national treasure tour washington dc

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Inspired by their first joint visit to the nation's capital in 2015, Aubrey Paris and Emily Black are leading National Treasure Hunters on informal walking tours of downtown Washington, D.C. Their route and activities showcase key filming and story locations featured in the National Treasure movies. Learn more about the tour in the Frequently Asked Questions section below.

The National Treasure Hunt Tour runs one weekend each spring and fall. Check back frequently for updated tour dates and sign-up instructions, or join our mailing list to be notified when dates are announced.

Note: National Treasure Hunt is able to accommodate a limited number of private tours each year. Visit the FAQs section below for details regarding how to send a private tour inquiry.

Sign-ups for the spring 2024 National Treasure Hunt Tour are closed. Check back frequently or join our mailing list for new tour date announcements!

Guided by National Treasure Hunt hosts Aubrey Paris and Emily Black, the walking tour route includes*:

U.S. National Archives (optional indoor visit available)

Library of Congress (optional indoor visit available)

Lincoln Memorial & Reflecting Pool

U.S. Capitol Building & Reflecting Pool

Jefferson Memorial & Tidal Basin

Washington Monument

*Subject to change. Tour stops are outdoors unless otherwise indicated. The tour runs rain or shine, unless unsafe weather is expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The National Treasure Hunt Tour is, first and foremost, an opportunity to meet other National Treasure fans and experience Washington, D.C., through the lens of a beloved film franchise. Over one day, attendees will visit numerous sites of filming and plot significance to both National Treasure movies (see route above). This includes optional indoor visits at the U.S. National Archives and the Library of Congress.

While walking from location to location, attendees will partake in informal polls, discussions, and other fun activities related to National Treasure . Tour route, locations, and indoor visits are subject to change and based on availability.

The National Treasure Hunt Tour involves a substantial amount of walking. The route is approximately 4 miles long, not including in-tour activities and optional visits inside the U.S. National Archives and Library of Congress. Several stops will be made to allow for rest, photographs, and activities during the walk. 

Disclaimer: Attendees participate in the National Treasure Hunt Tour at their own risk and agree that the hosts are not responsible for any injuries sustained through participation.

The full-day National Treasure Hunt Tour costs $50 per person, though National Treasure Hunt Patreon members at the "Ben" tier receive a discount. Attendees will be asked to pay in advance of their tour date (i.e., after registering). This non-refundable attendance fee helps the hosts pay for the materials, props, and other preparations needed to make the tour possible. The fee does not go toward optional entry at the U.S. National Archives or the Library of Congress, as entry at these locations is free.  

While not required, if you are interested, consider wearing your favorite National Treasure Hunt shirt from our merch store during the tour (matching shirts look great in group photos!).

Please note that attendees are responsible for planning and paying for their own travel to, from, and within Washington, D.C., as well as lodging and meals during their stay. 

Check back frequently for our next tour date announcement.

(For future tours: When tour dates are announced, we'll post a sign-up form right here on our website, and members of our mailing list will receive an email notification.)

Simply fill out the sign-up form, wait for your confirmation email with instructions for paying your registration fee, and then start planning your travel! We will send additional communications with more details as the date draws nearer.

Given the long tour route and multiple opportunities for indoor site visits, the one-day tour lasts most of the morning and afternoon (e.g., 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; subject to change). The tour will pause for approximately one hour to allow attendees to eat lunch. 

It's up to you! There are lots of cool things to see and do in and around Washington, D.C. Consider exploring downtown spots that you'd like to see featured in National Treasure 3 , like the Smithsonian museums, U.S. Capitol building, or Embassy Row. We also recommend visiting* a few additional National Treasure -relevant locations situated nearby, all of which are easily found on Google Maps:

• The White House
• Eisenhower Executive Office Building
• Ford's Theatre
• J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building
• Memorial to the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence
• The Watergate Hotel
• George Washington's Mount Vernon

*Note that "visiting" some of these locations likely means viewing from the outside!

No. At this time, there is no formal "treasure hunt" component to the National Treasure Hunt Tour. 

