Semiquincentennial is a fancy way of saying 250th anniversary. America will celebrate that milestone with an entire year’s worth of festivities. The 250th will kick off in the Massachusetts towns of Lexington and Concord, site of the “shot heard ‘round the world” that started the American Revolution in 1775, and culminate on Independence Day in 2026. Whether looking to infuse plans with patriotism or design a whole itinerary, the year ahead presents plenty of opportunities to celebrate America’s story.
As the cradle of the American Revolution, Boston, Massachusetts, offers plenty of activities and attractions for groups. The Freedom Trail winds through 16 historic sites, including the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution, the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat.
Groups looking to enhance their experience can arrange a tour with the Freedom Trail Foundation. Costumed guides in 18th-century garb transport visitors as they share stories about some of the fascinating people and places on segments of the 2 1/2-mile Freedom Trail. These guides bring history to life through taking on the eyes of colonial figures—and, of course, make for a great photo op!
New York City, New York, also played a key role in the early days of the nation. For a modern twist on history, groups might catch a performance of “Hamilton” on Broadway. This groundbreaking musical brings the Founding Fathers to life, offering a fresh perspective on the birth of American democracy.
Obsessed with the musical or history? Broadway Up Close offers walking tours that are sure to entertain and educate. On the “HamilTour,” Green Team Guides take groups to several historical sites on the very streets where the events that inspired the musical occurred.
For a visual representation of America’s democratic ideals, take a short ferry ride to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is storied for being the birthplace of American independence. “Independence National Historical Park (INHP) is many things to many people,” says Adam Duncan, National Park Service ranger for INHP. “It is, of course, a national shrine. It is a place to be reminded of the ideals that formed the basis for the founding of the United States.”
Credit: Meet Boston/Kyle Klein
Begin your group’s journey at Independence Visitor Center to speak with park rangers, enjoy interactive exhibits, and view an informative film. From there, groups can visit Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and signed. Just across the street, the Liberty Bell stands as an enduring symbol of freedom.
After seeing where America’s founding documents were drafted, check out the National Constitution Center. Signers’ Hall brings to life the final day of the Constitutional Convention with 42 life-size bronze statues of the Founding Fathers.
“The Story of We the People,” the Center’s main exhibit, guides visitors through milestones in America’s history and reveals how the Constitution is as important today as it was in 1787. Here, groups can participate in hands-on programs like Presidential Trivia and the Giant Constitution Board Game.
Whether ascending the Washington Monument or viewing the Star-Spangled Banner at the National Museum of American History, visitors to Washington, D.C., can immerse themselves in the nation’s rich heritage at countless monuments and museums.
No visit to the nation’s capital is complete without a stop at the National Archives. The Charters of Freedom Rotunda displays the original founding documents and invites visitors to see them up close. A monumental redesign of the permanent galleries, learning center, and theater is set to open this upcoming summer as part of the 250th anniversary celebrations, and a new slate of guided group tour opportunities is in the works.
“Celebrating America’s 250th birthday at the home of the Declaration of Independence is a once-in-a-generation moment,” says Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan. “We hope everyone will join us on the journey to 250! There’s no better place to learn about our founding principles and the generations of Americans who have championed the pursuit of freedom and a more perfect nation.”
At the top of the National Mall, the Capitol and Supreme Court welcome visitors to explore the living legacy of American democracy and how the vision of the founders continues to evolve and adapt. Although the Supreme Court does not offer guided tours, visitors are encouraged to tour public portions of the building independently and take advantage of a variety of educational programs, including courtroom lectures. At the Capitol, groups can arrange for a guided tour that includes spaces like the Rotunda and Statuary Hall. Additional opportunities like ticketed access to the House or Senate Chamber viewing galleries can be arranged through elected officials’ offices.
This journey through America’s founding cities offers travelers a chance to connect with the nation’s past while reflecting on its future. Special workshops and events are in the works at many of these sites to inspire groups to further connect with this story. As the country approaches its momentous 250th milestone, there’s no better time to explore the sites that shaped the American experiment in democracy.
By Michael McLaughlin
Main Image: National Archives, Washington, D.C.; Credit: National Archives
