A Historical and Architectural Guide to the Iconic Landmarks of America

Introduction

America is a land of many destinations and landmarks. From the East Coast to the West Coast, you’ll find history, culture, and breathtaking sites that will give you an intimate look into our nation’s past. If you’re planning a trip to America, check out these iconic landmarks!

National Mall

The National Mall is a park in Washington DC that’s home to many of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The site has been used for many different purposes throughout history, including as an army parade ground, zoo and public space for recreation. Today it serves as a place for people to relax and enjoy the scenery while visiting some of America’s most famous museums or monuments on foot or by bike.

The National Mall was established in 1791 when President George Washington signed legislation setting aside land between Capitol Hill and the Potomac River for “public exercise or recreation.” The first major construction project came in 1802 with an extension northward along Constitution Avenue (then B Street). This new section included an obelisk honoring Revolutionary War heroes Major General Marquis de Lafayette and Major General Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben; it remains one of only two memorials dedicated exclusively to foreign soldiers who fought during America’s War for Independence (the other being France’s Lafayette Memorial Fountain).

White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. It’s located in Washington, DC and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The building was designed by James Hoban and built between 1792-1800 by him on a site chosen by George Washington himself. It took eight years to complete construction due to various delays caused by financial issues (among other things).

Today, visitors can tour this historic landmark as part of their visit to Washington DC; however they must make reservations far in advance due to high demand! The interior has been renovated several times over its history but still retains many original features including furniture pieces owned by past presidents such as Thomas Jefferson’s writing desk from 1801-1809 or Abraham Lincoln’s bedframe from 1865-1869 (which was actually used for sleeping). You can also see portraits hanging throughout which include paintings done by Gilbert Stuart who painted George Washington himself!

Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex. It was founded in 1846 and houses 19 museums and galleries, with more than 167 million objects in its collections. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History has 3 million artifacts that tell stories of our nation’s past, present, and future.

The National Zoo has over 1,500 animals representing 250 species living on protected grounds near Washington DC. You can get up close to some amazing creatures here–and maybe even get them to pose for pictures!

United States Capitol Building

The United States Capitol Building is the seat of the United States Congress, as well as a symbol of American democracy. Located in Washington D.C., it was completed in 1868 and designed by architect William Thornton.

The Capitol Building consists of two domed wings: one for each house of Congress (the House of Representatives and Senate). Each wing also has an interior dome which rises above its rotunda–a circular room that serves as an entrance area for visitors to enter through both wings simultaneously using spiral staircases located at either end. The rotunda itself is topped with another dome which contains skylights allowing natural light into the building during daytime hours when they’re open; at night they’re covered by copper sheaths so nocturnal lighting can be used instead if necessary without disturbing those who work late hours inside these chambers!

Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is the tallest free-standing monument in the world. It stands 555 feet tall and was built to commemorate George Washington, America’s first president. The monument was dedicated in 1848, but it wasn’t until 1888 that it opened to visitors after being closed due to construction delays.

The monument itself is made of marble, granite and sandstone–it took 32 years to complete! You can take an elevator ride up into its base where there are exhibits about its construction or climb 897 steps (with no handrails) to reach its top platform for stunning views over DC’s National Mall area

Traveling America is a great way to explore our national landmarks.

• Traveling America is a great way to explore our national landmarks.
• Visiting these places will give you a deeper understanding of how Americans lived in different times and places, as well as how we’ve come together as one nation.
• You can learn about the architecture, history, and culture of each landmark by visiting it personally or doing research online before your trip–or both!

Conclusion

America is a beautiful country that offers so much to explore. From its natural beauty to the many landmarks and monuments, there’s something for everyone who visits this great nation. This guide has given you an overview of some of the most iconic landmarks in America, but there are many more waiting for you!