Celebrating Veterans Day on the Move: Top Destinations for Paying Tribute to Our Nation's Heroes
On this Veterans Day, let's dive into some badass places that'll make you feel the weight of history and pay a well-deserved tribute to the brave U.S. service members. Here's how I'd spend my Veterans Day travelin' with purpose.
1. Stroll ‘Round Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia-Bella!
At Arlington National Cemetery, you'll be surrounded by a mash-up of past and present sacrifice. The Veterans Day ceremony here is a heart-wrenching tribute to the unnamed heroes who gave it all without asking for a damned thing. Wandering through the rows of tombstones, take a moment to pay your respects to the legends buried here.
Tip: Get there early to explore the Memorial Amphitheater, check out JFK's eternal flame, and visit the Women in Military Service Memorial.
2. Go Cray Cray at the National WWII Museum, New Orleans
The National WWII Museum in New Orleans is a history bomb with immersive exhibits, vintage planes, and personal tales from soldiers. Every time I visit, I leave with a renewed appreciation for the men and women of the Greatest Generation. On Veterans Day, you'll find special events like guided tours and storytelling sessions, adding a layer of awesome to the experience.
Tip: Don't pass up on the headset tour. Hear veterans narrate displays, giving a raw, personal perspective on key exhibits.
3. Board the USS Midway Museum, San Diego
Climb aboard the USS Midway in San Diego and imagine life as a sailor during long sea deployments. This aircraft carrier-turned-museum lets you check out the engine room, flight deck, and even talk with ex-seamen who'll share their badass tales.
Tip: Don't miss the audio tour, narrated by former crew members. Their insider accounts give each part of the ship a touch of historical badassery.
4. Hike through Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania
Feeling the heavy burden of history? Walk through Gettysburg National Military Park. The Veterans Day vibes here are perfect with fewer crowds and a nippy November breeze. Exploring the battlefields where American history took a big ol' turn is a powerful experience. I like taking the auto tour route to cover more ground, then join a ranger-led tour for insights you might miss on your own.
Tip: Stop at Soldiers' National Cemetery to see where Abe Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address. It's a vivid reminder of the sacrifices made.
5. Bawl Your Eyes Out at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C.
Feeling emotional? The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C. is a sad-ass place. Standing before the names etched into the polished granite wall tugs at the heartstrings, remembering every name represents a story and a sacrifice. On Veterans Day, ceremonies here include moments of silence, remembrance, and families paying respects.
Tip: Afterward, take a walk through the nearby Korean War Veterans Memorial and Lincoln Memorial for a full-on dose of historical feels.
6. Get Soaked at Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, Hawaii
If I'm in Hawaii, visiting the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites is a priority. Here, you can tour the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. The deck of the Missouri is like stepping back in time, reliving the historical moments that unfolded here.
Tip: Book tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial in advance; everyone's dying to see it, especially on Veterans Day.
7. Join the Revolution on Boston's Freedom Trail
Walking Boston's Freedom Trail takes you back to the beginning of American independence. With stops at 16 historic sites, including Paul Revere's House and Old North Church, you'll remember the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms.
Tip: Pick up a trail map at the Boston National Historical Park Visitor Center for a hassle-free tour.
8. Dig History at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Dayton, Ohio
I freakin' love the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. From early aircraft to modern fighters, it's amazing to see the evolution of air combat. You can even check out the planes used by U.S. presidents! Veterans Day events often include tours led by badass veterans sharing their experiences.
Tip: Plan to spend a few hours here to take it all in and catch any special events on Veterans Day.
How to Show True Respect on Veterans Day
- Keep your yap shut and keep your phone on silence during ceremonies or quiet areas.
- Stand during moments of silence and listen attentively to veterans sharing their stories.
- Thank a veteran you run into or show genuine interest in their stories.
On Veterans Day, honor badass U.S. service members by visiting these powerful places, learning from their stories, and respecting their sacrifice. Happy traveling, legendaries!
Pexels / Hugo Magalhaes for the featured image
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Here are two sentences featuring the given words in the context of the text:
- To ensure a successful trip and show respect for the veterans, follow the guidelines for proper conduct and silence during ceremonies at locations like Arlington National Cemetery.
- As a tribute to the service members, spare time in your lifestyle to visit historical sites dedicated to their stories, such as the National WWII Museum, offering immersive exhibits that showcase the spirit of sacrifices in travel.
