The History of America: From Maryland to Georgia

Fort McHenry is one of the country’s oldest buildings. Constructed in 1798, the bastioned pentagon’s shape was directly inspired by the military fortifications of the French architect Vauban. Here was where the fierce battle between American and British forces took place in September 1814, as recounted in the lyrics of America’s national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” penned by lawyer and poet Francis Scott Key. Onsite interactive exhibits bring to life both the battle and the fort’s history.

Head out of Washington DC toward Old Town Alexandria, where the 18th century meets modern day tourism. Stroll the 250-year-old cobblestone and brick streets that lead you past boutiques, antique shops and endless cuisine options. The Hard Times Cafe is home to world famous chili and the famous Chili Mac plates.

Along your walk you'll pass the Smithsonian Museums. From American Art to Air and Space, history knows no limits in these buildings. Stop off at the American History Museum to view the first flag our nation flew, George Washington's uniform, Dorothy's ruby slippers and the leather jacket worn by 'The Fonz'.

A few blocks from the Newseum on Pennsylvania Avenue is The White House, which is currently open for tours. If you want to tour the grand home, make sure to contact your member of Congress's Washington, DC office about a month before your trip to secure White House tour passes.

One of the most powerful new museums in Washington, and a personal favorite for retelling the stories of the past, is the Newseum - a 250,000-square-foot museum of news from five centuries. Here we're reminded of the most news breaking events in our history, from Watergate to the attacks on 9/11, and how reporters and photojournalists covered every event that shaped our nation.

Every good vacation needs a good shopping excursion. Located within walking distance from the Inn at Little Washington are the Inn Shops, part of the Old Tavern. Built in 1740, the Colonial building features a series of five decorated period rooms that showcase one-of-a-kind tableware, jewelry, antiques, and home furnishings from the 1800s.

A private dining experience unlike anything else. With only 30 tables, we treat every diner to an intimate and luxurious dining experience. Our staff can help choose a wine from our 14,000-bottle wine cellar to accompany your dinner. Dining is the perfect way to wind down a long day of travel and sightseeing, and a great way to reconnect with your travel partner and plan the next day's events.

As you leave The Inn at Little Washington, head south for a Skyline Drive, where you'll view the grounds of the Shenandoah Valley. Located just 12 miles from the Inn, the drive was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Depression and offers 75 scenic overlooks to stop and take photos, picnic and enjoy the views.

After a light lunch at the Belted Goat, visit the stunning new NC Museum of Art in Raleigh - In 2010, this important Southern art institution reopened in a new home - a 65,000 square foot modernist marvel that has gotten rave reviews. The wide ranging collection includes the Southeast's finest collection of Old Master paintings, works by 20th century African American artists and an African art gallery.

Created by the Emperor that gave them their name, the Gardens of Augustus immediately offer you the most spectacular view of the Faraglioni, the legendary rock formations just off the coast of Capri. At the beginning of the 20th century, German industrialist August Krupp redesigned the Gardens by placing monumental fountains and statues throughout. He also constructed a magnificent path paved with flagstones that winds down in a series of hairpin bends to the Marina Piccola far below.

The immensely popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the place to be for adventurers and nature lovers. The Cherokee Indians called this region 'The Land of Blue Smoke' to describe the color of the mists clinging to the summits. When that cloud cover dissipates, those who venture into the thick forests discover wild and wonderful wildlife: black bears, coyotes, woodchucks, skunks, and more.

An entire chapter of American history unfolds along Auburn Avenue. Here you'll find a modest wooden house that was the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., as well as the Ebenezer Baptist Church where the activist served as pastor. Nearby, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site Visitor Center and the King Center offer a richly documented immersion into the life of this great leader of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s.