry.
10. Enjoy the Scenery: The Iron Range region is known for its scenic beauty, with forests, lakes, and rolling hills. Visitors can take in the natural beauty of the region and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

11. F. Scott Fitzgerald House

Next up on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is a place which celebrates a literary icon of the Jazz Age. At #11 on our list is the F. Scott Fitzgerald House.

The F. Scott Fitzgerald House, also known as Summit Terrace, is located at 599 Summit Avenue in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It is part of a group of row houses designed by architects William H. Willcox and Clarence H. Johnston Sr. and is listed as a National Historic Landmark for its association with the famous author F. Scott Fitzgerald.

The style of the houses is described as “New York Style” in which each unit has a distinctive character found in some row houses in eastern cities.

The Fitzgerald house is faced with brownstone, is two bays wide, and has a polygonal two-story window bay on the right and the entrance, recessed under a round arch that is flush with the bay front, on the left. The mansard roof has a cross-gable with two round-arch windows and decorative finials.

Architecture critic Larry Millett describes it as “A brownstone row house that leaves no Victorian style unaccounted for, although the general flavor is Romanesque Revival.”

Top 10 Historic Sites In Minnesota

10. Split Rock Lighthouse

We’re on to our Top 10 Historic Sites In Minnesota. At #10 is the Split Rock Lighthouse.

The Split Rock Lighthouse is located on the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. It was built in 1910, after a number of shipwrecks in the area prompted the need for a lighthouse to guide ships safely through the treacherous waters.

The lighthouse was in operation until 1969, when it was automated and the resident keepers were no longer needed. It was then added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.

During the 1930s, the United States Coast Guard also established a fog signal building and other support structures. The lighthouse and surrounding buildings have been preserved and restored to their original appearance, and the site is now open to the public as a state park.

The park offers guided tours of the lighthouse, as well as exhibits on the history of the area and the lives of the lighthouse keepers. The lighthouse is also available for overnight stays in the summer.

Superior’s Waters Were A Major Shipping Route

In the early 20th century, the Superior’s waters were a major shipping route for iron ore, coal, and grain. However, the rocky shoreline and unpredictable weather conditions made it a dangerous place for ships.

The Split Rock Lighthouse was built to help guide ships through the area safely, and it played a crucial role in preventing shipwrecks and saving lives.

Today, it is an important part of the region’s history and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Points Of Interest At Split Rock

While you’re there, be sure to check out:

1. The Lighthouse Keeper’s House: Pay a visit to the lighthouse keeper’s home, restored to its 1920s condition when the light station could only be reached by water. See how the lighthouse keeper and his family made do in one of the harshest and most isolated places in North America, when visitors and fresh supplies were few and far between.
2. The Fog Signal Building: The foghorn was used at the first sign of fog, smoke, or snow. Until it was decommissioned in 1969, the fog siren served as an audible warning for ships when inclement weather led to reduced visibility. The foghorn sounds two to three times an hour.
3. The Oil House: Explore the building that housed kerosene: the dangerous but crucial oil that fueled the bright-burning lamps. The oil vapor lamps installed at Split Rock were officially visible for 22 miles, though some fishermen claimed to see the beacon from as far away as Grand Marais, more than 60 miles from Split Rock.  (Source: Minnesota Historical Society)

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

9. Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

At #9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is one of the prettiest areas in the state. It’s the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway.

The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway is a protected area along the Saint Croix and Namekagon rivers in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The Riverway was established in 1968 to protect the natural, cultural, and recreational resources of the rivers and their surrounding areas. It is one of the original eight National Wild and Scenic Rivers and is managed by the National Park Service.

The Riverway includes over 250 miles of the Saint Croix and Namekagon rivers, as well as adjacent land along the rivers. The rivers are known for their scenic beauty, including limestone cliffs, hardwood forests, and wetlands. The Riverway also contains a diverse array of wildlife, including eagles, otters, and beavers. The rivers are popular for recreational activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and camping.

Evidence Of Human Habitation Dating Back Over 10,000 Years

The Riverway also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years.

The river and its tributaries have been used by native people for fishing, hunting, transportation, and trade. European settlers also utilized the river as a transportation route and for logging, and the Riverway has many historical sites related to these activities.

The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway is a unique natural area, known for its clear and clean water, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. With a diverse range of recreational opportunities and natural and cultural resources, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Hiking Trails Along The Saint Croix

There are seven hiking trails which are open year round. Trail surfaces are uneven and may be steep so be sure to watch your step. And also make sure to check for ticks.

Ridge View Trail is a three mile trek with two loops. The Chisage Loop traverses basalt rock outcroppings; the Osceola Loop is more level as you hike through pine and woods. Vistas of St. Croix River backwaters are visible from the bluff side of the trail.

This trail is a great place to see scarlet tanagers, bald eagles, turkey, grouse, and other forest-loving wildlife.

Forest plants include marsh marigolds and large maple trees.

Trego Lake & Trego Nature Trails

The Trego Lake Trail is 3.6 miles and 3 loops. It offers hikers many scenic overlooks of Trego Lake. The area has a large population of white-tailed deer and ruffed grouse. Watch the ground for signs left by these animals.

The Trego Nature Trail is 2.8 miles. Hikers will see a beautiful forest and breathtaking views of the Namekagon River. Wildlife seen can include deer, fox, otters, wolves, and bobcat.

Indian Head Flowage & Sandrock Cliffs Trails

The Indian Head Flowage Trail is a three quarter mile trek. This trail crosses bridged streams as it winds its ways through woods and wetlands to the river.

Hikers will be treated to wildflowers which include marsh marigolds, trilliums, blue flag iris, wild geraniums, and more.

Sandrock Cliffs Trail is five miles and four loops. The lower loop of this trail follows the river closely, then turns onto a ridge providing a variety of terrain and scenery.

The highlight of this trail system is the sandstone cliffs located in a side channel of the river.

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America

8. Pipestone National Monument

Our next historic site is a geologic wonder. At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is the Pipestone National Monument.

Pipestone National Monument is located in Pipestone, Minnesota. The monument was established in 1937 to protect the sacred pipestone quarries, which have been used for centuries by Native Americans to make pipes used in religious and cultural ceremonies. The pipestone found at the quarries is a type of red claystone that is soft and easy to carve, making it ideal for pipe-making.

The monument covers about 367 acres and includes a visitor center that provides information about the history and significance of the pipestone quarries and the pipe-making tradition. Visitors can also take a self-guided trail that leads to the quarries, where they can see the pipestone being quarried and watch demonstrations of pipe-making by Native American artisans.

A Sacred Site For Many Indigenous Tribes

The pipestone quarries have been a sacred site for many indigenous tribes for centuries and it is still considered sacred by many tribes. The quarry is open to visitors, but there are strict rules regarding the removal of pipestone.

Only enrolled members of federally recognized tribes can legally quarry pipestone and it is only allowed for traditional and religious use.

Pipestone National Monument is an important site that is significant to the history, culture and spiritual beliefs of many Native American tribes.

It’s a place where visitors can learn about the history and significance of the pipestone quarries and the pipe-making tradition, and witness the continuation of a cultural practice that has been passed down for centuries.

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America

7. North Country National Scenic Trail

Our next historic site is one of the most beautiful scenic trails in the United States. At #7 is the North Country National Scenic Trail.

The North Country National Scenic Trail provides visitors opportunities from bird watching to backpacking. This is another great Minnesota National Park!

The trail traverses eight northern states and connects a host of natural, historic and cultural sites. You can see everything from small towns to larger cities, valleys to hilltops and much more.

The History Of The North Country National Scenic Trail

In 1980, the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT) was authorized by Congress. It stretches 4,600 miles from upstate New Hampshire to its western terminus at Lake Sakakawea State Park.

The trail actually traversed seven states until 2019 when Vermont was added. The Vermont section is only about 70 miles long.

From the leisurely lake walk of downtown Duluth to the rugged Sawtooth Mountains to the prairies of the Red River Valley to the gentle rolling Laurentian Divide, the North Country Trail offers a cache of contrasting hiking experiences across its roughly 850 miles in Minnesota.

Historic marks include the remnants of iron mining along the Mesabi and Vermilion ranges, Native American historic sites, and remnants of Paul Bunyan’s white pine logging era.

Keep your eyes open wide for iconic Northern wildlife such as loons, moose, whitetail deer, black bear, Canada lynx, timber wolf and bald eagle. (Source: North Country Trail Association)

The North Country Scenic Trail In Minnesota

There is a 196-mile, contiguous segment located in north-central Minnesota between Detroit Lakes and Remer and a 400-mile, contiguous segment from near Ely to Jay Cooke State Park south of Duluth.

CHECK OUT: A Brief (& Informative) History Of America’s National Park Rangers

6. Mississippi National River & Recreation Area

Minnesota has some of the most magnificent scenic recreational areas in the U.S. Our next historic site is a case in point. At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area.

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area was established in 1988 as a unit of the National Park Service.

The park stretches 72 miles along the Mississippi River in Minnesota, from the cities of Dayton and Ramsey to just downstream of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

The park was created to preserve and protect the Mississippi River and its associated resources, and to provide recreational opportunities for visitors. It also serves as a way to promote the river’s cultural and historic significance.

The park includes a variety of landscapes, such as bluffs, wetlands, and floodplains, as well as historic sites and recreational areas. It is also a designated National River and a part of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Things To Do

Here are some things you can do:

1. Explore the park’s visitor centers: The park has several visitor centers where you can learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
2. Go hiking: The park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. Some popular trails include the Pike Island Loop, the Indian Mounds Trail, and the Fort Snelling State Park Trail.
3. Go biking: The park has many miles of bike trails that are great for cycling enthusiasts.
4. Take a boat tour: Several companies offer boat tours of the Mississippi River. These tours provide a unique perspective on the river and its surrounding landscape.
5. Go fishing: The Mississippi River is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and bass. Fishing is allowed in designated areas of the park.
6. Go birdwatching: The park is home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons. The park offers several birdwatching opportunities.
7. Visit historic sites: The park is home to several historic sites, including Fort Snelling, the Mill City Museum, and the Guthrie Theater.
8. Go picnicking: The park has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends.
9. Attend a ranger-led program: The park offers several ranger-led programs that are designed to educate visitors about the park’s natural and cultural resources.
10. Go kayaking or canoeing: The park offers several water trails that are great for kayaking and canoeing. These water trails provide a unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Mississippi

The Top 5 Historic Sites In Minnesota

5. Grand Mound Historic Site

We’re on to our list of the Top 5 Historic Sites In Minnesota. At #5 is the largest prehistoric structure in the Upper Midwest and one of the largest Native American burial sites in the United States. Welcome to the Grand Mound Historic Site.

It’s located along the Rainy River on the Canadian Border and is thought to have been constructed around 200 B.C. by the Laurel, an indigenous people about whom little is known.

It’s A National Historic Landmark

Grand Mound Historic Site is one of 25 National Historic Landmarks in Minnesota.

The largest of the five mounds is 25 feet high and 140 feet long. It is:

• Minnesota’s largest Native American earthwork
• the largest surviving “prehistoric” structure in the Upper Midwest
• the only effigy mound of this type in Minnesota

Some interpret the mound’s unique diamond shape and long “tail” to be a muskrat or serpent. While most mounds were built in high elevations, Grand Mound was built in a floodplain close to the Rainy and Big Fork Rivers.

Grand Mound Historic Site is part of a chain of more than 20 burial mounds that runs for 90 miles along the Canadian and U.S. sides of the Rainy River. (Source: Minnesota Historical Society)

4. Sinclair Lewis Boyhood Home

We’re on to our “Final Four.” At #4 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Minnesota is a historic house located in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. It was the childhood home of Sinclair Lewis, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist and one of the most important American writers of the early 20th century.

The house was built in 1883 by Lewis’s parents, Dr. Edwin J. Lewis and Isabel Warner Lewis. It is a two-story frame house with a gable roof, and features Victorian-style architecture.

Sinclair Lewis lived in the house from the age of six until he left for college in 1898. He later wrote about his childhood experiences in Sauk Centre in his novel “Main Street,” which was published in 1920 and became one of his most famous works.

The novel is set in a fictional Minnesota town that closely resembles Sauk Centre, and is considered to be a commentary on small-town life in America.

The Sinclair Lewis Boyhood Home was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and is now a museum open to the public. Visitors can tour the house and learn about Lewis’s life and works, as well as the history of Sauk Centre. It is also one of the main attraction of the city and is visited by many history enthusiasts.

Take A Deeper Dive

Narrated guided tours are approximately 25 minutes long and take you through the restored turn-of-the-century home where Sinclair Lewis lived with his parents and brothers.

If you’re interested in learning more about this talented author then I recommend: Sinclair Lewis: Rebel from Main Street by Richard Lingeman.

3. Fort Snelling

If you love military history then you’ll enjoy our next site which is #3 on our list. Welcome to Fort Snelling. It’s a National Historic Landmark which resides on Dakota homeland, known as Bdote, with history spanning 10,000 years.

The fort was built in the 1820s and originally called Fort St. Anthony, after the falls just upstream on the the Mississippi. It was originally constructed as a military outpost to protect the region’s significant fur trade and, ultimately, had a role in the United States’ war with the Dakota people.

The Minnesota Historical Society now runs the fort, located atop a bluff along the river.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources runs Fort Snelling State Park, protecting the land at the bottom of the bluff.

Visitors to the site can learn the stories of the military fort and its surrounding area, which is home to a wide history that includes Native peoples, trade, soldiers and veterans, enslaved people, immigrants, and the changing landscape.

2. Grand Portage National Monument

We’re on to our final 2 historic sites. In the runner-up spot at #2 is the Grand Portage National Monument.

The Grand Portage National Monument is a historic site located in northeastern Minnesota. The monument commemorates the historic Grand Portage, which was a critical trade route used by Indigenous people and fur traders during the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

The Grand Portage trail was an important link between the Great Lakes and the interior of North America. It allowed traders to bypass the treacherous waters of Lake Superior and the Pigeon River, which marked the border between the United States and Canada.

The monument consists of a reconstructed fort, a stockade, and several other historic buildings. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the history of the fur trade, the life of the Ojibwe people, and the challenges faced by early settlers in the region.

One of the highlights of the monument is the Grand Portage National Historic Site, which includes a reconstructed trading post, a fur press, and a canoe warehouse. Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional fur-trading activities, including the preparation of animal pelts and the loading and unloading of cargo.

The monument also includes several hiking trails, which allow visitors to explore the surrounding wilderness and enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape.

Some Wonderful Activities

The monument preserves 710 acres which includes: the historic depot (71 acres) located on Lake Superior, the site of Fort Charlotte (98 acres) on the Pigeon River with the Grand Portage (541 acres) connecting the two depots. The 8.5 mile portage corridor and Fort Charlotte (639 acres) contain the majority of the Monument’s semi-wilderness setting.

There are some wonderful activities for visitors which include:

1. Heritage Center and Historic Depot: It’s a great place to begin your adventure. There you can view exhibits about Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) culture and where you learn about a time when the fur trade dominated North American commerce.
2. View One Of The Excellent Films On The Grand Portage Story: There’s a feature film (23 minutes) titled “Rendezvous With History A Grand Portage Story,” as well as shorter films which include: “Our Home: The Grand Portage Ojibwe,” “The Gift of the Birch Bark Canoe,” “A Gap in the Hills: Geography of Grand Portage,” and “The Men of the North West Company” – Running time for all four is 24 minutes.
3. Visit The America’s National Parks Bookstore.
4. Visit The Historic Depot: It includes three reconstructed post and sill log buildings and four outside areas.
5. Hike The Mount Rose Loop Trail: Visitors will be treated to a stunning overlook of the historic depot, Grand Portage Bay, Mount Josephine, and the gap in the hills where the Grand Portage footpath goes.

1. Voyageurs National Park

As the #1 Historic Site In Minnesota, More Than Just Parks has selected one of our favorite national parks – Voyageurs National Park.

From kaleidoscopic sunrises and sunsets mirrored on glassy waters of its lakes to some of the most spectacular displays of the northern lights you’ll find anywhere on earth, Voyageurs National Park is a true monument to the wonders of nature.

If you’re wondering how challenging it is to visit Voyageurs given that it’s almost exclusively accessible by boat – don’t!

The area has countless lodges and outfitters that will rent you any kind of boat you could want from a canoe on up to a houseboat at very reasonable prices.

The park is extensively mapped and easy to navigate once out on the waters. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on an unforgettable experience because you’re unfamiliar with boating.

Check out our complete article on the 10 Best Things to Do in Voyageurs National Park

The History of Voyageurs National Park

Voyageurs National Park has a rich history of human habitation and culture. The area has long been home to the Ojibwe people who made their lives in this harsh, yet bountiful environment. Native Americans called this place home for thousands of years, fishing, hunting, and traveling the lakes in birch bark canoes.

The first Europeans to arrive were early trappers and fur traders known as Voyageurs. These Voyageurs were French Canadians who transported furs using canoes. It was these early frontiersmen for whom the park was named.

