Acadia National Park (Maine):

Acadia offers stunning coastal landscapes, granite peaks, and pristine forests. Visitors can explore Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, and enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and scenic drives along the Park Loop Road.

Shenandoah National Park (Virginia):

Shenandoah boasts the scenic Skyline Drive, winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering panoramic vistas and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can hike to picturesque waterfalls, camp in serene surroundings, and enjoy the park’s renowned fall foliage.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio):

Nestled along the Cuyahoga River, this park features lush forests, rolling hills, and historic landmarks like the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Visitors can ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, explore the Brandywine Falls, and enjoy recreational activities like biking and kayaking.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee and North Carolina):

America’s most visited national park, the Great Smokies showcase diverse ecosystems, including ancient forests, mountain streams, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike to iconic landmarks like Clingmans Dome, explore historic homesteads, and experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Gateway National Recreation Area (New York and New Jersey):

Located near urban centers, Gateway offers beaches, marshes, and historic sites. Visitors can relax on Sandy Hook Beach, explore the wildlife refuge at Jamaica Bay, and visit historic forts like Fort Tilden.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Pennsylvania and New Jersey):

This scenic area along the Delaware River features rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and forested valleys. Visitors can hike the Appalachian Trail, kayak the river’s rapids, and explore historic villages like Milford and Delaware Water Gap.

Assateague Island National Seashore (Maryland and Virginia):

Known for its wild horses, Assateague Island offers pristine beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests. Visitors can camp on the beach, hike the island’s trails, and enjoy birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Cape Cod National Seashore (Massachusetts):

Cape Cod’s seashore boasts sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal landscapes. Visitors can explore historic lighthouses, bike along scenic trails, and enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, and whale watching.

Fire Island National Seashore (New York):

Fire Island features serene beaches, maritime forests, and iconic lighthouses. Visitors can explore secluded wilderness areas, hike along boardwalk trails, and enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (New York):

The former home of President Theodore Roosevelt, Sagamore Hill offers guided tours of the historic house and surrounding grounds. Visitors can explore the “Summer White House,” learn about Roosevelt’s conservation legacy, and enjoy nature walks through the estate’s gardens.

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site (New York)

The Martin Van Buren National Historic Site in Kinderhook, New York, preserves Lindenwald, the home and farm of the eighth U.S. President, Martin Van Buren. This historic site offers a glimpse into Van Buren’s post-presidency life, featuring the meticulously restored mansion, original furnishings, and expansive grounds. Notably, the site highlights Van Buren’s role in shaping the Democratic Party and his advocacy for economic and social reforms.

Statue of Liberty National Monument (New York)

The Statue of Liberty National Monument in New York features Liberty Island and Ellis Island. The 305-foot statue, gifted by France in 1886, symbolizes freedom. Visitors can tour the statue’s pedestal, crown, and Ellis Island’s Immigration Museum, which documents the immigrant experience in America.

Ellis Island (Statue of Liberty National Monument) (New York)

Ellis Island, part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument, served as America’s busiest immigration station from 1892 to 1954. It now houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, featuring exhibits on the immigrant experience and offering visitors a chance to explore their ancestry through historical records.

Thomas Edison National Historical Park (New Jersey)

Thomas Edison National Historical Park in New Jersey preserves Edison’s home and laboratory complex. Visitors can explore Edison’s inventions, his chemistry lab, and the 1887 phonograph studio. The park showcases over 400,000 artifacts, including original light bulbs and early motion picture equipment, highlighting Edison’s prolific contributions to modern technology.

Morristown National Historical Park (New Jersey)

Morristown National Historical Park in New Jersey preserves key Revolutionary War sites, including Washington’s 1779-1780 winter headquarters. Visitors can explore the Ford Mansion, Jockey Hollow encampment, and museum collections featuring artifacts from the Continental Army’s harsh winter. The park offers insights into military strategy and colonial life during the war.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park (Vermont)

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Vermont celebrates conservation history. It features the historic Marsh-Billings mansion, managed forests, and scenic trails. The park highlights the land stewardship legacy of George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and the Rockefeller family, emphasizing sustainable forestry and environmental preservation.

