25oth Celebration Destinations

Our daughter at Fort McHenry, Maryland

This July 4th, our nation will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which occurred in the Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia on July 4th of 1776.

With the unofficial start of summer over the Memorial Day weekend, unique and exciting patriotic events are taking place from coast to coast, as we usher in this semiquincentennial milestone of our nation. If you're looking for ways to get more engaged as we commemorate this historic moment, here are some of our favorite spots to visit for a pop of patriotism.

Top 10 Celebration Destinations

~ Mount Vernon: Home of America's 1st President

George Washington's estate is roughly 30 minutes from the incredible museums that line the National Mall in Washington DC. This property is the perfect fit for all ages.

• Be careful not to lean too heavily on the rustic split rail fencing at Mount Vernon. In the effort to get the "perfect photo" several years ago, I leaned a little too far and took out an entire section of fencing, which is a story for another time.

~ Monticello: Home of America's 3rd President

This beautiful estate located in the hills of central Virginia, was home to Thomas Jefferson, the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, which established our freedom from England.

~ National Archives Museum: Home of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution & Bill of Rights

This unassuming museum is a mere 10 minutes from the National Mall, yet it holds the most significant documents in our nation's history. It is truly a sobering experience to see their powerful words in person.

• If you ever write a letter to a sitting President, that letter will be filed away in the National Archives. My Mom wrote a letter to President Nixon in 1971, at the age of 18. Her letter is still in the National Archives, 55 years later, which is another story for another time.

~ Ford's Theater: Where President Lincoln was assassinated

About a 15-20 minute walk from the National Mall, Ford's Theater is a must-see. Aside from being a historical monument to Abraham Lincoln, it is a top-notch museum, as well as a working theater more than 160 years after the assassination of our 16th president.

~ Independence National Historic Park: Home of the Liberty Bell

In addition to being the location of the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed. Located in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania, Independence Hall is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

~ Betsy Ross House: Home where the 1st U.S. flag was said be sewn

Just a 12 minute walk from Independence Hall stands this historic home, which highlights artifacts and documents to reveal the story of the 1st American flag and the extraordinary woman behind each stitch.

~ Valley Forge National Park: Home of the Winter Encampment

Located 30 minutes from Independence Hall, this encampment is where General Washington took the Continental Army from a mismatched militia to a disciplined fighting force, making freedom and the creation of a new nation more of a reality.

~ Fort McHenry National Monument: Home of our national anthem

Perfectly situated on the Baltimore Harbor in Maryland, this pentagonal style fort was a significant asset during the Battle of Baltimore in September of 1814. Following the valiant defense of Baltimore, Francis Scott Key penned the words to "The Star-Spangled Banner", which became the U.S. national anthem.

~ Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty: A new home for immigrants

Between 1892-1954, more than 12 million immigrants came through Ellis Island, New York. The Statue of Liberty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was gifted to the U.S. by France in 1886 to symbolize independence and friendship betwe

en the two countries.

~ The White House: Home of each sitting president of the U.S.

The White House is the only destination on this list that my family hasn't already visited. However, that is about change. Later this month, my family and I will be touring the White House as we kick-off the celebration of the 25oth anniversary of our nation.

• If you ever want to tour the White House, you must submit a request through a Member of Congress from your state. Requests have to be submitted 7-90 days before your preferred date. International visitors must make arrangement through their embassy in Washington, DC. It's good to have a few dates in mind. Our 1st option fell through at the last minute. Also, everyone taking a tour of the White House must have a valid government issued ID, such as a passport.

There are countless options available. This list is just our top 10, but it's not comprehensive, by any means. Each community, no matter how big or small, has planned special events and activities for the 250th celebration. If you're looking for more inspiration, check out the TRIPS tab on my website, thefamilyjourney.net. Whatever you choose to do, I hope you have a wonderful summer!