More than simply recognizing the grandeur of our history, peeling back the layers and discovering what lies beneath can take a bit more exploring. Every site comes with a story, a tale of innovation and success — or sometimes even one of scandal.
The history of these legacies expands what the visitors learn about one landmark into its deeper stories and another aspect that may allow them to gain fascinating insights into the culture and events that were at play on a wider scale across the nation.
The White House
The White House is not only the residence of the President of the United States but also a symbol of democracy and American power. However, few people know about its hidden tunnel system that runs underneath the structure. Initially constructed in 1950 during the Cold War era, these tunnels were built as a secret escape route in case of an attack on the White House. Today, they are used for security and discreetly transporting visitors and staff.
Mount Rushmore
This iconic landmark features the faces of four American presidents carved into the granite cliffs of South Dakota’s Black Hills. However, many people may not know that hidden behind President Lincoln’s head is a room known as the “Hall of Records.” This was intended to be a repository for important documents and artifacts, but it was never completed due to funding issues. The unfinished room remains concealed within the mountain, adding an element of mystery to this already impressive monument.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island, AKA The Rock and home to the most infamous criminals in American history. Despite the crushing reality of its existence as a federal prison, there were secret gardens cultivated by prisoners during this period and hidden artwork that was committed to the walls. These hidden gems are still available for the current visitors who will visit this historic site.
The Statue of Liberty
Lady Liberty symbolizes the freedom and hope that many immigrants saw when arriving in America. Happy as she made them to be, those sneaky Frenchies built a very little-known observation area in her torch. The balcony has been closed to the public since 1916 for safety reasons, and is only accessible via special guided tours offering dramatic views across New York City.
The Golden Gate Bridge
Long an ominous figure on the horizon in San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge opens its deadly walkways moments before every drive-over. These narrow passageways, which run inside the bridge’s steel beams, are meant for worker access to the areas of the structure. Although not accessible to the public, these catwalks provide a unique view of this modern wonder of engineering.
The Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, commemorates the westward expansion of America and represents what spirit? But under its smooth stainless steel surface hides a secret staircase up to the highest observation deck, from which one can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and much more.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central TerminalOne of New York City’s biggest transportation hubs that has a hidden platform called Track 61. A platform originally built to allow President Franklin D. Roosevelt to discreetly leave his private train car and avoid being seen by the public. This episode is infrequently used as storage for old subway cars today
The Washington Monument
The towering obelisk that is the Washington Monument — at 555 feet tall, itwas once the tallest building in the world— has become a time capsule. At its cornerstone is a buried artifact — an inscribed copper box that holds documents and mementos from George Washington. Despite being opened after a mere hundred years because of water damage, it then went missing for another two centuries during a restoration project.
The Empire State Building
In New York City, the Empire State Building, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, hides something on its 103rd floor. Referred to as the “forgotten” observatory, this room—accessible by private elevator—reveals an impressive location in the sky that’s sure to make the entire experience completely unforgettable for everyone who comes.
The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is one of the iconic landmarks in Los Angeles, and it has been the subject of some alterations on more than one occasion. However, each letter has ladders on the back that lead up to small platforms so maintenance workers can climb up and get to the damage. The bright red and skinny ladders are only available behind locked doors, adding a hint of mystery to the iconic Hollywood structure.
