Liberty Trails: Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

On July 5th, my mom and I continued our extended Fourth of July patriotic weekend with a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. While many associate Jefferson with Monticello, his second home at Poplar Forest was his cherished retreat in retirement. It was a place where he could escape the bustle of Monticello, “indulge the […]

Liberty Trails: Patrick Henry’s Red Hill

This Fourth of July, my mom and I had the incredible opportunity to visit Patrick Henry’s final home, Red Hill, near Brookneal, Virginia. This trip marked the culmination of my personal Patrick Henry tour, a journey that began at his birthplace in Studley and continued through Hanover Tavern, Scotchtown, and the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg. […]

Must See in Charlottesville VA

Tucked into the resplendent Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll discover charming Charlottesville, Virginia—a city deeply rooted in history. Here, you can visit the homes of Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, learn about the city’s profound African American history, and even explore the legacy of Lewis and Clark. Beyond its historical depth, Charlottesville offers a vibrant […]

Liberty Trails: James Madison’s Montpelier

Nestled on the edge of Virginia’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains surrounded by ambling farmland, cut by winding byways you’ll discover the home of one of America’s most important founding fathers’ James Madison Montpelier. For any American, Montpelier is a must-visit destination. It offers a unique glimpse into the life of James Madison, a principal architect […]

Must See in Richmond VA

Today, we’re stopping by Richmond, Virginia, a capital city where history, culture, industry, and natural scenery collide, creating a true destination for adventure. Let’s start our tour with a quick overview of Richmond’s history, before exploring the must-see attractions the city has to offer. Traveling through Richmond’s Past Richmond is cut by the rapids of […]

Liberty Trails: Patrick Henry Adventures in Virginia

In early May my mom and I embarked on a time-traveling adventure from Williamsburg to Richmond to Hanover County, Virginia, following the footsteps of patriot Patrick Henry. We explored everything from the site of his Stamp Act debate in Williamsburg in 1765, to the site of his fiery ‘Give me Liberty or Give me Death […]

America 250 -Liberty Trails: St. John’s Church Richmond

In today’s edition of American Nomad, we’re journeying back 250 years to a pivotal moment in American history. It was within the humble walls of Richmond’s St. John’s Parish Church that the fires of liberty were ignited, as the silver-tongued orator Patrick Henry delivered his electrifying ‘Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!’ speech, setting […]

Gloucester VA: Bay Views and Historical Sites

We’re continuing our Virginia Tidewater adventures with a stop in Gloucester County and the charming community of Gloucester Courthouse. Just across the York River from Historic Yorktown, Gloucester County is a place dotted with working farms, waterways, and marshland. Set on a peninsula, Gloucester is flanked by the York River to the south and the […]

Hampton VA: Anchored in HIstory and Out of this World

Today, we’re dropping anchor in Hampton, Virginia, a port city whose fascinating history stretches all the way back to 1607, when the first Jamestown settlers landed in the area . This remarkable city has played an active role in many of America’s most momentous events. From the earliest Native American cultures and first English permanent […]

Newport News Flash: Get to know This Amazing Virginia City

Only a few miles from the historic cities of Williamsburg and Yorktown, Newport News can often be overlooked as a tourist destination – but don’t make this mistake. Situated on the scenic James River, this vibrant city is a family fun destination that will delight history buffs, nature lovers and foodies alike. Get ready for […]