Discover Some of the Best Architecture on the East Coast
From Hartford, CT, to St. Augustine, FL, the United States’s east coast boasts several cities with unique historical architecture and significance. We’ll explore some of its most popular, plus a hidden gem or two.
Most architecture buffs have seen the Empire State Building in New York City and the White House in Washington D.C., but few have had the opportunity to venture down the East Coast to see everything America has to offer a historical architecture buff.
On this road trip, you’ll see everything from the Old State House of Connecticut in Hartford, CT, to the Ponce de Leon Hotel in St. Augustine, FL. Which of these fascinating buildings will become your new favorite?
Old State House of Connecticut – Hartford, CT
The Old State House of Connecticut in Hartford, CT, is one of the most historically significant buildings in the state. As the oldest statehouse in the United States, it has played a unique role in our nation’s founding. Here, you can visit the restored original Senate chamber.
The Met – NYC, NY
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, affectionately known to New York City locals as “The Met,” is a unique architectural find in that it has been evolving constantly since its initial construction in 1866. You’ll find a unique mix of International, Modern, and Contemporary architecture here.
U.S. Capitol – Washington, D.C.
The US Capitol Building is a can’t-miss attraction for any historical architecture buff. President Washington and the building selected its design, patterned after the Roman Pantheon, which was initially constructed in 1793. The cast-iron dome, built in 1858, is one of its most unique features.
Biltmore Estate – Asheville, NC
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, is a testament to ostentatiousness. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the architect-in-chief of Central Park, and made to resemble a French Renaissance summer home. With a floor plan covering four acres, there’s plenty to explore at this unique architectural marvel.
Aiken Rhett House – Charleston, SC
The Aiken Rhett House was built in 1820 and is now considered one of the best-preserved townhouses in the USA. Visitors to the Aiken Rhett House in Charleston, SC, will love the unique historical architecture and shouldn’t miss the virtually untouched slave quarters.
The Harper Fowlkes House – Savannah, GA
The penultimate stop on this trip is another lesser-known gem. The Harper Fowlkes House is a Greek Revival Mansion with stunning architecture, a beautiful garden, and a unique story. Traditional Home magazine calls it one of America’s top 25 Historic Homes.
Hotel Ponce de Leon – St. Augustine, FL
We’ll make just one more stop on the tour to view the stunning opulence of St Augustine, Florida’s historical architecture. The Hotel Ponce de Leon, now home to Flagler College, is one of the best examples. Note the unique details, like the Tiffany glass and gold-leafed Maynard murals.
