Johann Hunt
Across the American landscape, certain attractions have become icons cherished for their historical significance and the vibrant eras they represent. These landmarks were the essence of cultural and social life during their prime. Here are some sites where history truly comes to life.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
In the 1870s, Atlantic City introduced its wooden boardwalk along the beach, swiftly establishing itself as a premier East Coast destination. It soon became a vibrant hub, and by the 1880s, the rolling chair had become the fashionable choice for strolling along this bustling seaside promenade.
Yellowstone National Park
Did you know Yellowstone is the granddaddy of national parks in the US? This park was established back in 1872, and it’s huge. One of its coolest features is Tower Falls, a 132-foot waterfall tucked away in the park’s northeast corner. For the best view, swing by the scenic overlook.
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon, shaped by the Colorado River over millions of years, became a US National Park just over a century ago and celebrated 100 years in 2019. With depths reaching around 6,000 feet, it draws visitors to its red rock formations and sweeping views.
Golden Gate Bridge
At its completion, this bridge was the longest and tallest suspension bridge worldwide, a feat that continues to impress visitors today. Officially opened to traffic in May 1937, journalists were among the first to drive across its vast span. Now, it’s a key landmark in San Francisco, handling over 100,000 vehicles daily.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty remains proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbor as a beacon of freedom and democracy. It’s not just any statue—it’s a beautiful piece of neoclassical art made of copper. As a gift from France, it was designed by the French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with a sturdy iron framework crafted by Gustave Eiffel.
Disneyland
Florida’s Disney parks may be larger now, but Disneyland in Anaheim holds the title of the oldest. Created by Walt Disney and inspired by global attractions, it opened in 1955 with the fairy-tale Sleeping Beauty Castle as its main draw. The grand opening was chaotic, with far more visitors arriving than expected.
Yosemite National Park
The origins of Yosemite were a bit muddled, with parts of the park being designated as a state park in 1864 and then a national park in 1890. Both of these parts were merged into Yosemite National Park in 1906. Wawona tree, which featured a tunnel at its base, was a major attraction until the 1960s.
Central Park
First opened to the public in 1858, Central Park’s lawns, woods, and lakes quickly won over locals. This park also has a rich history of model yacht racing, with the Central Park Model Yacht Club celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016. The hobby, popular since the 1880s, continues to thrive today.
Fremont Street
Being the second most famous street in Las Vegas after The Strip, Fremont Street was once the city’s hotspot. Famous as “Glitter Gulch,” it thrived in the 1920s and 1930s, highlighted by the Boulder Club casino. Today, this street features many spots for live music and dining options.
Mount Rainier National Park
In 1899, Mount Rainier National Park was established to protect the glacier-capped volcano that rises over 14,000 feet above sea level. Among its many features, the Paradise region is known for its meadows adorned with blooms and exceptional winter sports opportunities.
Lincoln Memorial
Lincoln Memorial was created in the style of a classical temple in honor of Abraham Lincoln. Dedicated on May 30, 1922, it is among several presidential memorials and has been a major tourist draw since its opening. Over time, it has also served as a symbol in discussions on civil rights.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Walter and Cordelia Knott founded this farm in the 1920s as a berry farm just over 20 miles from Los Angeles. Initially, they sold boysenberries from a roadside stand. By the 1940s, the park had expanded to include attractions like Ghost Town, an Old West-themed area with wooden buildings.
Gateway Arch
St. Louis hosts the Gateway Arch, which celebrates the westward expansion inspired by President Jefferson. The keystone, installed last, is believed to contain a time capsule with signatures from over 760,000 people and other artifacts, which makes this landmark a must-visit.
Pike Place Market
Located in Seattle, Pike Place Market has been a bustling public market since August 17, 1907. Overlooking Elliott Bay, it hosts small farmers, craftspeople, and merchants. Moreover, as Seattle’s top tourist spot and the 33rd most visited attraction worldwide, it draws over 10 million visitors annually.
Hollywood Sign
It is a well-known fact that the Hollywood Sign, a staple of the Hollywood Hills, did not always look as it does today. Erected in 1923 as an ad for a housing development, it originally read “Hollywoodland.” After years of disrepair, the sign was restored in the 1940s, dropping “land” to become what we see today.