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Virtual Tour of Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site

By National Park Service

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, lived at this site from his birth on October 27, 1858 until he was 14 years old. The reconstructed house contains five period rooms, two museum galleries and a bookstore. Explore the National Historic Site while learning more about the President's life.

The ‘The Lion’s Room’, is one of two exhibit galleries at Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace, which inhabit the structure formerly owned by Theodore’s uncle, Robert Roosevelt . It is appropriate as Robert was a conservationist and founder of the New York State Fishery Commission in 1867. This room, currently undergoing renovation, is dedicated to Theodore Roosevelt, the outdoorsman, rancher, naturalist, and conservationist.

In addition to displays of Theodore’s hunting trophies, in the center of the room is a one-quarter size replica of a statue of Theodore Roosevelt on horseback, wearing his Rough Rider Regiment uniform. The actual full-size statue stands on Main Street in Portland, Oregon.

Also on display in this room is a partner’s desk that was used by Theodore when he was Assistant Secretary of the Navy (1897-1898) and an exercise bike from the White House that he utilized as president (1901-1909). Against the wall is a filing cabinet that he used during the last two years of his life when he wrote a column for the Kansas City Star, a newspaper whose satellite office was on Madison Avenue in New York City, and the portrait at the front of the room is that of Theodore’s father, Theodore Roosevelt, Sr. (1831-1878).

Visitors taking the period room tour first encounter a portrait of Theodore Roosevelt’s grandmother, Margaret Barnhill, who was married to Theodore’s grandfather, Cornelius Van Schaack Roosevelt. She was a Philadelphia-born Quaker who preached a Quaker sensibility to the Roosevelts, most important of which that when one acquires wealth, they should return goodwill to the community. This philosophy of sharing with those less fortunate continues to this day among Roosevelt family members.

The Dining Room contains a dinner table and chairs that were given to Theodore’s mother, Martha Bulloch Roosevelt, and father, Theodore Roosevelt, Sr., as a housewarming gift upon their marriage in 1855. Cornelius Roosevelt gave the dining room set to them. It was originally from his home on East 14th Street and Broadway. Atop the mantelpiece are two glass candle sconces which came from the family business, Roosevelt and Sons, at 94 Maiden Lane in Lower Manhattan. The Roosevelts were purveyors of plate glass, stained glass, and fine glass objects.

The Dining Room was also a place for conversation, some of which was quite opinionated. Theodore was raised during the times of the Civil War. Martha Bulloch Roosevelt was a native of Roswell, Georgia and an unreconstructed confederate until the day she died. Theodore Sr. and the Roosevelt’s before him were residents of Manhattan Island back to the 1640’s when New York was the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam. They were solid Union supporters. One could imagine the diverse political conversations that young Theodore was exposed to, possibly leading him on his way to politics.

The Library displays numerous items that tell the story of the Roosevelt family. The actual family owned books in the bookcase provide a glimpse into the family’s reading interests. The red, velvet ‘tassle chair’ on the left of the mantelpiece was provided for little Theodore, nicknamed ‘Teedie’, because the black horsehair furniture in the room scratched his legs. Atop the mantelpiece are two obelisks purchased as souvenirs during a trip to Egypt, where the Roosevelts lived on a houseboat on the Nile River for two months. The table lamp with a porcelain, lithophane lamp shade is another fine quality item that came through the family business.

The Library was also a room where young Theodore could ‘escape’. As a child, Theodore Roosevelt suffered from severe, sometimes paralyzing, asthma attacks that rendered him home-bound and home-schooled. So at this point in his life, the only outdoors and adventure that he could experience was through the pages of books. He became a voracious reader. In a humorous about-face, later in life as a Dakota rancher, while on the Missouri River chasing three thieves who stole one of his boats, he read the novel ‘Anna Karenina’ during the pursuit that took several days.

The brownstone townhouse that the Roosevelts lived in was a seemingly narrow brownstone townhouse built in 1848. The current structure is an exact reconstruction of the original, completed in 1923, containing sixty percent of the original family owned artifacts, the remainder being period pieces that are identical to the originals. The appearance of the period rooms today is very close to that of the home circa 1865.

The Parlor was used for special gatherings, social events, parties, and fundraisers. True to Margaret Barnhill’s teachings, Theodore Sr. was a renowned fundraiser and philanthropist who raised money to help people who could not help themselves, particularly children. Martha Bullock Roosevelt would play the Chickering box piano to entertain the guests. Theodore Sr. was also a founder of the American Museum of Natural History, the charter of which was signed in this room, and young Theodore in 1869 was exposed to a new museum with exhibits about animals, nature, and the outdoors.

