We asked the staff at The Group Travel Leader: “What is your favorite patriotic attraction in the United States?” Find out the who their American idols are below!
For me, Washington, D.C., is the most patriotic city in America, and walking around the National Mall is a great lesson in American history, but Arlington National Cemetery is the attraction that makes me feel the most patriotic. To walk among the rows and rows of tombstones of soldiers that have paid the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation is very moving and reminds me that freedom isn’t free. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is something everyone should witness, and I’m always moved by the reverence and honor that the sentinels display during this ceremony. This past fall, my daughter had the privilege of being selected to be a part of the wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb, which made the cemetery all the more special for me.
— Kelly Tyner, Director of Sales and Marketing
I still remember the impact of my visit to Gettysburg when I was in middle school. The huge Civil War battlefield’s rolling hills and meaningful exhibits create an ambiance of reflection for the American lives lost in this crucial battle.
— Eliza Myers, Online Editor
The National September 11 Memorial in New York is one of the most moving places I have ever been. The memorial marks the site of a tragedy, but it speaks to so much more than that: friendship, unity, resolve and the American spirit. It’s a testament to the heroism of rescue workers, the resilience of New Yorkers and the undefeatable nature of freedom. A visit to the memorial and accompanying museum should be a part of any trip to New York.
— Brian Jewell, Executive Editor
I would say any corn dog stand. Nothing says “‘MERICA” like a good ol’ corn dog.
— Stacey Bowman, Director, Advertising Sales
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island combine to be my favorite patriotic site in America. I think they serve as a beacon to the rest of the world and to us as citizens that we are a country founded on personal freedoms of all types. The fact that they rest in the harbor of our greatest city only enhances their symbolism.
— Mac Lacy, Publisher
I’m a Massachusetts native, so Boston is a special place for me. Paul Revere’s Freedom Trail through the city and on to Lexington is my favorite patriotic attraction. Growing up — and still to this day — if I stay at my parents’ house, my dad wakes us up by stomping loudly down the hallway shouting, “The British are coming, the British are coming! Get up! Get up! Get up!”
— Laura Camic, Sales Manager
When I was growing up in Massachusetts, we took our third-grade field trip to Plimoth Plantation. I loved being able to see the real Plymouth Rock (which is much smaller than you would expect) and go on board the Mayflower II, as well as watching them building a canoe and fish for eels at the Wampanoag village. It’s still a favorite memory of mine today, and I would love to go back and experience such an important piece of American history again.
— Ashley Ricks, Circulation Manager
