I was in the United States for the end of June and most of July 2018. I spent most of my time in California near my hometown, as then was on the east coast for a week. This was my first time ever visiting the east coast.
I flew from Southern California to Raleigh, North Carolina, to visit Republican Atheists’ Board Member Dr. Robert M. Price. This was our first time meeting in person after a year of corresponding via email to develop Republican Atheists. I was fortunate to also bring along Matt Hebb and Kayla Saunders, members of Triangle Urban Republican Network. Hebb is also Chair of Policy and Resolutions for the Young Republicans National Federation, and is also the Raleigh Republican Club. We all had great conversations on a warm afternoon. Read more about our meeting here.
I visited a number of unique historical locations in California, Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York. I already wrote summaries of my trip for Republican Atheists, so I will link to them here.
USS Midway Museum located in San Diego, CA – click here
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA – click here
Washington D.C. – click here
- The White House
- US Capitol
- Library of Congress
- Cannon House Building
- Lincoln Memorial
- World War ll Memorial
- Washington D.C. Union Station
- Victims of Communism Memorial
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – click here
- The Liberty Bell
- Independence Hall
- Benjamin Franklin’s burial site
- Eastern State Penitentiary
New York, New York
- National September 11 Memorial – Click here
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island – Click here
- Trump Tower – Click here
My favorite city on the east coast was Philadelphia. I had not intended on visiting Philadelphia, but we had so many days allocated to New York that I figured it’d be better to take a detour in “Philly.” The city was full of amazing history relating to America’s foundation and contained many historical sites that were within walking distance of each other. The amount of people walking the streets was manageable and not overbearing. Public transportation was also easy to use and navigate.
I do not think I will visit New York again voluntarily unless it is for business. It was so busy and streets were full of people. I had to constantly be aware of where I was walking and many times never had time to stop walking because I would block people behind me. It was much more chaotic than walking in Hollywood. Not to mention how expensive everything was! From a bottle of soda to a slice of pizza, I felt like I was throwing away money when in New York.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA was impressive to see. The museum was massive and showed people cared greatly about his legacy. I was stunned that there was a replica of the Air Force One plane in the museum, as well as a limousine that Reagan would drive in. I would visit again, and even try to book an appointment with Young America’s Foundation to visit the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, CA.
I am always looking for unique historical locations to visit, especially places that educate the public about the horrific history of communism. Please let me know of locations that you think may be of interest by emailing info[at]laurenelltalk.com.
Lauren Ell is an American blogger born and raised in Southern California and is currently based in Sweden. She discusses Epilepsy, Politics and Fun. Professionally Ell is an Online Marketing Consultant and Virtual Assistant. She is also founder and president of Republican Atheists. Connect with Lauren on Facebook and Twitter.