The nursery was the location of a very important conversation between Theodore and his father, right around the date of September 6, 1870. Following a series of severe asthma attacks, and just before he turned 12, Theodore Sr. said to his son, “Theodore, you have the mind, but you have not the body, and without the help of the body, the mind cannot go as far as it should. You must make your body. It is hard drudgery to make one’s body, but I know you will do it.” A gymnastic set was constructed on the porch outside the nursery, and young Theodore began a steady regimen of exercise. It was a pivotal moment in his life and would thoroughly transform him.

The Master Bedroom is the birthplace of our 26th president. Theodore Roosevelt was born in this room on October 27, 1858. There is a portrait of his mother over the mantelpiece. Martha Bulloch Roosevelt gave birth to all four siblings in this room. Theodore was the second child. He had an older sister named Anna, a younger brother Elliott, and a youngest sister Corinne. Elliott would later become the father of Eleanor Roosevelt. Anna and Corinne were instrumental in forming the Women’s Roosevelt Memorial Association in 1919, the year of Theodore’s death. Through the organization, they raised money to repurchase the properties at 26 and 28 East 20th Street, reconstruct the home and create the museum that opened in 1923.

Virtual Tour of the William Howard Taft National Historic Site

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House Tour- Intro and Front Hallway

Come explore Theodore Roosevelt's re-created childhood home, and the childhood influences that would shape who he would become later in life.

House Tour-Front Parlor

Enjoy stories about Teedie's childhood and what influenced his opinions and actions later in life.

House Tour- Library

Where did Theodore get his love for the outdoors? Enjoy this short clip to learn how Theodore's innate curiosity later flourished into action that still reverberates today.

House tour- Dining Room

Can conversations influence our actions in life? Join the Roosevelt family in the dining to find out!

House tour- Nursery

How was Theodore able to live such a strenuous life despite the childhood asthma he suffered from? Explore the stories within the nursery to find out!

House Tour- Master Bedroom

Come take a look at where Theodore Roosevelt was born on October 27, 1858.

Last updated: April 2, 2021

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Roosevelt University Virtual Tour

Are you applying to roosevelt university explore the campus using the virtual tour below..

Virtual tours are a great way to refresh your memory or to preview an on-site tour of Roosevelt.

Do I Really Need to Take a Tour?

At the beginning of your college search, a virtual tour can be a beneficial tool to explore the campus before your visit. When you do visit the campus, be sure to talk to current students about their experiences. A student perspective is a helpful way to gauge your future experience when attending Roosevelt University. Already took an on-campus tour? It's inevitable. All of your college tours will blend, and you might forget the appearance of Roosevelt's library, dorms, or cafeteria. Use the virtual tour to jog your memory! With the interactive mapping tool below you can even explore the area surrounding the campus.

Use the resources below to start your virtual tour.

Using the Map

Click and drag the little orange person to a location on the map. Locations with panoramas appear as blue lines or blue dots when moving the orange person. The blue dots are panoramic views that you may swivel. The blue lines are paths that you can navigate along.

Panoramic View

You can "pan" or "swivel" the camera around by clicking on the image and dragging your mouse or finger. If you see a white arrow on the picture, you can click or tap on it to move in the direction of the arrow. This will also update the location of the little orange person on the map so you can get a better sense of where you are and what direction you are facing.

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Roosevelt Lofts

727 west 7th street los angeles, ca 90017, (213) 786-3499, mon - fri : 9:00 am - 6:00 pm saturday : 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Virtual Tour

Boutique hotel virtual tour.

Free and easy interactive tour of our boutique hotel beautifully done during the Christmas holiday season by StandOut Virtual Tours !

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Best insights and interesting birtual views and tour of our boutque bed and breakfast. Coeur d’Alene as the backdrop to this visual expedition. Navigation is made easy with the selections in the bottom left hand of the window!

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Tour Great Hearts Roosevelt

Touring Great Hearts Roosevelt is the best way to see the transformative educational experience we offer. We believe the highest goal of education is to become good, intellectually and morally.

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Serving Grades K-9

Dear Prospective Families and Esteemed Members of the Buckeye Community,  

Welcome to Great Hearts Roosevelt, a beacon of classical education situated in the dynamic West Valley of Buckeye, Arizona. As a tuition-free, public charter school, we are proud to offer an exceptional educational journey that spans from preschool through high school. Our academy stands as a testament to the transformative power of an honors-level liberal arts curriculum, echoing the excellence of the finest independent private schools and setting a new benchmark for public preparatory education.  

At Great Hearts Roosevelt, we embrace a holistic approach to education, one that transcends traditional academic boundaries. Our mission is to cultivate not only the intellect of our students but also their character, preparing them to become great-hearted leaders who will thrive in higher education and their subsequent professional careers. We are committed to nurturing each student’s potential, guiding them through an enriching exploration of the rich tradition of Western Civilization. Our curriculum, steeped in the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty – as encapsulated in our Latin motto, Verum, Pulchrum, Bonum – fosters a profound, philosophical life.  