National Treasure Hunt will accommodate a limited number of weekend private tours each year; these tours follow the same route as the semi-annual group tours and include modified versions of group tour activities. The non-refundable attendance fee is $100 per attendee (to be paid after the private tour date is confirmed by National Treasure Hunt ). To inquire about the possibility of scheduling a private tour, send us a contact form message with your desired weekend tour date and number of guests. Please note that while we cannot guarantee availability for private tours, we will be more likely to accommodate your request if you provide several date options.

As is the case for our semi-annual group tours, the non-refundable private tour attendance fee helps the hosts pay for the materials, props, and other preparations needed to make the tour possible. The fee does not go toward optional entry at the U.S. National Archives or the Library of Congress, as entry at these locations is free.  

Please note that private tour attendees are responsible for planning and paying for their own travel to, from, and within Washington, D.C., as well as lodging and meals during their stay. 

Washington, D.C., can be reached easily by car, train, or plane. The closest airport is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, while Dulles International Airport is located approximately 30 minutes away (by car) in Dulles, Virginia. Amtrak trains can be accessed at Washington Union Station just north of the U.S. Capitol building.

After you've arrived, there are several options for getting around Washington, D.C., and the surrounding suburbs. WMATA metro and bus lines are tourist-friendly and can be used to reach most common destinations (including the National Mall). For out-of-the-way locations, including George Washington's Mount Vernon, self-driving  or using ride-share services, such as Uber or Lyft, is recommended.

There are many hotels, Airbnbs, and other lodging options located in and around Washington, D.C. Attendees who fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport may consider the wide range of airport hotels located adjacent to the airport in Crystal City, Arlington, Virginia.

National Treasure Hunt is an independent entity and is not affiliated with the Disney company. Attendees participate in the National Treasure Hunt Tour at their own risk. Photographs of attendees may be taken and published on National Treasure Hunt 's social media profiles and/or website; attendees are responsible for communicating with the hosts if they do not want their photograph taken during the tour.

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Home > Films > N > National Treasure

Monday April 29th 2024

National Treasure | 2004

• Locations |
• Washington DC ;
• Philadelphia , Pennsylvania ;
• Los Angeles , California
• Jon Turteltaub
• Nicolas Cage,
• Diane Kruger,
• Justin Bartha,
• Jon Voight,
• Harvey Keitel,
• Christopher Plummer

While high-minded symbologist Robert Langdon went in search of the Holy Grail, down-to-earth historian Ben Franklin Gates ( Nicolas Cage ) solves a series of cryptic clues to find the earthly treasure of the Knights Templar, keeping one step ahead of his one-time backer turned ruthless competitor Ian Howe ( Sean Bean ).

For the backstory, told by to Ben by his grandfather ( Christopher Plummer ), the ‘White House’, of 1832 is the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Constitution Hall, 1776 D Street NW . Coincidentally, the Hall provided the interior of the present-day ‘White House’ in Transformers: Dark Of The Moon .

A mysterious clue leads the grown up Ben Gates to the ‘Arctic’, where ‘Charlotte’ turns out to be a ship buried in ice. The snowy wastes were filmed at Chicken Creek West on the northern shore of the frozen Strawberry Reservoir , off I-40 southeast of Heber City in Utah where, for once, the weather co-operated and obligingly cloaked the set in a blanket of snow.

To get a suitably frosty appearance for the bowels of the ship, the interior was built inside the huge freezer of the Union Ice Company in Van Nuys , Los Angeles .

Discovering that the next clue may is probably written on the reverse of the Declaration of Independence, Ben has something of a disagreement with his associate when he realises the determined Howe has set his sights on the grabbing the precious document.

Ben hares off to Washington DC to warn the authorities that the priceless antiquity may be under threat.

Along with his pal Riley ( Justin Bartha ), he gets short shrift from the FBI at the J Edgar Hoover FBI Building, 10th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, downtown Washington DC , one of several locations the film shares with 1970s classic, All The President’s Men .

Ben gets barely a better reception from Dr Abigail Chase ( Diane Kruger ) at the National Archives , 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW . There’s free entry to the National Archives Museum , Constitution Avenue NW between 7th and 9th Streets, where, in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, you can indeed cast your eyes on the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights.

