(Beyond Fireworks and Parades)

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026, destinations across the country are rolling out special exhibits, events, and experiences honoring the nation's history, culture, and iconic landscapes. Known as America250, this once-in-a-generation milestone celebration commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

From giant 20-foot tall presidential heads hidden on a private property in Virginia to a 10-day long reenactment of historic Pony Express riders soaring across the American West, communities from coast to coast are finding creative ways to mark this milestone.

Here are a few of the most unique experiences worth adding to your America 250 travel bucket list.

What is America 250?

**America250** is the official nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. In 2026, the United States will celebrate 250 years as a nation with special events, exhibits, festivals, and community celebrations taking place across all 50 states.

How to Host an Official America's Block Party Event

What is the America’s Block Party?

“**America’s Block Party**” is a nationwide initiative to encourage communities across the country to organzie local celebrations that bring neighborhoods together to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The goal is to create a nationwide celebration that feels local and community-drive to bring people together.

How to Register to Host an Official America’s Block Party

Want to host your own America 250 celebration? Communities, organizations, businesses, neighborhoods, and individuals can register an official America's Block Party event through the America250 website.

How to Participate in America’s Block Party:

Visit the America250 website.
Navigate to the America's Block Party section.
Complete the registration form with your event details.
Receive access to promotional materials, planning resources, and opportunities to be featured as part of the nationwide celebration.

Unique Things To Do for America 250

Cheekwood's America the Beautiful: National Parks & Landmarks by Rail (Nashville, Tennessee)

One of the most charming America 250 celebrations I've seen is taking place right here in Nashville at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. The new *America The Beautiful: National Parks & Landmarks by Rail* exhibit celebrates America by taking visitors on a cross-country journey through miniature replicas of some of its most iconic landmarks and national parks.

More than 850 feet of track wind through detailed scenes featuring everything from the Golden Gate Bridge and Statue of Liberty to national park landmarks and Tennessee favorites like the Ryman Auditorium and Graceland.

Set among Cheekwood's beautiful gardens, it's a nostalgic experience that celebrates both America's natural beauty and the railroads that helped connect the nation.

✨ Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the summer heat and for fewer crowds.

👉 Looking for another unique reason to visit Cheekwood? Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE returns this August, with breathtaking life-size floral mannequins.

The Presidents Heads (Williamsburg, Virginia)

If you're searching for one of the most unusual attractions in America, look no further than The Presidents Heads in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Tucked away on private property, 42 giant presidential busts stand weathered and decaying in a field, creating an unforgettable and slightly surreal experience for visitors. The sculptures originally resided at Presidents Park, an outdoor museum that went bankrupt. Rather than being destroyed, the massive sculptures were moved here where they’ve been slowly weathering away in the natural elements ever since.

Public access is extremely limited. The property is not open year-round and can only be visited through pre-ticketed tours or photography workshops.

As part of America's 250th birthday celebrations, special public tours will be offered on **June 27 and June 28, 2026**, giving visitors a rare opportunity to explore the sculptures up close while learning their fascinating history.

Photos courtesy of The Presidents Heads / John Plashal Photo.

✨ Fun Fact: Each head stands approximately 18–20 feet tall, making visitors appear oh so tiny as they walk among these concrete giants.

👉 Book tickets soon! The event only lasts 2 days.

Watch the 2026 National Pony Express Re-Ride (St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California)

Step back in time and watch more than 600 riders relay a historic leather mochila filled with mail across eight states in the 2026 National Pony Express Re-Ride. Starting in St. Joseph, Missouri , riders will make their way across the country all the way to Sacramento, Calfornia.

Organized by the National Pony Express Association, this unique event is completely free to watch as riders gallop into stations, switch horses, and continue their journey across the American West.

✨ Fun Fact: The mail never stops moving. Riders carry the mochila 24 hours a day just like the Pony Express riders did in 1860.

👉 Ride ends June 25.