Planning a visit to a historical monument requires doing your research. From learning more about its creation or just curiously exploring its past, research should help ensure you make the most out of your visit.
Tikal National Park
Tikal National Park has quickly become one of the world’s top tourist destinations since being discovered as one of the largest Mayan cities ever discovered, boasting some of the most stunning ruins found anywhere.
Before planning to visit this historical monument, there are some key details you need to be aware of. A passport will be necessary in order to enter the park; you should also bring water, food, and insect repellent.
Once all this information is ready to go, the time has come to plan your trip to Tikal. There are various tour options available; select one that best meets your needs and enjoy!
Make the most out of your visit by booking a tour with an experienced guide who can share more about Mayan culture and history of these ruins.
Tikal guides can also answer any queries you might have about how the ruins were constructed or how Maya people lived here, as well as tips for staying safe while visiting Tikal National Park and making the most of your visit.
Tikal’s ancient ruins are an incredible sight, while its surrounding jungle serves as home for various forms of wildlife. If you want to catch sight of some animals during your visit, arrive early morning when temperatures are cooler and there are less people around.
Stay near the ruins and explore by foot by staying in one of several nearby hotels or hostels such as Jaguar Inn Tikal or Camping in Tikal campsite.
When booking a tour, be sure to ask about its timings and whether it includes guided visits. While most tours offer these, it’s wise to do your research ahead of time to ensure it fits both your interests and budget.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is one of the world’s most iconic historical monuments. As an iconic representation of America and a tribute to four presidents who helped form our nation, this breathtaking landmark makes an unforgettable trip through South Dakota’s Black Hills an absolute must-do experience.
In 1927, South Dakota state historian James Robinson approached Danish-American sculptor Gutzon Borglum with an ambitious task: create a monument that would attract tourists from all across America. Borglum initially proposed including American pioneers such as Lewis & Clark, Sacagawea, Buffalo Bill Cody as part of this monument but ultimately decided upon four presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln as subjects instead.
After 14 years, more than 400 workers spent 14 years using blasting equipment to remove tons of granite from the mountainside and carve historic figures into its surface. Because this type of granite only eroded by one inch every 10,000 years, it was strong enough to support the weight of a completed monument.
Apart from its monumental sculpture, Mount Rushmore offers many other activities for visitors. Take a scenic drive along the Presidential Trail or wander along Avenue of Flags before visiting the museum and gift shop for something different to experience.
An alternative way of seeing Mount Rushmore is taking part in one of several guided tours offered, many of which are free.
Once at the monument, it’s essential that your car be parked in the designated parking lot. To save time and effort, purchase a $10 parking permit at the entrance; this permit can be used throughout the year to park at this park.
Once your car has been parked, the “Avenue of Flags” welcomes visitors onto the grounds through its grand promenade. Here, all 50 state flags and U.S. territory flags can be seen alphabetically displayed for your viewing pleasure.
If you want a relaxing visit to Mount Rushmore, consider going in spring or fall when temperatures are milder and crowds are smaller – you’ll have more chances to appreciate its stunning view from its peak!
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is one of Hawaii’s must-see historical monuments, making for a memorable trip through American history and memory. Millions visit each year to pay their respects to those who fought during World War II – though before your trip you should understand some important information so you can maximize its benefits.
Start off your visit to Pearl Harbor right by allocating at least a full day for exploring everything there is to offer. Choose between taking a tour that covers all sites and museums within Pearl Harbor or exploring them separately.
Once your itinerary is in place, plan to arrive early so you can check-in and obtain tickets for each site on your itinerary. It is also advisable to allow plenty of time for ticketed tours as tickets often sell out very quickly during peak season.
Your first stop should be the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Here, all things related to this historic monument can be found – museums, exhibit halls, restaurant services and gift shops are available here for your enjoyment and familiarization purposes before moving onto other parts of Pearl Harbor.
After your tour of Pearl Harbor, head next door to USS Arizona Memorial and Ford Island as this serves as a monument for all those lost on December 7, 1941 when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor. There are various plaques around this memorial illustrating what transpired prior to, during and post attack of Pearl Harbor.
There’s also a 23-minute movie which shows real footage from the attack alongside newsreels and testimonies from survivors, plus you’ll have an opportunity to visit USS Missouri – site of Japanese surrender – nearby.
The Pearl Harbor Museum is an extraordinary institution devoted to informing visitors about Hawaii’s role in World War II. Its layout is inventive and its displays brimming with mementoes of times past that are truly awe-inspiring.
The Statue of Liberty
Planning is key when visiting New York City, and should never be underestimated as a means to ensuring a great trip experience. Travelers may become easily overwhelmed with all of its attractions and options available to them, so taking time out for planning can ensure you make the most out of your visit – be it an historical monument visit by yourself or with friends, planning can make this trip smoother and less stressful!
The Statue of Liberty is one of the United States’ most iconic landmarks and must be visited during a trip to New York City. A gift of friendship from France, this 305-foot statue symbolizes freedom and democracy around the globe.
As the first step of planning a visit to Liberty Island and her statue, determining your ticket requirements and how much time you plan on spending at each area of the monument are key components in making plans for a memorable visit. Tickets are sold on Liberty Island itself as well as online and from various travel agencies – it’s best to compare different ticket offerings in order to select one which best meets you and your group.
Make sure your trip is relaxing and enjoyable by planning ahead and arriving early. This will allow you to purchase tickets without long lines, give more time for enjoying attractions, and allow for important decisions regarding your day’s itinerary.
Dependent upon the ticket you possess, security will require that you pass through. This process can be daunting for visitors unfamiliar with this procedure. Wear comfortable clothing and remove anything that might impede your ability to move quickly through security lines such as belts, shoes, watches or backpacks.
Important factors when visiting include time of day. Spring or autumn offer shorter ferry lines and pleasant weather. Summer tends to be busier with frequent ferry services leading to larger crowds and longer lines.