Ben and Riley discuss their strategy on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial , in front of the Reflecting Pool , where it seems the only option is to take the Declaration into their own protective custody. The fact that the pool had been drained for routine maintenance on the day of filming is no longer a problem for Hollywood – the rippling water was added digitally.

Another location from All The President’s Men turns up in the form of the magnificent circular reading room where the pair research blueprints of the National Archives building. It’s the domed, marble Main Reading Room in the Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress , First Street SE between East Capitol Street and Independence Avenue ( metro: Capitol South, Union Station ), which is where Bernstein and Woodward conducted their research, too, in the Alan J Pakula film.

Riley sneaks down into the bowels of the Archives-Navy Memorial Station in US Navy Memorial Plaza to access the Archives’ security conduit.

One more President’s Men reference: as Ian Howe prepares his own plan to steal the document, the establishing shot cheekily implies he’s planning his robbery in the Watergate Complex .

Not surprisingly, it wasn’t feasible to film an elaborate heist sequence in the real archives, so a meticulous recreation was built in the studio in Hollywood.

Finding Ben has beaten him to the prize and believing Abigail is in possession of the precious artifact, the thwarted Howe abducts her from in front of the Archives on Pennsylvania Avenue NW .

Ben and Riley give chase to the rival crew’s truck as it thunders down that staple of road chases, South Hill Street around 6th and 7th Street in downtown Los Angeles (there are a few convenient LA locations scattered throughout the film).

Rescuing Abigail, the three stop briefly in front of the Jefferson Memorial to consider their options now that Ben’s apartment, ready and set up to examine the delicate document, is now obviously compromised.

Yes, it’s LA again as the FBI under Agent Sadusky ( Harvey Keitel ) do indeed raid Ben’s place. It’s the Nate Starkman Building, 544 Mateo Street , at Palmetto Street, in the industrial area east of downtown Los Angeles . It's a frequently used location, also seen in Justin Lin 's 2009 Fast And Furious (Fast And Furious 4) . Well done if you noticed as the 'Stygian Street' building in the black-and-white photo discovered by Detective Tapp ( Danny Glover ) in James Wan 's Saw .

Ben reluctantly accepts that he has no choice but to head for the home of his disapproving father, Patrick Gates ( Jon Voight ), who’s long since given up wasting time on the pointless treasure hunt.

The caption reads ‘Philadelphia, Pa’, but the smart white mansion might as well have Pasadena written all over it. In fact it’s 1030 Buena Vista Street at Fairview Avenue in South Pasadena , where conservationists will shudder as Dr Chase daubs lemon juice on the back of the fragile treasure to reveal – yet more clues.

These apparently refer to a series of letters once owned by Gates Sr, written by ‘Silence Dogood’, an alias of Benjamin Franklin , which Ben's dad is reluctantly forced to admit that – dammit – he’s only gone and donated the letters to Philadelphia ’s Franklin Institute .

Is there another caper on the cards? Ben and co drive into the real city of Philadelphia , fittingly, across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge over the Delaware River . To avoid attracting attention, Riley slips a few dollars to a young boy to copy out important characters from the letters for him.

Although the Franklin Institute , 222 North 20th Street , is a science museum, it does also house a Frankliniana Collection. Surprisingly, the missives of ‘Mrs Silence Dogood’ were real – written by the teenage Franklin to the New England Courant paper, which was published by his brother, James . When the ruse was discovered, the originals were destroyed so, no, you won’t find them on display in the Institute .

Riley quickly figures out that the next stop is the Liberty Bell , catching up with Ben and Abigail as they kit themselves with new threads at Urban Outfitters , though this is not a Philadelphia branch. It’s Urban Outfitters , 139 West Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena – which should at least be convenient for Mr Gates Sr.

Howe intercepts the final clue from the kid and also heads off to visit the famous Bell at the Liberty Bell Center , 6th Street at Market Street .

Ben, being cleverer, realises that at the time the clues were written, the Liberty Bell was housed in the steeple of Independence Hall (formerly Pennsylvania State House), 520 Chestnut Street , which is where the Centennial Bell now hangs. The Liberty Bell was moved to a nearby glass pavilion in 1976, and then to the Liberty Bell Center in 2003. In fact, the movie was shot a few days before the actual Bell was installed, and a replica is used onscreen.

