Guide

Historic Downtowns to Explore This Summer

In these charming communities, you’ll uncover a passion for history found everywhere—from eclectic restaurants, galleries, and shops to Main Streets decorated with new and historic murals.

Get to know these historic downtowns and destinations and find out how much they truly have to offer—included in Preservation magazine’s summer 2024 issue as part of the "Historic Downtowns" advertising special.

  1. Mural Find + Dine in Quincy, Illinois: “By the Dawn’s Early Light”

    Photo By: Courtesy SeeQuincy

    Quincy, Illinois

    Celebrate art, history, and food in a big way! Self-navigate 24 murals throughout the city and enjoy appetizing eats and sips along the way. From historic “ghost” murals to vivid contemporary works, the new Mural Find + Dine Guide offers a fun & tasty tour encompassing a diverse 10-mile route. Bonus: FREE Bike Rentals at the Tourist Information Center. MURAL FIND + DINE GUIDE available at SeeQuincy.com or by calling 800.978.4748.

  2. Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance, Missouri

    Photo By: Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau

    Greater St. Charles, Missouri

    Discover Saint Charles, Missouri! Born from bold explorers and artful traders, St. Charles blends its daring French heritage with a down-to-earth Missouri attitude. We’re historically awesome, rich in culture, and abundant with playful experiences. Explore our authentic Main Street, legendary river, lush parks and trails, our vibrant casino, wineries, and genuine hospitality. Make memories in the midst of our illustrious history, Discover Saint Charles.

  3. Fort D in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, is a Civil War-era fort alongside the Mississippi River and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Live reenactments occur multiple times a year.

    Photo By: Cape Girardeau

    Cape Girardeau, Missouri

    Cape Girardeau, MO, one of Missouri’s oldest river towns, is situated along the Mississippi River between St. Louis and Memphis. The vibrant riverfront downtown features eclectic shops and boutiques as well as local casual and fine dining and a full-service casino. With state-of-the-art sports facilities and outdoor parks for fishing and hiking, Cape Girardeau is sure to be your new favorite escape any time of year. Start planning now.

  4. Downtown Charm Abounds in Danville, Kentucky.

    Photo By: Karrie Bickett

    Danville, Kentucky

    Located in central Kentucky, Danville epitomizes a charming, small-town college community – steeped in rich Southern culture. Known as the birthplace of Kentucky’s constitution, in Danville you’ll find cozy streets lined with historic homes, eclectic cuisine, live music, and a thriving arts scene. Explore galleries and historic sites, immersing yourself in the town’s rich heritage and hospitality.

  5. Aiken County Historical Museum, South Carolina

    Photo By: Thoroughbred Country SC

    "Thoroughbred Country," South Carolina

    Welcome to Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina, where the stories of generations past are cherished. Explore Civil War battle sites, historic landmarks and mansions preserved for all. Relive Colonial America at a North Augusta Living History Park event. Paddle the Edisto River, the longest free-flowing blackwater river in the country. Stroll through quaint downtowns and along picturesque trails. Tailgate at Whitney Field, the oldest polo field in the United States, in continuous use since 1882. Find one-of-a-kind treasures at 5 & 10s and off the beaten path hidden gems. Take a step back to an earlier era and discover who the Winter Colonists were and how they shaped the region. Escape to Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina. We’re way more than horses!

  6. Patrick Henry’s Red Hill in Virginia is beautiful in every season.

    Photo By: Creative Dog Media

    Red Hill

    Patrick Henry’s Red Hill is the final home and burial place of Founding Father, American Revolution hero, and five-time Governor of Virginia, Patrick Henry. Visitors can tour the breathtaking beauty of over 1,000 of Patrick Henry’s original acres and historic buildings year-round.

  7. Scene from Union Mills Homestead Corn Roast in Carroll County, Maryland

    Photo By: Kelly Heck Photography/Carroll County

    Carroll County, Maryland

    Stroll our historic downtown areas to discover architectural walking tours, unique shops, local history museums and restaurants featuring both hometown menus and gourmet delights. Take time to follow our Wine and Spirits Trail, Civil War Trail or Barn Quilt Trail! 800-272- 1933.

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