"Rock Star" road tripper checking in! Self-proclaimed anyway! Road trips and visits to all 50 states are my game. Find your next road trip destinations here. Fill your bucket list with fantastic US journeys. I love road trips and spare no effort in making my travels and experiences inviting for members of the road-tripping family! Pick a trip you want to take, or get inspired to plan your own. - - The Driveby Tourist (or call me Stan!)
The island where history changed the US forever⚓️
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If you’re looking for the most historic spot in South Carolina, look no further than the center of Charleston Harbor. Fort Sumter National Historical Park isn’t just a landmark; it’s the hallowed (?) ground where the American Civil War began. 🏛️💥 On the morning of April 12, 1861, the first shots of the conflict were fired here, igniting a four-year struggle that would forever reshape the United States. Today, the only way to reach this iconic fortress is by ferry, offering a scenic but sobering journey across the water. As you approach, the massive brick walls rise out of the harbor, standing as a silent witness to our nation's greatest trial. 🚢🌊 Once inside, you can walk among the original cannons, explore the ruins, and listen to National Park Rangers share stories of the soldiers who defended the fort. The weight of the past is palpable here, making it arguably the most significant historical site in the entire state. 🛡️📜 From the dramatic harbor views to the profound legacy of the events that unfolded within its walls, Fort Sumter is a must-visit for any traveler. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience of the American spirit and the complex history that defines us today. 🕊️✨ History is waiting! The Driveby Tourist “Team” ✌️🗺️ "You cannot be a true man until you learn to obey.” – Robert E. Lee Classic Rock song: "Dixie” by many – Origin credited to a minstrel tune. Please email me about your experiences with historic locations in your state! Here is the Premium Subscription page: You will get early access to new blog posts, one extra weekly newsletter, and access to all past newsletters. And occasionally, I'll ask for votes on content! Stan Featured Post: I visited here a few years ago on an “Epic” trip to all 26 eastern states! |
Stan Wiebe
"Rock Star" road tripper checking in! Self-proclaimed anyway! Road trips and visits to all 50 states are my game. Find your next road trip destinations here. Fill your bucket list with fantastic US journeys. I love road trips and spare no effort in making my travels and experiences inviting for members of the road-tripping family! Pick a trip you want to take, or get inspired to plan your own. - - The Driveby Tourist (or call me Stan!)
Sorry, I didn't include that the Great American State Fair is on the National Mall in Washington, DC. I hope it doesn't get "political," but since it's Washington, it probably will (or already is). But it's a good place to celebrate the 250th anniversary. If you are old enough to remember the Bicentennial in 1976, you'll likely remember it receiving much more publicity and celebration. I make a supreme effort to keep politics out of The Driveby Tourist. It's about visiting America, one road...
I’m sure you’ve heard about visiting all fifty states here! Approximately 1.3% of Americans have visited all fifty. I visited my fiftieth state for the first time around in 1987. Amazingly, it was New York state. So far, not a big deal. However, in 2014, I decided I “needed” to visit all 50 again! And I completed that in January 2023, upon visiting Hawaii. Now, I’m up to 30 the third time around. So, when the All Fifty Club asked for volunteers at their booth at the Great American State Fair,...
On the way home from my week in Chicagoland and Route 66, I couldn't resist seeing this place. It's in Riverside, Iowa, near Iowa City. The TV series and Star Trek books stated that Captain Kirk was born in Iowa. In 1985, a city councilman suggested that someone contact Gene Roddenberry, the creator of the original Star Trek series. Since no Iowa city was mentioned, Roddenberry gave his approval. In a later movie, Riverside received recognition as the birthplace. A plaque erected attests to...