Traveling the United States
Image courtesy of bm5k
Family Vacations should provide some time to relax. But that doesn’t have to be the extent of your getaway. When you’re traveling to other parts of the United States with your family, you may be able to find fun activities that are also educational, broadening your children’s understanding of history, culture, science and more.
For a few noteworthy ideas to suggest in the next family vacation meeting, check out the following four enriching destinations in the United States.
1. Boston
Boston played a pivotal role in the early development of the nation, and students – possibly adults, too – could use a refresher course in Boston history. At Boston’s downtown historic center, visitors can take a guided tour down the red-brick Freedom Trail to rediscover revolutionary Boston. This tour can be followed by the “Take the Walk into History” tour, which brings the past to life with actors dressed up as prominent figures from the Revolutionary era. Visit the grave sites of John Hancock and Paul Revere and admire the battleship U.S.S. Constitution to complete your educational experience.
2. Chickasaw Country
About two hours north of Fort Worth, Texas, the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur, Okla., offers visitors many ways to learn more about Chickasaw people, who call south-central Oklahoma home. This Native American Museum celebrates the unique and rich culture of this inspirational tribe. Interactive technology allows visitors to learn Chickasaw words and the many exhibits can easily fill an afternoon with fun, educational experiences.
3. Dali Museum
Feel like you’ve seen it all as far as art museums go? Think again. The super surreal Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Fla., introduces visitors to art that many people have not seen – at least not outside of a textbook. The museum is home to the largest collection of Dali works outside of Europe, and is located in St. Petersburg’s downtown waterfront area. Explore Dali’s inspirational works beyond the melting clocks to discover works that aren’t always what they seem.
4. Griffith Observatory
One of the most iconic Los Angeles landmarks, the Griffith Observatory is a national leader in public astronomy. Located on Mount Hollywood, the observatory gives visitors an incredible view of the sky above. Several powerful telescopes located throughout the museum allow you to see the stars for yourself, while interactive exhibits delve into the history of space exploration and the incredible understanding we have of the universe we live in.
Although the kids might argue convincingly about the benefits of attending theme parks and carnivals for your family vacation, you could have an experience that is equally fun and educational by choosing one of the four destinations listed above. They might not all be as conveniently located as your local art museum, but they’re well worth the trek.
When exploring other parts of the country, take time to learn about the people who make those places special. You can start by adding one of the above destinations to your family vacation itinerary.