Virtual Tour

Begin your journey into the heart of classical education with just a click. Watch a virtual tour of Roosevelt where we foster virtuous scholars and deep thinkers. Witness firsthand how our teachers inspire a passion for lifelong learning, logic, and moral integrity. This isn't merely a tour of our school; it's a gateway to becoming part of a community dedicated to academic excellence and living the values of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. Discover the unique spirit of Great Hearts—where every lesson shapes well-rounded, virtuous citizens.

Our lower school, Archway Roosevelt, offers a nurturing environment for grades K-5. Here, our young scholars embark on their educational journey, building a solid foundation in reading, writing, arithmetic, and the sciences. This early education is vital, as it sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and discovery. The curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and a love for learning in our students, with an emphasis on the arts, history, and physical education complementing their core academic studies.  

As our students advance to Roosevelt Prep, currently serving grades 6-9 and growing to include grades 6-12, they are met with an increasingly challenging and diverse curriculum. Our middle and high school students engage deeply with classical literature, advanced mathematics, comprehensive science courses, and thorough historical studies. This rigorous academic preparation is balanced with a rich array of extracurricular activities, including arts, athletics, and community service, fostering well-rounded individuals prepared for the complexities of college and adult life.  

Nestled in the heart of Buckeye, Arizona, our school benefits from the unique cultural and natural landscape of the West Valley. This setting enriches the educational experience of our students, providing them with a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the diverse world they inhabit. Our community’s diversity is a strength that we celebrate and leverage in our educational approach, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment where every student can flourish.  

Our commitment as a tuition-free institution is central to our philosophy. We believe that access to high-quality, classical education is a right, not a privilege. This commitment ensures that families from varied socioeconomic backgrounds can provide their children with an education that nurtures both mind and character.  

Great Hearts Roosevelt is more than a mere collection of buildings and classrooms; it is a community where education is a partnership between students, teachers, and families. We encourage our parents to be active participants in their children’s education, fostering a collaborative environment that extends beyond the classroom. Our vibrant school community is a place of mutual respect and support, where students, educators, and families come together to celebrate the joys of learning and growing.  

As you consider Great Hearts Roosevelt for your child’s education, we invite you to visit our campus, to witness the transformative power of our classical education, and to meet the dedicated individuals who make our community so special. Explore our classrooms, engage with our faculty, and experience the warmth and vibrancy of our school firsthand.  

Great Hearts Roosevelt represents a unique fusion of academic rigor and character development. We are a community dedicated to fostering a love of learning, nurturing moral virtues, and preparing students to lead fulfilling, impactful lives. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you to our school, to share the joys and challenges of our educational journey, and to embark together on a path that shapes not just scholars, but also virtuous citizens and future leaders.  

We look forward to meeting you and sharing the exceptional experience that Great Hearts Roosevelt has to offer. Together, let’s embrace the adventure of learning and lay the foundation for a future filled with discovery, achievement, and purpose.  

Warmest regards,  

Stephen Philabaum and Tony Cruz Headmasters of Great Hearts Roosevelt

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Around the World with the Roosevelts

Eleanor roosevelt and the united nations.

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Pearl Harbor: Why Was the Attack a Surprise?

A third term, vincent astor: millionaire, philanthropist, spy, and friend of president roosevelt.

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Virtual Tour

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The Virtual Tour of the permanent exhibits at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum brings the exhibits--and associated educational programs--to a significantly expanded audience through an online interactive museum experience. Available online»

The Art of War: American Poster Art 1941-1945

The Art of War: American Poster Art 1941-1945 features o ver 120 wartime posters. Each can be appreciated as both an artifact from our past and an expression of artistic talent. Together, they vividly illustrate the wide-ranging and deep impact of World War II on American society . Available online»

Travel Around the World with the Roosevelts and explore Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt's lifetime of travels through the collections of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. Available online»

Eleanor Roosevelt and the United Nations  -  After Franklin Roosevelt’s death on April 12, 1945, Eleanor Roosevelt famously told reporters that the story was over. But the new American president Harry Truman had different ideas. Eventually, she accepted the President’s offer, and became the first woman to represent the United States as a delegate to the United Nations. Available online»

Day of Infamy: FDR's Response on December 7, 1941

Day of Infamy: FDR's Response on December 7, 1941  -  Dawn arrived quietly in Hawaii on December 7, 1941. But at 7:55 a.m. at the Pearl Harbor naval base, the calm of this Sunday morning was suddenly shattered. Five thousand miles away, in Washington, D.C., news of the disaster left officials reeling. The next 24 hours were among the most dramatic and consequential of Franklin Roosevelt’s long presidency. They ended with one of his finest moments. Available online»

