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# Jessica James: Where History and Travel Meet

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://pastlanetravels.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Academy Bed and Breakfast In Gettysburg A Special Landmark](https://pastlanetravels.com/bed-and-breakfast-in-gettysburg/): The Gettysburg Academy, a Bed and Breakfast in Gettysburg, Pa., is located in one of the oldest and most historic buildings in a town known for its rich history.
- [America’s 250th Birthday: History Of Independence Day 🧨🎆](https://pastlanetravels.com/americas-birthday-fourth-of-july/): This post covers all of it: the real history of Independence Day, the myths that have stuck around for 250 years, and why the Fourth of July deserves so much attention.
- [Separation Day: A Hidden-Gem Celebration of American Independence](https://pastlanetravels.com/separation-day-celebrate-america-250/): New Castle, Delaware, will celebrate its 250th Anniversary of Separation Day on June 12 and 13
- [The Best Things To Do in Washington, D.C. for Memorial Day Weekend 2026](https://pastlanetravels.com/washington-d-c-for-memorial-day-things-to-do/): Washington, D.C. for Memorial Day weekend is always something to see, but with America's 250th anniversary right around the corner, I knew this is the year I wanted to attend.
- [Gettysburg Memorial Day Parade: A tradition since 1867](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-memorial-day/): Gettysburg Memorial Day Parade Is One Of The Oldest In The Nation
- [Past Lane Travels Joins Push To Promote America 250 Travel](https://pastlanetravels.com/past-lane-travels-promotes-america-250-travel/): There's no better way to celebrate America's 250th birthday than with travel to the historic small towns and hidden gems that helped shape our nation.
- [The Ultimate Guide To the Fort Frederick Market Fair Historical Event](https://pastlanetravels.com/fort-frederick-market-fair/): If you’ve ever wanted to see what everyday life actually looked like in early America—not just read about it—the Fort Frederick Market Fair is one of those events worth planning a trip around.
- [Insider’s Guide To 15 Unforgettable Spring Adventures in Gettysburg](https://pastlanetravels.com/unforgettable-spring-adventures-in-gettysburg/): It's been a long cold winter, which makes these unforgettable spring adventures in Gettysburg even more enticing if you're considering a road trip to this charming historic town.
- [A Local’s Guide to the Best Fruit Blossom Views Around Gettysburg 🌸](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-fruit-blossom-views/): Washington, D.C. may be famous for its cherry blossoms… but here’s a little secret from a local—Gettysburg has some amazing fruit blossom views that most people don't know about.
- [Harpers Ferry Day Trip Guide: The Best Things To Do In 1 Day](https://pastlanetravels.com/harpers-ferry-day-trip/): So tag along as I tell you about everything you need to know before your Harpers Ferry day trip.
- [Best 3-Day America 250 Family Itinerary In Virginia](https://pastlanetravels.com/3-day-america-250-family-itinerary-virginia/): Post Overview: This post provides a 3-day America 250 family itinerary in Virginia, covering Charlottesville, Richmond, and Williamsburg. It includes major Revolutionary War sites, kid-friendly attractions, lodging recommendations, estimated costs, and travel tips to help families plan a balanced and engaging historical trip.
- [Historic Taverns of the American Revolution | Spirits of ’76](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-taverns-of-the-revolution/): There’s nothing quite like dining in one of the historic taverns where the Founders once dined. (And I'll admit it's become an obsession of mine as America's 250th birthday approaches).
- [Ultimate Guide To Halifax NC: A Small Town With a Big 1776 Story](https://pastlanetravels.com/ultimate-guide-to-halifax-nc-for-america-250/): For current visitor info and local context, the Historic Halifax State Historic Site listing is a helpful starting point and can serve as a guide to Halifax NC.
- [America 250 Travel Destinations History Lovers Need To Book](https://pastlanetravels.com/america-250-travel-destinations/): America 250 travel destinations are suddenly a big topic, but they aren't new to me. I've been exploring Revolutionary War sites, historic towns, and centuries-old inns for the past three years.
- [The Horse Soldier Gettysburg PA: Incredible Civil War Relics](https://pastlanetravels.com/horse-soldier-gettysburg/): Insider Tip: You're going to find out that walking into the Horse Soldier Gettysburg feels less like entering a shop and more like stepping into a museum or an old research library—one where the glass cases are open and history can actually go home with you.
