10 Historic American Towns Worth Visiting

Street at dawn on Mackinac Island during the lilac festival

You can find all kinds of great towns to visit across the United States. They come in all varieties, from small coastal towns to scenic mountain towns to adventurous river towns. What makes one town stand apart from the rest? A great story.

That’s what all of the towns we’re going to explore today have in common. They all have a fascinating story to tell. Come with us to 10 historic American towns worth visiting.

Marietta, Ohio: A Pioneering Settlement

Foggy Morning Over the River and Main Street Marietta Ohio Washington County — Adobe Stock

The first settlement in the Northwest Territory, Marietta, is a riverboat town nestled along the Ohio River. The town is steeped in history, from ancient native mound builders to the founding fathers of the United States to the Underground Railroad.

Today, the riverboat town boasts brick streets, century-old buildings, and an impressive culinary and arts scene for a town of its size.

Mackinac Island, Michigan: No Cars Allowed

Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island State Park Michigan — Adobe Stock

You read that right! No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island (with the exception of some emergency vehicles). That lends itself well to the historic feel of this island that seems lost in days gone by.

Home to a historic fort that saw two battles during the War of 1812, Victorian homes, and horse-drawn carriages you will fall in love with this Lake Huron gem.

St. Augustine, Florida: America’s Oldest City

ST AUGUSTINE, FL - APRIL 8, 2018: City streets with tourists at sunset. The city is a famous tourist attraction in Florida — Adobe Stock

The oldest city in the United States is St. Augustine, Florida. Landmarks of the city include Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fort from the 1600’s and Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, built in 1575.

Its deep and lengthy history makes St. Augustine popular among ghost hunters as well, since it has many legendary hauntings.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: An Iconic Adress

Gettysburg, PA - April 23, 2024: The Dobbin House is believed to be the first station of the Underground Railroad north of the Mason-Dixon Line. It is now a restaurant and tavern. — Adobe Stock

Famous for its Civil War history and Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, this Pennsylvania town draws history lovers from around the world.

Visitors can tour the Gettysburg National Military Park, explore the Jennie Wade House (home of a civilian victim of the war), and dine by candlelight at the 1776 Dobbin House Tavern, complete with costumed servers.