Pearl Harbor: Why Was the Attack a Surprise?  -  On December 7, 1941, U.S. officials were anticipating hostilities with Japan—but they did not know when or where they might occur. Explore documents from the collections at the Roosevelt Library and the National Archives at College Park on the diplomatic breakdown and Japan's surprise offensive. Available online»

A Third Term?  -  As President Franklin D. Roosevelt neared the end of his second term speculation began about his successor. There was no constitutional barrier to a third term at that time. But no president had ever exceeded the two-term precedent established by George Washington. Available online»

Vincent Astor: Millionaire, Philanthropist, Spy, and Friend of President Roosevelt  -  Franklin Delano Roosevelt and William Vincent Astor, known as Vincent Astor, grew up as neighbors in New York’s Dutchess County. From an early age, these two heirs to prominent families were destined to forge a friendship that would shape the future of America. Available online»

Mission Statement

The Library's mission is to foster research and education on the life and times of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, and their continuing impact on contemporary life. Our work is carried out by four major areas: Archives, Museum, Education and Public Programs.

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50 Virtual Tours That Let Your Tour The US From Your Couch

Posted: May 16, 2024 | Last updated: May 16, 2024

Virtual things to do in America

Alabama: learn something new at Birmingham Zoo

An excellent resource for kids of all ages, but also a fun and educational activity to fill the time with, the Virtual Zoo by Birmingham Zoo offers a selection of videos that take viewers behind the scenes. From a day in the life of a veterinarian to red panda training and sheep weigh-in, the videos offer a chance to learn plenty of fun facts about these animals. All videos are also accompanied by activities and curriculum standards for relevant grade levels. The zoo is a current member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums ensuring it meets rigorous standards of care and conservation too. 

Alaska: embark on a glacier tour in Kenai Fjords National Park

If you've always dreamed of exploring this remote part of the USA, this is your chance to do it from the comfort of your sofa. Rappel into a crevasse, kayak through icebergs and watch a glacier recede as you get up close and personal with the Kenai Fjords National Park, thanks to a virtual tour created by Google and the National Parks Service.

Arizona: walk through the Grand Canyon

Undoubtedly, the state's grandest attraction, the Grand Canyon might be out of reach for many, but the National Park Service has teamed up with Virtual Field Trips to allow virtual travelers to explore this remarkable natural wonder. Choose between an unguided exploration and discover unique locations along the Colorado River or learn more about the layers of the canyon.

Arkansas: immerse yourself in art at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Connecting with art is one thing, but fully stepping into artwork is the stuff of dreams. Or rather, virtual reality. Here at the art museum in Bentonville, you can take a  360-degree view  of each world-class piece, by winding through galleries and soaring over the rooftops. From stunning architecture nestled in 120 acres of Ozark woods to the light spectacles in the Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room, it's sure to inspire you to visit in person.

California: scale El Capitan

California's Yosemite National Park and one of its most famous landmarks, El Capitan, is an incredibly enticing destination, especially for mountain climbers. And now you can scale the impressive mountain all the way to the top too. Join three professionals on an exhilarating virtual journey  to one of the world's most famous summits. 

Colorado: trek the Rocky Mountains National Park

Escape your living room and take in a deep breath of fresh mountain air as you go on a digital trek through the Rocky Mountains. Along your hike, you'll visit top sites such as Milner Pass and Chasm Lake, as well as several scenic overlooks. You'll also be able to walk around each stop along the way and discover the area by yourself. 

Connecticut: look inside Mystic Seaport Museum

If you're into maritime history, you'll find Mystic Seaport Museum's YouTube channel an absolute delight. The videos range from boat building demonstrations to knot tying and learning to read the night sky. However, it's the behind-the-scenes tours you won't want to miss. These videos take visitors inside the museum's non-public areas, including the Watercraft Hall that holds all sorts of maritime-themed artifacts. 

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Delaware: walk through a du Pont mansion with a curator

Located within the former home of Henry Francis du Pont, the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is a treasure trove of antiques and artifacts relating to the history and cultural heritage of the United States. Although the museum has reopened, thanks to its dedicated curators you can take a peek inside from the comfort of your sofa. In a series of four-minute Facebook videos , the curators take virtual visitors through the museum and discuss the history of each room and its contents.

Florida: go diving in Dry Tortugas National Park

Imagine yourself on a tropical vacation as you go on a virtual dive through a shipwreck in Dry Tortugas and swim in the third-largest barrier reef in the world. As 99% of the Dry Tortugas National Park is underwater, you'll spend a significant amount of time exploring the seas, but once you're ready to head back on land, you can tour the Civil War-era fortress, Fort Jefferson.

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Georgia: visit the Georgia Aquarium

A fun and educational activity for the whole family while at home, observing these cute animals in the Georgia Aquarium never gets old. Take your pick from playful California sea lions, funny African penguins or scary piranhas. Don't miss a chance to scroll through the aquarium's animal album and learn more about the creatures too. Georgia Aquarium is a current member of the  Association of Zoos & Aquariums  so you can be sure the animals receive the highest standards of care. 