- [🕰️ Step Back in Time: Past Lane Travels’ Most Memorable Historic Hotels This Year](https://pastlanetravels.com/most-memorable-historic-hotels-for-luxury/): Here's Past Lane Travels’ most memorable historic hotels— a curated mix of iconic New York escapes, Colonial charm, Southern grandeur, and military academy heritage.
- [America 250: This Revolutionary War Tavern Preserves A Legendary Past](https://pastlanetravels.com/revolutionary-war-tavern-holds-legendary-past/): Discover the Old ’76 House—A Revolutionary War Tavern Older Than America, With a Dramatic Spy Story That Shocked The World
- [Christmas in Bethlehem PA: Holiday Magic Meets Hallmark Charm](https://pastlanetravels.com/christmas-in-bethlehem/): Christmas in Bethlehem, PA isn’t just about twinkling lights and that cozy small-town holiday feeling—though there’s plenty of that, too. What really makes this place special is the way its history, charm, and deep Moravian roots all blend together to create something you can’t quite find anywhere else.
- [The Ultimate Getaway: Stay in a Lighthouse On A Secret Island](https://pastlanetravels.com/stay-in-a-lighthouse-haig-point/): If you’ve ever thought about booking an overnight stay in a lighthouse, then keep reading. Although not accessible to everyone, the Haig Point Lighthouse on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, is one of the most magical places I've ever visited.
- [Your Insider Guide To The Enchanting Gettysburg Christmas Festival](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-christmas-festival/): The Annual Gettysburg Christmas Festival turns my hometown into an old-fashioned holiday wonderland every December—and this year, a brand-new Victorian Christmas Village makes the celebration more magical than ever.
- [Discover the Gideon Putnam Hotel: A Historic Retreat in Saratoga Springs](https://pastlanetravels.com/gideon-putnam-hotel-saratoga-springs/): Beyond the baths, the Gideon Putnam Hotel offers a full range of amenities that make a stay both relaxing and memorable:
- [Your Ultimate Guide to a Saratoga Springs America 250 Road Trip](https://pastlanetravels.com/saratoga-springs-america-250-road-trip/): Keep reading to discover why you should start planning a Saratoga Springs America 250 Road Trip.
- [Discover the Magic of The Gettysburg Remembrance Day Parade](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-remembrance-day/): If you’re not from Pennsylvania, you may not have heard of Gettysburg Remembrance Day—but around here, it’s a big deal. In fact, I like to think of it as one of Gettysburg’s most meaningful “holidays.”
- [250 Days to America 250! Your Guide To 250 Historic Sites To Visit](https://pastlanetravels.com/america-250-historic-sites/): Take A Revolution Road Trip With This Curated List Of 250 Historic Sites to Visit Before America’s 250th on July 4, 2026
- [20 Fascinating Facts About West Point Military Academy](https://pastlanetravels.com/fascinating-facts-about-west-point/): During a tour last summer, I was surprised to discover some fascinating facts about West Point Military Academy that include quirky traditions, hidden history and amazing architecture.
- [The 7 Spookiest U.S. Hotels Where You Can Spend A Night 👻](https://pastlanetravels.com/spookiest-u-s-hotels-where-you-can-stay-a-night/): If you love Halloween like I do and want to find the spookiest U.S. hotels that are open for guests, keep reading!
- [Kate Moore Barry: A Heroine Of The Revolutionary War In 1781](https://pastlanetravels.com/kate-moore-barry-a-heroine-of-the-revolutionary-war/): I'm so excited to share the story of a true heroine of the Revolutionary War that I stumbled upon during a trip to the backcountry of South Carolina.
- [Moores Creek Bridge 250th: A Hidden Gem Kicks Off America 250](https://pastlanetravels.com/moores-creek-bridge-250th/): This Revolutionary War battlefield might be quiet, but those stones, planks, and grassy fields whisper big stories. And with the Moores Creek Bridge 250th approaching, there’s no better time to plan your visit.
- [Discover The 10 Best Gettysburg Ghost Tours (A Local’s Guide)](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-ghost-tours/): 👻 Welcome to a Local's Guide to the Drop-Dead Best Gettysburg Ghost Tours! 👻
- [Visit A Lost Town In N.C.: The Colonial Ruins Of Brunswick Town](https://pastlanetravels.com/colonial-ruins-of-brunswick-town-nc/): Don't have time to read the entire post? The colonial ruins of Brunswick Town, N.C. can be explored, free of charge, providing a glimpse of early American colonial life along with a Civil War defensive fort.
