Guide

9 Heritage Destinations for Spring

Take a weekend, or even a week, to wind along scenic byways from Maryland to Mississippi. Explore wineries and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, follow in Harriet Tubman’s footsteps, or visit Patrick Henry’s Red Hill. 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 2024 issue as part of the "Heritage Destinations" advertising special.

  1. Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, Lakeland, Florida

    Photo By: 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 singlesite 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. Private Home in Quincy, IL

    Photo By: SeeQuincy

    Quincy, Illinois

    Home Tours is a custom experience for small groups, featuring a selection of 14 homes in arguably one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the Midwest. Quincy’s East End Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a four-season treasure. PRIVATE HOME TOURS: $5/ person per home (1-week res). Email info@seequincy.com to set up the details. 800.978.4748.

  3. The Union Mills Homestead in Westminster, MD is the site of the 54th annual Flower & Plant Mart, held on May 3–5, 2024. A tour of the Homestead (1797) includes a Grist Mill, Tannery, Blacksmith Shop, Miller’s House (Gift Store), Gardens and the Shriver Residence. Both Union and Confederate soldiers (led by J.E.B. Stuart) overnighted here on their way to Gettysburg.

    Photo By: Kelly Heck Photography

    Carroll County, Maryland

    Stroll our historic downtown main streets to discover architectural walking tours, unique shops, restaurants with downhome cooking to gourmet delights, and local museums 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®—celebrating 40 years this year! 800-272-1933.

  4. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.

    Photo By: Courtesy MD Tourism

    Maryland Tourism

    Maryland has history at every turn. You’re Welcome. Discover Maryland’s story with three handpicked vacation ideas. Historic National Road Scenic Byway: Follow America’s oldest road through cobblestone-paved towns, picturesque mountains and selfieworthy landmarks. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad: Follow in the footsteps of the most iconic conductor of the Underground Railroad. Explore Harriet Tubman’s secret network of trails, waterways and safe houses that helped enslaved people find freedom. Chesapeake Country: Live it up on the famous Chesapeake Bay by enjoying vibrant waterfront villages, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and world-renowned seafood along the Crab & Oyster Trail. You’re Welcome.

  5. 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.

  6. A hot-air balloon flying over the Bandstand at Bluff Park in Natchez.

    Photo By: Courtesy Visit Natchez

    Natchez, Mississippi

    All towns have a story. But you’ve never heard one quite like Natchez. It’s a tale of rich cultural legacy and powerful reckonings, where our iconic historic homes set the stage for diverse and fascinating local characters. And while we’re rooted in history, our present is just as lively. Natchez is the home of modern southern hospitality. Here you’ll find a diverse, vibrant town with doors open wide and a little something for everyone. Y’all are welcome here.

  7. Downtown St. Joseph, Missouri

    Photo By: St. Joseph, Mo Visitors Bureau

    St. Joseph, Missouri

    Home to 14 unique museums, 12 annual festivals, amazing architecture on the National Register of Historic Places, thriving arts and music cultures, and 48 parks connected by 26 miles of beautiful Parkway. Start planning

  8. Fairfax Arms, Old Colchester, VA.

    Photo By: Fairfax County Park Authority

    Fairfax County, Virginia

    Live in a historic house rent free! Fairfax County’s Resident Curator Program offers long term leases to qualified tenants in exchange for their commitment to rehabilitate and maintain the publicly-owned historic property to program standards. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rcp to learn more about available and upcoming properties.

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

    Photo By: Creative Dog Media

    Red Hill-Patrick Henry National Memorial, Virginia

    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.

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