Hawaii: explore Volcanoes National Park

Another remote US destination, Hawaii and its nature are full of wonder. Get a closer look at the unspoiled beauty of this state as you fly over an active volcano, explore a lava tube and look out across volcanic cliffs in Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park – a once-in-a-lifetime experience even when enjoyed virtually .

Idaho: go on a wild adventure

There's plenty to love about Idaho's natural attractions and Visit Idaho has put together a handy playlist of some of the experiences you can enjoy in the Gem State. There's everything from rafting the Payette River to base jumping, kayaking to Shoshone Falls and even zip-lining through the Snake River Canyon to bring a bit of excitement and adrenalin into your living room.

Illinois: visit The Art Institute of Chicago

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the USA, The Art Institute of Chicago is a treasure trove of incredible exhibits and some of the most significant artworks in the world. Start by exploring the collection virtually , from the iconic American Gothic to Monet's Water Lilies and works by Dalí, Cézanne and Warhol. Then take a video and audio tour of the El Greco special exhibition and browse through a catalog of videos, offering a glimpse into the museum's history.

Indiana: imagine a weekend break at the French Lick Resort

Fancy a spa weekend away? Why not tune into French Lick Resort's virtual tours and imagine you've been whisked away to the West Baden Springs Hotel for the weekend. Start by arriving through the atrium and check-in at the lobby, take a peek inside the library and finally relax at the indoor pool – all are best viewed in full-screen mode. One of America's most historic hotels, once named the eighth wonder of the world, its interiors are chock-full of charming historical detail. 

Iowa: tour the Museum of Danish America

With several historic Danish settlements in the state, it's little surprise that one of those villages, Elk Horn, is home to the Museum of Danish America. Now open on Tuesday–Saturday, it also offers one of the best and most comprehensive virtual tours in all of America. From the first Danish settlers in the US to LEGO and new Nordic cuisine, it might not be a museum you'd ordinarily visit, but this is a great chance to discover something new.

Kansas: take in beautiful blooms at Botanica

Missing colorful flowers while at home? Worry not as Botanica, The Wichita Gardens and their brilliant employees are determined to bring the blooms to you. Executive Director Marty Miller has filmed a range of videos , showing off the beautiful blooming cherry trees, a walk through the tulips and stunning yellow magnolias among others. There are also video tours of the different parts of the garden as well as a live feed. 

Kentucky: enjoy a visit to Kentucky Derby Museum

Among Kentucky's most famous exports, the Kentucky Derby is one of the most historic horse races in the world and its story is well-documented at the Kentucky Derby Museum. You can now browse through the museum's collection online , alongside videos and expert commentary – a true delight for horse racing fans around the world. 

Louisiana: vacation in New Orleans

While you might have had to cancel that long-awaited trip to New Orleans, there's still a way to  enjoy the Big Easy virtually . Tour some of the city's most famous sites, including the French Market and lively Bourbon Street. There's also a separate tour that's ideal for kids and an exploration of the city's connection with voodoo.

Maine: visit Acadia National Park's most picturesque spots

Start your digital hike of Maine's picturesque Acadia National Park at the top of Precipe Trailhead. You'll then be able to virtually walk around some of the park's most beautiful sections, including Thunder Hole, where waves crash against the rocks with a thunderous boom, and the towering Cadillac Mountain. Finally, head on a calming seaside trek along the wild Ocean Path Trailhead.

Maryland: befriend sea creatures at the National Aquarium

One of Maryland's most popular attractions, it continues to delight people online with its virtual tour . With eight areas to explore, from shark alley to Pacific coral reef, learn more about the individual animals and see their natural habitats recreated. Once you've walked through the aquarium itself, don't miss the live exhibit cams, featuring sharks, colorful reef fish, graceful rays and mysterious jellyfish. The National Aquarium is a current member of the  Association of Zoos & Aquariums  so you can be sure the animals receive the highest standards of care. 

Massachusetts: tour the collection of Museum of Fine Arts

With more than 450,000 works in its collection, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is one of America's most comprehensive art museums. Thanks to Google Arts & Culture, it's now possible to tour this incredible museum from your living room. You can start by diving deep into the museums digitized collection before virtually heading inside the museum itself . 

Michigan: learn more about the state's history

You can now explore five floors of the Michigan History Museum and learn more about the state's history, from its first people, the Anishinaabe, up to the mid-20th century. The immersive  virtual tour  covers the whole museum and features topics like the Civil War, mining in Michigan and the growth of the car industry in the state. 

Minnesota: tour a historic stately home

Set (virtual) foot inside the stunning Glensheen Historic Estate in Duluth where you can follow the arrows and take a peek inside the luxuriously decorated rooms. To enhance your virtual experience , you can either download the Glensheen app or print out a virtual treasure book to learn more about every room in the historic house as well as its most notable details. 

