There are several national monuments spread across the country, each offering unique experiences of history, culture, and natural beauty. Many such landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Statue of Liberty, have significant background histories that provide tourists with a deeper connection to the site. But thousands of people visit such monuments daily, so it is best to learn about the best ways to explore the sites to make the most of one’s visit.
1. Visit during off-peak hours
National monuments witness the highest crowds during peak seasons, like spring break and summer and winter holidays. So, the queues, including those for parking, may stretch miles. To avoid long waiting hours, plan a visit in off-peak weeks. For example, if most tourists visit a must-see national monument in America between April and September, plan the visit in October when the queues are shorter, leaving more time for one to take in the beautiful sights.
2. Arrive early
If a visit during peak season is unavoidable, consider waking up early to get the most out of a less crowded destination. For example, most people line up for breakfast at their hotels the first thing in the morning before visiting a monument. Skip the first meal and head directly to explore the site. To make up for breakfast, carry a couple of snacks to eat en route to the destination. Getting there early is the best time to enjoy the attraction with a lower footfall.
3. Draw the plan in advance
Another essential travel tip is to start planning the visit. A last-minute trip is likely to cost more, with hotel rooms and tickets selling out fast, especially if it’s peak season. Planning early on, preferably a week or two ahead, will help one get a head start with reservations for entry to monuments, accommodation, and rental vehicles. Moreover, planning the monument visit well in advance may help one secure a travel package at affordable rates when compared to last-minute bookings.
4. Consider guided tours
Exploring a national monument in the US can be a wonderful experience, but a guided tour is how one can truly enjoy every detail of the region. Hiring a guide can make the visit more engaging, enriching, and tailored. Such guides are often locals who live close by the landmark, so they typically have in-depth knowledge regarding the intricacies of the place, including the hidden gems and unique stories associated with the landmark. One cannot enjoy such experiences on an unguided tour.
Often, tour companies can be seen posted outside the park entrance, each option varying depending on the duration, services offered, and rates. It helps to research and determine the option that suits one’s travel requirements before booking. Some guided tours may even provide perks such as photographs, camping gear, etc.
5. Follow the rules
Most monumental sites in the US have strict rules in place to safeguard their natural landscapes, wildlife, and historic structures and artifacts. These could include guidelines about prohibited items, restrictions on carrying food or beverages, proper waste disposal practices, limits on photography, and more. One can review these rules and regulations on the official website of the monument one plans to visit. It is imperative to understand and follow these rules to ensure the site is well-preserved for future visitors.
6. Wear comfortable attire
It is advisable to wear comfortable attire during the trip to the monument, especially if it involves guided walk tours, climbing hills, or exploring rough terrain. The best attire for such visits includes weather-appropriate, comfy clothing and footwear like hiking boots or trekking shoes.
7. Pack essentials
One of the top travel tips to remember when visiting national monuments in the US, even family-friendly landmarks, is to pack essentials. This can include items like water, snacks, and sunscreen. Travelers are further advised to carry other essentials like portable chargers, weather-appropriate gear, and items for sanitary purposes. This will help if the landmark one plans to visit has limited facilities. But, once again, it’s always best to check with the monument’s website or management to confirm if any items are restricted.
8. Research about special events or activities
Most national monuments may have events lined up for selected dates throughout the year. Travelers who wish to experience these events should check the monument’s official website for details. If no information is available, speak to the site management over the phone or on the day of the visit. Being part of an event during a visit to a monument in the US can offer unique insights and memorable experiences and is always something to brag about back home.
9. Interact with locals
Another tip to truly enjoy one’s monument visit is to speak with locals to find valuable information on the best and budget-friendly dining options, top shopping sites, and underrated attractions, which cannot be found online. All of this can make one’s visit to the monument much more interesting than anticipated.
10. Don’t overlook safety
Sometimes, a visit to a national monument in the US could require one to travel to a different state or remote area. So, it is important to take all safety measures to make the most of one’s trip while avoiding unnecessary hassles. One of the best ways to ensure this is to share one’s itinerary with close friends and family members. Apps like Google Maps allow one to share real-time location information with trusted contacts, helping them easily reach out during an emergency. Also, when staying in a hotel or lodge, it helps if one informs the front desk at the facility regarding one’s itinerary. Doing so helps the hotel staff get in touch with relevant authorities on the off chance that a traveler isn’t back following the tour.