Overview

In commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence in 2026, this book explores what makes America distinctive from other countries–its ideals, ingenuity, culture, and creativity. Through experiences at 250 places and events across the U.S., readers can discover the country’s authentic attributes and inventions that inspire visitors worldwide. Rather than a historical timeline or collection of sites to visit, this book uses places to tell America’s story. Where to learn about the birth of jazz in New Orleans, how the first shopping mall changed our retail habits, how the chocolate chip cookie was invented in a Massachusetts restaurant, and where to explore the evolution of architecture–from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie Style to the modern skyscraper. Some places and events are well known, while others are quirky, off-the-beaten-path locations worth a detour. Our country was founded on revolutionary ideas; delve into this exploration of how to experience them still today across authentic America. The book includes 100 photographs and directory information for all sites covered.

Full Product Details

9798216368564

Table of Contents

Reviews

Authentic America will inspire you to hit the road. Each chapter added historic sites to my bucket list. The stories here are connected in ways that raise new angles and elevate new meaning, even for the more familiar historic sites. I appreciated the repeated calls to ‘learn more,’ ‘tour,’ ‘hike,’ ‘take a ferry,’ and ‘visit,’ ‘visit,’ ‘visit.’ Collectively, these places remind us how much has been done toward making America ‘a more perfect union. -- John Dichtl * President and CEO, American Association for State and Local History * My love for travel was fostered at an early age by my mother. Our annual road trips across America always included stops to read roadside markers telling the story of the area we were passing through. How she would have enjoyed Authentic America. The author masterfully tells the story of America’s 250 years through her selection of 250 American places to explore. Many places are well known and visited, but the stories behind why they are significant are not always understood. Some places are likely unknown outside niche circles—the Bainbridge History Museum in Washington commemorating where pickle ball originated or the Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, Vermont—but so distinctly representative of American culture. International readers will find this book a helpful companion for planning a trip to the U.S. and may find themselves adding a stop in places such as the Wisconsin Dells to see the Museum of Root Beer! For anyone with a desire to explore and discover the cultural heritage of the country or destination, Authentic America will be a rewarding addition to your travel library. -- Marjorie Dewey * President, Connect Worldwide Japan Co., Ltd. * Educational, entertaining, and enlightening – a discerning must-read for Americans and visitors alike! Walk away with a desire to discover a deeper experience of America through a creative lens spanning a uniquely curated compendium of iconic must-do’s. -- J. Mara DelliPriscoli * Founder, Educational Travel Consortium * Beyond the familiar narratives, Authentic America: 250 Distinctly American Places to Explore delves into the untold stories and influences that forged the United States, prompting you to venture out and experience its legacy. Through diligent research and obvious love for the stories, sites, people, and innovations that made America, Cheryl Hargrove shines a light on historical gems and present-day sites, while not shying away from our shameful past, tightly woven into the fabric of our nation’s creation. Pick up a copy today to plan your next trip, learn about the diverse culture and heritage of the United States, and simply enjoy an amazing read. -- Catherine Prather * President, National Tour Association *

Author Information

Cheryl Hargrove is the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s first Director of Heritage Tourism and the author of Cultural Heritage Tourism. Previously, she served as Associate Director of National Geographic’s Center for Sustainable Destinations and taught Cultural Tourism courses at the University of British Columbia. She is an instructor for the Gateway Communities Initiative and a Certified Interpretive Guide with the National Association for Interpretation. Hargrove holds a Master's from George Washington University and is a graduate of the University of Georgia’s Grady School of Journalism. She lives on St. Simons Island, Georgia.

Tab Content 6

Countries Available