- [The Best Travel Insurance For Historical Travelers USA In 2026](https://pastlanetravels.com/best-travel-insurance-for-historical-travelers/): If you’re a history buff like me, you probably don’t stick to tourist traps. You’re out exploring battlefields, hidden graveyards, tiny town museums, and the backroads of America in search of the stories time forgot. But with all that adventure comes unpredictability—and that’s exactly why travel insurance is essential.
- [Mohonk Mountain House Summerhouses: Silence, Scenery & A Seat in the Sky](https://pastlanetravels.com/history-of-mohonk-mountain-house-summerhouses/): There’s something about seeing the Mohonk Mountain House summerhouses that makes you stop—not just to catch your breath—but to take it all in.
- [A Hidden Gem No More: Bethlehem PA A World Heritage Site](https://pastlanetravels.com/bethlehem-pa-a-world-heritage-site/): The historic Moravian District in Bethlehem was added to UNESCO's World Heritage Site list in 2024
- [What Is Fort Macon Known For?](https://pastlanetravels.com/what-is-fort-macon-known-for/): If you're asking the question: "What is Fort Macon Known for?" read on! I ran across Fort Macon while on a brief getaway to the Crystal Coast in North Carolina, and I'm so glad I found it.
- [Stony Point Battlefield: A Revolutionary War Day Trip from NYC](https://pastlanetravels.com/stony-point-battlefield-a-revolutionary-war-day-trip/): Explore The Stony Point Battlefield And Lighthouse — Hidden Gems on the Hudson
- [Lexington and Concord 250th: Why April 19 Still Matters](https://pastlanetravels.com/lexington-and-concord-250th/): Ready to walk in the footsteps of history? Here is a two-day itinerary that will help you see everything related to the Lexington and Concord 250th historic sites.
- [History Of The Burgwin-Wright House: Witness To American Independence](https://pastlanetravels.com/history-of-the-burgwin-wright-house/): There are two big things that make the history of the Burgwin-Wright House stand out for me, and I'm sure they are reasons why this property is one of Wilmington's most important historic landmarks.
- [Has A Woman Ever Received The Medal Of Honor?](https://pastlanetravels.com/female-medal-of-honor/): Dr. Mary Walker, an unsung hero and only female recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
- [11 Incredible Historic Sites In Wilmington, NC You Can’t Miss](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-sites-in-wilmington-nc/): If you're looking for historic sites in Wilmington, NC, you've come to the right place!
- [My Top 7 Historic Hotels For a Romantic Valentines Getaway ❤️](https://pastlanetravels.com/hotels-for-a-romantic-valentines-getaway/): If you're ready for a special treat to get rid of the winter blues, check out some of my favorite historic hotels for a romantic Valentines getaway.
- [Visit This Small town With A Famous Mill From The Civil War](https://pastlanetravels.com/small-town-with-a-famous-mill/): Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Aldie is a charming small town with a famous mill that tells a captivating story from the Civil War era. I first discovered this unique historical site when I was studying figures from the Civil War and found it both interesting and educational.
- [A Revolutionary Treasure: Delaware’s Hale Byrnes House](https://pastlanetravels.com/hale-byrnes-house/): I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to tour the historic Hale-Byrnes House in Delaware as part of a trip to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley.
- [Discover The Historic Charm of Jessop’s Tavern In New Castle, DE](https://pastlanetravels.com/jessops-tavern/): If you're looking for unique Colonial experiences to help celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence, then put Jessop's Tavern and Colonial Restaurant in New Castle, Delaware, on your bucket list.
- [Explore Gettysburg in The Winter: ❄️A Local’s Weekend Guide](https://pastlanetravels.com/things-to-do-in-gettysburg-in-the-winter/): But if you’re thinking about visiting Gettysburg in the winter and wondering whether it's worth it, I’ve got good news—it absolutely is, and I’m here to help you make the most of it.
- [Discover The Inn At Warner Hall For History, Luxury & Romance](https://pastlanetravels.com/inn-at-warner-hall/): If you enjoy immersing yourself in history—or if you're looking for a luxurious romantic getaway—the Inn at Warner Hall in Gloucester, Virginia, has you covered.
- [Radical Brew: Why The Boston Tea Party Anniversary Is Important](https://pastlanetravels.com/boston-tea-party-anniversary/): Don't want to read the whole article? You can learn more about the Boston Tea Party anniversary with a Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Tour, or book a Freedom Trail Tour to get the most out of your trip to Boston.
