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Top 10 Historic Sites to Visit in the U.S. in 2025

Nicole Potter06 mins

Top 10 Historical Sites in the United States

A lot of people think of the United States as a young country with little in the way of history. However, the nation’s foundations are layered with centuries of culture, showcasing a fascinating history that spans from the colonial era to modern times.

Mesa Verde, Colorado

A stormy sky swirls above a cliff face with adobe buildings nestled inside.
Native Americans abandoned the cliffside dwelling near Mesa Verde for unknown reasons © darekm101 / Getty Images

The Ancestral Puebloans (also known as Anasazi) created spectacular cliff-side cities in Mesa Verde, Colorado. These ruins are steeped in mystery as they were abandoned a century after being built, possibly due to environmental changes.

Cahokia, Illinois

The sun sets behind a grassy mound with a staircase going up it.
The Cahokia Mounds near Collinsville, Illinois are some of the earliest remnants of Native American culture in the country © JByard / Getty Images

You may associate pyramids with Egypt, yet Illinois has dozens clustered in a site known as Cahokia Mounds. It was the largest city of the Mississippian culture, thriving around 1200.

St Augustine, Florida

A stone fort looks out on the ocean as palm trees sway in the adjacent plaza
The Castillo de San Marcos, built in 1672 in St Augustine, is the oldest masonry fort in the United States © L. Toshio Kishiyama / Getty Images

Founded in 1565 by the Spanish, St Augustine is recognized as America’s oldest city. Here, visitors can explore the historical atmosphere, sip from the renowned ‘fountain of youth,’ and enjoy the cobblestone streets.

Jamestown, Virginia

A man dressed in period dress fires a gun as spectators look on at Jamestown Settlement, one of the most important sites of history in the US
Costumed historical interpreter Sammy Haskell gives a musket demonstration for tourists during a visit to Jamestown Settlement © Bill O’Leary / The Washington Post via Getty Images

Jamestown, founded in 1607, is the site of the first permanent English settlement in America. Notably, it offers a glimpse into early colonial life through its original remains and living-history museums.

Boston, Massachusetts

A fountain in the foreground reflects a view of the Santa Barbara Mission of California, a spanish-style church
Santa Barbara Mission is just one of many beautiful examples of architecture and history in Southern California © Ron and Patty Thomas / Getty

Boston holds a significant place in American history, especially regarding the War of Independence. The city is closely connected to the events that ignited the revolt against British rule. Following the Freedom Trail is an ideal method to delve into this rich history.

Missions, California

While British settlers were establishing their presence in the east, Spanish missionaries founded a series of missions across California. Notable missions include those in San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and San Diego. These historical sites highlight California’s evolution and cultural roots.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

A cannon is pointed across a field at sunset. Gettysburg is an important site of US History.
The Civil War battlefield at Gettysburg is a poignant reminder of the hundreds of thousands of lives lost in that conflict © drnadig / Getty Images

Gettysburg, a pivotal site during the Civil War, became synonymous with sacrifice and resilience. The three-day battle in Pennsylvania was one of the bloodiest in American history and is commemorated at Gettysburg National Military Park.

‘Iolani Palace, Hawaii

The 'Iolani Palace is seen in its park, surrounded by palm trees under a brilliant blue Hawaii sun. It's the site of lots of Hawaiian and US history.
Hawaii’s ‘Iolani Palace has been the seat of many different governments © Randy Faris / Getty Images

Completed in 1882, ‘Iolani Palace symbolizes Hawaii’s royal heritage and the US’s influence during the late 19th century. It serves as a reminder of the significant historical transitions the islands underwent over time.

Dealey Plaza, Dallas, Texas

The Dealy Plaza and its surrounding buildings in Downtown Dallas. It's a spot of history in the United States.
President John F Kennedy was assassinated in Dealy Plaza, in Dallas © f11photo / Getty Images

Dealey Plaza is forever ingrained in American history due to the assassination of President Kennedy on November 22, 1963. This site metamorphosed into a place of reflection and understanding of that pivotal moment in US history.

National September 11 Memorial & Museum, New York

One World Trade Center and National September 11 memorial waterfalls. It's a major spot of history in the United States.
The Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks are memorialized in lower Manhattan © ricardocostaphotography / Getty Images

The September 11 terrorist attacks significantly impacted the United States. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as a poignant reminder, covering the tragic events of that day and its lingering effects on the nation.

This article was first published on Jul 1, 2019, and updated on Jun 28, 2022.

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