Later the park experienced a brief gold rush and a logging boom before finally becoming the recreation paradise it is today. You can read more about the park’s history on their website here.

Save The Boundary Waters

Right now Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters face the threat of permanent despoilment from mining interests looking to exploit the area for metals located beneath the lakes and rivers, namely the Twin Metals Mine.

You can do your part to help save this precious wild area by visiting or donating to Save The Boundary Waters here.

Best Things to Do in Voyageurs National Park

1. Paddle in a Canoe

The best and only way to experience Voyageurs is by boat, but for a truly authentic experience try your hand at canoeing for a day, or if you’re experienced, plan a multi-day trip.

Canoes are the historic mode of transportation in this area and slowly plying the waters of the park’s lakes in a canoe can help give you a fuller appreciation of this unique north woods environment.

2. See the Northern Lights

On clear nights in Voyageurs you can see one of the most spectacular light shows in the world, the northern lights. They start as a faint glow on the horizon before working their way up the sky, dancing in real time right before your eyes.

Here in the remote north woods there is almost no light pollution whatsoever and the night sky is truly a wonder to behold.

There’s no need to go to Iceland or Norway or even Alaska if it’s the northern lights you seek, you’ll find them here in all of their glory.

Fall and winter give you your best chances of seeing the northern lights, but you may be lucky enough any time of year if the conditions are right.

3. Explore Ellsworth Rock Gardens

This incredibly unique garden features countless works of art made entirely out of stone. Some of the stones are massive monoliths balanced delicately upon other stones.

This incredible attraction is entirely the work of one man, a humble carpenter from Chicago named Jack Ellsworth, who built these amazing works of art over the course of 20 years starting in the 1940’s.

Tie off your boat here along the shores of Lake Kabetogama and explore the fascinating artistic expressions of one determined man.

4. Go Fishing

The waters of Voyageurs National Park and the surrounding areas are teeming with native fish that are great for eating or just for sport.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of catching your own meal and cooking it over an open fire on an island all to yourself.

Be sure to follow NPS and Minnesota DNR rules governing fishing in the area and fish responsibly.

5. Camp on Your Own Island

In Voyageurs there are no campgrounds with sites plotted next to each other one after the other with whirring RV generators, yelling kids, and barking dogs.

In this one-of-a-kind national park every campsite is all to itself, and yes, some are even on their own entire island. Did I mention there are over 150 campsites?

See our full article on Camping in Voyageurs National Park

Watch Our Award-Winning Voyageurs National Park Video

This film is the culmination of several weeks spent in the northernmost region of Minnesota known as Voyageurs National Park. Encompassing more than 340 square miles, Voyageurs is a watery wonderland almost exclusively accessible by boat.

Journey with us as we explore a land blanketed in pristine lakes, erupting with kaleidoscopic fall colors, and home to the most spectacular displays of the northern lights on the planet. This is Voyageurs. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

List Of Historic Sites In Minnesota

1. Voyageurs National Park
2. Grand Portage National Monument
3. Fort Snelling
4. Sinclair Lewis Boyhood Home
5. Grand Mound Historic Site
6. Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
7. North Country National Scenic Trail
8. Pipestone National Monument
9. Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
10. Split Rock Lighthouse
11. F. Scott Fitzgerald House
12. Mountain Iron Mine
13. Charles A. Lindbergh House
14. Rabideau CCC Camp
15. James J. Hill House

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Minnesota?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!

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The post 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Minnesota (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Historic Sites In Maine

Historic Sites In Maine. More Than Just Parks has 10 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the Top 10 Historic Sites In Maine that you’ll want to see.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as well as national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

If you’re planning a trip to the Pine Tree State then one book that I recommend is: Historic Maine Homes: 300 Years of Great Houses by Christopher Glass.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Top 10 Historic Sites In Maine

10. Kennebec Arsenal

Maine is famous for its rocky coastline, pristine forests, and outdoor activities. Maine is also known for its many lighthouses, fresh lobsters, and rugged individualism.

But the state also has some amazing historic sites. More Than Just Parks is going to share our list of the Top 10 Historic Sites In Maine with you. And we’re kicking it off at #10 with the Kennebec Arsenal.

The Kennebec Arsenal is a former military facility located in Augusta, Maine. The Arsenal was built in 1827 as a manufacturing and storage facility for the United States Army.

It was one of several arsenals built in the United States during the 19th century to store and manufacture weapons and other military equipment.

The Kennebec Arsenal played a key role in the production of weapons and other military equipment during the Civil War and other conflicts. It was used to manufacture and store artillery pieces, muskets, bayonets, and other equipment needed by the Union army.

The arsenal also served as a training center for soldiers, where they received instruction in the use of weapons and other military equipment.

The Arsenal Remained Active Until The End Of World War Two

After the Civil War, the Kennebec Arsenal continued to be used by the army, but its primary role shifted to the storage of military equipment and supplies. The arsenal remained active until the end of World War II, when it was declared surplus and closed by the army.

In the following years, the buildings of the arsenal were used for different purposes, including as a state mental hospital, and state government offices. Some of the buildings were demolished, but many of the original buildings still stand and are used for different purposes.

The Kennebec Arsenal is a historic site and is open to the public for tours and events, it features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the Arsenal and its role in American history.

Visitors can also see the original buildings, including the main building, guardhouse, and powder magazine, which have been preserved and restored.

9. Wadsworth-Longfellow House

We move from military history to a site which honors one of America’s literary legends. At #9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Maine is the Wadsworth-Longfellow House.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was an American poet and educator. He was born in Portland, Maine, and attended Bowdoin College, where he studied literature and languages. After graduation, he became a professor of modern languages at Bowdoin and later at Harvard University.

Longfellow is best known for his poetry, which was widely popular during his lifetime and continues to be studied and appreciated today.

Some of his most famous works include “Paul Revere’s Ride,” “The Song of Hiawatha,” and “Evangeline.” His poetry often drew upon themes of history, mythology, and romance, and he was particularly interested in the folklore and legends of the American Indians.

In addition to his poetry, Longfellow was an important figure in the development of American literature. He was one of the first American writers to gain international acclaim, and he helped to establish a distinctly American literary voice in the 19th century.

He also translated works by other authors, including Dante’s “Divine Comedy,” which helped to introduce European literature to American audiences.

Longfellow’s legacy continues to be felt in American literature and culture, and he remains one of the most beloved and widely read poets in the English language.

The Wadsworth Longfellow House

The Wadsworth-Longfellow House was the childhood home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It was built in 1785 by Stephen Longfellow, Henry’s grandfather, and it was the family home for over 150 years.

The house was also the home of other members of the Longfellow family, including Stephen Longfellow, Henry’s father, and Samuel Longfellow, Henry’s uncle.

The house was passed down through the family for several generations, and it remained in the Longfellow family until the death of Henry’s last surviving child, Samuel Longfellow, in 1892.

After the death of Samuel Longfellow, the house was purchased by the Maine Historical Society, which opened it as a museum in 1895. The house was restored to its appearance during the time when Longfellow lived there, and it is now open to the public for tours.

Visitors to the Wadsworth-Longfellow House can see the rooms where Longfellow lived and worked, including the study where he wrote many of his famous poems.

The house also features exhibits and artifacts related to Longfellow’s life and work, as well as the history of the Longfellow family and the history of Portland, Maine.

8. Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village

In preparing our lists of historic sites we strive to find something for everyone and our next site is a case in point. It’s a historic Shaker village located in New Gloucester, Maine. At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Maine is the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village.

The village was established in 1783 by a group of Shakers, a religious sect that was known for their celibacy, communal living, and religious fervor. The village was the last active Shaker community in the United States, and it is now a National Historic Landmark.

The Shakers at Sabbathday Lake built a number of buildings, including a meetinghouse, a dwelling house, a barn, and several other outbuildings.

They also cleared land for farming and established a number of businesses, including a sawmill, a gristmill, and a blacksmith shop. The village was self-sufficient and the members were known for their hard work, craftsmanship, and innovations.

The Shakers Were Known For Their Religious Practices

The Shakers at Sabbathday Lake were known for their religious practices, which included celibacy, communal living, and the use of music, dance, and other forms of expression in their worship. The community’s religious practices and way of life attracted many converts, and the village grew to a peak of 300 members by 1836.

As the years went by, the number of converts decreased and the village faced financial difficulties, the community managed to survive and it remained active until the death of the last remaining member, Sister Rachael, in 1992.

After Sister Rachael’s death, the village was acquired by the Sabbathday Lake Corporation, a non-profit organization that works to preserve the village and its history.

The village is now open to the public for tours, and visitors can see the original Shaker buildings and learn about the history and culture of the Shakers.

7. Winslow Homer Studio

Maine is the home of literary and artistic geniuses. Our next site honors one of the most important artists of the 19th century who is best known for his landscapes, seascapes and scenes of everyday life.

At #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Maine is the Winslow Homer Studio.

Winslow Homer

Winslow Homer (1836-1910) was an American painter known for his realistic depictions of life in the late 19th century. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and began his career as a commercial illustrator before turning to painting.

Homer’s work often depicted scenes of everyday life, particularly of people working and interacting with the natural world. He was particularly interested in marine subjects, and many of his most famous works show sailors, fishermen, and others on or near the sea. Homer’s paintings are known for their attention to detail and their ability to capture the mood and atmosphere of a scene.

In addition to his paintings, Homer was also a skilled printmaker and illustrator, and his work appeared in numerous magazines and newspapers during his lifetime. His art was widely recognized and admired during his lifetime, and he remains one of the most important American artists of the 19th century.

Today, Homer’s paintings are held in many of the world’s major art museums, and his work continues to inspire and influence generations of artists.

The Studio Was Designed By Winslow Homer

The studio was built in 1884 and designed by the artist himself, with the help of local builder John Calvin Stevens.

It is a simple, one-story wooden structure with a large skylight, which provided natural light for Homer’s painting.

The studio was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and is now operated as a museum by the Portland Museum of Art.

It is open to the public for tours and contains many of Homer’s paintings, as well as his personal effects and some of his studio equipment.

6. Harriet Beecher Stowe House

Our next historic site celebrates a woman whom some believe wrote most influential novel ever written by an American. It was one of the contributing causes of the Civil War.

At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Maine is the Harriet Beecher Stowe House.

Harriet Beecher Stowe

Harriet Beecher Stowe was an American abolitionist and author who lived from 1811 to 1896. She is best known for her novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” which was published in 1852 and became one of the most influential books in American history.

“Uncle Tom’s Cabin” was a fictional account of the experiences of slaves in the antebellum South, and it had a powerful impact on public opinion and the abolitionist movement. The book depicted the harsh realities of slavery and showed readers the humanity of enslaved people. It was widely read in the United States and abroad and helped to galvanize support for the abolition of slavery.

Stowe was also a prominent abolitionist and social reformer in her own right. She wrote and spoke extensively on issues such as women’s rights, education, and the plight of the poor. Her work helped to inspire a generation of reformers and activists who worked to bring about social change in America.

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Brunswick, Maine is a historic site that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the life and legacy of Harriet Beecher Stowe, as well as the history of the Underground Railroad in Maine. Here are some of the things you can do at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House:

1. Take a guided tour: The house is open for guided tours, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of Harriet Beecher Stowe and her family. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the house and share stories about Stowe’s life and work.
2. Explore the gardens: The house has beautiful gardens that are open to the public. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
3. Attend special events: The Harriet Beecher Stowe House hosts special events throughout the year, including lectures, readings, and performances. Check the schedule to see what events are coming up during your visit.
4. Visit the gift shop: The gift shop at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House offers a variety of books, gifts, and souvenirs related to Stowe and her work.
5. Learn about the Underground Railroad: The house is located in a town that was a center of anti-slavery activity in the 19th century, and Stowe was involved in the Underground Railroad. Learn about this important part of American history and how Maine played a role in the fight against slavery.
6. Explore the town of Brunswick: The Harriet Beecher Stowe House is located in the charming town of Brunswick, which has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions to explore. Take a walk around town and soak up the New England charm.

Top 5 Historic Sites In Maine

5. Maine Acadian Culture

We’re More Than Just Parks, but that doesn’t mean that we’ve forgotten about them. Our Top 5 (and Final 5) Historic Sites In Maine are national park sites. Only one, however, is actually a national park.

Now if you’re interested in knowing the difference then please feel free to check out our article: What Is A National Park Really?

At #5 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Maine is Maine Acadian Culture.

The Acadians

The Acadians were the descendants of the French who settled in America during the 17th and 18th centuries. Acadia National Park was named to honor their heritage and contributions to the region.

Acadia was located in what is now Eastern Canada’s Maritime provinces, as well as parts of Quebec, present-day Maine to the Kennebec River, and on the West coast of Newfoundland.

Though it is officially part of the National Park System, none of the sites are operated by the National Park Service. Instead they are run by the Maine Acadian Heritage Council (a local non-profit) with support from the National Park Service.

The 17 buildings overlooking the St. John River in the Acadian Village retain the cultural heritage of the Acadians who settled in the St. John Valley during the mid-eighteenth century.

Places To Be Explored

Among the places to be explored are the following:

1. Acadian Landing & Tante Blanche Museum
2. Acadian Village
3. Allagash Wilderness Waterway
4. B & A Caboose and Green Water Tank
5. B & A Railroad Turntable
6. Fort Kent Blockhouse
7. Fort Kent Railroad Station
8. Historic Governor Brann Schoolhouse

With so many interesting places, I recommend that you research the ones of particular interest to you before you depart on your adventure.

Developing an itinerary or a plan of attack will give you the opportunity to get the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to exploring.

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

4. St. Croix National Historic Site

We’re on to the “Final Four” sites. And, at #4, we have a historic site which is steeped in history. Welcome to the Saint Croix Island International Historic Site.

Saint Croix Island International Historic Site commemorates the 1604 site of the first French attempt to colonize the territory they called l’Acadie. It is one of the earliest European settlements in North America.

Among those who wintered on the island during 1604-1605 was the famed explorer Samuel de Champlain.

Champlain was a French colonist, navigator, cartographer, draftsman, soldier, explorer, geographer, ethnologist, diplomat, and chronicler best known for founding Quebec.

Champlain’s Dream

The noted author and historian David Hackett Fischer wrote a wonderful biography of Champlain’s explorations titled Champlain’s Dream.  

Congress authorized the establishment of Saint Croix Island National Monument in 1949, which became effective on June 30, 1968, and designated it as an international historic site on September 25, 1984.

About This Site

This small National Park Service site tells the story of the interaction between early French Settlers and Native Americans in what would mark the beginning of permanent European settlement in North America.

St. Croix Island itself is in the middle of the US – Canada boundary and is jointly protected by both countries, there is no public access allowed on the island due to dangerous currents and for the protection of the island.

The small National Park Service site is located in Calais, Maine and overlooks the island with a short interpretive trail and and places to sit and enjoy the scenery.

Things To Do at Saint Croix Island International Historic Site

It’s a very small site and frankly there isn’t a whole lot to do, but it’s well worth checking out if you’re in the area.

• Walk the Interpretive Trail – The historic site has a very nice paved 0.2 mile interpretive trail with signs and statues telling the story of the area.
• Bird Watch – The area is great for bird watchers and provides opportunities to see bald eagles, ospreys, and a number of other interesting birds.
• Have a Picnic – Sites like this are the perfect quiet spot to enjoy a picnic lunch and take in the scenery.

Check Out Nearby St. Stephen & St. Andrews Too

In nearby St. Stephen and St. Andrews, you will find a variety of museums and historic sites, recreational opportunities, restaurants, shops, and hotel accommodations.

It’s definitely worth a visit!

CHECK OUT: ALL 63 NATIONAL PARKS RANKED BY EXPERTS

3. Appalachian Trail National Scenic Trail

Our next site is one of the most famous trails in the world. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Maine is the Appalachian Trail.

The Appalachian Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that runs along the eastern part of the United States, stretching from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine.

The trail passes through 14 states, including Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

The idea of creating a long-distance trail through the Appalachian Mountains was first proposed in the early 1920s by Benton MacKaye, a regional planner and conservationist.

In 1921, MacKaye published an article in the Journal of the American Institute of Architects, outlining his vision for a trail that would connect cities and towns along the eastern seaboard, providing an escape from urban life for people to experience nature.

The Trail Has Been Continuously Maintained By Various Organizations

In 1925, the Appalachian Trail Conference was formed to oversee the development of the trail. The first section of the trail was completed in New York in 1923, and by 1937, the trail was completed from Georgia to Maine. The trail was officially dedicated on August 14, 1937.

During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) helped to build and maintain the trail. The trail has been continuously maintained by various organizations and volunteers ever since.

Today, the trail is managed by the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a private non-profit organization that oversees the trail’s maintenance and protection.

Each year, thousands of people hike the entire trail, a journey that typically takes 5-7 months, known as “thru-hike” or “end-to-end hike”. Many others hike shorter sections of the trail. The trail is also open to horseback riders and cross-country skiers.

