A recent Associated Press article on travel trends says that history trips are particularly popular. Wonder why? Maybe the new administration has renewed Americans' interest in our country's heritage. Or possibly the hard economic times are leading us to look back--where we can learn from mistakes.
No matter, historic trips are great because they deepen our understanding of our nation--but are they appropriate for kids? Definitely, yes. Who says a learning vacation can't be fun? The top history cities offer much more than boring monuments and stuffy museums. Plus, kids are especially good at imagining themselves in another time. You just need to be sure to pick a spot that's suited to your kids' ages and interests.
1) Philadelphia (Ages 2 to 5)
It's easy for parents to lug little ones around this city's compact historic core known as Old Town. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the home of Betsy Ross, and dozens of other historic attractions are all clustered together. Also nearby: Franklin Square with a Philadelphia-themed miniature golf course and a state-of-the-art playground. Kids tired of walking? Take one of the Duck Tours, an amphibious sightseeing tour in an unusual vehicle (a Duck) that travels along the streets of the Historic District, South Street area, and Old City, before plunging into the Delaware River. For more ideas and details on traveling with kids in Philly, click here.
2) San Antonio (Ages 6 to 10)
This Texas city's history is deeply rooted in the Old West and what 6-year-old doesn't love a great cowboy story? Start your exploration of town with the Alamo, the must-see Shrine of Texas Liberty. Kids will be intrigued by its legendary story filled with illustrious personalities such as Tennessee congressman David Crockett, entrepreneur-adventurer James Bowie, and Mexican president Antonio López de Santa Anna. They'll also be interested in the four missions along the city's Mission Trail because most children learn about Spanish colonial life in elementary school. The best way to follow the trail is on a bike. Another way to get around town is by boat--and you'll definitely want to hop in one to experience the famous river--lined with shops, art galleries, and restaurants--that passes right through town. For more on San Antonio, click here.
3) Washington D.C. (10 and up)The historic planes and spaceships at the National Air and Space Museum? The original Declaration of Independence in the National Archives? The chance to climb to the top of the Washington Monument? Classes on code-cracking at the Spy Museum? Our nation's capital is filled with kid-friendly historic attractions. Your best bet is to let your children take the lead and come up with an itinerary that matches their interests or what they're studying in school. The city is better suited to older kids because it's big--the blocks go on and on and so do the buildings--and little ones tucker out quickly. For more on DC, click here.
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1 comments:
Great list!
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