AARP Members:
Does your ideal vacation include walking tours, history lessons, and ancient artifacts? These destinations are right up your alley. We’ve pinpointed four cities that offer the ideal getaway for history buffs. Looking to expand your knowledge of the past for your next trivia night? Want to teach your grandkids about history? You’ll find these attractions offer a great reason for a vacation. Check out these fascinating landmarks. Consider staying in accommodations with history of their own!
St. Augustine, Florida
Are the mesmerizing coastal views in St. Augustine not enough to entice you into a visit? This city is home to some major history lessons, too. When was St. Augustine founded, you ask? It was settled in 1565, making it the oldest European settlement in the nation. Step back in time during a visit to the Oldest Wooden School House. Or venture to Castillo de San Marcos, one of the oldest masonry forts in the country. While you’re in town, don’t miss the antique exhibits at the Lightner Museum.
Rest your head at the charming Casa Monica Resort & Spa, founded in 1888.
Williamsburg, Virginia
As one of the original 13 American Colonies, Virginia is teeming with history. Colonial Williamsburg is no exception—it’s the world’s largest living history museum! You’ll turn back the hands of time as you explore this 18th-century city. From the carpenter’s yard and apothecary to the blacksmith shop and public armory. Take in the George Wythe House and Peyton Randolph House. Round out America’s Historic Triangle with stops in nearby Jamestown and Yorktown.
Book a room at the Historic Powhatan Resort, which is a historical Manor House from 1735.
Santa Cruz, California
You might consider California young compared to some East Coast destinations. There’s still plenty for the history buff to enjoy. Spend an afternoon at the Mission Santa Cruz, founded in 1791. Then stand before the ancient trees in Big Basin Redwoods State Park. This forest is the oldest state park in California. It features some of the largest redwoods south of San Francisco. Don’t leave town without a spin on the 1911 Looff Carousel, located on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It’s the oldest amusement park in the state.
Need somewhere to stay? Consider a night at Four Sister Inns’ West Cliff Inn. An 1877 seaside home-turned-accommodation.
Portland, Oregon
Another West Coast destination, Portland is a prime spot for history enthusiasts. Take a peek at the elaborate Pittock Mansion, built in 1909. Visit the Japanese American Historical Plaza. Pay your respects at the Oregon Holocaust Memorial in Washington Park. For a unique history experience, tour the Shanghai Tunnels. Here, you’ll learn the stories and legends of underground Portland. Enjoy hearing about crimes to controversies? History is fun!
Put your feet up at Heathman Hotel. A lovely accommodation that originally opened its doors in 1927.
Header Image Via Shutterstock.com/ Iakov Filimonov