CHECK OUT: List Of 128 BEST U.S. NATIONAL MONUMENTS-RANKED

2. Roosevelt Campobello International Park

We’re down to the final two sites. And, in the runner-up spot at #2, we have a site which honors one of America’s greatest presidents. It’s the Roosevelt Campobello International Park.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882-1945) was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. He was the only U.S. President to be elected to four terms in office.

During his presidency, Roosevelt led the country through two of the greatest crises in American history: the Great Depression and World War II.

To combat the effects of the Great Depression, Roosevelt implemented several programs collectively known as the New Deal.

These programs aimed to provide relief, recovery and reform through government intervention in the economy. He also established many important institutions, such as the Social Security Administration and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

During World War II, Roosevelt played a key role in leading the country and its allies to victory. He worked closely with other world leaders, such as Winston Churchill, to coordinate strategy and provide support for the war effort.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Roosevelt led the U.S. into the war and was instrumental in the formation of the United Nations.

The Site Is Not Actually In Maine, But It’s Close Enough

While technically not in Maine as it lies on an island in New Brunswick, this unique National Park Service Unit is a must-see for American history buffs.

Roosevelt Campobello International Park lies just across the U.S. – Canada border and is jointly administered by the National Park Service and Parks Canada.

The park preserves Franklin Roosevelt’s beloved summer home on Campobello Island where he spent a great deal of his time prior to his polio diagnosis enjoying the immense beauty that surrounded him.

Things To Do & See At Roosevelt Campobello International Park

The Visitor Center

A trip to Campobello should begin with a visit to the visitor center. There you will find exhibits about FDR. There’s also a wonderful short film: “Outer Island/Beloved Island,” produced by the Roosevelt Campobello International Commission.

A small bookstore features a limited selection of memorabilia.

Roosevelt Cottage

Visitors can tour the home and see artifacts from Roosevelt’s time at Campobello. Guides are stationed throughout the Roosevelt Cottage to answer questions.

Rooms that are on display include the following: (1) President Roosevelt’s office from his 1933 visit and his bedroom, (2) Mrs. Roosevelt’s writing room, (3) living room, dining room, and kitchen, (4) laundry and Nursery and (5) family bedrooms.

Other Things To See At Campobello

There are 8.4 miles of driving roads located in the park’s 2,800 acres, and eight miles of walking trails. You can wander the trails individually for a short hike or combine them for longer hikes. You can see bogs, forests, shoreline, beaches, and more.

Getting to Roosevelt Campobello International Park

The park is located just across the border where Lubec, Maine meets New Brunswick, Canada and is connected by the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Bridge. All typical border crossing requirements are in place and you’ll need a passport if you’re not Canadian.

Entrance Fees – Roosevelt Campobello International Park

There are no entrance fees to access Roosevelt Campobello International Park!

1. Acadia National Park

As our #1 Historic Site In Maine, More Than Just Parks has selected one of the most magnificent national parks in America. Welcome to Acadia National Park.

Along the rocky shores of Maine’s coast you’ll find this easternmost national park.

Once the exclusive domain of the gilded age elite, a few civic-minded residents decided to make Acadia’s beauty available to all Americans by donating the land to the national park service – and boy am I glad they did.

With rounded mountains, shimmering lakes (called ponds here) , rugged coastline, and forests dotted with old stone roads and trails this New England national treasure is the crown jewel of Maine’s outdoor destinations.

Acadia Was Created Entirely By Private Land Donations

Acadia National Park was the first national park to be created east of the Mississippi River.

One of the most interesting Acadia National Park Facts is this: It’s the only national park in the Northeast.

Acadia is a true coastal wonder. Nestled into the far-flung, rocky coast of Maine, this national park is home to majestic forests, tranquil ponds, rounded mountains and wild coastline.

A little history lesson is in order. In 1604, French explorers Sieur de Monts and Samuel de Champlain arrived. They called it “Acadia,” meaning “heaven on earth.” These two explorers claimed much of Maine for their native France. Of course, there’s an old saying, “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.“ As we know, Maine did not become a part of the French Empire.

Much later, however, the area did become a summer retreat for America’s elite. The area comprising Acadia National Park was given back to the people by conservation-minded locals led by George Dorr.

Check Out Our Stunning Film

Acadia is the culmination of several weeks spent exploring Acadia National Park during peak fall color. This film is, in part, a celebration of Acadia’s upcoming centennial. It is dedicated to George Dorr.

Sculpted by Glaciers and landscaped by beavers, Acadia is full of wonderfully unique features. Rounded mountains, tranquil ponds, rocky coastline, & some of the most beautiful trails in the world comprise this marvelous wonder.

This film was shot entirely in 4K.

Tips For Avoiding The Crowds

Crowds can be a real issue here, particularly in the summer, so be sure plan accordingly. Parking can be very limited and the park roads can be very congested.

Also campgrounds and hotels are very hard to come by during the busy summer months.

Fall offers a slight reprieve from the summer crowds, but not much as it’s no secret that Acadia is a world-class leaf-peeping destination.

Best Things to Do at Acadia National Park

• Go Leaf Peeping – Acadia National Park is a world-class leaf-peeping destination that draws people from all over the world to see its vivid autumn colors. The best time to go is usually in early October.
• Take in the Sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain – (Reservations are required) You can be among the first in the United States to greet the sun from atop Cadillac Mountain, oh and enjoy breathtaking views!
• Drive the park loop road – Acadia is a great park to relax and go for a scenic drive. The roads wind along spectacular ocean views and through beaufitul forest with countless overlooks and opportunities to pull off and take in the views.
• Lobstah! – No trip to Acadia, or Maine, is complete without some lobstah! You’ll know you’re close when you see the boiling cauldrons outside!

To Learn More About This Amazing Park Check Out: 11 AMAZING Facts About Acadia National Park

List Of Historic Sites In Maine

1. Acadia National Park
2. Roosevelt Campobello International Park
3. Appalachian Trail National Scenic Trail
4. St. Croix National Historic Site
5. Maine Acadian Culture
6. Harriet Beecher Stowe House
7. Winslow Homer Studio
8. Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
9. Wadsworth-Longfellow House
10. Kennebec Arsenal

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Maine?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested joining the adventure, sign up below!

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The post 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Maine (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Historic Sites In Florida

Historic Sites In Florida. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the 15 Historic Sites In Florida that you’ll want to see.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

If you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State then one book that I highly recommend is: Florida Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal: Explore 50 Natural Wonders You Must See!

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Top 15 Historic Sites In Florida

15. Lightner Museum

Florida has more than 7,700 lakes, 11,000 miles of rivers, 2,276 miles of tidal shoreline, and has produced more than 900 world fishing records, more than any other state, or country. The state also has more than 700 freshwater springs. Of them, 27 are classified as first-magnitude springs, more than any other state.

And there are some wonderful historic sites in Florida. More Than Just Parks is excited to give you our list of the Top 15 Historic Sites In Florida. And we’re beginning at #15 with the Lightner Museum.

The Lightner Museum is located in St. Augustine, Florida, and is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, a magnificent Spanish Renaissance Revival-style building. The museum was established in 1948 by Otto C. Lightner, a publisher and collector, who donated his extensive collection of art, antiques, and curiosities to the city.

The Lightner Museum is renowned for its eclectic collection of decorative arts, including furniture, glass, porcelain, silver, and cutlery from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also has an impressive collection of fine art, with works by notable artists such as William-Adolphe Bouguereau, Thomas Sully, and John Singer Sargent.

The museum’s main gallery, located in the former hotel’s indoor swimming pool, is one of its most stunning features. The gallery is surrounded by balconies with ornate wrought-iron railings, and the pool is now a reflecting pool filled with plants and sculptures.

Other highlights of the Lightner Museum include the Victorian Science and Industry Room, which showcases inventions and scientific instruments from the Victorian era, and the Music Room, which features a collection of rare musical instruments, including pianos, harps, and organs.

14. The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

At #14 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is a place which celebrates a literary legend. It’s the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum.

He’s one of the greatest writers of all time and you can learn about him at The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, also known as the Hemingway House. It’s located in Key West, Florida, and is a National Historic Landmark.

The house was built in 1851 in the Spanish Colonial style and was originally owned by a wealthy maritime merchant named Asa Tift.

Ernest Hemingway, one of America’s most famous authors, purchased the house in 1931, along with his wife Pauline. The Hemingways lived in the house for almost a decade, during which time Hemingway wrote some of his most famous works, including “To Have and Have Not” and “The Snows of Kilimanjaro.”

Hemingway was known to have been very fond of Key West, and he wrote about the island’s laid-back lifestyle and colorful characters in many of his stories.

After Hemingway’s death in 1961, the house was left to his wife, who sold it to a local businessman. In 1968, a group of concerned Key West residents formed the Hemingway Home Foundation with the goal of purchasing the property and preserving it as a museum.

The foundation was successful in its efforts, and the house was opened to the public in 1968.

Things To Do

Here are some things you can do when you visit:

1. Take a guided tour of the house: You can explore the beautifully restored Spanish Colonial mansion and learn about the history and architecture of the building. You’ll also learn about Hemingway’s life and work, and see where he wrote some of his most famous novels.
2. Visit the museum exhibits: The museum features a variety of exhibits on Hemingway’s life and work, including artifacts, manuscripts, and photographs. You can learn about his time in Key West and his travels around the world.
3. See the famous six-toed cats: Hemingway was an avid cat lover and owned several six-toed cats. Today, the house is home to over 40 cats, many of which are descendants of Hemingway’s original cats.
4. Explore the gardens and grounds: The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and landscaped grounds that are open to visitors. You can take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic on the lawn.
5. Visit the gift shop: The gift shop offers a wide selection of books, souvenirs, and gifts related to Hemingway and the house.
6. Attend a special event: The museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including book signings, lectures, and literary festivals.
7. Have a drink at the Hemingway-inspired bar: The house has a bar named after Hemingway, where you can enjoy a cocktail and soak up the atmosphere.
8. Visit nearby attractions: The Hemingway Home & Museum is located in the heart of Key West, which is home to many other cultural attractions, shops, and restaurants.

13. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

At #13 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is a Mediterranean-style villa on the shores of Biscayne Bay. Welcome to the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.

The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a historic estate located in Miami, Florida. The estate was built in the early 20th century by James Deering, a wealthy businessman and art collector who wanted to create a Mediterranean-style villa on the shores of Biscayne Bay.

Construction of the estate began in 1914 and was completed in 1916. The villa, which has 34 rooms, features a mix of architectural styles, including Italian Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo. The interior of the villa is decorated with art and antiques collected by Deering during his travels throughout Europe.

In addition to the villa, the estate includes 10 acres of formal gardens designed in the Italian Renaissance style. The gardens feature fountains, sculptures, and a maze of hedges. The estate also includes a breakwater, a boathouse, and a village with staff quarters, stables, and a dairy.

After James Deering’s death in 1925, the estate was sold to a group of developers who planned to demolish the villa and subdivide the property. However, a group of concerned citizens formed the Vizcaya Preservation Association and successfully lobbied the city of Miami to purchase the property and preserve it as a museum.

Today, the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the opulence and grandeur of the Gilded Age. Visitors can tour the villa and gardens and view the collection of art and antiques that James Deering collected during his lifetime.

The estate also hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, lectures, and special exhibits.

12. Kingsley Plantation

Our next site is an antebellum plantation with a fascinating story to tell. At #12 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is the Kingsley Plantation.

The Kingsley Plantation is a historic site located on Fort George Island in Jacksonville, Florida. The plantation was founded in the late 18th century by Zephaniah Kingsley, a slave trader and planter who owned hundreds of enslaved Africans.

The main house on the plantation, known as the Kingsley House, was built in 1797 and is one of the oldest standing plantation houses in Florida. The house is made of tabby, a type of concrete made from crushed oyster shells, sand, and water.

The Kingsley House features a distinctive architectural style known as the “Georgian-Colonial,” which combines elements of both Georgian and Colonial architecture.

In addition to the main house, the Kingsley Plantation includes several other buildings, including a kitchen house, a barn, and several slave quarters. The slave quarters are some of the best-preserved examples of slave housing in the southeastern United States.

Today, the Kingsley Plantation is managed by the National Park Service and is open to the public for tours. The site offers a glimpse into the history of slavery and the lives of the enslaved Africans who lived and worked on the plantation.

Visitors can explore the Kingsley House and other historic buildings, as well as hike the nature trails that wind through the surrounding salt marshes and forests. The site also hosts a variety of educational programs and cultural events throughout the year.

11. Key West Lighthouse

We move from an antebellum plantation to an historic lighthouse. At #11 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is the Key West Lighthouse.

The Key West Lighthouse is located in Key West, Florida. It was originally built in 1848 and stood 50 feet tall with 13 lamps in 21-inch reflectors, and stood on ground about 15 feet (4.6 m) above sea level.

It was built to replace a previous structure that had been destroyed in a hurricane. Over the years, the lighthouse underwent repairs and the height was increased. In 1894 the tower was raised twenty feet, placing the light about 100 feet above sea level.

The lighthouse was decommissioned by the Coast Guard in 1969, and it was turned over to Monroe County. The county then leased it to the Key West Arts and Historical Society, which operates the lighthouse and its associated buildings as the Key West Light House and Keeper’s Quarters Museum.

The museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of the lighthouse and the lives of the lighthouse keepers who worked there. It is open to the public and tours are available.

Top 10 Historic Sites In Florida

10. Fort Caroline National Memorial

We’re on to our list of the Top 10 Historic Sites In Florida. If you love military history then you’ll enjoy our next site. It’s Fort Caroline National Memorial.

Fort Caroline National Memorial is located in Jacksonville, Florida. It commemorates the short-lived French attempt to establish a colony in Florida in the 16th century.

In 1562, French explorer Jean Ribault led an expedition to Florida and established a colony at the mouth of the St. Johns River, which he named Fort Caroline in honor of the French King Charles IX. The colony was intended to serve as a base for French piracy and to challenge Spanish claims to the region.

The Spanish, who had already established colonies in Mexico and the Caribbean, saw the French colony as a threat and launched a series of attacks to try to eliminate it. In 1565, the Spanish under Pedro Menéndez de Avilés established their own colony at St. Augustine, just south of Fort Caroline.

The Spanish Launched At Attack On Fort Caroline

In September of 1565, the Spanish launched an attack on Fort Caroline. The French were poorly prepared and were quickly defeated, with many being killed and others taken prisoner. The Spanish then destroyed Fort Caroline and established their dominance in the region.

Fort Caroline was largely forgotten for several centuries, but was rediscovered in the 20th century and designated as a National Memorial in 1950. Today, the site features a replica of the original fort and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the early European exploration and colonization of Florida.

The National Park Service also manages nearby natural areas, including the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, which includes wetlands, forests, and other habitats that were home to the Timucua people, who lived in the area long before the arrival of Europeans.

CHECK OUT: 20 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In California

9. De Soto National Memorial

Our next historic site honors the legacy of a famed explorer. At #9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is the De Soto National Memorial.

The De Soto National Memorial is located in Bradenton, Florida. It commemorates the explorations of the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his expedition through the southeastern United States in the early 16th century.

De Soto and his expedition, which consisted of over 600 men, arrived in Florida in 1539, and spent the next four years exploring and searching for gold and other resources.

They traveled through what is now Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, and were the first Europeans to make contact with many of the native tribes in the region.

An Expedition Fraught With Challenges

The expedition was fraught with challenges, including conflicts with native tribes, harsh weather conditions, and a lack of resources. Many members of the expedition died during the journey, including de Soto himself, who died in 1542 in present-day Arkansas.

The memorial was established in 1948 to commemorate the expedition and its impact on the region. It features a visitor center with exhibits and a museum, as well as a nature trail that takes visitors through the local ecosystems, and ranger-led programs that provide visitors with an understanding of the history and significance of the expedition.

The memorial also offers a glimpse of the native cultures, and the impact of the first European contact on the native peoples.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Georgia

8. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Our next historic site is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. Welcome to Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

Historic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, site of the oldest masonry fort in the United States, was built by the Spaniards on Matanzas Bay between 1672 and 1695 to protect the city of St. Augustine.

Established as Fort Marion National Monument in 1924, it was renamed in 1942.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves an incredible 17th century structure that is the oldest existing masonry fort in the continental U.S.

The fort itself has a dark history (especially under US control) having been used by the United States to imprison Native Americans including Chief Osceola and Geronimo.

Things To Do & See

Rangers and volunteers are eager to answer your questions and provide interpretive opportunities throughout the day on the history and culture of the park. There are formal presentations where you can listen to a thematic program, usually 15-20 minutes long.

There are ongoing informal stations where you can engage firsthand with cultural objects, ask your burning questions, and spend as little or as much time as you would like.

Program topics, locations, and times vary on the season, weather, and visitation. Please ask the staff upon arrival or look for a sign in the courtyard area for the upcoming opportunities.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Louisiana

7. Fort Matanzas National Monument

Another amazing fort is Fort Matanzas National Monument. It’s #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida.

Fort Matanzas is located on the southern tip of Anastasia Island. It commemorates the Spanish fort of San Marcos de Matanzas, which was built by the Spanish in 1740-1742 to protect the southern approach to the city of St. Augustine from potential British and French invasion.

