What are the best national parks in North America for history lessons the family is sure to forget too soon? The East has historically been a popular winter destination, and its national park does not disappoint. Where are you going?
Adams National Historical Park
135 Adams St., Quincy, MA 02169
617-770-1175
Open April 19 to November 10 from 9 a.m. at 5 p.m.
Visit Adams National Historical Park on an excursion near Boston or as an opportunity while in Norfolk County. Fourteen acres of land house 11 historical buildings. Among them are the births of John Adams and John Quincy Adams. Adults over 16 pay $5 to enter the park. While the docent-led tours are a huge attraction, it’s perfectly fine to wander the park on your own.
Acadia National Park
Route 233 (Eagle Lake Road), Bar Harbor, ME 04609
207-288-3338
Open April 15 to October 31
Acadia National Park is the best of the northern national parks for lessons related to America’s maritime history. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is located on Mount Desert Island. Fish from Isle au Haut, and don’t forget to visit the Islesford Historical Museum. Located on Little Cranberry Island, it places tools for use by boat residents and everyday items made and used by Little Cranberry Island.
Women’s Rights National Historical Park
136 Fall St., Seneca Falls, NY 13148
315-568-0024
Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Your children have probably never stopped to think about the fact that there was a time when women were prevented from voting, participating in certain professions or even pursuing interests that took them outside the home. All national parks to the East, in the National Historic Landmark Women’s Park helps to put these past events in perspective of women from past generations. Visit the Wesleyan Chapel, stop by the M’Clintock House, and don’t forget to pay your respects at the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House. While there, you also have the opportunity to learn about the Quaker faith and the abolitionist movement.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Main St., West Orange, NJ 07052
973-736-0550, extension 17
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. at 5 p.m.
The main attraction here is the 29-room mansion owned by Thomas Edison. Just as interesting, if not more so, is the complex laboratory that features audio-visual displays and teaching explanations. Pay $7 at the gate for every visitor under the age of 16. He is sure to have a meal before heading to the gardens; food and drink are not allowed on the premises.
Cape Cod National Beach
99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667
508-771-2144
The parking lot is open daily from 6 p.m. at midnight
Following in the footsteps of Henry David Thoreau. Swim at lifeguarded beaches from late June to August. Travel one (or all) of 12 trails that take visitors through and around the beach. Grab your copy of one of Thoreau’s book Excursions in the Tribe and spend some time sitting on the beach reading.
