4 Revolutionary Destinations: Celebrating 250 Years of American Spirit
As 2026 ushers in the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, there's no better time to explore the revolutionary towns that played pivotal roles in our nation's history. From live battle reenactments to walking in the footsteps of troops and visiting historical markers, these Revolutionary War sites offer an in-depth look into the past. Whether you're visiting one or combining multiple cities for a history-filled road trip, each stop promises a unique glimpse into America's fight for freedom.
Old 96 District, SC
Comprised of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick Counties, South Carolina's Old 96 District is steeped in Revolutionary War history. In fact, over 200 battles were fought in South Carolina alone — more than any other colony. From walking trails to significant landmarks, there's plenty to explore for all types of history buffs in this pocket of the Palmetto State.
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Perhaps the most significant landmark in the area is Greenwood County's Ninety Six National Historic Site. Located just outside Ninety Six, SC, it was the site of two Revolutionary War battles, including the first land battle fought south of New England in 1775. A second, more famous battle, the Siege of Ninety Six in 1781, lasted nearly a month and drew thousands of troops to the area.
In addition to its visitor center, interpretive trails, reconstructed siege works, and historic markers, the site is also home to the original Star Fort, which was built by loyalists and is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the United States.
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In Laurens County, you'll find Musgrove Mill State Historic Site. Here, a small group of American soldiers surprised a much larger group of loyalist troops, resulting in a victory and a much-needed morale boost.
When visiting the site, stop inside the visitors center to explore immersive exhibits, walk along the interactive trails, and, if your timing is right, possibly watch a live battle reenactment.
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However you choose to explore the Old 96 District and its Revolutionary War history, visitors are offered the chance to experience the birthplace of American resilience. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that helped shape the nation.
Greensboro, NC
Greensboro, NC's Revolutionary War history runs deep. In fact, it's in the name alone, honoring General Nathanael Greene, who led American forces during the Revolutionary War's Battle of Guilford Courthouse in 1781.
To learn more about this battle and the city's namesake, visit Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Start in the visitors center, which offers a museum, battle map program, and a 30-minute live-action film. From there, venture to the battlefield to explore its various monuments and exhibits.
Throughout your visit, you'll learn how this battle changed the course of the war. Although it looked like a win for the British army on paper, the battle weakened British General Charles Cornwallis's army, setting the stage for his surrender just a few months later.
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Just a few miles away, you'll also find the historical marker for the Battle of New Garden, which took place the same day as the Battle of Guilford Courthouse — just a few hours earlier. The early-morning skirmish helped slow down British troops and gave the American army more time to prepare for the larger battle to come later in the afternoon.
For a more traditional museum experience, spend the afternoon at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. Inside the historic F.W. Woolworth building, where Greensboro sit-ins occurred in 1960, interactive exhibits walk visitors through some of the most pivotal moments in the American Civil Rights Movement.
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Located at the Guilford College Campus, the Underground Railroad Tree offers a quiet moment of reflection. Dating back to before 1800, the old-growth tulip tree stood in the same spot during Guilford County's operation of the Underground Railroad. Today, it serves as a living monument to the 2,000 enslaved African and African Americans struggling for freedom.
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Boston, MA
Boston, MA, is the place to be if you're looking for the epicenter of Revolutionary War history. This New England city served as the backdrop for some of the earliest and most influential events of the American Revolution — from the Boston Massacre to the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere's famous midnight ride.
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Begin your visit at the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walkable route connecting 16 historic landmarks, such as Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, and the Old North Church, where two lanterns famously signaled British troops crossing the Charles River. You can explore independently or book a guided tour with a costumed interpreter.
The Freedom Trail also passes by the Granary Burying Ground. As the final resting place of prominent figures like Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere, a stop here is a poignant reminder of the real people behind the founding ideals.
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Not far away, Boston National Historical Park is home to sites like the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution, the world's oldest commissioned warship that is still afloat.
Boston's museums add even more context. The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a highly interactive experience, as it offers the chance to throw (replica) tea into the harbor just like the Sons of Liberty did in 1773.
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Nearby, the Old State House brings the Boston Massacre to life just steps from where it actually happened. Highlights include John Hancock's famous red velvet coat and tea salvaged from the Boston Tea Party.
Whether you're soaking in the skyline from Boston Harbor or walking through a centuries-old meeting house, the city offers an immersive glimpse into the ideals, protests, and people that sparked a revolution.
