More Vacation Ideas for History Buffs
Revolutionary War Driving Guides
Each of these ten short guidebooks provides detailed information on a one-day driving tour to key forts, towns, and battlefields of the Revolutionary War, from Vermont to Georgia. Produced by retired college professor and Bethlehem, NY, town historian Raymond C. Houghton. $13 each (866-308-6235).
LegendsofAmerica.com
This Web site features historic travel destinations in the American West, including Route 66, with a state-by-state guide to sites along the Mother Road, as well as all the facts and trivia you ever wanted to know about this route and how to travel it.
Historic Hotels
George Washington slept here — and you can, too. Plan a trip that links several of the 200 well-preserved hotels, or stay at one with nearby sites.
Hotel del Coronado, San Diego, CA
Built in 1888, this red-roofed, gabled hotel on the water feels like you're stepping back into a 19th-century beach party/tea party/debutante ball. Walk to restaurants, bookstores, and boutiques on the surrounding island of Coronado. Then tour San Diego's historic districts, or drive north to see the adobe-walled Spanish missions built between San Diego and San Francisco from 1769 to 1823 (800-HOTELDEL).
The Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City, Canada
A spire-topped, turreted, castle-like hotel looming high over this historic walled city, the Frontenac was originally opened for travelers on the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1893. Today, its central location and updated amenities make it a perfect stay for touring the citadel and the Plains of Abraham at this UNESCO World Heritage site (800-257-7544).
Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg, VA
Built in 1937 by John D. Rockefeller, this white brick, neo-classical hotel is far more elegant than you'd expect to find adjacent to the Colonial-era town of Colonial Williamsburg. Step back to the 17th-century by day, relax in (updated, more recent) historic splendor at night (800-745-8883).
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Dedicated to preserving our country's historic resources, this nonprofit offers history-based group trips and ideas for planning your own (800-944-6847).
National Scenic Byways Program
These roads, designated as such by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, have one or more archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic qualities. Find out about historic routes in nearly every state, with specific itineraries.
America's Historic Trails
This DVD, available from Barnes and Noble, is hosted by National Public Radio/PBS contributor Tom Bodett. With topics such as “Yukon Gold Rush” and “Wagon Road” each tape focuses on a specific migration or pioneer movement, bringing historic routes right into your living room.
For more history-themed vacation ideas, be sure to read Vacation Ideas for History Buffs
About the Author
Wendy Paris writes frequently for NRTA Live & Learn.
This article originally appeared in NRTA Live & Learn, Spring 2007.
