8 Must-See Historic Towns in the Northern United States

Explore eight must-see historic towns in the northern United States, from the colonial charm of Newport, Rhode Island, to the Victorian streetscapes of Port Townsend, Washington. Discover the historic streets of Stillwater, Minnesota, and delve into Civil War history in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Experience the baseball legacy of Cooperstown, New York, and the mining heritage of Galena, Illinois. Wander the maritime streets of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and step back in time on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Each town offers a unique glimpse into America's rich history and cultural heritage.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport has a rich colonial history dating back to the 17th century, with historic landmarks like the Newport Tower (also called the Old Stone Mill), a round stone tower that is the remains of a mid-17th century windmill; Touro Synagogue, built in 1763, and the oldest synagogue building still standing in the US; and “America’s Oldest Tavern,” the White Horse Tavern, which has been serving freshly-caught shellfish from nearby Narragansett Bay since 1673, and features a 31-page wine list.

With over 400 miles of coastline in the state, Newport is near dozens of beautiful sandy beaches. Easton’s Beach (or First Beach) is the largest in Newport. Visitors can stroll along the iconic Cliff Walk, which offers stunning views of the coastline, and pass by grand historic mansions—the summer homes of America's wealthiest families during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The most spectacular mansions are The Breakers, the “summer cottage” of the Vanderbilt family, or the Marble House, the Vanderbilts' secondary summer cottage, because who needs just one?

Newport has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, such as the Newport Art Museum, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum (the oldest lending library in the United States), and the Newport Jazz Festival—the granddaddy of jazz festivals celebrating its 70th anniversary in the summer of 2024.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island is a step back in time. Famous for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and complete absence of motor vehicles, the island was a strategic fur trading post and military outpost in the 17th and 18th centuries. It became a popular summer retreat for wealthy tourists in the late 19th century. Fort Mackinac, the military outpost, played a significant role in early American history. Today, visitors can explore the fort's restored buildings, watch historical reenactments, and learn how it was strategically important during the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

With no cars allowed on the island, visitors can experience the island by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle on more than 70 miles of natural and paved trails. Guided carriage tours provide insights into the island's history and landmarks, whereas biking along scenic trails offers stunning views of the surroundings, including rocky shorelines, lush forests, and panoramic vistas.

Opened on July 10, 1887, the Grand Hotel, affectionately referred to as “America’s Summer Place,” is a one-of-a-kind landmark on Mackinac Island. It is known for its Victorian architecture, luxurious accommodations, and sweeping views of Lake Huron from the hotel’s 660-foot front porch—the world’s longest. Visitors can experience the elegance of a bygone era while exploring the hotel's grand lobby, gardens, and dining venues.

Stillwater, Minnesota

Often called the "Birthplace of Minnesota" because it's where the process of making Minnesota a state started in 1848, Stillwater is a scenic town on the banks of the St. Croix River. The river played a role in the town’s history by serving as a transportation route for early settlers, Native American tribes, and European explorers, and is a National Scenic Riverway.

Historic downtown Stillwater showcases the town’s rich history and architecture, dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. The town is home to several significant buildings, including the Warden’s House Museum, a 14-room house built in 1853 home to the town’s jailkeeper. The Washington County Courthouse in Stillwater is the longest-standing courthouse in the state. It was constructed to include a small two-story jail and a residence for the sheriff. It was completed in 1870 and used for over a century.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg, without a doubt, is a must-visit destination for history buffs or anyone interested in learning about the Civil War era. Commemorating one of the most significant battles of the Civil War, fought from July 1 to 3, 1863, Gettysburg National Military Park features battlefield tours, museums, and the solemn Soldiers' National Cemetery—the resting place for more than 3,500 soldiers killed at Gettysburg, and where President Abraham Lincoln delivered some of the most memorable words in American history during his Gettysburg Address—“four score and seven years ago,” and “all men are created equal.” Visitors can explore other key sites such as Little Round Top, Devil's Den, and Cemetery Ridge.

Downtown Gettysburg is steeped in history. Visitors can stroll charming streets and shop for war memorabilia at The Horse Solider, specializing in military antiques from the American Revolution to World War II. Also, stop at the Appalachian Brewing Company and try one of their flagship brews, such as a Silver Lager or an Outta Focus Double IPA.

Other must-see historic landmarks include the Gettysburg Hotel and the Jennie Wade House, owned by the only civilian killed during the battle. Lincoln Square is in the center of town, and once there, there is no better time to snap a selfie with the statue of Abraham Lincoln outside the David Wills House, where Lincoln famously stayed and prepared for the Gettysburg Address.