The fort was named after the Matanzas River, which runs nearby, and was strategically located on the Matanzas Inlet, which provided access to the Matanzas River and St. Augustine. The fort was manned by a small detachment of soldiers and was equipped with cannons.

It Repelled A British Attack

In 1742, the fort successfully repelled an attack by a British naval force under the command of Governor James Oglethorpe of the British colony of Georgia.

The fort remained active during the 18th century and played a role in the defense of St. Augustine during the American Revolutionary War.

The fort was later abandoned by the Spanish in the late 18th century and fell into disrepair. It was rediscovered by the National Park Service in the early 20th century and was designated as a National Monument in 1924.

Today, the monument is open to the public and offers visitors the opportunity to tour the reconstructed fort, which has been restored to its 18th-century appearance, and learn about the history and significance of the fort.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Mississippi

6. Nike Missile Base in Everglades National Park

We move from an 18th century fort to a more recent military installation which is a remnant of the Cold War era. At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is the Nike Missile Base in Everglades National Park.

The base was part of a nationwide network of missile bases established by the United States Army during the 1950s and 1960s to defend against potential air attacks by the Soviet Union.

The Nike missile base in Everglades National Park was built in the early 1960s and was operational until the late 1970s.

It consisted of a missile launch site and a control center, both of which were underground. The base was equipped with Nike Ajax missiles, which were short-range, surface-to-air missiles designed to intercept and destroy incoming aircraft.

During its operational period, the base was manned by a small detachment of soldiers, who were responsible for the maintenance and operation of the missiles. The base was also equipped with radar and other electronic systems that were used to detect and track incoming aircraft.

After the missile base was decommissioned in the late 1970s, the land was returned to the National Park Service, which now operates the site as a historical monument. The base has been preserved in its original condition and is open to the public for tours.

Visitors can explore the underground missile launch site and control center, and learn about the history of the Cold War and the role of the Nike missile program in the defense of the United States.

CHECK OUT: 20 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New York

The Top 5 Historic Sites In Florida

5. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve

We’re on to the Top 5 Historic Sites In Florida. At #5 we have the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve.

The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is a protected area located in northeastern Florida. It was established in 1988 as a unit of the National Park Service to preserve and interpret the cultural and natural resources of the Timucuan people, who lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans.

The preserve encompasses over 46,000 acres of wetlands, coastal hammocks, and pine flatwoods, and includes several historic sites and monuments.

These include the Kingsley Plantation, which tells the story of Zephaniah Kingsley and his family, who lived on the plantation from 1814 to 1837, Fort Caroline National Memorial which commemorates the French colony of Fort Caroline, established in the area in 1564, and the Ribault Club, a mansion built in 1928 by wealthy industrialists and used as a private club.

Visitors Can Explore The Natural Beauty Of The Area

In addition to the historic sites, the preserve also offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region, including the salt marshes, coastal dunes, and pine forests, and to learn about the diverse plant and animal life that thrive in these habitats.

The preserve also offers guided tours, ranger-led programs and recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Timucuan people, as well as to explore the natural beauty of northeastern Florida.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New Jersey

4. Fernandina Beach On Amelia Island

We’re on to the “Final Four.” At #4 is a site which has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when the island was first visited by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. It’s Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island.

Fernandina Beach is a city located on Amelia Island in northeastern Florida.

In the early 18th century, Amelia Island was settled by the French and named “Isle de Santa Maria.” The island changed hands several times between the French, Spanish, and British before being officially ceded to the United States in 1821 as part of the Adams-Onis Treaty.

In 1811, a group of American settlers led by Nathanial Richardson established a small village on the island, which they named Fernandina. This village later became the city of Fernandina Beach. The city grew quickly in the 19th century, driven by its strategic location as a port and its burgeoning lumber, fishing, and tourism industries.

It Was Occupied By Confederate Forces

During the American Civil War, Fernandina Beach was occupied by Confederate forces, but it was later retaken by Union troops. After the war, the city continued to grow, and by the late 19th century, it had become a popular destination for tourists and winter visitors.

Today, Fernandina Beach is a charming coastal city with a rich history and a vibrant downtown area. Visitors can explore the city’s historic district, which features well-preserved Victorian and Queen Anne-style buildings, and take in the local culture and festivals.

Amelia island and Fernandina beach is also home to many outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In North Carolina

3. Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas

Our next site is one of the most fascinating fortresses you’re likely to visit. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Florida is Fort Jefferson Fortress.

Fort Jefferson is a historic fortress located in the Dry Tortugas, a group of small islands located about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The fort was built by the United States government during the mid-19th century as part of the country’s coastal defense system.

Construction of Fort Jefferson began in 1846 and continued for several decades. The fort was built to protect the Gulf of Mexico and the shipping lanes that passed through the area.

It was designed to be a massive structure, with walls that were 16 feet thick and stood up to 50 feet high. The fort was equipped with more than 400 guns, making it one of the most heavily armed forts in the country.

Fort Jefferson Was Never Called Upon To Defend The Nation

Despite its impressive design and armament, Fort Jefferson was never called upon to defend the nation. Instead, it was primarily used as a prison, and it held some of the most notorious criminals of the time, including Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted of conspiracy in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.

In 1874, the fort was officially closed as a military installation, and it was later turned over to the Department of the Interior. In 1935, it was established as a national monument and today is part of the Dry Tortugas National Park.

Visitors can take ferries from Key West to the fort and explore its grounds and learn about its history. The fort is considered as one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the country, despite its historical significance and the natural beauty of the surrounding waters.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Pennsylvania

2. The Happiest Place On Earth – Walt Disney World

We’re on to our final 2 historic sites in Florida. In the runner-up spot at #2 is Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World is a world-renowned entertainment complex located in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The history of Walt Disney World begins in the mid-1960s when Walt Disney, the legendary animator and entertainment entrepreneur, began looking for a site to build a new theme park on the East Coast.

After scouting various locations across the country, Walt Disney and his team settled on Florida as the ideal location due to its warm climate, available land, and proximity to major transportation routes.

Construction on Walt Disney World began in 1967, and the complex opened to the public on October 1, 1971. The park consisted of Magic Kingdom, which featured many of the same attractions as the original Disneyland in California, including: Main Street, USA, Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Frontierland.

Over the years, Walt Disney World has expanded to include additional theme parks, including Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as well as a number of water parks, hotels, and other entertainment venues.

Walt Disney World has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year from around the globe. The complex has also had a significant impact on the local economy, creating jobs and driving tourism in the surrounding area.

Despite the death of Walt Disney in 1966, the company has continued to innovate and expand its offerings at Walt Disney World, ensuring that it remains a top destination for families, Disney fans, and entertainment enthusiasts for generations to come.

Things To Do At Walt Disney World

When it comes to things to do at Walt Disney World there’s no shortage. Among my favorites are:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Disney Springs
• Magic Kingdom Park
• Epcot
• Avatar Flight of Passage
• Pandora – The World of Avatar
• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

100 Years of Disney on Display

Now if it’s history that you’ve come to see then how about the history of the man who brought joy to millions.

You can see 100 Years of Disney on Display. Originally opened to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Walt’s birth, the gallery showcases his life story from small-town America to Hollywood.

After your gallery tour, catch a screening of Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, a 15-minute documentary that showcases the life and times of the visionary creator.

Featuring rare audio recordings, historical footage and rarely seen home movies, this film traces the dramatic tale of how Walt turned his dreams into reality.

1. Kennedy Space Center

Walt Disney World is a tough act to follow, but More Than Just Parks has selected, as its #1 Historic Site In Florida, the Kennedy Space Center.

The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is a spaceport located on Merritt Island in Florida. It was established in 1962 and has been a hub for space exploration and development ever since.

The history of the Kennedy Space Center begins in the late 1940s, when the U.S. government began to search for a location to establish a launch site for rockets and missiles.

In 1949, the government chose a location on the east coast of Florida, near Cape Canaveral, for the launch site. The area was chosen because of its proximity to the equator, which provides a natural boost to rockets launched from that location.

In 1958, NASA was established as a response to the Soviet Union’s launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik. One of NASA’s first tasks was to establish a launch site for its rockets and spacecraft.

NASA chose Cape Canaveral as the site for its space program, and the facility was renamed the John F. Kennedy Space Center in honor of the late president in 1963, shortly after his assassination.

Project Apollo

The first launch from the Kennedy Space Center was the unmanned Apollo 4 mission in November 1967. The center was then used extensively for the Apollo program, which culminated in the first manned moon landing in July 1969.

The center also supported numerous other manned and unmanned space missions throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including the Skylab space station, the Space Shuttle program, and the International Space Station.

The Kennedy Space Center has been involved in many historic space missions, including the launch of the first American in space, the first moon landing, and the first space shuttle mission. The center has also been used for commercial launches and is an important part of the American space program.

In recent years, the Kennedy Space Center has been undergoing a transformation to adapt to new developments in space technology and exploration.

In 2020, NASA partnered with private companies like SpaceX to launch astronauts from the United States for the first time in almost a decade, signaling a new era of collaboration between NASA and the private sector.

Things To Do At The Kennedy Space Center

From the Visitor Center there’s much to see and do. Attractions include:

• U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
• Mission Control: The Unsung Heroes of Apollo. Heroes & Legends.
• Rocket Garden. Heroes & Legends
• Astronaut Encounter. Heroes & Legends.
• Heroes & Legends
• Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour
• Apollo 8 and the Firing Room
• Path to the Moon

List Of Historic Sites In Florida

1. Kennedy Space Center
2. Walt Disney World
3. Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas
4. Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island
5. Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
6. Nike Missile Base in Everglades National Park
7. Fort Matanzas National Monument
8. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
9. De Soto National Memorial
10. Fort Caroline National Memorial
11. Key West Lighthouse
12. Kingsley Plantation
13. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
14. The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
15. Lightner Museum

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Florida?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!

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The post 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Florida (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

The Best Civil War Sites In America. If you’re a Civil War buff (like me) then I’ve got a great article for you!

As a retired history teacher who now spends much of his time researching and writing articles for More Than Just Parks, I’m going to share some of the fascinating stories associated with each of these amazing Civil War Sites.

In this article, we’ll go over our top 10 list of Civil War Sites to visit the next time you want to have a blast with the past.

We’ve got amazing forts, iconic battlefields, incredible landscapes, historic prisons and so much more.

This article includes some of the better known and lesser known sites.

Of course, there’s no substitute for actually going there and experiencing these amazing places yourself so without further ado let’s dive in with our top ten list.

Best Civil War Sites

10. Andersonville Prison

We begin at #10 with the most notorious Confederate prisoner-of-war camp of all–Andersonville!

Andersonville, located in the state of Georgia, is the site of the infamous Confederate prisoner-of-war camp.

There were 150 military prisons and Andersonville was both the largest and the most notorious. Of the 45,000 Union soldiers imprisoned there, almost 13,000 died.

In “Civil War Prison Camps,” author Gary Flavion chronicled the suffering at this camp. He references the experiences of one prisoner-of-war writing,“Robert H. Kellog was 20 years old when he walked through the gates of  Andersonville prison. 

He and his comrades had been captured during a bloody battle at Plymouth, North Carolina.  In the depths of Georgia, they discovered that their hardships were far from over.”

Conditions of the Camp

“Can This Be Hell?”

Robert Kellog described the conditions of the camp. “As we entered the place, a spectacle met our eyes that almost froze our blood with horror…before us were forms that had once been active and erect—

…stalwart men, now nothing but mere walking skeletons, covered with filth and vermin…Many of our men exclaimed with earnestness, ‘Can this be hell?'”

Andersonville is the only national park to serve as a memorial to Americans held as prisoners of war.

Andersonville National Historic Site preserves the site of the largest of the many Confederate military prisons that were established during the Civil War. 

RELATED: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Georgia

Why Andersonville?

See The Sacrifices Made By American Prisoners Of War

A visit to the park provides an excellent opportunity to explore the sacrifices made by American prisoners of war during our nation’s bloodiest conflict.

According to the Park Service, most visitors spend at least two hours.

If you have a special interest in the Civil War, however, you can easily spend your entire day at the Andersonville National Historic Site.

Andersonville Book Recommendations

Before you travel to Andersonville, however, you may want to learn a little bit more about it. You’re in luck!

In this article, I will also share some great book recommendations. In the case of Andersonville, I recommend the following:

1. Andersonville by MacKinlay Kantor. MacKinlay Kantor’s Andersonville tells the story of the notorious Confederate Prisoner of War camp, where fifty thousand Union soldiers were held captive—and fourteen thousand died—under inhumane conditions. 
2. John Ransom’s Andersonville Diary. A stirring account written by a man who was actually there as a prisoner of war. A whole array of characters are noted through the pages of the diary, from the Andersonville Raiders who were ruthless Union prisoners that persecuted those around them to survive, to more benevolent figures like George Hendryx who was always looking for a way to escape and the Native American Battese who helped Ransom through his darkest days.
3. The True Story of Andersonville Prison: A Defense of Major Henry Wirz by James Madison Page. Page was captured on September 21, 1863 along the Rapidan in Virginia and spent the next thirteen months in Southern military prisons, seven of which were at Camp Sumter near Andersonville, Georgia. The prosecution did not call him to testify, but Page felt that he needed to tell his incredible story nonetheless.
4. Andersonville and Camp Douglas: The History of the Civil War’s Deadliest Prison Camps by Charles River Editors. This book examines how Andersonville and Camp Douglas became so notorious, and what life was like there for the prisoners.

If you’re interested in learning what other amazing places Georgia has to offer then check out 10+ AMAZING Georgia National Parks.

9. Pea Ridge National Military Park

So much history, so little time! Another great historical site in another great state, Arkansas, is the Pea Ridge National Military Park.

In 1862, over 23,000 soldiers fought here. It was a turning point of the war in the West. 

It’s a battlefield which even some Civil War buffs aren’t familiar with. Nevertheless, Pea Ridge was the most pivotal Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River.

Today, it’s one of the most intact Civil War battlefields in the United States.

“Thunder In The Ozarks”

Today visitors can begin their adventure by watching “Thunder in the Ozarks.” It’s a fascinating 28 minute film which explores the history of this place.

There’s also a wonderful museum, which originally opened in 1963. Its exhibits were completely updated in 2010.

The first place you should check out is the bookstore especially if you’re a history buff..

I have a sixth sense when it comes to books and bookstores.

And speaking of books, I recommend The Battle of Pea Ridge: The Civil War Fight for the Ozarks by James R. Knight.

If you’re interested in learning what other amazing places Arkansas has to offer then check out 7 EPIC Arkansas National Parks.

8. Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site

My goal in this article is to surprise you with at least one (or possibly two) sites on my top ten list that you wouldn’t expect.

Here’s one I don’t think you were expecting, but it features one of the most fascinating figures to put on a uniform for either side during this epic conflict.

Granted, your top ten list might look different than mine.

If you google a list of the most important Civil War sites then I have no doubt that it will look different though some of their important places will appear on my list too.

My goal is to give you food for thought and some great places to visit.

And with that in mind we move on to the number eight site on my list – Brices Cross Road in Mississippi.

Two Geniuses

Shelby Foote, who wrote a magnificent three volume history of the Civil War, said that the great conflict produced two geniuses.

One was Abraham Lincoln. The other was that fascinating figure whom I mentioned above. He’s none other than Nathan Bedford Forrest.

Forrest figures prominently in the story of Brices Cross Road so let’s meet him.

RELATED: 9 EPIC Mississippi National Parks Worth The Visit

Wizard Of The Saddle

Forrest, who was nicknamed the “Wizard of the Saddle,” is generally considered by historians to be one of the premier solders of the Civil War.

How many enlisted men rise from the rank of private to the rank of lieutenant general? In all of American history, there’s only been one. His name was Nathan Bedford Forrest.

Forrest had memorials erected to him across America, especially in the Southern states. His name has been given to a county, city, park, road, and several high schools. As Denis Showalter notes:

“The key to Forrest’s skill as a tactician was his innate ability to read a fight. He understood how best to balance mounted and dismounted action, defense and attack, commitment and pursuit.

Whatever his issues of self-control behind the lines or in personal combat, Forrest never let emotion overcome him in conducting a battle.”

Union Casualties Were Much Higher Than The Confederates

At Brice Cross Roads, the Union lost three men to every Southern casualty.

While the battle was considered a major tactical victory for the Confederacy it did not diminish the effectiveness of Sherman’s campaign in the west as his superior resources compensated for inferior generalship.

Sherman was more than willing to trade three of his men for one of Forrest’s if it meant keeping his supply lines open.

Forrest Doing What He Did Best

On June 10, 1864, at Brice Cross Roads, Nathan Forrest did what he does best. He defeated a much larger Union force and secured supply lines between Nashville and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

If you’re as fascinated by the history of the Civil War as I am then I recommend learning as much as you can about one of the South’s most brilliant commanders. Jack Hurst’s masterful biography, Nathan Bedford Forrest: A Biography, is a great place to start.

Hurst restores this legendary figure to one of human dimensions. It’s a wonderful biography that puts both Forrest’s genius and his savagery into the context of his time.