Virginia
While many cities played a role in the American Revolution, the state of Virginia tells nearly the whole story, from start to finish. Throughout the state, you'll find pivotal sites that span the entire timeline of the war, making it one of the country's most comprehensive Revolutionary War destinations.
Start your visit in Williamsburg, where Colonial Williamsburg offers a fully immersive experience of life in the 18th century. From costumed interpreters and live demonstrations to preserved buildings and historic taverns, this living-history museum brings the ideas and debates that sparked the revolution to life.
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Of course, no Revolutionary War journey through Virginia is complete without a stop in Yorktown. This is where British General Cornwallis officially surrendered to General George Washington in 1781, effectively ending the war. You can even stand in the exact spot where this happened at the Yorktown Battlefield.
While in Yorktown, be sure to also visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. In addition to engaging films, outdoor encampments, and battlefield interpretations, you'll find nearly 500 18th-century artifacts on display.
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Next, make your way to Richmond, where you can visit St. John's Church. This is the site of Patrick Henry's famous 'Give me liberty, or give me death!' speech. Just a short drive away is Henry's former home, Scotchtown, which provides a deeper look at his life.
To round out your Virginia adventures, visit George Washington's Mount Vernon. As his former estate, it provides an in-depth look at his life and legacy through original artifacts and interactive exhibits. Plus, carve out some time to just stroll through the beautiful grounds.
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From battlefield victories to bold speeches and national landmarks, Virginia's Revolutionary War sites offer a rare chance to experience history exactly where it happened.
Wherever your journey takes you, let history lead the way!
This article is sponsored by the Old 96 District Tourism Commission and the Greensboro Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.
About the Author Brianna Goebel
Brianna is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.
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Style Blueprint
5 hours ago
- Style Blueprint
4 Revolutionary Destinations: Celebrating 250 Years of American Spirit
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit As 2026 ushers in the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, there's no better time to explore the revolutionary towns that played pivotal roles in our nation's history. From live battle reenactments to walking in the footsteps of troops and visiting historical markers, these Revolutionary War sites offer an in-depth look into the past. Whether you're visiting one or combining multiple cities for a history-filled road trip, each stop promises a unique glimpse into America's fight for freedom. Old 96 District, SC Comprised of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick Counties, South Carolina's Old 96 District is steeped in Revolutionary War history. In fact, over 200 battles were fought in South Carolina alone — more than any other colony. From walking trails to significant landmarks, there's plenty to explore for all types of history buffs in this pocket of the Palmetto State. Pin Perhaps the most significant landmark in the area is Greenwood County's Ninety Six National Historic Site. Located just outside Ninety Six, SC, it was the site of two Revolutionary War battles, including the first land battle fought south of New England in 1775. A second, more famous battle, the Siege of Ninety Six in 1781, lasted nearly a month and drew thousands of troops to the area. In addition to its visitor center, interpretive trails, reconstructed siege works, and historic markers, the site is also home to the original Star Fort, which was built by loyalists and is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the United States. Pin In Laurens County, you'll find Musgrove Mill State Historic Site. Here, a small group of American soldiers surprised a much larger group of loyalist troops, resulting in a victory and a much-needed morale boost. When visiting the site, stop inside the visitors center to explore immersive exhibits, walk along the interactive trails, and, if your timing is right, possibly watch a live battle reenactment. Pin However you choose to explore the Old 96 District and its Revolutionary War history, visitors are offered the chance to experience the birthplace of American resilience. