Welcome to the home of Great American Treasures, a collection of over 60 historic sites that tell stories of our country from its earliest days. As you explore, you’ll find some familiar faces (George Washington and Dolley Madison, to name but a few distinguished guests, crop up from time to time) and events (you’re probably familiar with the Revolutionary War), but you’ll also discover so much more.

We’ll introduce you to the people who carved out livelihoods in the fledgling American colonies; Native people who both befriended colonists and fought for their ancient lands; enslaved people whose labor built so much of what we know today; everyday folks who experienced joy, hardships, and triumphs in early America; and the women who knew the importance of saving all that history. No matter what your interests are, we’ve got a story (or two) for you.

Time follows a straight line. History…not so much. History has twists and turns, and the events that shape it—while perhaps happening at the same time—may look vastly different from one to another. So, as you meet the Great American Treasures—the Destinations—you’ll notice that their stories aren’t told in a tidy, linear line. Instead, we’ve arranged the Destinations into five broad Collections that together account for the scores of stories that weave a complex picture of America. Take a spin through our About page, and you’ll see what we mean.
As you meet the Destinations, you’ll likely discover that you want to learn more about a specific place, and we make it easy for you to do so. Each Destination page features contact information that includes a physical address, a phone number, and a website. Make sure to visit a Destination’s primary website if you want to find information about visiting.*

We have a LOT of Destinations for you to discover. So, kick back, relax, and stay awhile. You’ll hear some great stories, and you might even learn a thing or two.

Thanks for visiting! You’re welcome any time.

*Please know that, like places around the world, the Great American Treasures Destinations are affected by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Though you can’t visit them in person, we hope this website will allow you to “take a trip” from the safety of your home. Keep an eye on a Destination’s primary website if you want to stay apprised of their eventual post-COVID-19 opening plans and procedures.