While Howe is faffing about at the Liberty Bell Center , Ben has discovered Franklin’s ‘ocular device’ in a hollow brick in the Independence Hall wall, with its cryptic message: “Heere at the wall”.

Once Howe wises up, there’s a rooftop chase. But why risk damaging a national monument or building an expensive set when an accurate facsimile already exists? And in California too. The sequence was filmed on the brick-for-brick recreation of Independence Hall built in 1966 at Knott's Berry Farm , 8039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park , southeast of Los Angeles .

The three split up, with Abigail and Riley ducking into Reading Terminal Market , 51 North 12th Street , while Ben is getting shot at in the ancient churchyard of Old Pine Street Church, 412 Pine Street .

Abigail and Riley head toward Philadelphia City Hall , but when Abigail trips over, Ian finally gets his hands on the Declaration.

Ben doesn’t fare much better, getting arrested by the cops and being monitored by the FBI as Ian Howe sets up a meeting in New York , aboard the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid , moored in the Hudson River.

USS Intrepid is part of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum , Pier 86 West 46th Street at 12th Avenue, a non-profit, educational institution founded in 1982 and featuring alongside the legendary aircraft carrier, the space shuttle Enterprise, the world’s fastest jets and a guided missile submarine.

Ben evades the FBI surveillance with an unexpected dive into the Hudson River , before making his way to the mysterious ‘Heere’, which turns out to be a reference to de Heere Straat – the Gentlemen’s Street – the old Dutch name for Broadway . You can’t say this film is not educational.

And near the junction of Broadway with Wall Street in the Financial District , stands the final destination, Trinity Church , 75 Broadway .

It’s finally back to Los Angeles again for the climax of the film. As you might assume, the vast underground crypt, oddly unnoticed for decades in Manhattan’s packed business district, was naturally built in the studio, but even the church interior is in California .

It’s the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles , 540 South Commonwealth Avenue , between 5th and 6th Streets, Downtown near MacArthur Park.

A screen regular, First Congregational supplied the interior of New York ’s ‘Riverside Church’, where Mary Jane Watson ( Kir sten Dunst ) leaves her husband-to-be in the lurch in Spiderman 2 , as well as the church in which Matt Murdock ( Ben Affleck ) finally confronts Bullseye ( Colin Farrell ) in Mark Steven Johnson ’s Daredevil .

Visit The Film Locations

Washington dc.

International flights: Dulles International Airport , 1 Saarinen Circle, Dulles, VA 20166 ( tel: 703.572.2700 )

Domestic flights: Reagan National Airport , smaller but much closer to downtown DC

Visit: Destination DC , 901 7th Street NW, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20001-3719 ( tel: 202.789.7000 )

Visit: the National Archives Museum , 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408 ( tel: 866.272.6272 )

Visit: the Library of Congress , 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540 ( tel: 202.707.5000 ) ( metro: Capitol South, Union Station )

Pennsylvania | Philadelphia

Visit: Pennsylvania

Visit: Philadelphia

Flights: Philadelphia International Airport , 8000 Essington Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153 ( tel: 215.937.6937 )

Visit: the Franklin Institute , 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 ( tel: 215.448.1200 )

Visit: the Liberty Bell Center , 6th Street at Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 ( tel: 215.965.2305 )

Visit: Reading Terminal Market , 51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 ( tel: 215.922.2317 )

Flights: John F Kennedy International Airport , New York, NY 11430 ( tel: 718.244.4444 )

Visit: New York

Travel around: MTA

Visit: the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum , Pier 86, West 46th Street at 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10036 ( tel: 212.245.0072 )

Visit: Utah

California | Los Angeles

Visit: Los Angeles

Flights: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045 ( tel: 424.646.5252 )

Travelling around: Los Angeles Metro

Shop at: Urban Outfitters , 139 West Colorado Boulevard , Pasadena, CA 91105 ( tel: 626.449.1818 )

Visit: Knott's Berry Farm , 8039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, CA 90620 ( tel: 714.220.5200 )

Exploration America

A travel blog exploring America one city at a time

Visiting Mount Vernon and the National Treasure Walking Tour

Historical South

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Did you know that at Mount Vernon the National Treasure Walking Tour is EPIC! How else would you get to explore George Washington’s basement?!