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park (Virginia)

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park in Virginia marks the site of General Lee’s surrender to General Grant, ending the Civil War on April 9, 1865. The park features the McLean House, where the surrender was signed, preserved village buildings, and exhibits detailing the war’s conclusion and its aftermath.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland)

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park , preserving the site of John Brown’s 1859 abolitionist raid. The park features restored 19th-century buildings, Civil War battlefields, and scenic hiking trails along the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, offering rich history and natural beauty.

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial (Pennsylvania)

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial in Pennsylvania honors the Polish freedom fighter. Visitors can explore his Philadelphia residence, view exhibits on his contributions to the American Revolution, and learn about his engineering skills. The site features personal artifacts and interactive displays highlighting his impact on American and Polish history.

Valley Forge National Historical Park (Pennsylvania)

Valley Forge National Historical Park in Pennsylvania commemorates the 1777-1778 winter encampment of George Washington’s Continental Army. Visitors can tour restored cabins, Washington’s Headquarters, and the museum. The park offers extensive hiking and biking trails, living history demonstrations, and educational programs on Revolutionary War history.

Antietam National Battlefield (Maryland)

Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland commemorates the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, fought on September 17, 1862. Visitors can explore the battlefield, tour the Dunker Church, Burnside Bridge, and Antietam National Cemetery, and visit the museum for exhibits on the battle’s significance and impact.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (Maryland)

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Maryland is the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Visitors can tour the fort, watch reenactments, and explore exhibits detailing the War of 1812. The park offers panoramic views of Baltimore Harbor and educational programs about the fort’s historical significance.

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park (Maryland and District of Columbia)

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park spans Maryland and D.C., preserving the historic C&O Canal. Visitors can hike or bike along the 184.5-mile towpath, explore restored lockhouses, and enjoy ranger-led boat rides. The park offers scenic views of the Potomac River and insights into 19th-century canal life.

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site (Pennsylvania)

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site in Pennsylvania commemorates the first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains. Visitors can explore the historic Lemon House, Engine House No. 6 exhibit, and hike the original rail path. The park showcases 19th-century engineering feats and the role of the railroad in westward expansion.

Flight 93 National Memorial (Pennsylvania)

Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania honors the passengers and crew of Flight 93, who thwarted a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Visitors can walk the Memorial Plaza, view the Wall of Names, and visit the Visitor Center for exhibits detailing the heroism and events of that day.

Johnstown Flood National Memorial (Pennsylvania)

Johnstown Flood National Memorial in Pennsylvania commemorates the devastating 1889 flood. Visitors can explore the remains of the South Fork Dam, visit the Visitor Center for exhibits on the disaster, and walk the Path of the Flood Trail. The park highlights the impact and resilience of the Johnstown community.

Eisenhower National Historic Site (Pennsylvania)

Eisenhower National Historic Site in Pennsylvania preserves the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Visitors can tour the Eisenhower residence, explore the working farm, and view exhibits on Eisenhower’s life and presidency. The site offers insights into his leadership during World War II and his presidency.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site (Pennsylvania)

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site in Pennsylvania showcases an early American iron plantation. Visitors can tour the restored 19th-century furnace, ironmaster’s mansion, and workers’ houses. The park offers living history demonstrations, hiking trails, and insights into the iron-making process and its role in America’s industrial development.

Steamtown National Historic Site (Pennsylvania)

Steamtown National Historic Site in Pennsylvania showcases the history of steam railroads, featuring vintage locomotives, train rides, and an engaging museum. Visitors can explore restored trains, watch live demonstrations, and ride historic steam engines, immersing in America’s rich railroading heritage amidst authentic roundhouse and rail yard settings.

