When I’m traveling on my own or with family, I always learn something. That’s part of the thrill for me. 

In an era where politics and history are playing an important role, why not fold the notion into your travel planning. 

Here are a few places where you and your clan can learn about some of the people and events that shaped our nation. 

Mount Rushmore, SD -

Tucked within the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is among the more famous monuments in the country. The whole family will 

enjoy seeing the faces of four of the most important presidents -George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln -ever to hold the office, carved into rock for the ages. Hiking, biking, wildlife and other tourist sites are nearby.

Contact: www. www.nps.gov/moru/; 1 (800) 732-5682. 

Charlottsville, VA.

Monticello, the mountaintop home of Thomas Jefferson is the only home in America on the elite World Heritage List of the United Nations. There are numerous tours available including one designed for children ages 6 to 11. The 30-minute tours feature hands-on opportunities and a glimpse of what life was like for the children who lived at Monticello in the late 1700s and early 1800s.

Contact: www.Monticello.org; 1(434) 984-9822. 

Philadelphia, PA 

In this historical city, known as the birthplace of democracy, the whole family can stand on the ground where the Liberty Bell first tolled and the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed. Visit Independence Hall, see the famous bell, George Washington’s chair, and check out the Betsy Ross house. Take in the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the National Constitution Center.

Contact: www.philadelphiausa.travel; (215)636-3300.

Plains, GA. 

Stop by for the Peanut Festival and get to know the town made famous by former President Jimmy Carter. Visit his boyhood farm, shop for antiques and learn about his Nobel Prize winning programs. Ride the SAM shortline excursion train.

Contact: www.PlainsGeorgia.com; (229) 824-5373.

Hyannis, MA – With miles of beautiful beaches and bike paths to explore, visitors will enjoy this community known by many as home to the Kennedy family, a clan famous for decades of political involvement. The picturesque coastal haven served as the backdrop for the now famous images of President John F. Kennedy sailing the local waters with his young family. Contact: www.Hyannis.com; 1 (877) 492-6647.