One of our kids is absolutely obsessed with presidents and so visiting Mount Vernon in Virginia (George Washington’s home) was top on our list. Unfortunately as you can see above they were remodeling so we didn’t get the best view of this historical location.

However our little Sarfari Ltd. TOOB George Washington Bust came along which made it more fun for the kids. You should also know ticket prices are a little steep ($17 / adults and $9 for kids) so keep that in mind if you’re on a tight budget or have a larger family.

The day we went it was 96*, HOT, and fairly miserable because of it! We’re still glad we went but if you’re going be prepared for a LOT of walking (it’s a huge area!) and a lot of waiting for any tours you are going on. I HIGHLY recommend purchasing your tickets for everything at least 2 weeks in advance as the National Treasure Walking tour sold out while I was actually purchasing tickets 2 weeks before we visited.

Thankfully we got the last set of tickets for that day but there were a lot of unhappy people who tried to buy tickets while they were visiting. There are MANY options for specialty tours but at the very least you have to visit the house.

Unfortunately no photos are allowed inside of George Washington’s house during the tour and the tour itself is surprisingly short. You walk through a few rooms with narration from a tour guide and you find yourself right out the back door on the amazing porch with a view of the Potomac River. (also a location featured in the National Treasure movie)

All rooms on the main floor are included in this tour (but NOT the basement – if you want to go down there you’d better grab those National Treasure Walking tour tickets (only $5 per person and worth it for the price).

On the property there are plenty of shady locations to stand under on a hot day which is nice but make sure you carry along some water as the closest drinking fountain is in the museum area. The actual house tour is handicap accessible but not the basement tour.

There are many beautiful trails on site to walk down and although we did not get to all of them because of the heat we had to make a stop at George and Martha’s grave where every day they have a wreath ceremony.

Continuing further down one of the trails you arrive at the Potomac River on your way to the on site farm.

There are animals out on the farm as well as a several large gardens and workers to talk with as you walk through the property. If you’re not up for quite as much walking you can jump on the free shuttle bus that Mount Vernon provides to help you go to each location.

National Treasure Walking Tour:

Our favorite part of our visit to Mount Vernon however was going down into George Washington’s basement on the National Treasure Walking Tour. We let the kids watch National Treasure for the first time on our drive over from Iowa so they were thrilled to see some of the same historical locations they saw in the movie.

While the movie had a section based in George Washington’s basement the actual filming location was rebuilt and filmed elsewhere. What you see above is the entire basement from one end to the other with small cellar rooms off to the side.

Although not the original cornerstone “LW” stands for Lawrence Washington, George’s brother. Our tour guide was absolutely phenomenal and gave us a historically packed tour full of information not only about filming scenes and tips from the movie but also accurate historical information that you won’t hear about on the main house tour. It was just fascinating.

We had plenty of time to roam around the basement during the tour which we were thankful for because it was so hot when we visited! We even learned that there was a secret passageway way from the basement that led straight into Washington’s study!

The kids thought it was pretty cool to bring our George Washington bust into the basement with us.

Although the walk is not for nor difficult it takes you around different locations on the property where National Treasure was filmed or referred to including the original ice box – a hole dug down into the cliffside and modified in the movie to show a “getaway tunnel”.

 There are daily additional tours and events for free at Mount Vernon so make sure to check the schedule before you visit. We made sure to schedule our tours and activities around the children’s time where our kids were able to create their own tri-corn hats and help sew the American flag.

Before we visited Mount Vernon we read the book  George Washington’s Teeth   which is an absolutely fantastic children’s book. It’s hilarious and quite clever and teaches kids about the myths and truths surrounding George Washington’s famous toothaches and supposed wooden teeth.

After reading this book actually viewing one of the only remaining sets of George Washington’s teeth were high on my children’s list. In fact they pretty much ran through the museum searching for them.

If you stand behind the display and stand in the right spot it looks like you are wearing George Washington’s teeth! Best photo opp ever for kids! The museum was actually split into two different sections. George Washington’s personal things (photos were OK here) and Washington’s historical timeline (no photos allowed).

