What are the best national parks in the Northeastern U.S. for history lessons the family is sure to not forget too quickly? The Northeast is a hotbed of historically important venues, and its national parks do not disappoint. Where should you go?
Adams National Historical Park
135 Adams St., Quincy, MA 02169
617-770-1175
Open April 19 to November 10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visit Adams National Historical Park during an excursion from nearby Boston or as a sightseeing opportunity while in Norfolk County. Fourteen acres of land house 11 historic buildings. Among them are the birthplaces of John Adams and John Quincy Adams. Teens over 16 and adults pay $5 to enter the park. While the docent-led tours are a huge attraction, it is perfectly fine to roam the park’s grounds 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 one of the best Northeastern national parks for lessons related to America’s maritime history. The Bass Harbor Head lighthouse is situated on Mount Desert Island. Fish off Isle au Haut, and do not forget to visit the Islesford Historical Museum. Located on Little Cranberry Island, it focuses on tools used by seafaring residents and everyday items made and used by Little Cranberry Islanders.
Women’s Rights National Historical Park
136 Fall St., Seneca Falls, NY 13148
315-568-0024
Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Your children probably never stopped to think about the fact that there was a time when women were prohibited from voting, participating in certain professions, or even pursuing interests that took them outside of their homes. Of all the national parks in the Northeast, the Women’s Rights National Historical Park helps to put this past into perspective and recognize the achievements of women from generations gone by. Visit the Wesleyan Chapel, stop by the M’Clintock House, and do not 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
211 Main St., West Orange, NJ 07052
973-736-0550, extension 17
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 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 laboratory complex that features audio-visual displays and docent-led tours. Pay $7 at the gate for every visitor over the age of 16. Be sure to have a hearty meal before heading to the park; food and drink are not permitted on the premises.
Cape Cod National Seashore
99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667
508-771-2144
Parking lots are open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight
Walk in the footsteps of Henry David Thoreau. Swim at lifeguard-protected beaches from late June to August. Travel one (or all) of the 12 trails that take visitors along and around the seashore. Grab your copy of one of Thoreau’s three excursion books and spend some time sitting on the shore reading.