Mississippi: go on a virtual river cruise

If you've never been on a river cruise before but you are tempted,  enjoy a trip virtually thanks to American Cruise Lines. Take in the scenery from the sun deck, stop for a drink in the sky lounge and lay your head to rest in one of the suites. An excellent idea for date nights at the moment, it's easy to imagine you're navigating the Mississippi River rather than sitting on your sofa.

Missouri: tour Kansas City's fountains

Did you know that Kansas City is also known as The City of Fountains? With more than 200 fountains, the city definitely isn't short on watery landmarks. This virtual tour features seven of those, including the grand Henry Wollman Bloch Fountain, designed by the same people who created the iconic Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, and the playful Children's Fountain. 

Montana: escape to the Glacier National Park

If you're in a desperate need of an escape, there's nowhere better to go (virtually) than Montana's remote Glacier National Park. Thanks to Google Earth , you can imagine yourself kayaking on the stunning Lake McDonald, hiking among towering red cedars and seeing the hard-to-access Bird Woman Falls.

Nebraska: explore the Nebraska State Capitol and Governor's Residence

With two incredible virtual tours on offer of two historic landmarks in the state capital Lincoln, there's plenty to discover. Start with a comprehensive tour of the Capitol building with information boxes presented along the way, then step inside the Governor's Residence and be amazed by its exquisite interiors.

Nevada: walk through Las Vegas and beyond

Have you always dreamed of visiting Sin City? You don't have to put your travel plans on hold because thanks to Google Earth you can visit this one-of-a-kind destination and surrounding areas virtually. Start by ticking off some of the most famous sights along the Strip, but there's also plenty to see for non-gamblers too as well as family-friendly attractions. Finally, leave the city behind and head to the Red Rock Canyonlands.

New Hampshire: learn at the Children's Museum of New Hampshire

Stuck for fun things to do with the kids? Embark on a virtual tour of the Children's Museum of New Hampshire and make the most of this resource to support at-home learning. With lots of different topics covered in the museum, from dinosaurs to puzzles, there are also plenty of resources for online learning so staying at home is not only fun but also educational.

New Jersey: join a virtual zoo school

Thanks to the efforts of Cape May County Zoo and its keepers you can learn about a different animal every day at the  virtual zoo school . So far the zoo has featured owls, American bison, cheetahs and African lions among others. The daily videos are posted on its website and on the zoo's Facebook page. As with all the zoos and aquariums featured in our gallery, Cape May County Zoo is a current member of the  Association of Zoos & Aquariums  too.  

New Mexico: tour the Carlsbad Caverns

If tight and dark places are not for you in real life, why not explore them virtually? This tour of Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico gives a glimpse inside the caverns and the incredible formations that cover their ceilings and walls. Then, don a virtual headlamp and trek through a cave after virtually flying with thousands of bats that live here.

New York: go inside the American Museum of Natural History

Not only an exciting but educational activity, this virtual tour of one of the world's top scientific and educational institutions is truly eye-opening. Journey through 45 permanent exhibition halls as you come face to face with a blue whale, marvel at the size of a T-Rex and take a peek at the cross-section of a giant sequoia. There's also a digital version of the museum's collection and three fascinating online exhibits – the one on the museum's dioramas (miniature models) is unmissable.

North Carolina: explore Wilmington and beyond

If a seaside escape is long overdue, head to Wilmington in North Carolina virtually . This immersive 360°-experience offers a bird's eye-view of the city and has several videos touring the city's most notable attractions, including the battleship North Carolina and the Historic Downtown. When you've explored the city, virtually fly over to the Carolina Beach boardwalk or Kure Beach and imagine the sand between your toes.

North Dakota: escape to the Great Plains in Jamestown

Home to the world's largest buffalo monument, Jamestown has plenty of exciting attractions to discover. There's the National Buffalo Museum, of course, and the Frontier Village, capturing what life would've been like for early settlers. Both the 1883 Historic Stutsman Courtroom and Courthouse are fascinating too. If you have a VR headset, you can view this tour in 3D.

Ohio: walk through the history of the US Air Force

This incredibly well-designed virtual tour allows visitors to step through the doors of the National Museum of the United States Air Force and tour the entire museum. There are easy-to-follow arrows to point you in the right direction to the exhibits, from planes used in the Korean War to a decommissioned Air Force One, as well as 'hot spots', where you can watch additional videos and find links to more online resources.

Oklahoma: go inside the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Although the museum has reopened, you can still browse through its impressive collection online thanks to Google Arts & Culture. Read through the virtual exhibits first – we particularly love the exhibit about artist Charles M. Russell and the American Rodeo Gallery – then head inside the museum and walk around for yourself. 

