History isn’t just something you read about in textbooks—it’s all around us, alive and waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for an interactive way to teach your kids about America’s past, visiting landmarks brings history to life. With hands-on learning, your kids can connect with some of the most important stories and events that shaped the United States. Below are the top destinations to teach your kids US history while making unforgettable family memories.
Plymouth
Plymouth, Massachusetts, is where American history begins. Known as the site of the Pilgrims’ landing in 1620, it’s packed with opportunities to teach your kids about early American settlers.
Must-see attractions include Plymouth Rock, the alleged exact location of their arrival, and Plimoth Patuxet Museums, where your family can see reenactments of 17th-century life. Walking through the recreated Wampanoag Homesite and the English Village, kids can gain a vivid understanding of how Native Americans and Pilgrims made their homes, worked, and communicated.
Gettysburg
Stay close to home by visiting Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to witness the setting for a defining moment of the Civil War. The site of the largest battle of the war, it’s both emotional and educational to visit. Start with the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, where kids can watch an engaging film and see artifacts from the battle. Then, explore the battlefield itself with a guided tour. The site also offers a chance to discuss Abraham Lincoln’s iconic Gettysburg Address.
Oahu
Hawaii’s island of Oahu is a prime spot for learning about World War II history. At Pearl Harbor, your family can visit the USS Arizona Memorial, where you’ll learn interesting facts about the Japanese attack that led the United States into the war. Then, head over to the hands-on exhibits at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum that showcase the evolution of wartime technology. While the island’s natural beauty may steal the show, the historical importance of this destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on young minds.
Sacramento
To explore the story of westward expansion and the Gold Rush, Sacramento, California, delivers in spades. The California State Railroad Museum is a hit with families, where kids can climb aboard restored trains and discover how railroads transformed the nation. Old Sacramento offers cobblestone streets, living history tours, and fascinating museums detailing the California Gold Rush.
Washington, DC
Finally, Washington, DC, is a must-visit for any family wanting a comprehensive look at US history. From the monuments of the National Mall to the many Smithsonian museums, there’s no shortage of learning opportunities. A stroll through the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial introduces kids to key American leaders and ideals. Plus, touring the Capitol Building, the White House, and other government landmarks is a must for little citizens.
By visiting these top destinations, you’ll teach your kids more about US history than you ever could with a textbook. You’ll allow your children to see and touch the stories they read about, giving them a deeper appreciation for the United States’ past. Happy travels!
