Guide

14 Heritage Destinations for Spring

Take a weekend, or even a week, to wind along scenic byways from Maryland to Texas. Explore art festivals and wineries, follow in Harriet Tubman’s footsteps, or visit the historic Daniel Boone home. These cities and towns, main streets, and outdoor activities connect you with history while highlighting amenities and experiences for the modern traveler—all of which are included in Preservation magazine’s Spring 2023 issue as part of the "Heritage Destinations" advertising special.

  1. Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, Lakeland, Florida.

    Photo By: Courtesy Visit Central Florida

    Central Florida

    Situated in the heart of the Sunshine State, Florida’s Sweetest Spot is filled with epic outdoor adventures, thrilling attractions and natural beauty. This Central Florida destination is home to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and the new Peppa Pig Theme Park. Families can also see wild animals at Safari Wilderness Ranch, explore history at Bok Tower Gardens or skim across the water while wakeboarding at Elite Cable Park. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Florida Southern College Campus. It’s home to the Polk Museum of Art and the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. So, if you want to get off the beaten path while staying in the heart of everything—give Florida’s Sweetest Spot a look. You’ll like what you see.

  2. Streetlight and momument from The Sky’s the Limit tour in Quincy, Illinois.

    Photo By: SeeQuincy

    Quincy, Illlinois

    Mid Century Modern Architecture soars in Quincy’s latest itinerary. Explore six brilliant locations designed by a master of Mid Mod, architect John Benya. The self-guided tour includes religious structures in historic downtown, swanky residential subdivisions, and the Quincy Regional Airport terminal. Toast the era with a Martini or Grasshopper at the retro Patio Restaurant & Lounge in the evening. 800.978.4748.

  3. 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.

  4. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad will transport you back in time aboard engine 1309, one of the largest steam locomotives of its kind in the world. In Allegany County, Maryland

    Photo By: Adam Rinehart

    Allegany County, Maryland

    Where America’s rivers, rails, and even the National Road, the first federally funded highway, converged as the crossroads for America. Mountain Maryland is the perfect getaway for inviting views, magical main streets, and enduring historical experiences.

  5. Jefferson Patterson Park in Calvert County, Maryland

    Photo By: Ashley Brown

    Calvert County, Maryland

    Located on the picturesque Chesapeake Bay, Calvert County is your gateway to outdoor adventure steeped with culture and history. Take a hike along the beach, enjoy a boardwalk stroll, unwind at a local gallery, indulge in waterfront dining or simply enjoy a unique shopping experience.

  6. 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 main streets to discover architectural walking tours, unique shops, restaurants with downhome cooking to gourmet delights, and restful bed & breakfasts waiting for you. Follow our Wine Trail, Civil War Trail, and award-winning Barn Quilt Trail as you travel our scenic backroads. Carroll County is home to The Maryland Wine Festival®—39 years old! 800-272-1933.

  7. Arrive by land or by water to experience Cecil County, Maryland's waterfront restaurants.

    Photo By: Andrew Muff

    Cecil County, Maryland

    Escape to Cecil County! Located midway between Philadelphia and Baltimore on I-95, vibrant small towns, 200 miles of shoreline, outdoor recreation, foodie destinations, and beautiful scenery provide a perfect backdrop for memorable adventures. Experience food with a Chesapeake Bay flair. Try local beer, wine, baked goods, homemade ice cream, an old-fashioned candy store, and more! Shop, hike, bike, take a boat ride, visit a farm, or rent a kayak and explore Cecil’s waterways. Make furry friends at Plumpton Park Zoo, and go back in time at Mt. Harmon Plantation. Experience the MD 5 Star at Fair Hill, the highest level of international equestrian eventing. And opening in 2023— discover the fun of Great Wolf Lodge’s largest property to date. Cecil County… Just a Daydream Away!

  8. National War Correspondents Memorial Arch, Frederick, Maryland.

    Photo By: Courtesy Visit Frederick

    Frederick, Maryland

    Wander the quaint streets of Downtown Frederick lined with historic buildings that house over 200 locally-owned boutique shops. Indulge in world-class restaurants and embrace our lively & diverse arts scene. Venture outdoors in National & State Parks and experience our storied past at Civil War battlefields. Unwind at dozens of wineries, breweries & distilleries.

  9. Hagerstown Aviation Museum, Maryland

    Photo By: Visit Hagerstown

    Hagerstown & Washington County, Maryland

    Hagerstown & Washington County offers rich history dating from the early frontier days of the USA through the Civil War to World War II. We treasure the projects that preserve our history as we move into the future. They amplify our quality of life, offer new perspectives, and provide great collections of opportunities for visitors. #wanderwashingtoncounty

  10. Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center, Church Creek, Maryland

    Photo By: MD Tourism

    Maryland Tourism

    Be Open for a Historic Vacation. Have fun discovering Maryland’s history with these three handpicked vacation ideas. Historic National Road Scenic Byway: Trace America’s oldest road through cobblestonepaved city centers, breathtaking mountains and everything in between. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad: Follow in the footsteps of the most iconic conductor on the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman. Explore the secret network of trails, waterways and safe houses that helped enslaved people flee to freedom. Chesapeake Country: Soak up the famous Chesapeake Bay by enjoying vibrant waterfront villages, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and mouthwatering seafood along the Crab & Oyster Trail. Be Open For It.

  11. Wild pony on Assateague beach at sunset, Maryland

    Photo By: Jen Britton

    Worchester County: Maryland's Coast

    Explore Assateague Island, a 37-mile barrier island famed for wild horses. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Sinepuxent Bay, the park is a crown jewel on Maryland’s Coast. The Island’s sand dunes and salt marshes offer abundant areas to camp, bike, fish, paddle or picnic.

  12. A hiker in Shenandoah National Park takes in scenery near Staunton, Virginia.

    Photo By: @molly.everywhere

    Staunton, Virginia

    Decades of historic preservation have led to a nationally acclaimed downtown—anchored by ornate architecture, fascinating museums, six historic districts, and two Historic Hotels of America. Year-round performances are offered in the stunning Blackfriars Playhouse, and scenic train rides take you along the 150-year-old railroad. Staunton is the perfect homebase to explore this bright and beautiful season at Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, and the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail.

  13. Williams Creek School in Gillespie County, Texas.

    Photo By: Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools

    Gillespie County Country Schools Driving Trail, Texas

    The Driving Trail links 16 former country schools to the Vereins Kirche, the first Gillespie school built in 1847 in Fredericksburg. The 120-mile Trail directs visitors into the nearby countryside to see one, several, or all schools. All schools are on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit website for monthly special activities.

  14. Conrad Schmitt Studios, Inc. developed specifications for the treatment of finishes at this former 1930 movie palace. The elegant and authentic historic space re-opened in 2021 as the Bradley Symphony Center, the new permanent home for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (Wisconsin)

    Photo By: Scott Paulus

    Conrad Schmitt Studios, Inc., Wisconsin

    Conrad Schmitt Studios, Inc. creates and restores interiors and fine works of art for buildings of architectural, historical, and religious significance. One of the oldest and largest glass studios, CSS is recognized for outstanding craftsmanship in the creation, conservation, and restoration of stained glass.

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