The National Trust for Historic Preservation announced its annual Dozen Distinctive Destinations today. The list includes cities and towns that are working to preserve their cultural and architectural heritage through ongoing revitalization programs and have demonstrated a commitment to historic preservation.
Alexandria, Virginia made the list this year--and just in time! This weekend, visitors can enjoy its charms while the town celebrates President's Day in honor of former Alexandria resident George Washington. Events include an annual 'birthnight' ball, 10k race, free historic open houses and a George Washington-themed parade.
Former whaling capital New Bedford, Massachusetts (pictured, above) was once the second-richest city on the eastern seaboard behind New York City. Today, this working class town displays its historic charms alongside the Atlantic's largest scallop fishing fleet.
The world's first Girl Scout Cookie sale took place in Muskogee, Oklahoma, but that's not what won this town the distinction. Rich in cultural diversity, art, and architecture, the city has flourished since the 1830s when Native Americans ended their journey along the "Trail of Tears" and settled there.
Rounding out the list are Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Dandridge, Tennessee; Eureka, California; Paducah, Kentucky; Saint Paul, Minnesota; San Angelo, Texas; Sheridan, Wyoming; and Sonoma, California. To see the full list of noteworthy towns and vote for your favorite destination, visit the Distinctive Destinations voting page--a fan favorite will be crowned on March 15th.
--Meghan Miner
[Dozen Distinctive Destinations]
Photo: Flickr user JFoumf08 from the Distinctive Destinations pool
travel blog map trips blogs fodors countries europe trip tip
No comments:
Post a Comment