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River (New York and Pennsylvania)

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, straddling New York and Pennsylvania, offers 73 miles of pristine river. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, fishing, and eagle watching. Key sites include the historic Roebling Bridge and Zane Grey Museum, providing a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (Pennsylvania)

Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor in Pennsylvania offers 165 miles of trails following historic canals and railroads. Visitors can hike, bike, and kayak while exploring industrial heritage sites like the National Canal Museum. The corridor highlights the region’s coal and iron history through scenic landscapes and educational exhibits.

Thomas Stone National Historic Site (Maryland)

Thomas Stone National Historic Site in Maryland preserves the home of Thomas Stone, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors can tour the restored mansion, stroll through historic gardens, and learn about Stone’s contributions to American history, all set within a picturesque 328-acre landscape.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park (New Jersey)

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in New Jersey features the impressive 77-foot Great Falls of the Passaic River. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, guided tours, and learn about the area’s role in America’s industrial revolution at the historic hydroelectric plant and nearby museum.

Weir Farm National Historical Park (Connecticut)

Weir Farm National Historical Park in Connecticut celebrates American Impressionism. Visitors can tour the preserved home and studios of artist J. Alden Weir, explore beautiful gardens and trails, and participate in art workshops, all while experiencing the inspiring landscapes that influenced Weir’s work.

Roger Williams National Memorial (Rhode Island)

Roger Williams National Memorial in Rhode Island honors the founder of Rhode Island and advocate for religious freedom. Visitors can explore interpretive exhibits, enjoy the serene park grounds, and learn about Williams’ pivotal role in establishing principles of religious tolerance and separation of church and state in America.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site (Massachusetts)

Springfield Armory National Historic Site in Massachusetts preserves the first U.S. armory, established in 1794. Visitors can explore historic firearms exhibits, tour the original manufacturing facilities, and learn about the armory’s role in American military history and innovation through interactive displays and guided tours.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site (Massachusetts)

Salem Maritime National Historic Site in Massachusetts highlights America’s maritime history. Visitors can explore historic buildings, the 171-foot tall ship Friendship of Salem, and scenic waterfront. The site includes Derby Wharf, a custom house, and exhibits detailing Salem’s role in global trade during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Lowell National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

Lowell National Historical Park in Massachusetts commemorates America’s industrial revolution. Visitors can tour historic textile mills, ride vintage trolleys, and explore interactive exhibits on labor history and technology. The park features canal boat tours and hands-on activities that showcase Lowell’s significance in 19th-century manufacturing and innovation.

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park in Massachusetts preserves the city’s whaling heritage. Visitors can explore the Whaling Museum, tour historic buildings, and learn about the whaling industry’s global impact. The park offers walking tours, exhibits, and a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century whalers and their communities.

Boston National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

Boston National Historical Park in Massachusetts encompasses key sites of the American Revolution. Visitors can follow the Freedom Trail to explore historic landmarks like Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church, and Bunker Hill Monument. The park offers guided tours, reenactments, and exhibits detailing Boston’s pivotal role in American independence.

Minute Man National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

Minute Man National Historical Park in Massachusetts commemorates the opening battles of the American Revolution. Visitors can walk historic battlefields, tour colonial homes, and explore the North Bridge where the “shot heard ’round the world” was fired. The park offers interpretive programs and reenactments, immersing guests in Revolutionary War history.

Adams National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

Adams National Historical Park in Massachusetts preserves the homes of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. Visitors can tour the birthplaces, the Old House, and the Stone Library, gaining insight into the Adams family’s legacy. The park offers guided tours, exhibits, and beautifully maintained gardens.

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park (New Hampshire)

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in New Hampshire celebrates the life and work of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Visitors can tour his home, studios, and gardens, view famous sculptures like the “Robert Gould Shaw Memorial,” and enjoy seasonal art exhibits and performances, all set within the scenic Cornish Colony.

Governors Island National Monument (New York)

Governors Island National Monument in New York features historic military forts Castle Williams and Fort Jay. Visitors can explore these 19th-century fortifications, enjoy panoramic views of Manhattan, and participate in seasonal events and guided tours, all while discovering the island’s rich military history and scenic parkland.

Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site (New York)

Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site in New York preserves the childhood home of the 26th U.S. president. Visitors can tour period rooms, view artifacts, and learn about Roosevelt’s early life and legacy through guided tours and exhibits, offering a glimpse into the formative years of a remarkable leader.

Saratoga National Historical Park (New York)

Saratoga National Historical Park in New York commemorates the pivotal 1777 Battle of Saratoga. Visitors can explore the battlefield, tour the visitor center’s exhibits, and drive the scenic tour road. The park offers guided tours, hiking trails, and reenactments, providing an in-depth look at this decisive American Revolutionary War victory.

Women’s Rights National Historical Park (New York)

Women’s Rights National Historical Park in New York celebrates the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention. Visitors can tour the Wesleyan Chapel, where the first women’s rights convention was held, explore exhibits at the visitor center, and visit the homes of key figures like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, learning about the fight for women’s suffrage.

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site (New York)

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site in New York preserves Val-Kill, her beloved retreat. Visitors can tour the cottage, explore exhibits on her life and humanitarian work, and stroll the peaceful grounds. The site offers insights into Roosevelt’s achievements and personal history, providing a unique glimpse into her impactful legacy.

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site (New York)

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site in New York preserves the Springwood estate. Visitors can tour Roosevelt’s lifelong home, explore the presidential library and museum, and stroll through the gardens. The site offers a comprehensive look at FDR’s life, leadership, and legacy in a picturesque setting.

Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site (New York)

Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in New York showcases Gilded Age luxury. Visitors can tour the opulent mansion, explore beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River. The site offers guided tours and exhibits detailing the lives of the Vanderbilt family and their historical significance.

Governors Island National Monument (New York)

Governors Island National Monument in New York features historic military forts Castle Williams and Fort Jay. Visitors can explore these 19th-century fortifications, enjoy panoramic views of Manhattan, and participate in seasonal events and guided tours, delving into the island’s rich military history and scenic surroundings.

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site (New York)

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site in New York preserves Lindenwald, the home of the 8th U.S. president. Visitors can tour the mansion, explore the historic grounds, and learn about Van Buren’s political career and personal life through exhibits and guided tours, gaining insights into his impact on American history.

Thomas Edison National Historical Park (New Jersey)

Thomas Edison National Historical Park in New Jersey preserves Edison’s laboratory and home. Visitors can tour the inventor’s lab complex, see original artifacts and inventions, and explore Glenmont, his Victorian mansion. The park offers a deep dive into Edison’s life, genius, and contributions to modern technology.

Morristown National Historical Park (New Jersey)

Morristown National Historical Park in New Jersey commemorates George Washington’s Revolutionary War winter encampments. Visitors can explore the Ford Mansion, Washington’s headquarters, hike historic trails, and view exhibits at the museum. The park offers guided tours and reenactments, providing insights into the Continental Army’s winter hardships and strategic planning.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park (New Jersey)

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in New Jersey features the stunning 77-foot Great Falls of the Passaic River. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, explore the historic raceway system, and learn about America’s first planned industrial city through guided tours and exhibits, highlighting its rich industrial heritage.

Thomas Stone National Historic Site (Maryland)

Thomas Stone National Historic Site in Maryland preserves the home of Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Stone. Visitors can tour the restored 18th-century mansion, explore the historic grounds, and learn about Stone’s contributions to American independence through guided tours and exhibits detailing his life and legacy.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (Maryland)

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Maryland is famed for its role in the War of 1812, inspiring the U.S. national anthem. Visitors can tour the star-shaped fort, view historical exhibits, and participate in flag change ceremonies, immersing in the site’s patriotic legacy and military history.

