Colorful history. Striking scenery. Rich heritage. A journey through colonial America offers a glimpse into the core of the American identity. From Portland to Savannah, hundreds of sites draw curious travelers seeking the spirit of the Revolution. While there are endless opportunities to embrace American history up and down the east coast, the below highlights are not to be missed.
Boston: Paul Revere House and Boston Harbor
Boston, considered the birthplace of the American Revolution, makes a perfect starting point for discovering America’s past. Take a stroll or a boat ride through Boston Harbor for impressive views and a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. Top off the experience with a visit to the interactive Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum for an immersive look into the pivotal Boston Tea Party.
Boston was also home to many key revolutionary figures, including the legendary Paul Revere. The house where he lived during the Revolution has been converted into a museum with accessible admission prices and award-winning exhibits.
New York City: Fraunces Tavern and the Battle of Brooklyn
Continuing down the Atlantic Coast leads to New York City, one of the world’s most iconic cities and a key location in America’s founding history. To experience the colonial side of The Big Apple, visit Fraunces Tavern Museum and see the room where George Washington bid farewell to his troops at the end of the war. The museum also holds an impressive collection of artwork and hosts alternating exhibitions and events.
Centuries before brownstones and hipster havens, Brooklyn was the stage of the first major battle of the American Revolution. Today, tourists can visit the Old Stone House, a replica of a 1699 farmhouse, and its small family-friendly museum to learn about the battle and enjoy the fresh air in the surrounding park.
Philadelphia: Independence Hall and Museum of the American Revolution
A colonial trip would be incomplete with a stop in Philadelphia, the United States’ first capital. Start at the emblematic Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were composed and signed by America’s founding fathers. Independence Hall also served as a military hospital for American prisoners of war and was the site of key events through the 19th century, making this museum one of the country’s richest historical sites.
For all things Revolution-related, visit the hands-on Museum of the American Revolution. This museum is especially great for families, bringing history to life with passion and kid-friendly activities. Time your visit to enjoy one of the museum’s many events that inspire empathy and understanding of the first American citizens.
The above destinations allow tourists to dive into history, but each of these cities, along with others like Williamsburg, Gettysburg, or Jamestown have much more to offer. Depending on available time and budget, a journey through America’s earliest days could range anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path to contemplate democracy, independence, and the essence of old and new America.
References:
15 Revolutionary War Sites in NYC That Bring Our Country's History to Life | MommyPoppins
Things to See in Boston | Avis
A Guide to Philadelphia’s Revolutionary War Battle Sites | [re]enact