As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, there’s no better time to step into the stories that shaped our nation. This fall, take time to explore the charming historic towns that built our country. From century old communities to picturesque towns filled with timeless character, these destinations offer a memorable way to explore America’s history while enjoying the beauty of the season.
Are you ready to celebrate America’s 250th? Keep reading to discover amazing historic towns to visit this fall!
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state rich in history and historic towns. It was the site of more Revolutionary War battles than any other state. New Jersey was also the third U.S. state and the first state to sign the Bill of Rights. If you are looking for historic towns to visit this fall, look no further than the cities and towns of New Jersey.
Revolutionary War Sites
New Jersey has been home to more than 600 battles, clashes, skirmishes, and naval engagements. It is home to more than 100 revolutionary sites that epitomize America’s history and its 250th. Take a journey to the past this fall by visiting the following historic towns and Revolutionary War sites:
- East Jersey Old Town Village in Piscataway
- Fort Lee Historic Park in Fort Lee
- Indian King Tavern State Historic Site in Haddonfield
- Liberty Hall Museum in Union
- Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Monmouth
- Morristown National Historical Park in Morristown
- Old Barracks Museum in Trenton
- Princeton Battlefield State Park in Princeton
- Proprietary House in Perth Amboy
- Red Bank Battlefield in National Park
- Rockingham State Historic Site in Franklin
- Trenton Battle Monument in Trenton
- Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville
- Historic Morven in Princeton
- Boxwood Hall State Park in Elizabeth
- Dey Mansion in Wayne
Black Heritage
The Black community in New Jersey has shaped many of the state’s historic towns. There are countless sites and museums honoring New Jersey’s unique Black history and heritage.
Instead of exploring a single town this fall, consider embarking on a three-day Black Heritage Trip through one of the state’s distinct regions. Southern New Jersey’s museums and sites include the Harriet Tubman Museum and Cape May’s Railroad Trolley Tour. Historic locations along the Delaware River include Lawnside, the first incorporated, self-governing Black municipality north of the Mason-Dixon Line. Central New Jersey is home to many notable cultural sites including the Count Basie Center for the Arts, the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural
Center, and Moses D. Heath Farm.
Explore all of New Jersey this fall! Now is the time to request your free print and downloadable New Jersey Travel Guide.
Carbon County, Wyoming
The historic town of Carbon, and Carbon County, Wyoming, were both named for coal, the resource that was mined in the area. Founded in 1868 along the Union Pacific railroad, the area is rich in history. This fall is the perfect time to celebrate America’s past and future in Carbon County.
Explore Ghost Towns
A great way to embrace Carbon County’s rich history is by exploring its many ghost towns. Carbon County was founded by miners who built large settlements and then moved on when mineral deposits were found elsewhere. These settlements became ghost towns, perfect for exploring. Some of Carbon County’s ghost towns include the following:
- Benton
- Carbon
- Battle
- Rudefeha
- Dillon
- Rambler
Every ghost town has its own unique story to tell. Some are easier to access like Carbon while others are more of an adventure to get to like Battle and Rambler. If you decide to visit Carbon be sure to check out the Hanna Museum first. It is a wonderful resource to learn about the town’s history and to view photos, artifacts, and more.
Take a Drive
Carbon County is known for its scenic routes, abundant wildlife, and historic towns. You can discover all of its hidden treasures by taking a drive on one of its many scenic byways and back country roads. We recommend planning plenty of time to stop and enjoy the scenery during your travels. Some of the top scenic routes include the following:
- Battle Pass Highway
- The Outlaw Trail Loop
- Snowy Range Scenic Byway
- Seminoe-Alcova Back Country Byway
Wyoming is a national treasure. Celebrate America’s 250th by exploring its many historic sites and towns.
Are you ready to discover Carbon County, Wyoming? Request your free print and downloadable Carbon County Visitors Guide today!
Maryland
Maryland has strong ties to the nation’s history. It is the seventh U.S. state and home to the oldest continuously published newspaper in the United States, the Maryland Gazette. It is also the inspiration for “The Star-Spangled Banner” and home of the first telegraph line. Every town in Maryland is full of history.
Historic St. Mary’s City
St. Mary’s City is a charming, waterfront hamlet. Founded in 1634, it is a town where every step brings you closer to history. In St. Mary’s you can mingle with living historians to get a true glimpse into the past. These traditional farmers and merchants provide the opportunity to experience what life was like in 1635. After journeying to the past, embrace the present by soaking in the scenery. St. Mary’s is beautiful. Take some time to gaze out over St. Mary’s river, wander through its forests, or picnic on its sandy beach.
Now is the time to plan your trip! Explore it all with your free print and downloadable Maryland Travel Guide.
Streetsboro, Ohio
Located in Northeast Ohio, Streetsboro has a rich history. In 1798, Streetsboro was named for its founder Titus Street. As one of the last townships in Portage County to be settled and organized, Streetsboro steadily grew to be the affordable and welcoming destination it is today. In 2022, Streetsboro celebrated its own 200-year anniversary. As America celebrates its 250th, Streetsboro is once again celebrating. When you visit this fall be sure to check out the following sites.
Historic Homes
Thanks to its rich history, Streetsboro is home to a number of historic homes. Each provides a glimpse into the past and the area’s rich history.
The Singletary House, built in 1828, is the oldest frame house in Streetsboro. Its rich history includes many of the local founding families. It is open to the public for tours. In addition to historic maps, furniture, and clothing, visitors can also view the fireplace that helped hide runaway slaves.
Memorable Events
Streetsboro’s convenient location makes it an ideal vacation destination. Located just minutes from Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Youngstown, and Ravenna, Streetsboro is your gateway to fall fun. This year, make time for the Ravenna Balloon A-Fair. The hot-air balloon festival is held in Downtown Ravenna and the Portage County Fairgrounds and takes place the last weekend in September.
If you prefer to tantalize your taste buds then be sure to plan your visit to Streetsboro during the first two weeks of October. From October 2 through October 11, visitors are invited to experience the Flavors of Streetsboro during Streetsboro Restaurant Week!
Are you ready to enjoy all that Streetsboro has to offer? Request your free print and downloadable Streetsboro Visitors Guide today!
Wayne County, New York
Located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, Wayne County offers rich history, picturesque communities, and scenic beauty. From historic landmarks and preserved architecture to charming downtowns and stories that helped shape the region, Wayne County offers plenty of opportunities to experience the past while enjoying all the best of the present. Follow the historic Erie Canal as it winds through our rural county or catch a trophy fish from the lake as so many have done before. Wayne County is a perfect place to explore New York’s fascinating heritage.
Huron
The picturesque town of Huron features rolling hills, orchards, farmlands, and vineyards. Its rich history can be explored via three historic buildings: the Old Town Hall (1849), the Dayton Mills Schoolhouse (1871), and the Huron Grange (1884). Each of these three buildings is a tribute to the town’s agricultural and rural heritage. Visitors are welcome to explore the buildings and view the many historic items that each contain. We recommend calling ahead of time to schedule an appointment.
Now is the time to explore the past! Get your free print and downloadable Visitors Guide to Wayne County today.
Journey to the Past Today!
This fall, make America’s 250th anniversary part of your next adventure by visiting a historic town. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenic road-tripper, or simply looking for a memorable fall getaway, these towns offer a wonderful way to celebrate America.
Ready to plan your next fall getaway? Check out all of our free print and downloadable travel guides!