Oregon: tour the Oregon State Capitol

Another breathtaking capitol building, the Oregon state Capitol is grand and unrestrained in its décor. Start your exploration at the rotunda where you'll be able to hear more about the State Seal. The accompanying audio guide will lead you to the House and Senate chambers, explaining the work that is done here. Both chambers feature videos of the legislative process in action. 

Pennsylvania: discover the historic sites of the Battle of Gettysburg

One of America's most important historical landmarks, Gettysburg is littered with notable Civil War sites. Thanks to this virtual tour you can follow in the footsteps of Civil War-era soldiers and learn more about such historic places as Culp's Hill, Devil's Den and Little Round Top – the site of an unsuccessful assault by the Confederate troops on the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg. There are information boxes to guide you along the way too. 

Rhode Island: tour the historic mansions of Newport

This seaside city located in Narragansett Bay has a reputation as one of the top New England summer resorts and is famous for its wealth of historic mansions and rich sailing history. Head over to the Newport Mansions website – a preservation society dedicated to protecting the area's architectural history – and you'll find several virtual tours of some of the most luxurious mansions in the area. The ostentatious décor of The Elms is our favorite.

South Carolina: peek inside the Governor's Mansion

The South Carolina Governor's Mansion dates from the 1850s and this exquisite property, the residence of the Palmetto State's First Family since 1869, is packed with treasures including paintings and silverware.  Step inside and virtually walk through the house at your own pace, making sure to pay great attention to the historic detail throughout. 

South Dakota: tour the Mount Rushmore National Memorial

If you've never had a chance to visit South Dakota and Mount Rushmore, this is the perfect opportunity to explore its pathways, lookouts and, of course, the famous stone carvings themselves. This virtual experience allows you to get an extreme close up of the four presidents – George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt and Thomas Jefferson. Their portraits, carved into the Black Hills, are equally as majestic online as they are in real life.

Tennessee: visit Nashville

A virtual visit to the Music City comes highly recommended as, thanks to Google Earth , you can now explore this fun city in great detail straight from your living room. Start in Downtown and take in sites like the Tennessee State Capitol and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where you even get to go inside. Then explore Nashville's connection to honky-tonk music and virtually walk through Midtown and Southern Nashville, where you'll find a full-scale replica of Greece's Athenian Parthenon.

Texas: see a digital exhibition at Space Center Houston

One of America's best space museums has put together an incredible virtual exhibition on Apollo 13, including videos, historic images and stories from the crew. Learn more about what went wrong on this mission that was later called a "successful failure", discover what the journey home was like for the astronauts and get a closer look at one of the artifacts from Apollo 13. 

Utah: explore the night sky in Bryce Canyon

Embark on an exhilarating virtual journey  that spans day and night in Bryce Canyon and you'll discover a lot more than just its stunning red rock formations. While this stone jungle and its hoodoos are fascinating up close and a virtual horseback ride through the canyon comes highly recommended, it's the night sky here that will totally surprise you – you can even see the Milky Way.

Vermont: walk through the Vermont State House

This virtual tour of Vermont State House allows you to explore all of the building's principal chambers. Built in 1833, the State House is the state capitol of Vermont and thanks to a careful restoration project in the early 1980s its stunning Greek Revival exterior and opulent interiors are simply jaw-dropping. 

Virginia: tour George Washington's home at Mount Vernon

The estate owned by the first President of the United States George Washington is now a comprehensive museum, looking at Washington's life and times and also offering a peek at how people lived in the second half of 1700s. This detailed virtual tour takes visitors through the buildings on the estate and allows you to discover the interiors too. Each room has an accompanying fact box and there are several videos to guide you along the way.

Washington: take in the calming scenery at Olympic National Park

A delightful escape to the great outdoors , Washington state's Olympic National Park is full of wonderful scenery to make you forget you're at home. You'll get to take in calming views of Rialto Beach, dotted with rocks and driftwood as well as discover the trails of Hoh Rain Forest and finish your virtual hike with a stop at Marymere Falls.

West Virginia: discover how hand-blown glass is made

Famous for its artistic hand-blown glass, Blenko Glass came to prominence when its work was used for the stained-glass windows of St Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. And although the factory's visitor center in West Virginia has reopened, there's a comprehensive video resource , explaining how the glass is designed and made, and then shaped into a variety of objects. 

Wisconsin: visit the Wisconsin State Capitol

Another stunning state capitol, it would be a shame not to take advantage of this building's virtual tour . Focused on the impressive rotunda, there are plenty of interesting facts to learn along the way about the central mural and other artistic details of this impressive structure in the lakeside city of Madison.

Wyoming: go on a virtual walk through the Upper Geyser Basin

One of the country's most enticing national parks, Yellowstone usually draws in plenty of visitors and it's no different now, only you'll have to walk through the Upper Geyser Basin virtually . Tour the boardwalks and learn more about the park, its wildlife and geology and then take a closer look at some of the most famous of Yellowstone's landmarks, including the Old Faithful. 

