- Poll reveals the top 50 landmarks families would most like to visit on Presidents’ Day.
- The Grand Canyon National Park emerged as the country’s top choice.
- Infographic included.
the staff of the Ridgewood bl.og
Ridgewood NJ, as Presidents’ Day dawns on February 19th, it signals a time for American families to embark on a journey through the rich history of the country’s presidential past. They will be flocking to a variety of revered sites, from the stately libraries housing presidential records to the grand monuments that commemorate their legacies.
In anticipation of this national observance, Mixbook.com, a #1 rated photobook company, conducted a survey of 3,000 American families. The poll sought to uncover which presidential sites they would most desire to visit if distance and travel time posed no obstacle. The findings of this survey were quite revealing, bringing to light not only popular choices but also unearthing lesser-known hidden gems that have escaped public attention until now.”The top 10 were as follows:
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.
The Grand Canyon emerged as the number one pick among families to celebrate Presidents’ Day. It is not just a breathtaking natural wonder, but also a place where families can appreciate the beauty of America’s landscapes, nurtured and preserved partly due to presidential environmental policies. Its vastness and historical significance make it a poignant place for discussing the importance of conservation efforts initiated by leaders like President Theodore Roosevelt, who played a key role in the establishment of national parks.
2. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Florida
The Kennedy Space Center in second place is a perfect destination for families interested in science and space exploration. It’s a tribute to President Kennedy’s ambitious vision for space exploration, notably the Apollo moon landing mission. The center’s interactive exhibits and educational tours can inspire young minds about the future while honoring past presidential initiatives in space.
3. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, Kentucky
In 3rd place came the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. Visiting the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln allows families to delve into the early life of one of America’s most revered presidents. It’s a place where one can reflect on Lincoln’s journey from a humble log cabin to the White House, and discuss his significant contributions to American history, such as the Emancipation Proclamation.
4. USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
This memorial is a solemn place for families to honor those who perished in Pearl Harbor. It provides context to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s challenging leadership during World War II. The site’s historical significance helps in understanding the decisions made by presidents during times of crisis.
5. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Massachusetts
The fifth most popular, this library and museum is an excellent educational resource for families. It not only explores Kennedy’s presidency but also his influence on American culture and politics. The exhibits offer insights into the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Space Race, and his vision for a new America, making it a compelling visit for those interested in modern American history.
6. Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, New York
As the first presidential library, it’s a treasure trove of information about FDR’s era. Families can learn about the New Deal, Roosevelt’s response to the Great Depression, and his leadership during World War II. The library is an opportunity to understand how presidential decisions can shape the nation in times of hardship.
7. Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland
The 7th most popular, this site is significant as it commemorates the Battle of Antietam and Lincoln’s historic visit. It’s an important destination for families to discuss the Civil War’s impact and Lincoln’s role in shaping the nation’s history, particularly his decision to issue the Emancipation Proclamation after this battle.
8. The Hermitage, Tennessee
Andrew Jackson’s home offers a complex view of American history. It provides a chance to discuss Jackson’s presidency and policies, as well as the controversial aspects of his tenure, including his policies towards Native Americans. The plantation setting also sparks conversations about the antebellum South and the president’s role in that era.
9. Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthplace National Historic Site, New York
This reconstructed site offers families a glimpse into the early life of a president known for his larger-than-life persona and progressive policies. It’s a place to discuss Roosevelt’s role in shaping the early 20th century U.S. policies, including his contributions to environmental conservation and the Progressive Movement.
10. Mount Vernon, Virginia
And rounding up the top ten is Mount Vernon. George Washington’s home is not just a historical site but a venue to discuss the foundations of the United States. Families visiting Mount Vernon can explore the life and leadership of the first president, his role in the Revolutionary War, and his influence in shaping the new nation’s government and policies.
The state of New Jersey had one landmark voted among the most popular to visit on Presidents’ Day:
46. Grover Cleveland Birthplace (Caldwell, NJ)
This museum and historical site is the birthplace of Grover Cleveland, the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms (22nd and 24th president), offering a glimpse into his early life.
Infographic of the top 50 landmarks to visit on Presidents’ Day, as voted by 3,000 families.
Mixbook.com also came up with some interesting facts for Presidents’ Day:
- George Washington’s Teeth: Contrary to popular belief, George Washington’s false teeth were not made of wood. They were made from a variety of materials, including human teeth, animal teeth, ivory, and metal.
- John Adams and Thomas Jefferson’s Friendship and Death: Adams and Jefferson, once political rivals, later became close friends. They both died on the same day, July 4, 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
- Abraham Lincoln’s Wrestling Career: Before becoming president, Lincoln was an accomplished wrestler. He is enshrined in the Wrestling Hall of Fame, having lost only one match out of approximately 300.
- Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders: Roosevelt was the only U.S. president to receive the Medal of Honor, which he was awarded posthumously for his charge up San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Four Terms: FDR is the only U.S. president to have served more than two terms, elected to four consecutive terms starting in 1932. After his presidency, the 22nd Amendment was passed, limiting presidents to two terms.
- John F. Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize: JFK is the only president to have won a Pulitzer Prize, which he received for his book “Profiles in Courage” in 1957.
- Ronald Reagan’s Acting Career: Before entering politics, Reagan was a Hollywood actor and president of the Screen Actors Guild.
- Barack Obama’s Grammy Awards: Obama won two Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word Album, one for his audiobook “Dreams from My Father” and another for “The Audacity of Hope”.
- Presidents’ Day Origins: Originally established in 1885 in recognition of President George Washington, the holiday became popularly known as Presidents’ Day after it was moved as part of the 1971 Uniform Monday Holiday Act. It’s now viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present.