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that helped shape the nation. Greensboro, NC Greensboro, NC's Revolutionary War history runs deep. In fact, it's in the name alone, honoring General Nathanael Greene, who led American forces during the Revolutionary War's Battle of Guilford Courthouse in 1781. To learn more about this battle and the city's namesake, visit Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Start in the visitors center, which offers a museum, battle map program, and a 30-minute live-action film. From there, venture to the battlefield to explore its various monuments and exhibits. Throughout your visit, you'll learn how this battle changed the course of the war. Although it looked like a win for the British army on paper, the battle weakened British General Charles Cornwallis's army, setting the stage for his surrender just a few months later. Pin Just a few miles away, you'll also find the historical marker for the Battle of New Garden, which took place the same day as the Battle of Guilford Courthouse — just a few hours earlier. The early-morning skirmish helped slow down British troops and gave the American army more time to prepare for the larger battle to come later in the afternoon. For a more traditional museum experience, spend the afternoon at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. Inside the historic F.W. Woolworth building, where Greensboro sit-ins occurred in 1960, interactive exhibits walk visitors through some of the most pivotal moments in the American Civil Rights Movement. Pin Located at the Guilford College Campus, the Underground Railroad Tree offers a quiet moment of reflection. Dating back to before 1800, the old-growth tulip tree stood in the same spot during Guilford County's operation of the Underground Railroad. Today, it serves as a living monument to the 2,000 enslaved African and African Americans struggling for freedom. Pin Boston, MA Boston, MA, is the place to be if you're looking for the epicenter of Revolutionary War history. This New England city served as the backdrop for some of the earliest and most influential events of the American Revolution — from the Boston Massacre to the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere's famous midnight ride. Pin Begin your visit at the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walkable route connecting 16 historic landmarks, such as Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, and the Old North Church, where two lanterns famously signaled British troops crossing the Charles River. You can explore independently or book a guided tour with a costumed interpreter. The Freedom Trail also passes by the Granary Burying Ground. As the final resting place of prominent figures like Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere, a stop here is a poignant reminder of the real people behind the founding ideals. Pin Not far away, Boston National Historical Park is home to sites like the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution, the world's oldest commissioned warship that is still afloat. Boston's museums add even more context. The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a highly interactive experience, as it offers the chance to throw (replica) tea into the harbor just like the Sons of Liberty did in 1773. Pin Nearby, the Old State House brings the Boston Massacre to life just steps from where it actually happened. Highlights include John Hancock's famous red velvet coat and tea salvaged from the Boston Tea Party. Whether you're soaking in the skyline from Boston Harbor or walking through a centuries-old meeting house, the city offers an immersive glimpse into the ideals, protests, and people that sparked a revolution. Virginia While many cities played a role in the American Revolution, the state of Virginia tells nearly the whole story, from start to finish. Throughout the state, you'll find pivotal sites that span the entire timeline of the war, making it one of the country's most comprehensive Revolutionary War destinations. Start your visit in Williamsburg, where Colonial Williamsburg offers a fully immersive experience of life in the 18th century. From costumed interpreters and live demonstrations to preserved buildings and historic taverns, this living-history museum brings the ideas and debates that sparked the revolution to life. Pin Of course, no Revolutionary War journey through Virginia is complete without a stop in Yorktown. This is where British General Cornwallis officially surrendered to General George Washington in 1781, effectively ending the war. You can even stand in the exact spot where this happened at the Yorktown Battlefield. While in Yorktown, be sure to also visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. In addition to engaging films, outdoor encampments, and battlefield interpretations, you'll find nearly 500 18th-century artifacts on display. Pin Next, make your way to Richmond, where you can visit St. John's Church. This is the site of Patrick Henry's famous 'Give me liberty, or give me death!' speech. Just a short drive away is Henry's former home, Scotchtown, which provides a deeper look at his life. To round out your Virginia adventures, visit George Washington's Mount Vernon. As his former estate, it provides an in-depth look at his life and legacy through original artifacts and interactive exhibits. Plus, carve out some time to just stroll through the beautiful grounds. Pin From battlefield victories to bold speeches and national landmarks, Virginia's Revolutionary War sites offer a rare chance to experience history exactly where it happened. Wherever your journey takes you, let history lead the way! This article is sponsored by the Old 96 District Tourism Commission and the Greensboro Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. About the Author Brianna Goebel Brianna is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.
Winnipeg Free Press
14 hours ago
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Greenland has a message for the rest of the world: Come visit
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How summer tourist bookings compare with last year in B.C.