Another excellent book is The Battles and Campaigns of Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest, 1861-1865 by John R. Scales.

Believe it or not, I was one of those guys who sat in class taking notes and, when the professor threw out the name of what sounded like an interesting book, I not only wrote it down, I went out and purchased it.

Yes, I am that guy which is why I ended up teaching history.

The Rest Of The Story

Scholars generally acknowledge Forrest’s skills and acumen as a cavalry leader and military strategist, but that’s not the entire story.

No history of this gifted military strategist would be complete without mentioning his role in the massacre of several hundred Union soldiers at Fort Pillow.

In April 1864, Forrest led his troops to what came to be known as the Fort Pillow attack, where his men killed as many as 300 Union soldiers, most of whom were Black.

The Fort Pillow Massacre

According to eyewitnesses, Confederates murdered Union prisoners, including some who were wounded, after the fort had been taken.

Despite the carnage, Fort Pillow was of little tactical significance and General Forrest abandoned the fort the next day.

While his most decisive victory would take place two months later at Brices Cross Roads, for Northerners, Forrest had already come to be known as ‘Butcher of Fort Pillow’.

In May of 1865, Nathan Bedford Forrest surrendered his exhausted and defeated troops to Union forces near Selma in Alabama.

CHECK OUT THE 10 BEST REVOLUTIONARY WAR SITES IN AMERICA

To Learn More

To learn more about the events which transpired in April of 1864 at Fort Pillow, I recommend River Run Red: The Fort Pillow Massacre in the American Civil War by Andrew Ward.

Ward depicts the horrors of guerrilla warfare and the pent-up bigotry and rage that found release that bloody April day, producing a detailed and complex portrait of an event that continues to spark controversy.

Take a Battlefield Tour

If you’re someone who enjoys walking a battlefield then Brice Cross Roads is one you’ll remember.

The state of Mississippi, the Civil War Preservation Trust, and the Brice’s Crossroads National Battlefield Commission has assembled a wonderful battlefield tour, from roadside monuments and information panels to short interpretive trails.

The Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site is a one-acre memorial. It’s located at the intersection west of Baldwyn, Mississippi, known as Brice’s Crossroads. 

You will also find a visitor center, Mississippi’s Finals Stands Interpretive Center, where you can get information, see a movie on the battle and tour a museum.

Civil War Sites

7. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park

For #7 on our “Top 10 List,” you actually get a two-for-one special.

There’s two battles instead of one. And there’s two states, Georgia & Tennessee, instead of one.

I’ll bet you weren’t expecting that, but we’re not finished with all of our surprises just yet.

During the Civil War, Chattanooga was the “Gateway to the Deep South.” Battles were fought there and at Chickamauga which proved decisive in the ultimate defeat of the Confederacy.

History buffs remember that it was at Chickamauga where Union General William Rosecrans was beaten by Confederate General Braxton Bragg.

The Battle of Chickamauga was a successful attempt by the Confederate army of General Braxton Bragg to halt the Union advances through Tennessee.

RELATED: 15 AMAZING Tennessee National Parks Worth Visiting

The Greatest Victory For The Confederates In The West

It resulted in the greatest victory for the Confederates in the Western theatre of the war and was the second bloodiest battle of the entire war, with 16,170 Union and 18,454 Confederate casualties.

And it occurred at a time when the Confederates were meeting with defeat at Vicksburg in the West and Gettysburg in the East.

At Chickamauga, the Union Army was saved from complete annihilation by the stubborn defense of General George Thomas and his soldiers.

This defense earned Thomas the nickname of the “Rock of Chickamauga.”

It’s important to remember, however, that Chickamauga was the opening act in this drama. A new leading actor, by the name of Ulysses S. Grant, was about to take the field.

A Union Victory at Chattanooga

The battered Union forces were reorganized under the leadership of Ulysses S. Grant.

They then went on to win battles at Orchard Knob, Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge. These victories opened the west to Union forces.

At the Battle of Lookout Mountain, Union forces under the command of General George “Rock of Chickamauga” Thomas swept the Confederates from the field.

These victories forced the Confederates back into Georgia, ending the siege of the vital railroad junction of Chattanooga and paving the way for Union General William Tecumseh Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign and his historic march to Savannah, Georgia, in 1864.

Relive That History Today

Today you can relive part of this exciting history at the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center.

The center is located at the north end of Chickamauga National Military Park. Inside are museum exhibits on the Battle of Chickamauga and the Campaign for Chattanooga.

And If You’re A History Buff Like Me . . .

If you’re a history buff like me then you’ve probably read more books about the Civil War than you care to remember.

One of the greatest chroniclers of this conflict was Shelby Foote. His three-volume history of the Civil War is, in my humble opinion, unsurpassed.

Above is a picture of the July 6, 1978 tour in the area of the Virginia Monument looking across the fields of Pickett’s Charge. Foote served as tour guide that day for a very special guest–none other than President Jimmy Carter.

I heartily recommend Scott Walker’s Hell’s Broke Loose in Georgia: Survival in a Civil War Regiment.

Walker is a gifted writer who uses primary sources skillfully to take his readers into the hearts and minds of the everyday soldiers.

Especially moving are the letters, diaries, and other information the author uses to recount the terrible toll this conflict took on the soldiers and families of the 57th Georgia infantry.

It’s a deeply impactful account of the horrors of war.

CHECK OUT: 30+ BEST National Parks Books

6. Manassas National Battlefield

On July 21, 1861, two armies clashed for the first time on the fields overlooking Bull Run. 

The First Manassas or First Battle of Bull Run resulted in thousands of lives lost and is referred to as the first major land battle of the American Civil war.

The battle began when about 35,000 Union troops, led by General Irwin McDowell, marched from the federal capital in Washington, D.C. to strike a Confederate force of 20,000, led by General Pierre G.T. Beauregard, along a small river known as Bull Run.

“There Stands Jackson Like A Stone Wall”

After fighting on the defensive for most of the day, the rebel forces under the leadership of General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson rallied and were able to break the Union right flank, sending the Federals into a chaotic retreat towards Washington.

Jackson managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat just when it appeared that all was lost for the Confederates.

The Confederate victory gave the South a surge of confidence and shocked many in the North, who realized the war would not be won as easily as they had hoped.

An excellent book on this important battle would be The First Battle of Manassas: An End to Innocence by John J. Hennessy.

RELATED: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Virginia

Second Battle Of Manassas

The Confederates named the first battle after the town of Manassas. The Union named it Bull Run after a stream running through the battlefield area. There were actually two battles fought there.

The Second Battle of Manassas (Bull Run) proved to be the deciding battle in the Civil War campaign waged between Union and Confederate armies in Northern Virginia in 1862.

As a large Union force commanded by John Pope waited for George McClellan’s Army of the Potomac in anticipation of a combined offensive, Confederate General Robert E. Lee decided to strike first.

McClellan failed to reinforce Pope while Lee and his top lieutenant, Stonewall Jackson, achieved an unambiguous Southern victory, which solidified General Robert E. Lee’s reputation as a brilliant tactician and paved the way for his first invasion of the North.

If you’re interested in learning more about this important battle than I recommend reading Return to Bull Run: The Campaign and Battle of Second Manassas also by John J. Hennessy.

RELATED: 30 EPIC Virginia National Parks Worth Visiting

Things To Do At Manassas

Manassas National Battlefield Park, located in Virginia, encompasses nearly 5,100 acres of land and includes more than 40 miles of hiking trails.

The park has developed a series of loop trails that traverse key areas of the First and Second Manassas Battlefields.

Many of these recommended routes include trailside interpretive markers describing the battle action that occurred in that area and highlight the experiences of soldiers and civilians alike.

Top 5 Best Civil War Sites

5. Shiloh National Military Park

It was Robert E. Lee who once said, “It is well that war is so terrible, otherwise we should grow too fond of it.” The Battle of Shiloh proved Lee’s point.

On April 7th, 1862, the battle was fought and the resulting 23,741 casualties were five times the number of the First Battle of Bull Run in July of 1861.

They were more casualties in this one battle than all of the war’s major battles (Bull Run, Wilson’s Creek, Fort Donelson and Pea Ridge) up to that date–combined.

Also Known As The Battle Of Pittsburg Landing

Also known as the Battle of Pittsburg Landing, it allowed Union troops to penetrate the Confederate interior.

The battle pitted Union General Ulysses S. Grant against Confederate General Albert Sydney Johntson.

The Union army had nearly 54,000 men near Pittsburgh Landing and outnumbered Beauregard’s army of around 30,000.

Johnston, however, intercepted the Federals 22 miles northeast of Corinth at Pittsburg Landing in an attack which totally took Grant by surprise.

Grant found himself completely caught off guard by this surprise attack orchestrated by Confederate General Albert Sidney Johnston.

“The Devil’s Own Day”

On April 6, 1862, the first day of the battle was a difficult one for the Union. Grant suffered heavy losses.

At the end of the first day’s fighting, Grant’s second-in-command, William Tecumseh Sherman, remarked:

“Well, Grant, we’ve had the devil’s own day, haven’t we?” To which Grant replied, “Yes, lick “em tomorrow, though.”

During the first day’s fighting,  Confederate Commander Albert Sydney Johnston was shot in the right knee. The bullet severed an artery and the commander bled to death. 

Grant Orders A Counterattack

Despite having everything go wrong for him on that first day, Grant ordered a counterattack on April 7th, which drove the Confederates from the field.

This time, it was the Confederates who were caught off guard.

They were forced to fall back. Their new commander, General Pierre G. T. Beauregard, decided that the essential arithmetic favored the Union. He ordered a withdrawal.

The South’s defeat at Shiloh ended the Confederacy’s hopes of blocking the Union advance into Mississippi. It doomed the Confederate military initiative in the West.

It also provided the Union with a much-needed boost in morale given Robert E. Lee’s victories in the east.

RELATED: 25 Famous Bucket List Landmarks In America

To Learn More About Shiloh

So many books have been written about the Civil War and the various battles that took place. Of course, the big three authors when it comes to war are, in my humble opinion, Bruce Catton, Shelby Foote and James M. McPherson.

What these three have written are the best collections of books encompassing the war as a whole. You can’t go wrong with any of these authors. My personal favorite is Shelby Foote. I have read his fabulous three volume history of the Civil War–twice!

Read About The Battle Of Shiloh

When it comes to the Battle of Shiloh, however, I’m going to recommend three books none of which have been written by the three men mentioned above (please forgive me).

To gain an understanding of this battle, its strategic importance, and how it influenced the outcome of the war, I recommend:

1. Shiloh and the Western Campaign of 1862, by O. Edward Cunningham
2. Shiloh, Bloody Shiloh by Wiley Sword
3. Shiloh: The Battle That Changed the Civil War by Larry J. Daniel.

Things To Do At Shiloh National Military Park

The world’s greatest learning laboratory is where history happened.

At the Shiloh Battlefield and the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center there are exhibits spaces which show visitors the weapons of war, the people who used those weapons, and the effects of their use.

Dive Into The Past

At Shiloh Military Park visitors can dive into the past. Things to do include:

1. Museums/Interpretive Centers: Both the Shiloh Battlefield and the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center have large exhibit spaces dedicated to showing visitors the tools of war, the people who used those tools, and the effects of their use.
2. Audio Visuals/Films: Both the Shiloh Battlefield and the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center have excellent films and displays. Shiloh Battlefield is now showing the award-winning film, Shiloh: Fiery Trial. The Corinth Center has two short modern, state of the art films – one on the Battle of Shiloh and one on the Battle of Corinth, and a new movie entitled Corinth: A Town Amidst War.
3. Self-Guided Auto Tour: The Shiloh Battlefield has a 12.7 mile auto tour route with 22 tour stops at such famous places as the Peach Orchard, the Hornet’s Nest, and the Albert Sidney Johnston death site. Visitors may also take auto and walking tours of Civil War Corinth, MS. This route includes surviving Civil War fortifications, homes used by Civil War Generals, and portions of the Corinth Battlefield.
4. Ranger Programs: The park staff at Shiloh Battlefield conducts daily ranger-led interpretive programs during the peak season from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
5. Living History: Both Shiloh and Corinth host several living history and special events throughout the year, mostly from April to October.

When I’m writing these articles, I always try to do a deeper dive when it comes to conveying a sense of the history and why it matters.

I hope it gives you an even greater incentive to get out and visit these important places.

More Civil War Sites

#4. Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park | Civil War Sites

If you thought that two battlefields for the price of one was slick then how about four?

There’s no single location which encompasses more important battles of the American Civil War than Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park.

Four battles, Chancellorsville, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania and the Wilderness were fought here.

So many books have been written and so much history has been taught about these four battles and their impact on America’s bloodiest conflict.

Fredericksburg

The Battle of Fredericksburg was one of the largest and deadliest battles of the Civil War with almost 20,000 casualties on both sides. 

It featured the first opposed river crossing in American military history as well as the Civil War’s first instance of urban combat. It ended in a victory for the Confederacy.

Chancellorsville

The Battle of Chancellorsville (April 30-May 6, 1863) was also a huge victory for the Confederacy and General Robert E. Lee.  

It was considered to be Lee’s greatest victory as a much larger Union force failed to encircle and destroy the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia.

The South, however, did lose the services of one of its most brilliant generals as Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson was mistakenly killed by his own soldiers while returning from a reconnaissance mission.

The Wilderness

The bloody Battle of the Wilderness, in which no side could claim victory, marked the first stage of a major Union offensive toward the Confederate capital of Richmond.

This was the first battle in which Union Commander Ulysses S. Grant faced off against Confederate Commander Robert E. Lee.

It was part of Grant’s “Overland Campaign,” which was a relentless drive to finally defeat Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia and capture the South’s capital at Richmond, Virginia.

Grant, unlike all of his predecessors, understood that the essential arithmetic favored the Union. Both sides sustained heavy casualties.

The difference was that Grant could afford to sustain these casualties whereas Lee could not.

And Grant’s decision to keep moving South meant that Lee was up against an adversary who knew how to use the advantages possessed by the North to achieve the final victory.

Spotsylvania

The last of these four battles fought on the ground which is today Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park was the Battle of Spotsylvania.

This battle was fought after Grant brilliantly repositioned his forces. Robert E. Lee, however, guessing Grant’s intention was to outflank him, take Petersburg and then march on to Richmond, rushed forces there to check Grant’s move.

And so it began in May of 1864. A battle which pitted 100,000 Union troops against 52,000 Confederates.

The fiercest fighting occurred in pouring rain on May 12. For 23 hours straight the two sides fought hand-to-hand in a field near fortifications known as the Mule Shoe, and afterward as the Bloody Angle.

After being repulsed again and again, Grant relied on his “essential arithmetic.”

He had his men prepare for a siege. Lee understood then that it was only a matter of time before he would have to withdraw which would likely mean the end for the Confederacy.

Things To See & Do

The Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park combines natural beauty with historical significance. At each of the aforementioned battlefields, there are excellent hiking trails.

There’s also an audio tour which is available through the National Park Service app. It features historical points of interest including:

1. The Sunken Road: This is where wave after wave of Union soldiers marched towards the Confederate lines, but none made it closer than 50 yards. Confederate troops behind the stone wall and atop Marye’s Heights held the high ground with their well-defended line thereby inflicting high casualties on the attacking force.
2. Chatham Manor: Originally established as a slave plantation, Chatham embodies the main cause of the Civil War: the desire of white Southerners to maintain and protect the institution of slavery and the resulting material wealth that slavery produced for them.
3. Lee’s Hill: Also known as Telegraph Hill, this is where Confederate General Robert E. Lee made his headquarters in anticipation of battle.
4. Howison Hill: It was named for the Howison family that lived nearby. It was an artillery position during the battle of Fredericksburg.
5. Union Breakthrough: This is where Union General George Gordon Meade’s 4,500-man division broke through the Confederate line they surprised unprepared South Carolinians. Soon the Confederates rallied, and without reinforcements nearby, Meade’s men could not hold their position against Confederate General Stonewall Jackson’s 38,000-man corps.

If you’re interested in learning what other amazing places Virginia has to offer then check out 30 EPIC Virginia National Parks Worth Visiting.

#3. Antietam National Battlefield | Civil War Sites

The Battle of Antietam featured the bloodiest single day in American history. It was one of the pivotal battles of the American Civil War.

President Abraham Lincoln was desperate for a Union victory against Confederate General Robert E. Lee and his Army of Northern Virginia.

Many historians consider this battle to be a stalemate.

Lee’s invasion of the North was stopped, however, and this was decisive enough for Lincoln to move forward with his historic Emancipation Proclamation.