- [Historic New Castle DE: 11 Things To Do In This Charming Small Town](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-new-castle-de/): Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River, Historic New Castle, DE is a charming colonial town that feels like stepping back in time. I'll be honest -- my jaw dropped when I drove in and saw the cobblestone streets, 17th-century buildings, and the sparkle of water in the background that hinted at beautiful river views.
- [Hanover Tavern History: An Incredible Revolutionary War Gem](https://pastlanetravels.com/hanover-tavern-history/): The Hanover Tavern history stretches back to the 1700s, and now stands as a unique touchstone to Colonial America and our country's Founding. As one of the oldest taverns in the United States, it's long been on my Revolutionary War travel bucket list.
- [Sacred Ground: Mount Hebron Cemetery in Winchester VA](https://pastlanetravels.com/mount-hebron-cemetery-in-winchester-va/): Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan is just one of the many famous historic figures buried at the Mount Hebron Cemetery in Winchester VA
- [Beekman Arms Inn: Explore Timeless Charm In Rhinebeck NY](https://pastlanetravels.com/beekman-arms-inn/): When I read the tagline for the Beekman Arms Inn that said, “walk up the same stairs as George Washington,” I immediately booked my room. Little did I know just how much history I would uncover beyond those storied steps!
- [Explore the Fascinating History of the Hotel Roanoke Virginia](https://pastlanetravels.com/history-of-the-hotel-roanoke/): The history of the Hotel Roanoke reveals its transformation from a railroad hub to an iconic luxury retreat
- [Haunted Gettysburg Orphanage Tour: Fact, Fiction & Fright! 👻](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-orphanage-haunted-history/): The Gettysburg Orphanage, officially known as the National Soldiers' Orphans' Homestead, is considered one the most haunted places in town -- and with good reason, as you will learn.
- [A Local’s Ultimate Guide To Wineries In Gettysburg PA 2026](https://pastlanetravels.com/wineries-in-gettysburg/): If you're looking for the best wineries in Gettysburg PA, I have you covered!
- [A Fateful Twist: The Tornado That Saved Washington In 1814](https://pastlanetravels.com/tornado-that-saved-washington/): Many have heard the story of Dolley Madison saving the portrait of George Washington from being burned by the British during the War of 1812. But I don't think a lot of people know about the sudden storm that swept into D.C. and the tornado that saved Washington from the British attack.
- [Past Lane Picks: Top 10 Historic Small Towns In America](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-small-towns-in-america/): Each of the historic small towns on this list offers a unique blend of charm, history and beauty. So whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a quaint getaway, these are just a few of the towns you should put on your bucket list.
- [Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Gettysburg Breweries 2026](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-breweries/): Welcome to a local's guide to Gettysburg breweries. As a long-time resident, I've seen many changes to the town. The addition of craft beer businesses is one that is being welcomed by residents and visitors alike.
- [Saint John’s Church Richmond: Site Of Patrick Henry’s Defiant Speech](https://pastlanetravels.com/saint-johns-church-richmond/): During a recent trip to Virginia, I was excited to get a peek inside the historic Saint John's Church in Richmond, where Patrick Henry's fiery speech once echoed and where congregations have continued to worship since the church was built in 1741.
- [A Local’s Guide To Visiting Little Round Top In Gettysburg PA](https://pastlanetravels.com/visiting-little-round-top/): If you're planning a trip to Gettysburg, you may want to know what to expect before visiting Little Round Top, which has been closed for almost two years for rehabilitation.
- [Mimosa Trail: Top 3 Historic Brunch Spots In Richmond VA](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-brunch-stops-in-richmond-va/): Those with a discerning taste and a passion for history should check out these historic brunch spots in Richmond VA
- [5 Best Historic Restaurants in Gettysburg PA (From A Local)](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-restaurants-in-gettysburg/): If you're looking for the best historic restaurants in Gettysburg PA, I have you covered.
- [18 Gettysburg Historical Sites Hidden In Plain Sight](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-historical-sites/): These Gettysburg historical sites are easy to spot if you’re looking for them—but even Civil War buffs and frequent visitors often pass right by without knowing they are there.
- [Vacation Rentals Available On America’s Bloodiest Battlefield](https://pastlanetravels.com/rent-a-house-on-the-gettysburg-battlefield/): As a lifelong Gettysburg resident, one of the main questions I get asked is if it's possible to rent a house on the Gettysburg Battlefield. Well, now you can!