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Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors 'In talking to my tenants and to some of the restaurants, they've noticed a drop-off in the number of American tourists,' David McCann said. 'And I don't think that's going to improve.' Because the tourist season won't swing into high gear until July and August, there are no official numbers. 'But I've not heard anybody here say it was a normal June,' McCann said. Those sentiments are backed up by the latest figures from Statistics Canada: U.S. residents took 1.3 million trips to Canada in April, down 8.9 per cent from April 2024, and representing 76.7 per cent of all non-resident trips to Canada in April 2025. Perhaps things will pick up after Canada Day: A study done at the end of May by Destination B.C. showed the visitor outlook in B.C. through the summer is bright, spokeswoman Laura Simpson said. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Data-sharing agreements limit the Crown tourism-marketing corporation from providing specific numbers, she said. 'But we continue to see strong growth in U.S. air bookings … to August 2025, compared to the same period last year,' Simpson said. 'B.C. is seeing a robust increase in domestic air bookings for this summer, outpacing the same period last year.' To improve pedestrian and road safety around Canada Place, the city of Vancouver is trying a pilot of one-way traffic during this spring-summer cruise season. Photo by Nick Procaylo / PNG Flights from the U.S. continue to increase in volume for the summer, adds Destination B.C. 'Accommodation bookings are holding steady year over year for the summer, with early bookings suggesting a stronger season in some areas of B.C.' Collaborating with its federal big brother, Destination Canada, Destination B.C. records traveller sentiment in Canada and the U.S. every month. Stay on top of the latest real estate news and home design trends. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'Currently, we are seeing a steady growth in U.S. bookings to Canada, alongside a decrease in Canadian travel to the U.S.,' Simpson said. The strong U.S. dollar against the loonie is a factor, she said, and there are indications that American travellers to B.C. may opt for more frequent visits or longer stays. It's also expected that the exchange rate and cross-border concerns will boost the number of Canadians visiting B.C. this summer, 'enhancing demand for locally sourced products, benefiting sectors such as agri-tourism, culinary tourism and Indigenous tourism,' Simpson said. Destination B.C. has specific marketing strategies aimed at Americans, letting them know they're welcome in the province. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'Our American neighbours have long played a vital role in B.C.'s tourism economy, and we continue to extend a warm invitation for them to experience all that our province has to offer,' the corporation says under its 'tariffs tourism impacts/visitation' strategy. 'We want to assure you that B.C. is a welcoming destination for visitors from all over the world, including our friends, family and neighbours from the United States. 'We believe that travel has the power to connect, inspire and uplift, and we are committed to ensuring that B.C. remains a place where everyone feels welcome and included.' Focusing on Metro Vancouver, overnight stays from the U.S., after a strong start to 2025 in January, have declined since, resulting in a modest 1.6 per cent growth in U.S. visitors in the first quarter of the year. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'That said, U.S. visitation remained strong, with more than 500,000 overnight visitors,' Suzanne Walters of Destination Vancouver said. 'However, U.S. visitation dropped by eight per cent in March compared to last year.' In 2024, travel from the U.S. represented 23 per cent of total visits to Vancouver, and 28 per cent of spending,' she said. 'Looking ahead, forward air bookings from the U.S. suggest a solid summer season followed by a year-over-year drop in the fall and winter.' A worker polishes a Disney Cruise ship in Vancouver on June 23, 2025. Photo by Arlen Redekop / PNG Current research, which is continuing so there are only preliminary results, shows U.S. cruise-ship customers helping bolster Vancouver tourism, with more than half of Alaska cruise passengers so far this year coming from the U.S. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Projected air travel between the U.S. and the Vancouver International Airport is up about three per cent this summer, after a decline over 2024 for the first five months of this year. As well, Destination Vancouver has noted an increase in last-minute bookings, alongside a drop in bookings with lead times of 90 days or more. 'This may suggest that travellers are looking for deals and/or perhaps are hesitant due to the current economic and political climate, and are waiting to see how things turn out before booking last-minute,' Walters said. On Granville Island, Ken Uehara, manager of sales and marketing at Vancouver Water Adventures, said the border war of words hasn't had an impact, at least yet. Water Adventures, a family run firm that started out 19 years ago with two Jet Skis and now has a fleet of 50, plus three touring zodiacs and scores of kayaks and paddleboards, enjoyed a good June thanks to nice weather. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'I think at first, the whole political situation was a little bit more shocking,' Uehara said, referring to when U.S. President Donald Trump first threatened Canada with tariffs. 'But right now we're seeing a lot of people coming from the U.S.' He didn't have exact numbers on hand, but he said Americans are a significant percentage of the company's business. Those Americans who do visit, meanwhile, can sound downright Canadian themselves, Creekhouse's McCann said. 'I talk with my tenants every day,' he said. 'They're saying the Americans who do come up here are saying they're 'sorry.'' gordmcintyre@ Read More Vancouver Canucks Vancouver Canucks Vancouver Canucks World World
