Minute Man National Historical Park, Concord

Created in 1959, this 900-acre park preserves locations that were significant during the battles of Lexington and Concord, which signaled the beginning of the American War for Independence. Historic sites include North Bridge, Hartwell Tavern and "Battle Road." The park also includes The Wayside, which was the home of 19th-century literary figures Nathaniel Hawthorne and Louisa May Alcott. The newly renovated visitor's center features a 25-minute multimedia show, a large battle mural and a bookstore.