Top historical cities America has to offer
Two hundred and thirty years after the signing of the US Constitution...
14:36 03 May 2017
Two hundred and thirty years after the signing of the US Constitution, after the Boston Tea Party, after the Battle of Saratoga, it is now safe for the British to travel to American shores. Those in the UK who are hoping to discover American history and culture have numerous options to choose from when visiting the country. Cities that tell tales of American heroism, cities that speak of lost stories, and cities that link the UK and the US with a common history can be found in all four corners of the nation.
First on the list of top historical cities is Boston in Massachusetts. While the Boston Celtics basketball team are a major draw for many tourists, history enthusiasts will be drawn to the many sites that chronicle the city’s growth and development. On the Freedom Trail, travellers can visit the Paul Revere House, the Faneuil Hall Market Place, and the Old North Church. In the Faneuil Hall Market Place, historical figures such as Samuel Adams and Frederick Douglas made political speeches about the important issues of the day. At the Paul Revere House, visitors can look at the architecture of the home, which includes the original furniture and fireplaces, while learning about the way in which colonists lived during the early days of the nation. Before warning patriots of the approaching British army, Revere met at the Old North Church. The church contains various relics from this era, including the oldest set of ringing bells in North America. Visitors to Boston can either join one of the walking tours or see the various sights on their own. Holidaymakers looking for short-term Boston vacation apartments have a number of options to choose from in and around the city.
One of the most popular cities for budding historians to tour is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. One of the great things about Philadelphia is its reputation for celebrating diversity – hence its moniker “The City of Brotherly Love.” After eating one of the famous Philly cheesesteaks, travellers can tour the city’s monuments to American history. The must-see place is Independence Hall, where both the US Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. Here, tourists will be able to learn about the history of the city, including its role as the nation’s capital during the Revolutionary War. After touring the city, weary travellers can find respite, a meal, and a place to get a drink at any one of the many establishments that line the Old City or Centre City.
Heading out to the West Coast, travellers can find themselves in a restaurant in San Francisco enjoying a sumptuous meal while looking at the Golden Gate Bridge. Known for its culturally progressive attitude, San Francisco is the birthplace of the gay rights and hippie movements. Free-spirited travellers might find themselves taking in one of the various art museums or music festivals, or strolling down the streets of the Mission District or Haight-Ashbury. Those who are interested in crime history can also tour the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island. Of course, one cannot visit the city without going over its most famous landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. The city offers diverse options for dining out, and for accommodation, travellers would enjoy any of the bed and breakfast establishments in the city.
Travelling deep into the US, tourists can learn all about the Alamo while visiting San Antonio, Texas. The Alamo, once a Franciscan mission, is a monument to the Texans who lost their lives fighting for independence. Visitors can also tour the four missions that comprise the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. These missions are a rich part of Texan history as they are credited with helping spread Catholicism amongst the local natives in the Spanish South West. Like most American historical cities, San Antonio offers visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy its food and culture. Many of its eating establishments serve both Tex-Mex and American fare. Visitors are encouraged to travel at the weekend because of the influx of business travellers during the work week, and are encouraged to rent a car because San Antonio is mostly a driving city.
When travelling to any part of the US, tourists will find that each city has a compelling story that tells of its significance to American culture and history. America has a fascinating history to share with others around the world. All that tourists need to bring on their trip is a desire to learn about these narratives that have become a part of the world’s conversation.