Virginia Capital Trail

In Virginia, history is literally around every corner. The James River, which flows from the Chesapeake Bay to western Virginia, is the “road” along which Virginia’s history, and thereby America’s history, was founded. Beginning with Jamestown in 1607, this river and the land surrounding it has been the site of many significant historical events, including Native American villages, Colonial towns, and battles from 3 wars. A unique and socially-distanced way to view this historical area with your family is to bike or walk along the Virginia Capital Trail. It is the perfect place to have a family-friendly outing, especially during the cooler fall months. Read my new review today! Don't forget to sign up for my new newsletter - follow the "newsletter" link on my website!

Gettysburg National Military Park (Pennsylvania)

The small town of Gettysburg, near Pennsylvania’s border with Maryland, seems an unlikely spot for a battle of significance. However, in the summer of 1863, Union and Confederate forces clashed here, in what is called by some historians as the turning point of the Civil War. Whether you agree with that statement or not, there is no doubt of the battle’s effect on history. Now a National Military Park, Gettysburg’s location in the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania makes it the perfect place to take a fall socially-distanced educational trip with your family.

First Landing State Park (Virginia)

Did you know that many historic sites have outdoor camping and walking trails that are especially appealing during this time of social distancing? One of the most historic sites in Virginia is First Landing State Park, where the English colonists first landed in 1607 before settling at Jamestown. This location in Virginia Beach is now a huge state park with trails, camping sites, a beach, and more. This is a perfect site for a fall family outing that is socially distanced and historically significant!

Hamilton sites (United States/Caribbean)

With the resurgence of interest in Alexander Hamilton, thanks to the popular Hamilton the Musical’s recent release on Disney+, many families would like to plan trips to take their little Hamilfan to Hamilton-related sites. My new post is a comprehensive list of Hamilton sites in several states and the Caribbean. Read it and plan your in person or virtual visit today!

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

As I stated in my review of Yellowstone last year, national parks are wonderful places to combine history education with outdoor activities. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many families are not able to travel to the best known national parks this year. However, right now is the best time to begin planning for summer 2021. Many of the hotels, restaurants, and activities sell out 9-12 months in advance so you will want to start planning your dream trip today!

Outdoor Virginia Presidential Sites (Virginia)

The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have prevented me from traveling to any new Presidential sites this month. However, several of my previously reviewed Presidential sites in Virginia have reopened their extensive hiking trails and gardens. With many parents looking for a place to let their children play in the outdoors, these sites make a perfect place to visit during the pandemic!
Read my new review today to plan a safe and fun visit.

Henricus Historical Park (Richmond)

Henricus Historical Park near Richmond is the site of one of the oldest settlements in America. The site was founded in 1611 by English colonists as the second settlement in Virginia (the first was Jamestown). Today the site is a living history museum with recreated English and Native American structures. It has reopened after being closed for the coronavirus pandemic, and since it is mostly outside, it is a great place to visit with your family. Read my new review today!

National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis)

One way to learn more about the history of the Civil Rights struggle in America is to visit the moving National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. The museum is built beside the preserved Lorraine Motel, which was where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his last night. The museum is an important and must-see site for families, especially with the current challenges facing our country. Read my new review today!

Travel with Books

I am starting a new video series on social media, highlighting books for kids, teens, and adults that help them travel through history. I hope to virtually take you to the very places that are featured in the book and when possible, interview the authors to learn more about their book and its place in history. Read my new post today!

National D-Day Memorial (Virginia)

The little town of Bedford, VA lost the most soldiers proportionally of any town in America during the storming of the beaches at Normandy during World War II. That is why you will find the National D-Day Memorial in this small town that isn’t near an interstate. Thousands of people flock here every year to pay their respects to all of the soldiers who didn’t make it back home from the attacks. The memorial usually has a moving ceremony on June 6th, the anniversary of the attacks, but this year, the celebration will be virtual, which means that you and your children can watch from anywhere! Learn more about it in my new post today!