Honoring Presidential Legacy: Top 10 National Parks and Monuments to Visit on President's Day

Mount Rushmore ~ NPS

As President's Day approaches on February 19th, it's the perfect time to reflect on the remarkable
legacies of past U.S. presidents and their enduring impact on the nation. What better way to celebrate this holiday than by exploring the national parks and monuments that honor their contributions? Here are the top ten destinations that offer a captivating journey through presidential history:

Mount Rushmore National Memorial (South Dakota):

Mount Rushmore features the monumental faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into the granite cliffs of the Black Hills. This iconic memorial symbolizes the ideals of democracy and leadership that these presidents embodied.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota):

Named in honor of the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt National Park preserves the rugged beauty of the North Dakota Badlands, a landscape that profoundly influenced Roosevelt's conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the landscape that inspired Roosevelt's love for nature and conservation.

Eisenhower National Historic Site (Pennsylvania):

 Located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, this site preserves the farm that was the beloved retreat of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Visitors can tour his restored home, gaining insight into his leadership during World War II and beyond, as well as his enduring commitment to public service.

The White House (Washington, D.C.):

The White House serves as the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. Visiting this iconic building offers a glimpse into the presidency and the history of American leadership.

The Lincoln Memorial (Washington, D.C.):

The Lincoln Memorial pays tribute to the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, who led the nation through the Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation. This majestic monument features a larger-than-life statue of Lincoln and the inscriptions of his most famous speeches.

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial (Washington, D.C.):

Situated on the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., the Thomas Jefferson Memorial honors the third president of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. The memorial's neoclassical design reflects Jefferson's architectural tastes and enduring contributions to American democracy.

Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (Missouri):

This site preserves the historic home of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States and the commanding general of the Union Army during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the Grant family's home and gain insight into his life and legacy.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Site (Texas):

Located in Stonewall, Texas, this site preserves the birthplace, childhood home, and ranch of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Visitors can tour the LBJ Ranch, where Johnson spent much of his presidency, and learn about his efforts to advance civil rights and social justice.

George Washington Birthplace National Monument (Virginia):

This monument commemorates the birthplace of George Washington, the first president of the United States and the "Father of His Country." Visitors can explore the colonial-era plantation and learn about Washington's early years and his enduring impact on American history.

Harry S. Truman National Historic Site (Missouri):

Situated in Independence, Missouri, this site preserves the home where Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, lived for most of his life. Visitors can tour the Truman Home and gain insight into Truman's presidency, including his decision to drop the atomic bomb and his role in shaping the post-war world.

This President's Day, immerse yourself in the rich history and presidential legacy of the United States by visiting these remarkable national parks and monuments. Whether marveling at the grandeur of Mount Rushmore or reflecting on the leadership of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial, each destination offers a unique opportunity to honor the presidents who have shaped the course of American history.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

Protecting Our Natural Heritage: Combatting Entitlement in National Parks

Vandalism Organ Pipe Cactus NM ~ NPS

In recent years, there has been a troubling trend emerging in our beloved national parks – a sense of entitlement that leads visitors to damage and destroy precious resources and wildlife. From diverting rivers, defacing natural wonders, hiking off trails, to harassing wildlife, the examples are shocking and disheartening. As stewards of these lands, we must address this issue head-on.

One such incident occurred at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan, where a man diverted the Platte River for his own purposes. This reckless act not only disrupted the river's natural flow but created substaintial erosion and can threaten park plants and wildlife.

Similarly, visitors to Yellowstone National Park have been caught carving their names into the fragile bacteria mats surrounding the park's iconic hot pools. These mats are not only an essential part of the park's ecosystem but also serve as a unique and irreplaceable natural wonder. The selfish actions of a few individuals tarnish the experience for all who visit these pristine landscapes.

And let's not forget the gender reveal parties gone awry, resulting in devastating forest fires. These reveal parties may be well-intentioned but can result in a dangerous disregard for the potential consequences. The destruction caused by these fires not only poses a threat to human life and property but also devastates the habitats of countless plants and animals.

So, where does this sense of entitlement come from, and what can be done to curb it? It's a complex issue with no easy answers. In part, it may stem from a lack of understanding or appreciation for the value of our natural heritage. In our modern society, where convenience often trumps conservation, it's easy to forget the importance of preserving these wild spaces for future generations.

Public land management agencies like the National Park Service are crucial in addressing this troubling trend. Education and outreach programs can raise awareness about respecting and protecting our national parks. Strict enforcement of regulations and penalties for those who violate them can also serve as a deterrent to destructive behavior.

Ultimately, it will require a shift in mindset – recognizing that our national parks are not just pretty places for our enjoyment but precious and irreplaceable treasures. Only by working together can we ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience, like us, the awe and wonder of these incredible landscapes and resources.

###

Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code.