Though its history is notably shorter when compared to other countries such as England and China, the United States is, nonetheless, filled with many historical sites that offer glimpses into its rich history. In fact, remnants of America’s 240+ year old story can be found all throughout the country, many of which are open to the public.

With the 4th of July fast approaching, we at 55 Places want to highlight communities with nearby historical American sites that are worth checking out. Here are some of the best communities near historical sites in America.

Fredericksburg, Virginia

The town of Fredericksburg, Virginia is home to a variety of historic museums, battlefields, and homes, some of which date back to pre-colonial times. Historic treasures in the area include George Washington’s boyhood home as well as the Rising Sun Tavern, which was built by Washington’s youngest brother, Charles, in 1760 as his home and was later used as a stopover for travelers in town.

For Civil War buffs, the area is home to the sites of the Battle of Chancellorsville and the Battle of Fredericksburg, both of which are considered some of the most significant battles of the war. The area also hosts historic buildings that date back to the war, including Massaponax Church and Braehead Manor

Nearby Communities

Celebrate by Del Webb - Fredericksburg

Regency at Chancellorsville - Fredericksburg

Falls Run - Fredericksburg

Virginia Heritage at Lee's Parke - Fredericksburg

Barley Woods - Fredericksburg

St. Augustine, Florida

Besides its many beaches, the town of St. Augustine, Florida is another area featuring a number of historical sites. One popular attraction is Fort Matanzas. Built in 1742 to defend against the impending attack by British forces, the fort serves as a remnant of Florida’s Spanish past. Visitors can watch live reenactments and tour the fort while learning more about its significance to St. Augustine's history.

Also popular is the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The site is touted as the likely 1513 landing site of Spanish explorer, Ponce de Leon, who, according to legend, was in search of the Fountain of Youth. The mythical spring is said to have the power to restore ones youth upon consumption. Regardless of the tales actuality, the site nevertheless offers a glimpse into America's first Spanish settlers as well as the native Timucuans who greeted them upon arrival

Nearby Communities

Cascades at World Golf Village - St. Augustine

Villages of Seloy - St. Augustine

Del Webb Ponte Verda - Ponte Verda

Freedom at San Salito - St. Augustine

Artisan Lakes - Ponte Verda

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas is a city that is filled to the brim with historical sites that showcase America’s diverse history. Chief among the city’s historical treasures is The Alamo. Founded in the 18th century as a Roman Catholic fortress compound, the Alamo is best recognized as the site of the historic 1836 Battle of the Alamo. A pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution, the compound still stands today and is one Texas’ most visited landmarks.

Also famous in the area is Fort Sam Houston. Deemed as one of the Army’s oldest installations, the fort houses roughly 900 historic structures. The base is also recognized as the site of the first flight of a military aircraft in 1910 and is now known as the home of army medicine.

Nearby Communities

Hill Country Retreat - San Antonio

Amorosa at Cibolo Canyons - San Antonio

Scenic Hills - Schertz

The Grove at Vintage Oaks - New Braufnels

Roseheart - San Antonio

Sacramento, California

Lastly, the area of Sacramento, California, is another gold mine (no pun intended) of historical sites. In the mid-1800s roughly 80,000 immigrants from across the country arrived here upon James W. Marshall's discovery of gold flakes on the south fork of the American River. Today, the site is found within the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where visitors can come and see for themselves the history behind this instrumental time in America’s story.

Nearby Communities

Sun City Lincoln Hills - Lincoln

Destinations at Vineyard Point - Sacramento

Heritage Park - Sacramento

Springfield at Whitney Oaks - Rocklin

The Club at WestPark - Roseville

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