Requirement 7
Requirement
Visit a place that is listed as a National Historic Landmark or that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Tell your counselor what you learned about the landmark or site and what you found interesting about it.
Landmarks and Monuments
An important way for U.S. citizens to appreciate their hard-won rights and freedoms is to visit the sites where major historical events took place and where people from different cultures settled, or tour public buildings and observe firsthand their government officials at work.
What is a National Landmark?
What’s the Difference?
National Historic Landmark
A particular site, structure, or object of national importance (Vietnam Veterans Memorial)
National Monument
An area preserved for its historic, prehistoric, or scientific interest that includes at least one resource of national importance (Fort Sumter National Monument)
National Historic Site
A place of national historical significance, usually with a single primary feature (Ford’s Theatre)
National Historical Park
A larger, more complex area than a National Historic Site, it includes several areas and features of national historical importance (Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia)
Who Preserves the National Landmark?
How the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) Preserves Our Historic National Landmarks
The National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is in charge of national parks as well as certain historic settings. Besides protecting those scenic parks valued for their spectacular natural features, such as Yellowstone National Park, the National Park Service identifies and preserves all the historic buildings and sites that have national importance—that is, those places that mean something to most Americans. The National Park Service maintains an official list of cultural resources worth preserving called the National Register of Historic Places.
Discover Historical Landmarks Near You
Explore the National Register of Historical Places! Click the link below.
Why it is Important to Preserve Our Monuments and Landmarks
American citizens have a debt to the people who came before us, and an obligation to the generations to follow. National landmarks and monuments are places to experience history. Many are endangered, but they deserve to be preserved for what they represent as part of America’s history and culture. You can help preserve these places by joining a local or national historic preservation organization and by volunteering to work at one of the historic landmarks.
Why is preservation of the American historical landmarks important to our society?
Planning your tour
Before you head for one of the National Historic Landmarks or National Monuments, call to find out if visitors are allowed. Schedules for tours vary and are always subject to change.
Step 1
Research the Landmark
- Learn its history, significance, and any notable events.
- Check the official website or the National Park Service page for details.
Track Your Adventures with the National Parks Passport Program
Step 2
Plan Your Visit
- Confirm operating hours, ticket requirements, and any seasonal closures.
- Reserve tickets or guided tours in advance if needed.
Step 3
Plan Your Visit
- Understand visitor policies (photography, restricted areas, etc.).
- Check accessibility options if required.
Step 4
Prepare Learning Materials
- Download maps, brochures, or mobile apps for self-guided tours.
- Bring a notebook or device for taking notes if you’re studying.
Step 5
Check for Special Programs
- Look for ranger talks, interactive exhibits, or historical reenactments.
- See if there are audio guides or virtual resources available.
Step 6
Respect the Site
- Follow preservation rules—don’t touch artifacts or stray off paths.
- Be mindful of the cultural and historical significance.
Helpful Tip
Top Online Resources for 360° Virtual Tours of Historical Sites
Online resources provide 360° virtual tours of historical sites, landmarks, parks, and monuments. An online virtual tour can help prepare you for an in-person visit.
Now that you know more about historical landmarks,
let’s take a tour of your state capitol building.