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park (Maryland and District of Columbia)

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, spanning Maryland and the District of Columbia, offers 184.5 miles of scenic towpath. Visitors can hike, bike, and paddle along the historic canal, explore lockhouses, and learn about 19th-century transportation history through exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Antietam National Battlefield (Maryland)

Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland commemorates the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. Visitors can tour the battlefield, visit the museum exhibits, and walk the Sunken Road. The park offers ranger-led tours and interpretive programs, providing deep insights into the pivotal Civil War clash.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail (Passes through multiple states in the Northeast)

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail stretches over 2,190 miles through the Northeast, from Georgia to Maine. Hikers can experience diverse landscapes, from dense forests to mountain vistas. Key features include the Great Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah National Park, and the White Mountains, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery.

Cape Cod National Seashore (Massachusetts)

Cape Cod National Seashore in Massachusetts offers 40 miles of pristine beaches, dunes, and marshes. Visitors can swim, hike scenic trails, explore historic lighthouses, and learn about coastal ecosystems at the Salt Pond Visitor Center. The park provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Cod.

Fire Island National Seashore (New York)

Fire Island National Seashore in New York offers pristine beaches, maritime forests, and wildlife habitats. Visitors can swim, hike nature trails, and explore the historic Fire Island Lighthouse. The park provides opportunities for birdwatching, camping, and enjoying the unspoiled barrier island’s natural beauty and tranquility.

Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites (New York)

Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites in New York preserve the homes of Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, and the Vanderbilt family. Visitors can tour the historic mansions, explore beautifully landscaped gardens, and learn about the influential legacies of these prominent American figures through exhibits and guided tour.

Hamilton Grange National Memorial (New York)

Hamilton Grange National Memorial in New York preserves the home of Alexander Hamilton, a Founding Father. Visitors can tour the restored Federal-style mansion, explore exhibits on Hamilton’s life and achievements, and enjoy guided tours that provide insight into his contributions to America’s founding and early government.

Fort Stanwix National Monument (New York)

Fort Stanwix National Monument in New York preserves a reconstructed Revolutionary War fort. Visitors can explore the fortifications, participate in living history programs, and learn about the fort’s strategic role in the American Revolution through exhibits and guided tours, offering a vivid glimpse into 18th-century military life.

Women’s Rights National Historical Park (New York)

Women’s Rights National Historical Park in New York commemorates the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention. Visitors can tour the Wesleyan Chapel, explore the homes of key figures like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and view exhibits detailing the fight for women’s suffrage, gaining insight into the origins of the women’s rights movement.

Weir Farm National Historical Park (Connecticut)

Weir Farm National Historical Park in Connecticut celebrates American Impressionism and artist J. Alden Weir. Visitors can tour Weir’s home and studios, explore the beautiful gardens and trails, and participate in art workshops. The park offers an inspiring look into Weir’s life and work amid scenic landscapes.

Roger Williams National Memorial (Rhode Island)

Roger Williams National Memorial in Rhode Island honors the founder of Rhode Island and advocate for religious freedom. Visitors can explore informative exhibits at the visitor center, stroll through the serene park grounds, and learn about Williams’ pivotal role in establishing principles of religious tolerance in America.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site (Massachusetts)

Salem Maritime National Historic Site in Massachusetts celebrates America’s maritime heritage. Visitors can tour historic buildings, explore the 171-foot tall ship Friendship of Salem, and stroll along Derby Wharf. The site offers insights into 18th and 19th-century trade, shipbuilding, and the global significance of Salem’s port.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site (Massachusetts)

Springfield Armory National Historic Site in Massachusetts showcases America’s first armory, established in 1794. Visitors can explore historic weapons, watch demonstrations, and tour the restored buildings. Key highlights include the world’s largest collection of historic American military firearms and the meticulously preserved Commanding Officer’s Quarters.

Lowell National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

Lowell National Historical Park in Massachusetts celebrates America’s Industrial Revolution. Visitors can tour historic mills, ride vintage trolleys, and explore the Boott Cotton Mills Museum. Highlights include the Mill Girls and Immigrants Exhibit and scenic canal boat tours showcasing 19th-century engineering.