Cooperstown, New York

With a population of only 1,842 residents, it’s incredible how widely recognized the small town of Cooperstown, New York, at the southern tip of Otsego Lake, is. It is uber famous for being the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and for having legions of players inducted there, including the charismatic Babe Ruth, thought to be one of the greatest baseball players of all time, “Hammerin’ Hank” Aaron, and “Jackie” Robinson.

After visiting the baseball mecca, stop by for a craft beer at one of Cooperstown’s many microbreweries. Nothing goes better with baseball than beer—just ask the Milwaukee Brewers. The Cooperstown Taproom serves Red Shed craft beer from its rotating menu of golden ales, imperial Stouts, and Vienna Lagers. Brewery Ommegang brews fine Belgian-style ales all year round.

The Farmers' Museum is a living history museum with over 23,000 artifacts that gives visitors a glimpse into rural life in 19th-century America. At one time, the farm belonged to American author James Fenimore Cooper, who wrote “The Last of the Mohicans,” today, the farm lets visitors explore historic buildings like a blacksmith shop, a church, Dr. Thrall’s Pharmacy, Todd’s General Store, and more.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Settled in the early 17th century, Portsmouth is called “one of the most culturally rich destinations” in the United States, full of history and charm. The city's historic downtown area features well-preserved buildings, cobblestone streets, and landmarks that offer insight into its maritime heritage and role in early American history. Portsmouth’s architectural styles range from colonial and Federal to Victorian and Gothic Revival.

Visitors can take self-guided walking tours to admire the city's architectural gems, including the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden, Governor John Langdon House (owned by one of the signers of the United States Constitution), and Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion—the 40-room, 18th-century house and farm of New Hampshire’s first Royal Governor. The Mansion is significant because it is the only original surviving residence of a Royal Governor in the US.

Portsmouth’s oldest neighborhood, Strawbery Banke (known initially as Puddle Dock on account of its location on the Portsmouth waterfront), showcases the city's colonial past through restored homes, gardens, and exhibits dating back to the 17th century. The Strawbery Banke Museum is a unique outdoor museum featuring 39 historic properties on their original sites. Visitors can explore the museum's grounds on a guided tour that includes elegant mansions, working-class homes, and a colonial-era tavern to learn about the daily lives of early settlers and experience firsthand the city's evolution over time.

Galena, Illinois

Along the Mississippi River, the small town of Galena, population 3,000, has some of the area’s most well-preserved 19th-century architecture, including the Victorian home of Ulysses S. Grant. Grant is best known for his roles as the Commanding General of the Union Army during the American Civil War and the 18th President of the United States. Visitors to Galena can explore the Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site to learn about his life, military career, and tumultuous period in American history.

During the 19th century, the town also experienced a lead mining boom, which helped solidify its place in history. The boom brought much influence and prosperity to Galena, one of Illinois's wealthiest cities in the mid-19th century. The Old Blacksmith Shop Museum showcases Galena’s mining heritage with tools, artifacts, and equipment used when lead mining in the area was at its peak.

Beyond its historic charm, Galena sits among the rolling hills and scenic beauty of northwest Illinois. The Horseshoe Mound, an important archaeological site southeast of the town, gives visitors a glimpse into the ancient Native American cultures that once inhabited the area. The Galena River Trail offers eight miles of hiking and biking paths for visitors, but paddling down the Galena River is a relaxing way to take in the picturesque surroundings.

Port Townsend, Washington

In the state of Washington, Port Townsend has one of the best-preserved Victorian seaport downtowns in the United States. Its streets are lined with elegant Victorian buildings, which create a charming atmosphere reminiscent of the town's 19th-century heyday.

As a historic seaport, Port Townsend has a rich maritime history. Visitors can learn about the town’s deep connection with traditional and contemporary maritime life at the Northwest Maritime Center. The center hosts a variety of programs and events, maritime-themed lectures, and occasionally, visitors can observe traditional boatbuilding techniques of artisans working on restoration projects throughout the year. A vital component of the center is The Wooden Boat Foundation, which promotes the appreciation of wooden boat building and seamanship.

The town's waterfront area offers stunning views of Puget Sound and opportunities for boat tours and waterfront dining. Doc’s Marina Grill is a popular seafood establishment on the water that once housed nurses for the military.

Exploring any of these eight historic towns in the United States connects visitors to the nation's past, offering insights into significant historical events and cultural heritage. Whether taking a weekend getaway or spending an entire week away, visitors worldwide can gain a deeper understanding of American history and its significance and foster an appreciation for the values of freedom, democracy, and resilience that shape a country's identity.