Another fun idea for kids that we did as we visited all of the top presidential sites in the Virginia and Washington, D.C. area was to let the kids take photos of themselves holding up president masks. We got these at Oriental Trading .

A few more ideas that we bought for the kids other than the President TOOB , George Washington’s Teeth and presidential masks were presidential ducks , president fact bracelets , and the children’s book Let’s Play Soldier George Washington .

About Crystal

I'm the product of a family who never travelled and now I can't get enough! Please leave a comment or send me a message with some of your favorite lesser known places to visit - my bucket list in the USA is always expanding! My passion for travel motivated me to drag along my husband and 3 kids until now they are as eager as I am to hit the road! What should we visit near you?

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November 9, 2018 at 12:33 am

I am a visual artist and needed a picture of George Washington’s teeth for a piece of art I am working on. You have taken a wonderful photo and I am asking your permission to use it as reference in my art. IF you do allow – how would you like to be credited? Will there be any compensation due? Thanks in advance! By the way, I live in Charleston and urge you to visit if you haven’y been here yet.

November 12, 2018 at 2:51 pm

Simply credit back to the site – that would be great!

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National Treasure

An educational adventure with your students to Washington, DC, begins with us. Let us customize your adventure to where history comes to life amidst iconic monuments and landmarks. Explore the rich tapestry of the nation’s capital, from the solemnity of the Lincoln Memorial to the awe-inspiring architecture of the Capitol, providing students with a firsthand glimpse into the heart of American history and government.

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Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicolas Cage), third-generation treasure hunter, has been searching for a great treasure hidden by America’s Founding Fathers. Gates's pursuit leads him to an incredible clue—a secret message hidden on the back of the Declaration of Independence. When confronted with a rival treasure hunter (Sean Bean), Gates realizes that, in order to protect the world's greatest treasure, he must now steal the most revered, best-guarded document in American history before it falls into the wrong hands. Also stars Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha, and Jon Voight. (2004; 131 mins.; rated PG)

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At historic Congressional Cemetery, you can ponder the mysteries of death, but you'll quickly be awed by something else: the presence of the living.

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St. Elizabeths Asylum

An asylum that Abraham Lincoln visited, that treated Ezra Pound, and that practiced a new approach to mental health is on its way to becoming new federal offices.

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Frederick Douglass House (Cedar Hill)

Thanks to Helen Pitts Douglass (Frederick's wife), Cedar Hill still stands to tell the compelling story behind their family, share the history of the abolitionist movement, and celebrate the many possibilities that come with freedom.

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A must see if the kids saw the movie... - The National Archives Museum

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A must see if the kids saw the movie "National Treasure"

Note; really tight security, check website before going. A history buff's dream spot. Great educational opportunity for the family. Nothing like seeing the real stuff, instead of pictures from books.

We came here specifically to see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution so we did this at the end of a day, and did not have a lot of time here. I think you could spend a good chunk of a day here, but we didn't. We did wait in line to see the Declaration and the Constitution, but it moved quickly. These are all in a big rotunda which is somewhat dim and quite cool to protect the documents. We also found the display of the thousands of proposed amendments very interesting. We didn't have time for any more.

I don't like the security guards interaction with visitors on the second floor the security guards rush people at the Declaration of Independence who are trying to read the document to their kids - visitors are told they can't read the document & that others are waiting to view the document even though they had a timed entry there are no lines to approach a display case -- even though the declaration, constitution, and bill of rights are in a semi circle of about 13 display cases -- so if you start on the left and try to make your way to the center, tour groups can just keep walking up to the Declaration of Independence & Constitution in front of you -- the security guard even tells people not to bunch up at the left but to spread out -- so people are walking towards the center from both sides -- not great when you're in a wheel chair

It was interesting but nothing like in the movies. I pictured a library like interior but it was a walk-through museum instead.

this is free, but can reserve a time slot on line. You see a large number of national treasures and there are some very interesting exhibits for both adults an teens.

Lots of things to see, but unless you are a big history buff who likes to see illegible documents, you might be bored (my husband was). There was a long line to get into the room where the Declaration of Independence and Constituion were, plus it was crowed once you got into that room, so we skipped it (I'd been there when I was a kid so I was ok). I'd still recommend coming here though.