Boston National Historical Park (Massachusetts)

Boston National Historical Park in Massachusetts features iconic Revolutionary War sites like the Freedom Trail, Bunker Hill Monument, and Old North Church. Visitors can tour historic buildings, join ranger-led programs, and explore the USS Constitution. Key highlights include Faneuil Hall and the Paul Revere House.

Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site (Massachusetts)

Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site in Massachusetts honors the father of American landscape architecture. Visitors can tour his home and studio, Fairsted, explore the meticulously preserved archives, and enjoy the designed grounds. Highlights include exhibits on his famous projects like Central Park and the Emerald Necklace.

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park (Massachusetts and Rhode Island)

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, spanning Massachusetts and Rhode Island, marks the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Visitors can tour Slater Mill, explore historic canals and mill villages, and enjoy scenic bike trails. Highlights include guided tours detailing early American manufacturing and preservation efforts.

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail (Passes through multiple states in the Northeast)

The Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail spans multiple Northeast states, tracing the 1781 march to Yorktown. Visitors can follow the trail, exploring historical markers, museums, and battlefields. Highlights include reenactments, heritage sites, and interpretive programs detailing this pivotal Franco-American alliance in the Revolutionary War.

Boston African American National Historic Site (Massachusetts)

Boston African American National Historic Site in Massachusetts highlights the city’s 19th-century African American community. Visitors can explore the Black Heritage Trail, visit the African Meeting House, and see the Abiel Smith School. Highlights include exhibits on abolitionism and the Underground Railroad.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area (Massachusetts)

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area in Massachusetts offers outdoor adventures across 34 islands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and kayaking, and explore historic sites like Fort Warren on Georges Island. Highlights include scenic views, wildlife watching, and ranger-led tours on the islands’ rich history and natural beauty.

Greenbelt National Park (Maryland)

Greenbelt National Park in Maryland offers 1,100 acres of natural woodland near Washington, D.C. Visitors can hike 9 miles of trails, camp year-round, and enjoy picnicking. Highlights include the Azalea Trail, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities in a serene forest setting close to the nation’s capital.

Hampton National Historic Site (Maryland)

Hampton National Historic Site in Maryland preserves an 18th-century Georgian mansion and estate. Visitors can tour the mansion, explore formal gardens, and view slave quarters. Highlights include period furnishings, art collections, and interpretive programs on the Ridgely family and the lives of enslaved workers.

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (Passes through multiple states in the Northeast)

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail spans multiple Northeast states, linking the Potomac and upper Ohio River basins. Visitors can hike, bike, and paddle through diverse landscapes, from urban areas to wilderness. Highlights include historic sites, scenic overlooks, and segments like the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath.

Monocacy National Battlefield (Maryland)

Monocacy National Battlefield in Maryland commemorates the 1864 Civil War battle that saved Washington, D.C. Visitors can explore the battlefield via driving tours, walking trails, and interpretive programs. Highlights include the Visitor Center exhibits, historic buildings, and reenactments that bring the pivotal conflict to life.

Piscataway Park (Maryland)

Piscataway Park in Maryland offers scenic views of the Potomac River and historical landscapes. Visitors can hike nature trails, visit the National Colonial Farm, and enjoy birdwatching. Highlights include the boardwalk through wetlands, educational programs on colonial agriculture, and diverse wildlife habitats.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial (Washington D.C.)

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial in Washington, D.C. honors the civil rights leader. Visitors can view the imposing Stone of Hope statue, read inspirational quotes on the Inscription Wall, and reflect at the Tidal Basin. Highlights include ranger-led programs and stunning views of the National Mall.

Rock Creek Park (Washington D.C.)

Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C., spans over 1,754 acres, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the Nature Center, Planetarium, and Peirce Mill. Enjoy the scenic Rock Creek Trail for biking and jogging, or visit the Carter Barron Amphitheatre for seasonal performances.

Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument (Washington D.C.)

Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C., commemorates the women’s suffrage movement. Visitors can tour the historic house, explore exhibits on women’s rights, and see original artifacts. The site also hosts educational programs and special events highlighting women’s contributions to American history.

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site (Washington D.C.)

The Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site in Washington D.C. honors the “Father of Black History.” Visitors can explore his restored home, learn about his pioneering work in African American history, and view exhibits detailing his life and contributions. Guided tours offer in-depth historical insights.

Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network (Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and District of Columbia)

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., honors the “Father of Black History.” Visitors can tour Woodson’s residence, explore exhibits on African American history, and learn about his contributions to establishing Black History Month. The site offers guided tours and educational programs.

Washington Monument (Washington D.C.)

The Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., stands 555 feet tall, honoring George Washington. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck for panoramic city views. The monument features 193 memorial stones and offers exhibits on its history and construction. Free timed-entry tickets are required.

Anacostia Park (Washington D.C.)

Anacostia Park in Washington, D.C., spans 1,200 acres along the Anacostia River. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking. The park features a roller skating pavilion, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and multiple sports fields. It also hosts community events and environmental education programs.

Fort Washington Park (Maryland)

Fort Washington Park in Maryland offers stunning Potomac River views and historic fortifications dating back to 1809. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fort, enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking. The park also hosts living history demonstrations and reenactments.

Fort Hunt Park (Virginia)

Fort Hunt Park in Virginia, part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, features remnants of Spanish-American War artillery batteries. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, sports fields, and ranger-led history programs. The park also offers facilities for group events and recreational activities.

Theodore Roosevelt Island (Washington D.C.)

Theodore Roosevelt Island in Washington, D.C., is a 91-acre nature preserve dedicated to the 26th president. Visitors can explore wooded trails, view a large memorial plaza with a statue of Roosevelt, and observe diverse wildlife. The island offers peaceful walking paths and educational exhibits about Roosevelt’s conservation efforts.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts (Virginia)

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Virginia is the only national park dedicated to the performing arts. Visitors can enjoy concerts, theater, and dance performances at the Filene Center and the Barns. The park also offers educational programs, nature trails, and picnic areas.

Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm (Maryland)

Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm in Maryland offer a glimpse into 19th-century farm life. Visitors can tour the farm, interact with animals, explore the visitor center exhibits, and enjoy hiking and biking trails. The park also features educational programs and seasonal farm demonstrations.

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network (Multiple states in the Northeast)

The Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network spans multiple Northeast states, connecting over 170 parks, wildlife refuges, and historic sites. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and exploring cultural heritage sites. The network offers educational programs on bay conservation and the region’s rich history and ecology.

Clara Barton National Historic Site (Maryland)

Clara Barton National Historic Site in Maryland commemorates the life of the American Red Cross founder. Visitors can tour her Victorian home, view original artifacts, and learn about her humanitarian work. The site offers guided tours, exhibits, and educational programs highlighting Barton’s contributions to nursing and disaster relief.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime National Historic Park (Maryland)

Chesapeake Bay Maritime National Historic Park in Maryland offers visitors a deep dive into maritime history with interactive exhibits, boat tours, and hands-on activities. Highlights include the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, boatbuilding demonstrations, and exploring the Bay’s ecology through the museum’s extensive collections and educational programs.

Greenbelt Park (Maryland)

Greenbelt Park in Maryland offers serene woodlands perfect for hiking, camping, and picnicking. Visitors enjoy its 9-mile trail system, scenic Sweetgum Picnic Area, and spacious campground. This urban oasis, rich in wildlife, provides a peaceful retreat just 12 miles from Washington, D.C. It’s known for its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere.

Fort Washington Park (Maryland)

Fort Washington Park in Maryland offers stunning views of the Potomac River, historic military structures, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the 19th-century fort, enjoy picnicking areas, and spot local wildlife. The park is known for its well-preserved fortifications and strategic significance during the War of 1812.

Fort Hunt Park (Virginia)

Fort Hunt Park in Virginia offers historical significance with remnants of a coastal defense fort, picnic areas, trails, and sports facilities. Visitors can explore the preserved gun batteries, enjoy scenic bike rides, host family gatherings in reservable picnic spots, and participate in ranger-led programs.