Memorial Day Parade in Washington DC Pays Fitting Tribute to Fallen Soldiers

Memorial Day is a time where people have honored soldiers who died in the service since the Civil War. This year, what better place to pay tribute than Washington DC? On May 31st, Washington DC will be holding a parade that starts at 2 pm to give a salute to the veterans of war.  There will be talented marching bands, magnificent floats, and much more. In addition to the parade, there will also be a Memorial Day Concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. 

With so much patriotism in the air, who could resist visiting several of the landmarks and historic sights in Washington DC? Take the Gettysburg Tour and see where the Gettysburg Address was given by Abraham Lincoln along with several other stops where you will see an entire history of the Battle of Gettysburg. 

For a more physically active approach to seeing the history of Washington DC take the Bike and Roll Bicycle Rental which allows you to bike past things like The Reflecting Pool and the White House. It’s a great way to avoid expensive taxi rides and be active in your role of deciding where to go and how long to stay at the different historical hotspots. Or take the Bike the Sites Guided Bike Tour of Washington DC which has the benefit of a guide who can answer questions and tell you the fun facts about Washington DC.

Visit Historic Plantations in Williamsburg

In addition to the popular historical attractions like Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg, there are also a number of other historical sites that make the perfect addition to any trip to Williamsburg. Due to its position in the South, the Williamsburg area contains a number of historic plantations that date back as far as the 1600s.

The James River Plantation group contains five plantation estates: Sherwood Forest, Westover, Shirley, Evelynton, and Berkeley. All of the plantations are located on Route 5 in historic Charles City County. Each plantation is in the National Register of Historic Places. The earliest plantation is Shirley, which was established in 1613 as Virginia’s first plantation. Shirley has seen eleven generations of the same family living and working the plantation, and the family still owns and operates the plantation today.

Berkeley plantation was built in 1726, but the land was in use long before that. In 1619, it was the spot of the first Thanksgiving dinner. Berkeley was also home to Benjamin Harrison, one of the original signers of the constitution, and later was the residence of President William Henry Harrison, the 9th U.S. President. The house is preserved in 18th century style and features 18th century furniture and decorations. Guided tours are available.

Westover and Evelynton were once one plantation, until William Byrd, the owner, created Evelynton for his daughter, Evelyn, after which it become its own plantation. Westover was built around 1730 by William Byrd II, who was the founder of Richmond. Westover is a classic Southern plantation, complete with ancient trees and landscaping. The house is not open for touring, but the grounds are. The original buildings of Evelynton were destroyed in a Civil War battle, and the current house was built in 1937. Evelynton is still an operating farm and is not available for touring.

Sherwood Forest was built in 1720 and was the home to the U.S. 10th President, John Tyler, after he bought it and the surrounding land in 1842. The house still retains many of the Tyler’s possessions on display. Sherwood Forest is still owned by the Tyler family, and descendents reside in the house today. Grounds and house tours are available for a fee.

These plantations have seen a number of historic events, ranging from Revolutionary War meetings to Civil War battles, making visiting these plantations a one-of-kind-experience.

Plan a Peaceful Sightseeing Adventure in Mount Rushmore

In addition to viewing the historic landmarks the Greater Mount Rushmore Area is known for, take some time this summer to roam the rolling Black Hills surrounding the area for a look at beautiful waterfalls, unique wildlife, and calm streams. With its combination of national parks, forests, canyons, and trails, you will find no shortage of tranquil locations to give you the peaceful vacation you deserve.

Located within Black Hills National Forest, Spearfish Canyon offers the kind of scenery you would hope to come across during your sightseeing quest: superior waterfalls (such as the stunning Bridal Veil Falls), widespread plant growth, and native wildlife. Summer marks the perfect time to view all of the colorful plants set against the rolling terrain of the area. Hike along the streams and cliffs for a completely absorbing natural adventure.

For further recreational fun, look into Custer State Park. A full 71,000 acres of land, Custer State Park is perfect for more adventurous travelers looking for open space for their activities. You can enjoy such activities as rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking along rougher terrain, and witnessing some of the wildlife indigenous to the area. Don’t be surprised to see hundreds of buffaloes, mountain goats, deer, and more nearby. Spend the whole day journeying through the natural beauty of the Black Hills, then spend the evening camped out under the stars at one of the local campgrounds.

Give yourself a history lesson during your sightseeing adventure by walking along part of the Lewis and Clark Trail that winds all the way through South Dakota. Put yourself in the shoes of the world’s two most famous explorers as you walk past such sites as South Dakota’s Great Lakes, the Missouri River, and Indian reservations. Camping and recreational opportunities are available on the way, giving you the peace you want on your vacation with just a touch of civilization along the way.

Give yourself a summer vacation away from big-city commotion by taking in some of Mount Rushmore’s peaceful outdoor beauty.