RELATED: 27 EPIC Maryland National Parks Worth Visiting

Six Other Ways That Antietam Changed The Course Of History

1. Robert E. Lee is the military genius who confounded one northern general after another. Lee was fresh off of his victory in the Second Battle of Bull Run. At Antietam, his plan was to invade the north. He was repelled, however, and would not attempt another invasion of the North until the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.
2. A string of Confederate victories in the summer of 1862 had brought France and Great Britain close to recognition of the Confederate States of America. This would have been devastating for the Union cause. Lee’s inability to win a decisive victory at Antietam halted this momentum towards diplomatic recognition.
3. The Union’s ability to stop Lee and force him to withdraw lifted northern morale.
4. Antietam was one of the first battles in history to feature photographic images of twisted bodies littering the devastated landscape and stacked in heaps like slaughtered livestock. These images brought the horror of war home to the civilian population.
5. The Union’s ability to stop Lee helped President Lincoln’s Republican Party in the 1862 elections. Democrats had been highly critical of the President’s conduct of the war. They were hoping to make significant political gains. Republicans, however, actually gained seats in the Senate and maintained a majority in the House.
6. While Lee was stopped, Union Commander George McClellan refused to pursue Lee’s Army as Lincoln felt he should have. For McClellan, this was the beginning of the end as Lincoln began to search for a new commander.

Lee’s lost order

Robert E. Lee issued Special Order 191 during the Maryland campaign, before the Battle of Antietam.  A copy of the order having been lost, was recovered by Union soldiers of the 27th Indiana on the Best Farm in Maryland.  The order provided the Union Army with valuable information concerning the Army of Northern Virginia’s movements and campaign plans. 

Upon receiving Lee’s “Lost Order”, Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, leading the Union Army of the Potomac, would exclaim “Here is a paper with which, if I cannot whip Bobby Lee, I will be willing to go home.” 

The practical value of this intelligence, which was quickly growing obsolescent, continues to be the subject of much debate. (Source: American Battlefield Trust)

One of the great “what ifs” of history entails what would have happened had this order not fallen into McClellan’s hands.

While his cautious nature resulted in his squandering an opportunity to decisively defeat the Army of Norther Virginia, some historians believe that, had Lee’s order not fallen into Union hands, he would have scored a decisive victory of his own thereby forcing the North to sue for peace. Of course, we will never know for sure.

Things To Do At The Antietam National Battlefield

If you’re a first-timer then I definitely recommend beginning your trip at the visitor center. The Newcomer House and Barn are positioned at the eastern gateway to the Antietam National Battlefield.

The Newcomer House serves as Visitor Center for the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area.  There you can see museum exhibits about the battle.

There is a self-guided 8 1/2 mile auto tour through the battlefield. The tour has 11 stops and begins at the Dunker Church.

Or, if you prefer walking to driving then you can hike the Bloody Lane, Cornfield, Final Attack, Union Advance, Antietam Remembered, Sherrick Farm or Snavely Ford Trails.

The Pry House Field Hospital Museum | The Birthplace Of Modern Emergency Medicine

Another place that you should check out is the Pry House Field Hospital Museum. The Pry House sits on Antietam National Battlefield near Sharpsburg, Maryland.

It was built in 1844 as the home of Phillip and Elizabeth Pry and their six children.

During the Battle of Antietam in September 1862, the house served as headquarters for General George McClellan, as well Major Jonathan Letterman, the army’s medical director.

Antietam is the birthplace of modern emergency medicine. It was here that Letterman developed an efficient system for securing, evacuation, and treating casualties.

To learn more check out Surgeon in Blue: Jonathan Letterman, the Civil War Doctor Who Pioneered Battlefield Care by Scott McGaugh.

The Letterman Plan

Now called the Letterman Plan, it remains the basis of medical response on battlefields and in disaster situations around the world.

Today the Pry House is home to the Pry House Field Hospital Museum, a satellite museum of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.

The museum includes two floors of exhibits with original artifacts and text panels discussing battlefield medicine and field hospitals of the Civil War, especially Antietam.

Visitors will see fascinating exhibits including a re-creation of an operating theater, interpretive panels and objects relating to the care of wounded and the effects on the civilian population in the area as well as information about the Pry House.

The Best Civil War Sites in America

#2. Vicksburg National Military Park

The Siege of Vicksburg has been recognized around the world as one of the greatest military campaigns in history.

The 47-day siege gave control of the Mississippi River to the Union, a critical supply line, and was part of the Union’s Anaconda Plan to cut off outside trade to the Confederacy.

According to John Henry McCracken, Professor of History Emeritus at Lafayette College, it was at Vicksburg that Ulysses S. Grant learned only hard, long fighting and logistics will win the war.

RELATED: 5 AMAZING National Parks Near Jackson You’ll Love

Cutting The South In Two

The victory cut the South in two and doomed their efforts in the West.

How did Grant do it? He moved his army along the west bank of the Mississippi River to get below Vicksburg, where he completed a well-planned amphibious crossing of the Mississippi and took a daring gamble to feed his army off the countryside.

Grant’s army then constructed 15 miles of trenches and enclosed Confederate Commander John C. Pemberton’s force of 29,000 men inside the perimeter. It was only a matter of time before Grant, with 70,000 troops, captured Vicksburg. Attempts to rescue Pemberton and his force failed from both the east and west, and conditions for both military personnel and civilians deteriorated rapidly.

Pemberton surrendered on July 4, 1863. The town of Vicksburg would not celebrate the Fourth of July for 81 years.

To Learn More About Vicksburg

There are some excellent books on the Battle of Vicksburg.

One of my favorites is Vicksburg: Grant’s Campaign That Broke the Confederacy by Donald L. Miller. Another is Vicksburg, 1863 by Winston Groom.

Things To Do At Vicksburg National Military Park

At Vicksburg National Military Park, there’s a vast array of cultural, historical and natural resources. Each visitor to the park receives an official park brochure and map detailing the driving routes, tour stops, and provides a brief history of the Vicksburg Campaign and Siege.

There’s a self-guided driving tour or you can make a reservation to take a guided park tour.

Over 1,400 Memorial Monuments

There’s no shortage of things to see and experience. I would recommend beginning your tour at the visitor center. Check out the more than 1,400 memorial monuments, tablets and markers which cover the 1,800-acre park.

They represent soldiers who served on both sides of the conflict.

The park also features an impressive 20 miles of trenches and earthworks which have been reconstructed to reflect the time period.

There’s Even A Gunboat–The U.S.S. Cairo

There’s even a gunboat at this Civil War site! You can see the U.S.S. Cairo Gunboat.

There’s also a Museum located within the park, enabling visitors to view the restored vessel, along with Civil War-era artifacts recovered during the boat’s excavation.

Other key attractions include: The Antebellum Shirley House and 4 other historic buildings, 9 historic fortifications, Vicksburg National Cemetery, 141 cannons and carriages and 15 historic bridges.

If you love history as much as I do then plan on spending the entire day at the park. It’s well worth it!

If you’re interested in learning what other amazing places Mississippi has to offer then check out 9 EPIC Mississippi National Parks.

The #1 Civil War Site In America

1. Gettysburg National Military Park

The Battle of Gettysburg is arguably the most important battle fought during the American Civil War.

Coupled with the Union’s simultaneous victory at Vicksburg, it proved to be the turning point of this tumultuous conflict.

The battle was part of Robert E. Lee’s plan to invade the North and win European recognition for the Confederate States of America.

Had the plan succeeded to its greatest extent, Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia might have surrounded, or even conquered, the nation’s capital.

RELATED: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Pennsylvania

Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain

At the end of Day One of the battle, the Federals conducted a fighting withdrawal through the town, suffering heavy casualties and losing many prisoners; others simply retreated.  

Despite orders from Robert E. Lee to take the heights “if practicable,” Richard Ewell chose not to attack. Historians have debated how the battle might have ended differently if he had taken the heights.

It was Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain and his 20th Maine Infantry who held the strategic heights of Little Round Top. With their ammunition practically exhausted, rather than retreat, Chamberlain ordered his men to fix bayonets and charge.

This unconventional military maneuver swept the Confederates off of Cemetery Ridge thus securing the Union flank.  Congress awarded Chamberlain the Medal of Honor for “conspicuous gallantry.” 

To learn more check out Through Blood and Fire at Gettysburg: General Joshua L. Chamberlain and the 20th Maine by General Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

Pickett’s Charge

Pickett’s Charge on Day Three was the culmination of the Battle of Gettysburg. Taking place on July 3, 1863, the third and final day of battle, it involved an infantry assault of approximately 15,000 Confederate soldiers against Union Major General George Meade’s troops’ position along Cemetery Ridge, manned by some 6,500 Federals.

Approximately 12,500 men in nine infantry brigades advanced over open fields for three-quarters of a mile under heavy Union artillery and rifle fire.

Although some Confederates were able to breach the low stone wall that shielded many of the Union defenders, they could not maintain their hold and were repelled with over 50% casualties, a decisive defeat that ended the three-day battle and Lee’s campaign into Pennsylvania.

To learn more check out Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg: A Guide to the Most Famous Attack in American History by James A. Hessler.

The Stakes Could Not Have Been Higher

Had the Confederates been victorious at Gettysburg, the federal government could have been disabled, and high government officials, including even President Abraham Lincoln might have been captured.

The Union victory stopped the Confederate momentum in the Eastern Theater and ended any chance of Europe intervening. It gave the Federals a badly needed victory and boosted Northern morale.

RELATED: 22 EPIC Pennsylvania National Parks Worth Visiting

The Gettysburg Address| Towards a more perfect union

President Abraham Lincoln delivered one of the most famous speeches in United States history at the dedication of the Gettysburg National Cemetery on November 19, 1863.

Lincoln’s short but powerful Gettysburg Address places the Civil War into the historical context of the American fight for freedom. 

He gave the struggle a higher purpose by arguing that the living can honor the wartime dead not with a speech, but rather by continuing to fight for the ideas they gave their lives for.

To learn more check out Lincoln at Gettysburg: The Words that Remade America by Garry Wills.

“Four Score And Seven Years Ago . . .”

Things To Do At Gettysburg

I would recommend beginning your tour at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Here you will learn how to visit the park and what to see around Gettysburg.

There is so much to see and do including the following:

1. Battlewalk & Campfire Programs: These are led by park rangers who provide visitors with an in-depth program on the people and places that shaped this historic battle.
2. Living History Programs: Every weekend from April to October, Civil War living historians will be encamped on the Gettysburg battlefield. Visitors can explore their camps, interact with these knowledgeable historians, and witness as they demonstrate the tools, tactics, and firepower of the two armies that waged war across these now hallowed fields.
3. Dedication Day Special Events: These events take place on November 19th. This date marks the dedication of the National Military Cemetery at Gettysburg.
4. See The Cyclorama: The “Battle of Gettysburg” Cyclorama at Gettysburg National Military Park is one that has survived. This fantastic painting brings the fury of the final Confederate assault on July 3, 1863 to life, providing the viewer with a sense of what occurred at the battle long touted as the turning point of the Civil War. (Source: NPS)

Map Of Civil War Sites

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Top 10 Civil War Sites

1. Gettysburg Battlefield – Pennsylvania
2. Vicksburg Battlefield – Mississippi
3. Antietam Battlefield – Maryland
4. Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania Battlefields – Virginia
5. Shiloh Battlefield – Tennessee
6. Manassas (Bull Run) – Virginia
7. Chickamauga & Chattanooga Battlefields – Georgia & Tennessee
8. Brices Cross Roads Battlefield – Tennessee
9. Pea Ridge Battlefield – Arkansas
10. Andersonville Prison – Georgia

About the Folks Behind More Than Just Parks

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. My sons have spent their entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

As for me, I’m a retired lifelong educator and a proud dad of these two wonderful guys who are hopelessly obsessed with the national parks.

I taught history for over a quarter of a century. Now I enjoy researching and writing articles for More Than Just Parks. I’m always on the hunt for topics where nature and history intersect so please feel free to share any ideas that you might have with me.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues.

Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!

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Free Downloadable National Parks Map: LIST & MAP of National Parks By State (+ Printable Checklist)

Virginia National Parks: 30 EPIC Virginia National Parks Worth Visiting (Helpful Guide + Photos)

Pennsylvania National Parks: 22 EPIC Pennsylvania National Parks Worth Visiting (Guide + Photos)

Maryland National Parks: 27 EPIC Maryland National Parks Worth Visiting (Helpful Guide + Photos)

Mississippi National Parks: 9 EPIC Mississippi National Parks Worth the Visit (Helpful Guide + Photos)

Arkansas National Parks: 7 EPIC Arkansas National Parks (Helpful Guide + Photos)

Massachusetts National Parks: 18 SURPRISING MASSACHUSETTS NATIONAL PARKS (+ Photos)

North Carolina National Parks: 12 Epic North Carolina National Parks Worth Visiting

South Carolina National Parks: 8 Epic South Carolina National Parks Worth Visiting

Maine National Parks: An Epic Guide to Maine’s National Parks

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Article Summary: Historic Sites In Connecticut

Historic Sites In Connecticut. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the 15 Historic Sites In Connecticut that you’ll want to see.

This list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

One book that I highly recommend is: Connecticut Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit! 

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Top 15 Historic Sites In Connecticut

15. Glebe House & Gertrude Jekyll Garden

From hiking to sailing, cross-country skiing to designer outlet shopping, riding a roller coaster to being a high roller at the casino, there is so much to do in Connecticut, you won’t know what to experience first.

When it comes to experiencing Connecticut, however, More Than Just Parks has 15 amazing historic sites for you to see. And we’re kicking off out list at #15 with the Glebe House & Gertrude Jekyll Garden.

The Glebe House & Gertrude Jekyll Garden is located in Woodbury, Connecticut. The house was built in 1740 as a rectory for the Episcopal church, and it served as the residence for several prominent clergymen over the years. In the mid-19th century, it became a private home and underwent significant renovations and additions.

In the early 20th century, the house was purchased by artist and preservationist Frances L. M. Russel, who restored the property and established the Gertrude Jekyll Garden.

Jekyll was a renowned English garden designer who collaborated with many prominent architects and artists of her time. The garden at the Glebe House is one of only two in North America that was designed by Jekyll.

A Garden Featuring A Series Of Outdoor Rooms

The garden features a series of outdoor rooms, each with its own unique design and character. Visitors can stroll through formal flower beds, a herb garden, a wildflower meadow, and a shaded woodland area. The garden also includes several sculptures, water features, and architectural elements, all carefully integrated into the natural landscape.

Today, the Glebe House & Gertrude Jekyll Garden is open to the public as a museum and cultural center. Visitors can tour the historic house and garden, learn about the property’s rich history and significance, and attend educational programs and cultural events throughout the year.

The site is an important example of early American architecture and landscape design, as well as a testament to the enduring legacy of Gertrude Jekyll and her innovative approach to garden design.

14. Historic Putnam Cottage

At #14 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Connecticut is a historic building served as a tavern and stagecoach stop on the Boston Post Road during the colonial era. Welcome to Putnam Cottage.

Putnam Cottage, also known as Knapp Tavern, is a historic building located in Greenwich, Connecticut. The cottage was built in 1692.

The cottage played an important role in the American Revolution. In February 1779, General Israel Putnam, a hero of the Battle of Bunker Hill, was stationed in Greenwich with his troops. The cottage served as his headquarters during the winter months. Putnam is said to have planned military strategy and met with fellow officers there.

During this time, Putnam narrowly escaped capture by British troops who had infiltrated the area. Legend has it that he rode down the steep slope behind the cottage on his horse to evade capture, a feat that has become known as “Putnam’s Escape.”

In the years following the Revolutionary War, the cottage was used as a private residence and a boarding house. In the early 20th century, it was purchased by the Greenwich Historical Society and restored as a museum.

Today, the cottage is open to the public and offers visitors a glimpse into life during colonial times, as well as the history of the American Revolution and General Israel Putnam.

The museum includes exhibits on the history of Greenwich and its role in the Revolutionary War, as well as period rooms furnished with 18th-century antiques.

13. Harkness Mansion & Park

We move from an historic cottage to an historic mansion. At #13 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Connecticut is Harkness Mansion.

The Harkness Mansion, also known as Eolia, is a historic mansion and surrounding park located in Waterford, Connecticut. The mansion was built in the early 1900s as a summer home for the Harkness family. They were wealthy industrialists and philanthropists.

The Harkness family was known for their contributions to the arts, education, and public health.

The Harkness Mansion was designed by James Gamble Rogers. Rogers was known for his work on prestigious institutions such as Yale University and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The mansion is a grand, Beaux-Arts style building, with a limestone exterior and a grand entrance hall with a marble staircase. The surrounding gardens were designed by the renowned landscape architect Beatrix Jones Farrand.

The Mansion Was A Summer Home

The Harkness family used the mansion as a summer home for several decades, entertaining guests and hosting events. After the family’s death, the mansion was donated to the state of Connecticut, and it was opened as a public park in the 1970s.

The park’s grounds are open year-round and offer visitors the opportunity to explore the gardens, the waterfront, and the nature trails.

The park also offers visitors to take a guided tour of the Eolia mansion, and the mansion’s gardens are open to the public during the summer, with guided tours and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the beautiful setting.

12. Osborne Homestead

There are so many amazing historic properties in Connecticut. Our next site is another case in point. At #12 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Connecticut is the Osborne Homestead.

The Osborne Homestead is a historic property located in Derby, Connecticut. The homestead was originally built in 1840 by Thomas Osborne, a wealthy businessman who made his fortune in the carriage-making industry. The property remained in the Osborne family for several generations, and it underwent a number of changes over the years.

