From the earliest colonial days to pivotal moments in the country's history and iconic presidential sites, the United States is brimming with captivating historical destinations. However, if you've already ticked off the most famous landmarks from your list, you might be wondering where to explore next. Look no further! The following places – though unexpected and off the beaten path – all played a crucial role in the nation's development and make excellent getaways for history enthusiasts. Avoid the crowds and discover 6 under-the-radar cities that will delight US history buffs. Let's dive right in!
So what are some lesser-known historical cities in the United States worth visiting?
1. Astoria, Oregon
Source: Nils Huenerfuerst/Unsplash
The famous expedition of Lewis and Clark, officially known as the Corps of Discovery, commenced in St. Louis in 1804 and headed westward. President Thomas Jefferson entrusted the explorers with mapping the western territory all the way to the Pacific Ocean, and they eventually reached what would become Astoria. When the expedition arrived in December 1805, they built Fort Clatsop near the mouth of the Columbia River, which provided them shelter for two winters before they turned back east. Today, the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, located in and around modern-day Astoria, feature a re-creation of the small fort and chronicle this momentous exploration mission.
Astoria itself also has a captivating history, which is highlighted at the Astoria Column, a towering hilltop monument adorned with murals depicting the area's history and offering panoramic views. The Columbia River Maritime Museum, situated on the waterfront, showcases the city's fishing, shipping, and military history. In addition, the Flavel House Museum, set in a Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion, features period furniture amidst meticulously manicured gardens.
2. Durango, Colorado
Source: Kellie Enge/Unsplash
Durango, a Colorado mountain town, holds appeal for fans of both Native American heritage and Hollywood history. The area was initially settled by the ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi, but they mysteriously vanished from the Four Corners region around 1300. Today, Mesa Verde National Park, established in 1906, showcases thousands of archaeological sites and ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings. As the closest modern town, Durango serves as a popular starting point for area tourism, and it has its own significant western history – both real and cinematic.
Durango is particularly renowned for its 19th-century Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The steam train continues to hug mountainsides and roll through canyons, now as a tourist attraction, but it originally transported gold and silver ore that helped build the city and the nation. The Railroad Museum in town displays restored locomotives. Durango has also served as the backdrop for several popular Hollywood films, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, City Slickers, and How the West Was Won.
3. Tenino, Washington
Source: Peter Robbins/Unsplash
During the Great Depression, the only bank in the small town of Tenino, Washington, closed down. Don Major, the publisher of the local newspaper, brought an idea to the city council - issuing temporary scrip, or alternative currency, to facilitate transactions within the community. This concept was adopted by various cities and towns across the United States, but Major's unique version, made of thin spruce strips laminated on either side of paper, gained popularity as a collector's item beyond the town's borders. The Tenino Chamber of Commerce is reported to have issued over $10,000 worth of this wooden currency over the following years, responding to the growing demand from collectors. To this day, the refurbished original Chandler Price printing press is used once a year to create souvenirs for the city's annual Oregon Trail Days celebration, which is scheduled to take place from July 26 to 28 this year.
4. Bartlesville, Oklahoma
Source: Garrett Vogele/Unsplash
In Bartlesville and the nearby city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, architecture enthusiasts can find some of the best-preserved examples of mid-century and Art Deco architecture and design in the country. This includes several homes and buildings designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. In fact, Bartlesville is home to Wright's only cantilevered skyscraper, as well as the Bartlesville Community Center, which was inspired by his work. The city also features multiple houses designed by architect Bruce Goff and his Redeemer Lutheran Church Education Building.
If you plan to visit Bartlesville in June, you can experience the city's classical OK Music Festival. In Tulsa, be sure to explore the central Deco District, where landmarks like the Philcade and Philtower buildings exemplify the Art Deco style and the city's oil-fueled building boom. The Philbrook Museum of Art, housed in an Italianate villa that was once the home of a local oil magnate, and the Gilcrease Museum offer additional cultural and historical experiences.
5. Dodge City, Kansas
Source: Google Search
Dodge City is a hub for enthusiasts of western history who are exploring the legacy of the Old West and the remnants of cowboy culture. The town, established in 1872 during the height of the Wild West era, was known to host a rugged and tumultuous clientele of cattle-driving cowboys and renowned lawmen. Although the atmosphere has become more subdued today, reenactments of shootouts and rodeos remain vibrant parts of the community, which takes great pride in its heritage. Visitors can delve deeper into Dodge City's frontier past at the Boot Hill Museum.
Elsewhere in the town, the Gunfighters Wax Museum showcases life-size sculptures of legendary and notorious western figures, including Wyatt Earp and Sitting Bull. In addition, the Mueller-Schmidt House Home of Stone Museum offers tours from June through August, during which visitors can view the original 1880s furnishings of the parlor, kitchen, and bedrooms.
6. Montgomery, Alabama
Source: Carol Highsmith's America/Unsplash
Montgomery holds immense significance in the history of the United States, having been the stage for two pivotal events. It was here that Jefferson Davis took on the role of the first and only president of the Confederacy. In addition, it is the site where Rosa Parks famously refused to relinquish her seat on a bus in 1955.
The latter historical event is commemorated in Alabama's capital, with the presence of the Civil Rights Memorial, crafted from gleaming black granite. This monument is situated adjacent to the exhibition center, which further elaborates on the commemoration of the civil rights movement. Other notable sites in the vicinity include the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, a hub for the bus boycott where Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his sermons. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, located east of downtown, houses displays of exquisite American and African porcelain art.
Arrive relaxed, not rushed: book affordable airport parking with ParkingNearAirports.io!
Source: Julian Leung/Unsplash
The destinations highlighted in the article offer a glimpse into America's rich tapestry. From the momentous Lewis and Clark expedition in Astoria, Oregon to the pivotal events of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama, these cities brim with historical significance. Immerse yourself in the stories of the past and let the museums, monuments, and architectural gems transport you back in time and create a deeper appreciation for the nation's vibrant history.
If you're planning a trip to delve into these captivating historical gems, your upcoming trip shouldn't be overshadowed by the hassle of airport parking. Thankfully, our smart booking platform – ParkingNearAirports.io – is your one-stop shop for a stress-free travel experience. We offer a variety of convenient and affordable parking options near major airports across the United States. Whether you need long-term parking near LAX Airport, EWR valet parking, or are looking for the best rates on domestic airport parking charges, we allow you to compare options and book your spot in advance. So… Just focus on creating lasting memories on your historical adventure with PNA!
