Top 10 Historic Buildings In The U.S. To See In 2021

1. Library of Congress

Washington, D.C.

The Library of Congress was built between 1890 and 1897. But building and renovations have happened at the Library of Congress as recently as the 1980s, and more renovations are said to be planned for some time in the next decade. The architectural style features elements of both the highly ornamental Beaux-Arts style as well as the ancient Roman influence of the Renaissance Revival style.

Various live concerts and lectures go on monthly at the Library of Congress. Visiting the Library of Congress can be a great family adventure – there are even student workshops for students in elementary and middle school.

2. Byodo-In Temple

O’ahu, Hawaii

The beautiful Byodo-In Temple in O’ahu, Hawaii is a monument to the state’s many residents from Japan. The breath-taking gardens of the temple create a peaceful environment. The whole building and grounds are a smaller-scale replica of the almost 1,000-year-old Byodo-In Temple in Japan.

The name “Byodo” was chosen for its meaning – “equal.” This non-practicing temple is open to all, and it’s even been featured in several TV series.

3. Grand Central Terminal

New York City, New York

Located in the center of bustling NYC, the Grand Central Terminal is a stunning monument to the Beaux-Arts architectural design. It’s a destination for both dining and shopping. One of its most iconic features is its four-faced opal clock.

Don’t miss out on visiting the Grand Central Terminal. Just don’t call it Grand Central Station! Not only does that reveal you as a non-local, the term “Grand Central Station” actually refers to the Post Office and Subway terminal below-ground rather than the stunning Terminal above.

4. Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings

Mesa Verde, Colorado

These cliff dwellings have been astounding visitors for centuries. While they were probably only occupied from about 1190AD-1300AD, the dwellings have stood the test of time. The people of this area continued to farm on the tops of the mesas while they lived beneath the protection of the cliffs.

You can tour these dwellings solo or take a guided tour. The guides of the Mesa Verde tours can tell you all about the excavation of these amazing dwellings.

5. Biltmore Estate

Asheville, North Carolina

The Biltmore Estate was built by the American industry tycoon George Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt fell in love with the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains during a trip to Asheville in the 1880s. Known as America’s premier home, the Biltmore boasts 250 rooms.

This home was built in the French Renaissance style, known for its emphasis on symmetry and harmony, over six years. The house was first opened to the public in the 1930s and was used to store priceless art during WWII. The grounds cannot be missed and are best viewed during the spring, summer, and fall. But the grand conservatories ensure that you can see lovely blooms all year round.

6. Griffith Observatory

Los Angeles, California

The scenic Griffith Observatory has played host to stargazers and film crews alike. If you’ve seen classic films like “Rebel Without a Cause” or “La La Land,” then you’ve seen the Griffith Observatory. Not only is it beautiful, the Griffith is also extremely informative! Study the stars and the movement of the planets through its many telescopes and exhibits.

Keep in mind that the Griffith Observatory is currently closed, so if you’d like to visit, plan for some time later in 2021.

7. Empire State Building

New York City, New York

The Empire State Building stands as one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Known as an art deco icon, this building was the tallest building in the world for the 40 years after its completion in 1931. The metallic gilding and soaring ceiling are an homage to an age gone by. The style of 1920s architecture is on fantastic display in the Empire State Building, which is one of the most photographed buildings in the world.

8. The Singing Tower

Lake Wales, Florida

Located in the Bok Tower Gardens in Florida, the Singing Tower is surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Arguably one of the most interesting historic buildings in the U.S., the Singing Tower is actually a 205-foot-tall instrument. The building is made up of bells to create an instrument known as a carillon.

Every day at 1pm and 3pm, the music from the carillon fills the gardens. The neo-Gothic and art deco design of the building adds to the beauty and peace of experiencing the music in these beautiful gardens.

9. Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Not only is Harvard University the oldest higher learning institution in the U.S., its buildings are some of the most beautiful historic buildings in the country. Established in the 1630s, this 209 acre campus is only three miles from downtown Boston.

The museums at Harvard University will fascinate and educate any visitor. Their museums feature collections of art, artifacts of science and nature, and even great living collections of plants!

10. Independence Hall

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Independence Hall is one of the most famous and beloved historic buildings in the U.S. Guides at Independence Hall will take visitors on a riveting tour of America’s beginnings. This Georgian style building, with its symmetry and sense of proportion, was built to look more like a country house rather than an urban public building.

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