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Theodore Roosevelt & the Teddy Bear

The story that led to the creation of the teddy bear toy unfolded more than a century ago when President Theodore Roosevelt visited west-central Mississippi and northeastern Louisiana.

This article tells that story and celebrates the conservation impact Roosevelt had on that part of the nation.

Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex (located in Mississippi and Louisiana) and Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge (in Louisiana) are steeped in history and folklore.

They conserve wildlife, and they honor the legacy of Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States and the founder of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

These refuges in Mississippi and Louisiana also honor Holt Collier , a widely admired African American outdoorsman of the 19th century. Collier was born into slavery, fought for the South in the Civil War and, after gaining his freedom, became a hunter/guide extraordinaire. Reports of his day credit him with more bear kills than those claimed by Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. Roosevelt is said to have considered Collier the best hunter he’d ever seen.  

The refuges also celebrate the animal that inspired the teddy bear. In November 1902, Collier guided President Roosevelt on a hunting trip in Mississippi. As the story goes, when Collier cornered and stunned a Louisiana black bear for the president’s benefit, Roosevelt refused to shoot the bear. After the incident was publicized nationally in an editorial cartoon, a New York store owner created a stuffed toy he called “Teddy’s bear.”

  The refuges preserve the rich hunting heritage of the Deep South, too. In October 1907, Collier guided President Roosevelt on a second bear hunt, this one in northeastern Louisiana near the Tensas River. Today, hunting is still a popular tradition. Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge alone attracts approximately 75,000 hunters annually, providing a great boost to the local economy.

Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex comprises nine refuges, including the only refuge named for a president, the only refuge named for an African American, and Mississippi’s oldest national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. Learn more about national wildlife refuge . The largest of the nine refuges are Panther Swamp , Saint Catherine Creek and Hillside National Wildlife Refuges. The oldest, Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge , was established in 1936 and is home to a healthy population of American alligators.

Four other refuges in the complex are Holt Collier , Mathews Brake , Morgan Brake and Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuges. “Each provides its own unique beauty and sense of wonder to the visitor. I have seen thousands of snow geese fly overhead at Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge, a 16-foot alligator at Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge, and a plethora of waterfowl and wading birds at Saint Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge,” says Brett Moule, project leader at Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Mathews Brake Refuge, which provides habitat for more than 30,000 ducks each winter, is known for duck hunting. A brake, by the way, is a natural wooded wetland area or thicket.

T he ninth refuge, Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge , is near U.S. Highway 61. Its lands and waters are currently closed to the public, however its new visitor center “serves as a way for visitors to step back in time as they listen to a talk from President Roosevelt or interact with many of the exhibits throughout,” says Moule. The visitor center, still in the final phases of development, will be a showcase not only for national wildlife refuges but for all federal lands in the Mississippi Delta region, which stretches north from near Vicksburg to the Tennessee border.

“The visitor center is distinctive in that its exhibits enable the visitor to experience the history of the Mississippi Delta along with being among many flora and fauna species found in this region” says Moule. Because Roosevelt would go on to found the National Wildlife Refuge System in 1903 – an era when America was just beginning to focus on protecting wildlife – exhibits honor Roosevelt on a grand scale. All told, Roosevelt established more than 50 national wildlife refuges.

  The exhibits also provide a virtual tour of the refuges and other nearby federal lands; stress the importance of the refuges to migratory birds along the Mississippi Flyway; honor Collier’s remarkable life; and recognize 8,000 years of Native American heritage in the area. The visitor center is along U.S. Highway 61 just south of  Rolling Fork, Mississippi. Rolling Fork celebrates the legend of the teddy bear annually in October at the Great Delta Bear Affair .  

The exhibits also feature the Louisiana black bear, which once roamed plentifully across Mississippi, Louisiana and east Texas. By 1992, there were as few as 150 Louisiana black bears in the wild due to loss of their bottomland hardwood forest habitat and human-related mortality. That year, the bear was listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Since then, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Louisiana Ecological Services office, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Black Bear Conservation Coalition and private landowners have helped the bear recover. Those partners have restored bottomland hardwood forest habitat the bears need to survive. To establish new bear populations or increase the genetic diversity of existing small populations, state and federal wildlife biologists also have relocated bears from Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge, where they thrive, to Bayou Cocodrie, Bayou Teche and Lake Ophelia National Wildlife Refuges, the state of Louisiana’s Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area and elsewhere.

That cooperation has paid off. In 2016, the Louisiana black bear was removed from the threatened and endangered species list. Today, an estimated 750 bears live across the species’ current range, and successful recovery efforts are enabling breeding populations to expand. Consequently, the bear, which is the state mammal of Louisiana, is not likely to become in danger of extinction in the foreseeable future.

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