- [A Local’s Guide To Visiting Gettysburg In The Summer (2026)](https://pastlanetravels.com/visiting-gettysburg-in-the-summer/): Since I'm a lifelong resident of Gettysburg, I get asked a lot of questions about visiting Gettysburg in the summer.
- [16 Free Things To Do In Gettysburg In 2026 From A Local](https://pastlanetravels.com/free-things-to-do-in-gettysburg/): Even though inflation will hopefully coming down, I thought I'd help travelers keep more money in their wallets by pointing out some of the free things to do in Gettysburg. Vacations are expensive! Gas and hotels alone add up -- and that's not counting museums, souvenirs or the food tab.
- [Shrine Near I-95 Honors Civil War Officer Shot By His Own Men](https://pastlanetravels.com/stonewall-jackson-shrine/): The Stonewall Jackson Shrine marks the site where the Confederate general died on May 10, 1863.
- [A Laura Plantation Tour Features Women Leading The Way](https://pastlanetravels.com/laura-plantation/): Unlike other Louisiana plantations clustered near the mighty Mississippi River, the Laura Plantation tour features stories about the generations of female entrepreneurs who took the reins and showed how skillful women could be at business.
- [Explore The Rich History Of The Jefferson Hotel In Richmond VA](https://pastlanetravels.com/history-of-the-jefferson-hotel-in-richmond-va/): The history of The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond VA to someone like me is just as appealing as its accommodations might be to those who relish grandeur and luxury.
- [Drayton Hall Plantation SC: 11 Incredible Historical Facts](https://pastlanetravels.com/drayton-hall-plantation-charleston-sc/): Drayton Hall Plantation In Charleston SC:A Pillar of History in the Heart of the South
- [Complete Guide To A Gettysburg Horseback Tour From A Local](https://pastlanetravels.com/gettysburg-horseback-tour/): The best Gettysburg Horseback Tours
- [5 Memorable Things To See On A McLeod Plantation SC Tour](https://pastlanetravels.com/mcleod-plantation/): The McLeod Plantation Historic Site on James Island has long been on my bucket list and I was finally able to visit on my last trip to South Carolina.
- [Exploring History At Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park](https://pastlanetravels.com/bulow-plantation-ruins-historic-state-park/): I have to say that walking through the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park in Florida is just as breathtaking and exciting as touring one of the many standing plantations that I've visited over the years.
- [Top 5 Plantation Tours In Charleston SC: Old South Charm](https://pastlanetravels.com/plantation-tours-in-charleston-sc/): If you're looking for the best Plantation Tours in Charleston SC, you're in luck. I've visited Charleston SC many times and have toured every plantation in the Charleston area (and beyond).
- [Battlefield Brew Works Gettysburg A Hauntingly Good Time](https://pastlanetravels.com/battlefield-brew-works/): Author Jessica James visits the historic Civil War era barn that served as a field hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg, and now houses Battlefield Brew Works, Pennsylvania's oldest operating brewery and distillery (combination) under one roof.
- [Old Cemetery Spotlights A Family’s Journey During The Civil War](https://pastlanetravels.com/a-familys-journey-through-the-civil-war/): I love discovering new tidbits about Southern heritage, but I didn't think an old family cemetery that I stumbled across in the woods would reveal such a poignant and tragic tale of a family's journey during the Civil War.
- [History of Nottoway Plantation: A Hidden Gem of the South](https://pastlanetravels.com/history-of-nottoway/): The history of Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, LA, is one with deep Southern roots. Considered an American heritage landmark, the stunning antebellum mansion sits about 200 feet behind a Mississippi River levee in the heart of Plantation Country in Louisiana.
- [A Local’s Guide To 10 Must See Gettysburg Monuments](https://pastlanetravels.com/must-see-gettysburg-monuments/): If you don't have much time to spend on the Battlefield and you need a quick list of the must see Gettysburg monuments, I have you covered.

- [Revolutionary War Sites and Events](https://pastlanetravels.com/revolutionary-war-sites/): Learn about hidden gems and under-the-radar historical destinations related to America250

- [Historic Hotel Reviews](https://pastlanetravels.com/historic-hotel-reviews/): Historic hotel reviews from Jessica James of Past Lane Travels, providing information on hidden gems brimming with charm, character and stories of the past