In 1919, the property was inherited by Frances Osborne Kellogg, a prominent philanthropist and socialite. Frances and her husband, George Kellogg, renovated the house extensively and turned it into a grand estate. They also added several outbuildings, including a carriage house and a greenhouse.

Frances Osborne Kellogg was known for her philanthropy, and she used the estate as a base for her charitable activities. She was a vocal advocate for women’s rights and was active in many social causes. In 1924, she donated the property to the State of Connecticut to be used as a park and wildlife sanctuary.

Over the years, the Osborne Homestead has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a training center for the Women’s Army Corps during World War II.

Today, the property is open to the public and is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Visitors can tour the house and gardens and learn about the history of the Osborne family and their contributions to the community.

11. Fort Trumbull

Now if you love military history you’ll enjoy our next historic. At #11, we have Fort Trumbull.

Fort Trumbull is a historic fortification located in New London, Connecticut, on the bank of the Thames River. It has a long and storied history, playing a significant role in several key events in American history.

The fort was originally built in 1775 during the American Revolutionary War, as a defensive measure to protect the coast of Connecticut from British attacks. The fort played a critical role during the war, with its cannons providing cover for American ships and troops. After the war, the fort was largely abandoned and fell into disrepair.

During the War of 1812, the fort was rebuilt and fortified once again, this time with stronger defenses and more advanced weaponry. It played a key role in repelling a British attack on New London in 1813.

In the years that followed, the fort was expanded and modernized several times, with new buildings and gun batteries added to its defenses. During World War II, the fort was used as a training center for Navy personnel and as a base for coastal defense operations.

In the 1950s, the fort was decommissioned and turned over to the State of Connecticut. It was later acquired by the City of New London, which turned it into a state park and historic site.

Today, the fort is open to the public and features a museum, a visitor center, and several restored buildings and fortifications. Visitors can tour the fort, learn about its history, and enjoy views of the Thames River and Long Island Sound.

Top 10 Historic Sites In Connecticut

10. Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail

We’re on to our Top 10 Historic Sites In Connecticut with a trail that traces the route of the American and French armies during the Revolutionary War. At #10 is the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail.

It was established in 2009 and covers over 600 miles of land in the northeastern United States, including parts of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

The trail commemorates the 1781 march of the combined American and French armies, commanded by General George Washington and General Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, from Newport, Rhode Island to Yorktown, Virginia.

The trail is designed to provide a way for visitors to learn about the events and people of the Revolutionary War, and the trail includes historic sites, museums, and interpretive centers that provide information and context about the march of the armies and the impact of the war on the region.

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America

9. Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park

We’ve got more Revolutionary War history for you. At #9 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Connecticut is Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park.

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park is a Connecticut state park that commemorates the Revolutionary War battle that took place there in 1781.

The battle was fought between the British troops under the command of General Benedict Arnold and the American troops under the command of Colonel William Ledyard. The fort was built by the American colonials to protect the port of New London and the surrounding area from British attack.

On September 6, 1781, the British, under the command of Arnold, who had switched sides to the British, launched a surprise attack on the fort, overpowering the American defenders. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the American soldiers fought bravely, but were eventually forced to surrender.

The British Caused Significant Damage To The Town

The battle was brutal, with many American soldiers killed or wounded, and many others taken as prisoners. The British then proceeded to loot and burn New London, causing significant damage to the town.

After the war, the fort was abandoned and fell into disrepair. In the early 20th century, the state of Connecticut acquired the land and restored the fort, and it was opened as a state park in 1902.

Today, visitors can tour the fort, which has been restored to its appearance during the Revolutionary War, and learn about the history of the battle through interpretive exhibits and guided tours.

The park also includes hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitors center with additional information about the park’s history and resources.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New Jersey

8. Nathan Hale Homestead

Continuing with our Revolutionary War theme, our next historic site pays homage to an American soldier and spy during the American Revolutionary War who was best known for his execution by the British for espionage. Welcome to the Nathan Hale Homestead.

Nathan Hale was a Captain in the Continental Army. He was appointed as a spy to gather information about the British army in New York City. He was captured by the British and found guilty of espionage.

Before his execution, he is reported to have made a famous speech, in which he said “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”

Nathan Hale is considered a martyr and a hero in American history, known for his bravery and selflessness in the service of his country. He is often remembered as a symbol of the revolutionary cause and his execution is seen as a rallying point for the Patriots during the war.

Things To See & Do

The Homestead, which was built in 1776, is decorated with pieces actually owned by the Hale family and period antiques.

Additionally, in the summer, the grounds are used for the Coventry Farmers’ Market, making this both a historical and tasty visit.

The Nathan Hale Homestead can be visited with a guided tour, but opening times vary depending on the season, so it is best to check their website.

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

7. Submarine Force Museum

We move from the Revolutionary War to the Nuclear Age. At #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Connecticut is the Submarine Force Museum.

Located in Groton, CT., the Submarine Force Museum, which contains 33,000 artifacts, is the only submarine museum managed exclusively by the Naval History & Heritage Command division of the Navy. It’s a repository for many special submarine items of national significance, including USS Nautilus (SSN-571).

The Nautilus was America’s first nuclear-powered submarine. It traveled under the polar ice cap and reached the North Pole during the Cold War.

The museum also has a library with around 20,000 documents and 30,000 photos related to the history of submarine development. 

The library also includes 6,000 books related to the field of submarine history, including a 1551 text on submarine retrieval, and an 1870 copy of Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea with a model of the fictional Nautilus.

Documents in the collection include notes and calculations by John Philip Holland for the Navy’s first commissioned submarine, one-of-a-kind artifacts from World Wars One and Two, and the submarine library collections of Electric Boat Corporation and the Navy.

CHECK OUT: 20 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New York

6. New England National Scenic Trail

Our next historic site is a national scenic trail. At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Connecticut is the New England National Scenic Trail.

The New England National Scenic Trail, also known as the “Metacomet-Monadnock-Mattabesett Trail”, is a 215-mile long trail that runs from Long Island Sound in Connecticut to the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The trail was first proposed in the 1960s by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association and it officially opened in 2009 after several decades of planning, fundraising and trail building.

A Trail Named For The Mountain Ranges It Traverses

It’s named for the three mountain ranges it traverses: the Metacomet Ridge in Connecticut, the Monadnock Mountain in Massachusetts and the Mattabesett Mountain in Connecticut.

The trail passes through some of the most diverse and scenic landscapes in New England, including forest, wetlands, and rocky ridges with views of the surrounding countryside.

The trail also passes through a number of state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas, including Pachaug State Forest, the Hanging Hills, and the Talcott Mountain State Park.

In 2009, the trail was designated as a National Scenic Trail, one of only 11 such trails in the United States. This designation provides recognition and federal funding for the trail’s preservation and promotion.

The trail is maintained by a partnership of federal and state agencies, local land trusts, and volunteer organizations, and it is open to the public for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Pennsylvania

Top 5 Historic Sites In Connecticut

5. The Harriet Beecher Stowe House

We’re on to the Top 5 Historic Sites In Connecticut. At #5 is a place which honors the woman whose best-selling novel was a powerful indictment of the institution of slavery. It’s the Harriet Beecher Stowe House.

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House is a historic house located in Hartford, Connecticut, which was the home of the famous author Harriet Beecher Stowe. The house has a rich history, both as a private residence and as a symbol of the struggle against slavery.

Harriet Beecher Stowe and her husband, Calvin Stowe, purchased the house in 1873, after they had already achieved great success with the publication of Harriet’s novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”. The couple lived in the house for the remainder of their lives, and it was in this house that Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote many of her later works.

The house was later acquired by the Stowe-Day Foundation, which restored it and opened it to the public as a museum. Today, visitors can tour the house and learn about the life and work of Harriet Beecher Stowe, as well as the history of the abolitionist movement in the United States.

Uncle Tom’s Cabin

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House is also a significant symbol of the struggle against slavery. Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” played a key role in turning public opinion against slavery in the United States.

The house itself became a symbol of this struggle, and it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962.

Today, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House is a popular destination for visitors to Hartford, Connecticut, who are interested in learning more about the life and work of one of America’s greatest authors and social activists.

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America

4. Coltsville National Historical Park

We’re on to the “Final Four” At #4 is a place which honors the man whose revolver helped to bring about the winning of the American West. Welcome to Coltsville National Historical Park.

When Samuel Colt started his Hartford factory on the banks of the Connecticut River in 1847, it followed years of mismanagement and failure. Soon, demand for Colt’s revolver would change his fortunes and the Colt empire was born.

Following Colt’s untimely death in 1862, his wife, Elizabeth Colt, would lead the company to its legendary status, and influence Hartford for over 40 years.

Things To Do At Coltsville

I recommend the guided walking tour. Using the Coltsville NHP App, you can visit eleven different sites all while learning about Samuel Colt and Elizabeth Hart Jarvis Colt.

While you’re there, you should also check out the Blue Onion Dome. It’s a bright blue dome, dusted with stars and topped by a rearing colt on top of a globe. This stunning monument has been a part of the city since 1855.

It sits on top of what was Colt’s Patent Fire-Arms Manufacturing Company.

The dome is a reminder of Samuel Colt, his factory, his family, and their contributions to the industry of precision manufacturing in Hartford and the world.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Vermont

3. Mark Twain House

Our #3 historic site honors a literary legend who many considered to be the most important author of his generation. It’s the Mark Twain House.

Born Samuel Langhorne Clemens on November 30th, 1835, Mark Twain was one of the greatest American writers of all time.

Twain’s talents included that of an American humorist, novelist, and travel writer.

Today he is best remembered as the author of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876) and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1885).

Twain’s written works challenged the fundamental issues that faced the America of his time; racism, evolving landscapes, class barriers, access to education and more.

Each text he produced was careful to make clear and concise points on society as everyone knew it, with many of his writings still holding relevance today.

Every work stands as an outstanding achievement of authenticity, and there are autobiographical elements in all of them, featuring real places and experiences from Twain’s childhood to add further truth to his work.

Things To See & Do

Here are some things you can do when you visit:

1. Take a guided tour of the house: You can explore the beautifully restored Victorian Gothic mansion and learn about the history and architecture of the building.
2. Visit the museum exhibits: The museum features a variety of exhibits on Mark Twain’s life and work, including artifacts, manuscripts, and photographs.
3. Attend a lecture or program: The Mark Twain House offers a range of lectures, workshops, and performances throughout the year that celebrate the legacy of Mark Twain.
4. Explore the gardens and grounds: The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and landscaped grounds that are open to visitors. You can take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic on the lawn.
5. Visit the museum shop: The museum shop offers a wide selection of books, souvenirs, and gifts related to Mark Twain and the house.
6. Attend a special event: The Mark Twain House hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including holiday tours, literary festivals, and concerts.
7. Take part in a writing workshop: The Mark Twain House offers writing workshops for aspiring writers of all ages and skill levels.
8. Enjoy a cup of tea: The Nook Cafe, located in the carriage house, offers a selection of teas, coffee, and light refreshments.
9. Visit nearby attractions: The Mark Twain House is located in the historic West End neighborhood of Hartford, Connecticut, which is home to many other cultural attractions, shops, and restaurants.

2. Weir Farm National Historical Park

We’re on to the final 2 historic sites in Connecticut. In the runner-up spot at #2 is the Weir Farm National Historical Park.

Imagine a national park that’s all about art. Julian Alden Weir was an American impressionist painter and member of the Cos Cob Art Colony near Greenwich, Connecticut. 

Today you can visit the home and studio of this amazing artist. And while you’re there you can walk in the footsteps of generations of world-class artists.

Weir Farm National Historical Park is set amidst more than 60 acres of painterly woods, fields, and waterways, Weir described his home as the “Great Good Place.”

Things To Do

Here are some things you can do when you visit:

1. Take a guided tour of the park: You can take a guided tour of the park’s historic buildings, gardens, and landscapes, and learn about the park’s history and the artists who lived and worked there.
2. Explore the artist-in-residence program: The park hosts an artist-in-residence program, which allows artists to live and work in the park for a period of time. You can learn about the program and see the work of the current artist in residence.
3. Hike the trails: The park has several hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. You can hike the trails on your own or take a guided tour.
4. Take a painting class: The park offers painting classes for visitors of all skill levels. You can learn how to paint in the style of the American Impressionists who lived and worked at Weir Farm.
5. Attend a special event: The park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, and workshops.
6. Visit the Visitor Center: The Visitor Center features exhibits and information about the history of the park and the artists who lived and worked there.
7. Take a picnic: The park has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery.
8. Visit nearby attractions: The park is located near several other cultural attractions, including the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum and the Philip Johnson Glass House.

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

1. Mystic Seaport Museum

As the #1 Historic Site In Connecticut, More Than Just Parks has selected the Mystic Seaport Museum.

The Mystic Seaport Museum is dedicated to preserving America’s maritime heritage and showcasing the history of the country’s maritime industries. The museum was founded in 1929 by a group of maritime enthusiasts who were interested in preserving the country’s maritime heritage.

The museum is situated on the banks of the Mystic River and features a number of historic buildings and vessels. Many of the buildings were relocated to the museum from other locations in the region, while others were built on-site to replicate historic structures. The museum’s collection includes over 500 historic vessels, ranging from small boats to large sailing ships.

See The Charles W. Morgan

One of the highlights of the museum is the Charles W. Morgan, a historic whaling ship that was built in 1841. The ship was used for whaling expeditions for over 80 years and was eventually retired in 1921. The Charles W. Morgan was restored and brought to the Mystic Seaport Museum in 1941, where it has been on display ever since.

Over the years, the Mystic Seaport Museum has become a leading center for research and education in the field of maritime history. The museum offers a range of educational programs and workshops for students and adults, and it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibits, and historic reenactments.

Today, the Mystic Seaport Museum is a popular tourist attraction and a leading center for maritime research and education. It continues to expand its collection and offer new exhibits and programs, while also preserving and celebrating the rich history of America’s maritime heritage.

Things To Do At The Museum

1. Explore the Historic Ships: The museum features several historic vessels that you can explore, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship in the world, and the Sabino, an authentic coal-fired steamboat. You can step aboard these ships, learn about their history, and get a sense of what life was like for sailors in the past.
2. Visit the Exhibits: The museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase different aspects of maritime history. From the “Voyaging in the Wake of the Whalers” exhibit to the “Tugs!” exhibit, there’s something for everyone. You can learn about navigation, boatbuilding, maritime art, and more.
3. Stroll through the Village: Mystic Seaport Museum has a recreated 19th-century coastal village where you can walk through authentic period buildings and interact with costumed interpreters who bring history to life. Explore the cooperage, blacksmith shop, printing office, and other buildings to get a glimpse into the past.
4. Try Traditional Crafts: The museum offers hands-on activities where you can try your hand at traditional crafts like woodworking, ropemaking, and sail stitching. These interactive experiences allow you to learn about the skills and techniques used by sailors and craftsmen of the past.
5. Take a Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on the Mystic River aboard one of the museum’s historic vessels. Whether you choose a sail on the schooner Brilliant or a cruise on the steamboat Sabino, it’s a unique way to experience the maritime heritage of the area.
6. Attend Demonstrations: Throughout the day, the museum hosts various demonstrations and performances. You can watch sail handling demonstrations, see blacksmiths at work, or even witness a traditional ship launch. Check the museum’s schedule for specific activities during your visit.
7. Visit the Planetarium: The Treworgy Planetarium at the Mystic Seaport Museum offers astronomy shows that take you on a journey through the stars. It’s a great way to learn about celestial navigation and the importance of the night sky for sailors.
8. Enjoy the Dining Options: The museum has several dining options where you can grab a meal or a snack. Whether you prefer a sit-down restaurant or a quick bite at a café, there are choices available to suit different tastes.

List Of Historic Sites In Connecticut

1. Mystic Seaport Museum
2. Weir Farm National Historical Park
3. Mark Twain House
4. Coltsville National Historical Park
5. Harriet Beecher Stowe House
6. New England National Scenic Trail
7. Submarine Force Museum
8. Nathan Hale Homestead
9. Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
10. Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail
11. Fort Trumbull
12. Osborne Homestead
13. Harkness Mansion & Park
14. Putnam Cottage
15. Glebe House & Gertrude Jekyll Garden

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Connecticut?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!

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The post 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Connecticut (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Historic Sites In Wisconsin

Historic Sites In Wisconsin. More Than Just Parks has 10 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

I’m going to give you my list of the 10 Historic Sites In Wisconsin that you’ll want to see.

To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!

If you are planning a trip to Wisconsin then you might want to pick up a copy of Greater Than a Tourist- WISCONSIN DELLS WISCONSIN USA: 50 Travel Tips from a Local by A’di Dust.

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Top 10 Historic Sites In Wisconsin

10. H.H. Bennett House & Studio

Wisconsin is known for its diary farms, ginseng production, and cold winters. It is a great place to visit if you want to get a taste of America’s Midwest. But it also has some amazing historic sites too. More Than Just Parks is excited to share our list of the Top 10 Historic Sites In Wisconsin.

And we’re kicking off our list at #10 with the H.H. Bennett House & Studio.

The H.H. Bennett House & Studio is a historic property located in the city of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. It was the home and workplace of the renowned landscape photographer Henry Hamilton Bennett, who lived there from the 1870s until his death in 1908.

H.H. Bennett is best known for his stunning photographs of the Wisconsin Dells area, which he captured using innovative techniques that allowed him to capture the unique beauty of the region.

In addition to his work as a photographer, Bennett was also an inventor and businessman, and he played a key role in developing the tourism industry in the Wisconsin Dells area.

The H.H. Bennett House & Studio was built in the 1850s and was originally a small cabin that was used as a trading post. Bennett purchased the property in the 1870s and extensively renovated it, adding a second story and a spacious studio where he could develop his photographs.

A Photography Pioneer

Bennett’s studio was equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including a darkroom, a printing press, and a large skylight that provided natural lighting for his photographs. He also developed a technique called “stop action” photography, which allowed him to capture fast-moving subjects such as riverboats and wildlife in incredible detail.

In addition to his photography work, Bennett was an active member of the Wisconsin Dells community and played a key role in promoting tourism in the area. He worked with local businesses to promote the region as a vacation destination, and his photographs were widely circulated and helped to attract visitors from across the country.

Today, the H.H. Bennett House & Studio is a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the life and work of this pioneering photographer.

The property has been carefully preserved and restored to its original condition, and visitors can explore the studio, darkroom, and other areas of the house where Bennett lived and worked. The museum also houses an extensive collection of Bennett’s photographs, as well as other artifacts related to his life and work.

Things To Do

At the H.H. Bennett House & Studio, visitors can:

1. Tour the historic studio and learn about the life and work of H.H. Bennett, one of America’s foremost landscape photographers.
2. View the collection of original photographs, cameras, and other equipment used by Bennett during his career.
3. Explore the grounds of the property, including the gardens and scenic views that were popular subjects for Bennett’s photographs.
4. Participate in educational programs and workshops focused on photography, history, and related topics.
5. Purchase prints and other merchandise related to Bennett and his work.
6. Attend special events and exhibitions showcasing Bennett’s photography and the history of photography in general.

9. Circus World Museum

Who doesn’t love the circus? Our next historic site is a museum dedicated to preserving the history and artifacts of the American circus. It’s located in the city of Baraboo, Wisconsin, which has a rich circus heritage dating back to the 19th century. Welcome to Circus World Museum.

The museum was founded in 1959 by John M. Kelly, a local businessman who was a lifelong circus enthusiast. Kelly had been collecting circus memorabilia for years and wanted to create a place where people could learn about the rich history of the American circus.

The museum’s collection includes over 200 circus wagons, many of which were used in the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, as well as thousands of other artifacts such as costumes, posters, and photographs.

The museum also features live circus performances, including aerial acts, clown shows, and animal performances, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Baraboo Has A Long History With The Circus

Baraboo has a long history with the circus, dating back to the 19th century when the Ringling Brothers Circus was headquartered there. The town became known as the “Circus City” and played a key role in the development of the American circus.

In the early 20th century, the Ringling Brothers Circus moved its headquarters to Sarasota, Florida, but Baraboo continued to celebrate its circus heritage. The Circus World Museum was established as a way to preserve that history and ensure that future generations could learn about the important role that the circus played in American culture.

Today, the Circus World Museum is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country and around the world. It is also an important research center for scholars and historians interested in the history of the American circus.

The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and archives provides a unique window into a fascinating chapter of American history.

8. Pabst Mansion

We move from a place which celebrates the joy that the circus brings to millions to a place which commemorates a man who found a different way to bring joy to millions. At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wisconsin is the Pabst Mansion.

The Pabst Mansion is a historic house museum located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was built in the late 19th century for Captain Frederick Pabst, a prominent Milwaukee brewer and businessman.

A Short History Of The Mansion

Construction of the mansion began in 1890 and was completed in 1892. The design of the house was inspired by the Flemish Renaissance style, with a brick exterior and intricate details such as carved stone columns, ornate gables, and leaded glass windows.

The mansion was designed by the architectural firm of Ferry and Clas, who also designed many of the iconic buildings in downtown Milwaukee. It was built at a cost of over $254,000, a significant sum of money at the time, and featured 37 rooms, including a grand ballroom, a library, and a music room.

Captain Pabst and his wife, Maria, lived in the mansion with their children for over two decades, until Pabst’s death in 1904. After his death, the mansion was inherited by his son, Gustav, who lived there until 1926, when it was sold to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

The mansion served as the home of the archbishop for several decades, and during that time, many changes were made to the house, including the addition of a chapel and the removal of some of the original furnishings.

In 1975, the Pabst Mansion was saved from demolition by a group of concerned citizens who formed the Pabst Mansion Foundation. The foundation raised funds to restore the mansion to its original condition and opened it as a museum in 1978.

Today, the Pabst Mansion is a popular tourist destination and an important cultural landmark in Milwaukee. It offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Milwaukee’s wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the history of the Pabst family and their role in shaping the city’s brewing industry.

7. National Railroad Museum

Our next historic site features an extensive collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts related to the history of rail transportation. At #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wisconsin is the National Railroad Museum.

The National Railroad Museum is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the United States. It is located in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

The museum was founded in 1956 by a group of local rail enthusiasts who wanted to create a place where people could learn about the rich history of the railroad industry in the United States. The museum’s first exhibit was a restored Chicago & North Western steam locomotive, which was donated to the museum by the railroad company.

Over 70 Locomotives & Rolling Stock

Over the years, the museum’s collection has grown to include over 70 locomotives and rolling stock, as well as thousands of artifacts related to the history of rail transportation. One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the Union Pacific “Big Boy,” which is one of the largest steam locomotives ever built.

In addition to its extensive collection of exhibits, the National Railroad Museum also features a variety of educational programs and events, including train rides, workshops, and special exhibits. The museum is also home to a research library and archives, which contain a wealth of information about the history of the railroad industry in the United States.

The museum is located on the site of the former Chicago & North Western Railroad’s Green Bay yards, which played a key role in the development of the railroad industry in the Midwest. The museum’s location in Green Bay reflects the city’s rich railroad heritage, as it was a major hub for railroad activity during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Things To Do

The National Railroad Museum offers several things to see and do, including:

1. Exhibits: The museum features a collection of historic trains, including steam locomotives, passenger cars, and freight trains.
2. Train Rides: Visitors can take a train ride through the museum grounds on select days.
3. Interactive Displays: The museum has interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the history of railroads and their impact on society.
4. Special Events: The museum hosts special events throughout the year, such as model train shows, holiday-themed events, and more.
5. Education Programs: The museum offers educational programs for students of all ages, including field trips and hands-on learning opportunities.
6. Gift Shop: The museum has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other railroad-themed items.

6. Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin

Our next historic site honors the life and legacy of a woman whose best-selling books were based on her remarkable childhood experiences growing up in the American Midwest in the late 19th century.

At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wisconsin is the Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin.

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin is a historic log cabin located in Pepin, Wisconsin. It is the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder, a famous author known for her “Little House” series of books.

The cabin was built in 1874 by Laura’s father, Charles Ingalls, and served as the family’s home for several years. Laura was born in the cabin on February 7, 1867. Her family later moved to several other locations throughout the Midwest, including Kansas, Minnesota, and South Dakota, before eventually settling in Missouri.

In the 1930s, Laura began writing a series of books based on her childhood experiences, which included “Little House in the Big Woods,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and “The Long Winter,” among others. The books were widely popular and have since become classic children’s literature.

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin was preserved by a group of local residents in the 1950s, who recognized the historic and cultural significance of the site. The cabin was restored to its original condition and opened to the public as a museum in 1960.

Today, visitors to the cabin can see many of the original furnishings and artifacts used by the Ingalls family, including a spinning wheel, a butter churn, and a fireplace. The museum also features exhibits and displays about the life and times of Laura Ingalls Wilder, as well as the history of the American Midwest during the late 19th century.

Top 5 Historic Sites In Wisconsin

5. Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

We’re on to our Top 5 Historic Sites In Wisconsin. According to the National Park Service, our next site, the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, has quite a history indeed.

Human occupation began there as early as 10,000 years ago.

Burial mounds, campsites, chipping stations, quarries, wild rice processing areas, rock art, and village sites offer evidence of the seasonal and complex nature of prehistoric life along the rivers.

Historic American Indian archeological sites are also present and evidence the coming of European people and culture.

The St. Croix River/Brule River was a favored fur trade route from the Mississippi River to Lake Superior. Interaction took place between traders and Dakota and Ojibwe and other Indians as they traveled the rivers and traded.

In 1837 a treaty opened the area to settlement by Euro-Americans. Logging and early settlement occurred along the Riverway and is evidenced by the remains of logging dams and camps, the foundations of houses and farms, and the “trash” people left behind. More recent cultural resources are recreational homes, roadbeds and pine plantations.

Things To Do

Here are some things you can do there:

1. Canoeing or Kayaking: One of the most popular activities on the riverway is canoeing or kayaking. The river offers a variety of routes with different levels of difficulty, so you can choose the one that best fits your skill level.
2. Hiking: The Saint Croix Riverway has several hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the river and surrounding scenery. Some of the popular trails include the Eagle Peak Trail, which offers views of the river valley and surrounding hills, and the River Trail, which runs along the river’s edge.
3. Fishing: The riverway is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike.
4. Camping: The riverway has several campgrounds where you can set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors. Some of the popular campgrounds include the Namekagon River and the St. Croix River.
5. Wildlife Watching: The riverway is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, otters, and beavers. You can observe these animals in their natural habitat and enjoy the beauty of the river.
6. Boating: The riverway offers plenty of opportunities for boating. You can rent a boat or bring your own and explore the river at your own pace.
7. Picnicking: There are several picnic areas along the riverway where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends while taking in the beautiful scenery.
8. Winter Sports: In the winter, the riverway offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

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4. Harley-Davidson Museum

We’re on to our “Final Four” historic sites. At #4 is a place which motorcycle enthusiasts will particularly enjoy. It’s the Harley-Davidson Museum.

The Harley-Davidson Museum, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was established in 2008 to commemorate the rich history and heritage of the iconic motorcycle company, Harley-Davidson.

The museum showcases the history of Harley-Davidson from its beginnings in 1903 to the present day, highlighting the company’s impact on the motorcycle industry, American culture, and the world at large.

Visitors can see a collection of rare and historic motorcycles, memorabilia, and artifacts, including photographs, films, advertisements, and more.

One of the highlights of the museum is the “H-D motorcycles: An American Icon” exhibit, which showcases a diverse range of Harley-Davidson models and illustrates the evolution of the motorcycle design over the years.

Visitors can also learn about the people and events that have shaped the company and its legacy through interactive displays and multimedia presentations.

The museum also hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year, allowing visitors to learn more about the history and culture of Harley-Davidson and to connect with other fans of the brand. Overall, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-visit destination for fans of motorcycles, American history, and cultural heritage.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Michigan

3. Ice Age National Scenic Trail

Our next site is a geologic wonder. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Idaho is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile hiking trail located in Wisconsin. The trail was established in 1980 to commemorate and preserve the geological and natural features created by the last Ice Age.

The Ice Age lasted from approximately 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago and had a significant impact on the landscape of Wisconsin and the surrounding region. During the Ice Age, massive glaciers covered much of North America, shaping the landscape through erosion, deposition, and other geological processes.

The trail was established to highlight and preserve the unique features of the landscape that were created during the Ice Age, including kettles (depressions formed by melting glaciers), moraines (ridges of glacial debris), and eskers (sinuous ridges formed by streams flowing beneath glaciers).

The trail is divided into several segments, each of which showcases the diverse geological and natural features of the region.

In addition to highlighting the geological features of the landscape, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is also an important recreational resource for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

The trail is maintained by a partnership between the National Park Service and local volunteers, who work to protect and preserve the trail for future generations.

Ice Age Trail Facts

In doing my research, I came across some fascinating facts associated with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail courtesy of the Ice Age Alliance. They include the following:

• The Trail is managed by a partnership among the National Park Service, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Ice Age Trail Alliance.
• The Ice Age Trail is open for hiking, backpacking and snowshoeing. Many segments support cross-country skiing, too.
• The Trail is not yet complete.
• More than 600 miles are yellow-blazed Ice Age Trail segments, and more than 500 miles of unmarked connecting routes link the blazed segments.
• The entire route is about 1,200 miles long.
• The Trail’s western terminus is in Interstate State Park in St. Croix Falls, Polk County. It overlooks the St. Croix River and our neighbors in Minnesota. The Trail’s eastern terminus is in Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay, Door County.
• The Ice Age Trail is built and maintained largely by volunteers. (Source: Ice Age Alliance)

Outdoor Activities | Ice Age National Scenic Trail

While the trail is primarily enjoyed for hiking and backpacking, other activities include: (1) Birdwatching and Nature Walks, (2) Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing, (3) Stargazing and Wildlife Viewing, (4) Camping , (5) Hunting and Fishing (during the proper seasons), (6) Biking, (7) Horseback Riding and (8) Snowmobiling.

If you’re camping, be advised that in some areas camping is allowed anywhere along the trail; in others only at designated sites.

These facilities may be spaced quite far apart. Along such segments it may be difficult to find any place to camp legally. You should plan your multi-day hike carefully. (Source: NPS)

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Ohio

2. Milwaukee Art Museum

We’re down to our final 2 historic sites in Wisconsin. In the runner-up spot at #2 is one of America’s finest art museums. Welcome to the Milwaukee Art Museum.

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a prominent art museum located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was founded in 1888 as the Milwaukee Art Association, and it became a museum in 1957.

The museum’s original building, designed by prominent architect E.T. Mix, was completed in 1911. The building was expanded several times over the years, and in 1975 a new wing was added to the museum.

In 2001, the museum underwent a major renovation and expansion, which included the addition of the Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion, a dramatic structure that features a movable “sunscreen” that can open and close like the wings of a bird.

The Milwaukee Art Museum’s collection features over 30,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

The collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Winslow Homer, and Andy Warhol, as well as significant collections of American folk art, German Expressionist prints, and Haitian art.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Milwaukee Art Museum also features a variety of temporary exhibitions and installations throughout the year. The museum hosts a range of events and programs, including lectures, workshops, and film screenings.

Things To Do

Here are some of the things to see and do at the museum:

1. Art Exhibitions: The museum features a diverse range of art exhibitions, including contemporary and modern art, decorative arts, and more.
2. Collection Highlights: Visitors can see highlights from the museum’s collection, including works by Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and other famous artists.
3. Special Exhibitions: The museum hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by artists from around the world and showcasing a wide range of styles and mediums.
4. Architecture: The museum is housed in the iconic Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture and design of the building.
5. Education Programs: The museum offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including tours, workshops, and lectures.
6. Shop and Café: The museum has a shop and café, offering unique gifts, books, and refreshments.

CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Pennsylvania

1. Cave Of The Mounds

As our #1 Historic Site In Wisconsin, More Than Just Parks has selected the Cave of the Mounds.

If you like caves then you’ll love Cave of the Mounds. It takes its name from the Blue Mounds, two large hills which have long been Wisconsin landmark features.

The West Mound, at 1716 feet, is the highest point in Southern Wisconsin; the East Mound reaches 1489 feet. Cave of the Mounds lies under the southern slope of the East Mound.

The Cave was formed within sedimentary rock, a limestone made of compacted seashells. This rock dates back over 400 million years to the Ordovician Period of the earth’s geologic history.

The cave’s beauty comes from its many varieties of mineral formations called speleothems.

The Chicago Academy of Sciences considers the Cave of the Mounds to be “the significant cave of the upper Midwest” because of its beauty.

It is promoted as the “jewel box” of major American caves.

Things To Do

Here are some of the things to see and do at Cave of the Mounds:

1. Guided Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, where they will learn about the geology, history, and features of the cave, including its rare formations and unique ecosystem.
2. Self-Guided Tours: The cave also offers self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the cave at their own pace and take in the natural beauty at their leisure.
3. Educational Programs: The cave offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including school field trips, summer camps, and more.
4. Nature Trails: The cave is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including nature trails and picnic areas, perfect for exploring and enjoying the surrounding area.
5. Gift Shop: The cave has a gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to geology and the natural sciences.

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

List Of Historic Sites In Wisconsin

1. Cave Of The Mounds
2. Milwaukee Art Museum
3. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
4. Harley-Davidson Museum
5. Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
6. Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin
7. National Railroad Museum
8. Pabst Mansion
9. Circus World Museum
10. H.H. Bennett House & Studio

Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Wisconsin?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.

Meet The Parks Brothers

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 

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Related Links

Wisconsin National Parks: 4 FUN Wisconsin National Parks

America’s National Parks: All 63 US National Parks Ranked By Experts

National Monuments: Ultimate List Of National Monuments

National Landmarks: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (Must-SEE)

Revolutionary War Sites: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America

Civil War Sites: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America

The post 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Wisconsin (Guide + Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.