U.S. Department of the Treasury

Tours and library, historic treasury building.

The Office of the Treasury Curator hosts guided tours of the historic Treasury Building in Washington. Tours of the Treasury Building require advance reservations made through your Congressional offices. Space is limited.

Members of the public are welcome to make an appointment to research using Treasury Library holdings in the Treasury Library.  All visitors to the Treasury Library must be cleared by the Secret Service.  This process requires that requests for appointments must be made at least one business day before a visit.

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The Ultimate National Treasure Filming Map of America

Curbed's Nic Cage Day rolls on with this sweeping map from everyone's favorite treasure hunting movie Indiana Jones National Treasure . Cage plays Benjamin Franklin Gates, a man obsessed with proving that his ancestors weren't crazy for believing in and protecting the Treasure of the Knight's Templar. From Independence Hall to the J. Edgar Hoover Building, our Curbed city editors put together the quintessential map of the Nic Cage Classic National Treasure .

· Curbed's Nic Cage Day Coverage [Curbed]

Patrick Henry Gates's House

Gates, aka Jon Voight, is Cages's dad, who's wary and weary of the family treasure-hunting game. But Cage drags him back in.

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Paul Revere House

The aged structure is exactly what its name says: the home of revolutionary silversmith Paul Revere. Built in 1680, it is regularly open to the public.The house does not itself appear in National Treasure, but Patrick Henry Gates, played by Jon Voight, uses a lantern as a phony clue to depict Paul Revere's famous April 1775 ride warning of a British attack. The surrounding North End neighborhood of Boston features in the film as well.

Old North Church

The Old North Church dates from the 1720s and is the oldest standing church in Boston (it's an Episcopalian mission now). The church was immortalized as the signaling center warning American revolutionaries of the British plan of attack on April 18, 1775: two flint lights in the belfry rather than one because the Redcoats were coming by sea, not land. In National Treasure, the Old North Church is used as a fake lead to throw off Ian Howe, played by Sean Bean, thanks to a phony clue tied to Paul Revere's ride (also on April 18, 1775).

Benjamin Franklin Bridge

Nic Cage, as Benjamin Franklin Gates, and company make their way into the Birthplace of America over what once was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it was built in 1926.

The Franklin Institute

Patrick Gates, played by Jon Voigt, gives Ben Franklin's Silence Dogood letters to The Franklin Institute. A logical choice. Riley (Justin Bartha) at the edge of Logan Square and pays a kid to decode the cipher This kicks off the chase scene throughout Philly, which leads to our next point. (Image: Shutterstock)

Urban Outfitters

While the storefront might not exactly be the one at 17th and Walnut, the changing room plays and important role in the Cage/Kruger romance. It was also a late addition. According to Clothes On Film, "[producers] had to think of a store where the two protagonists could feasibly buy these clothes." Urban was nearby and it all worked out.

Knott's Berry Farm Independence Hall

Alright, here's where the Philly scenes start to take off, except this isn't really Philly. Gates and crew head to the Birthplace of Liberty for the next set of clues. Ian Howe (Sean Bean) thinks the next clue is the Liberty Bell, but Cage knows it's in Independence Hall. Crazy, right? Craziest of all: this was shot at a theme park in Los Angeles. Later, the henchmen, one hilariously named Paul, chase Cage through the park towards Philly's real Washington Square.

Washington Square

The crew splits up after Ian realizes the next clue is at Independence Hall. The Kruger/Bartha combo head northeast, while Cage calmly glides towards Washington Square. As he jaywalks diagonally across Walnut St., a Philadelphia Trolley Works bus blocks him just long enough to allow him to make some space from henchman Paul.

Reading Terminal Market

Aside from Cage's glorious hairline, here's where the magic of movie making really takes form. While Cage heads towards Washington Square, Kruger/Bartha almost immediately end up at Reading Terminal Market, some nine large blocks from Independence Hall. Yeah, it's a stretch, but one we're okay with due to the fact that Reading Terminal Market is a true national treasure -- pun absolutely intended.

Old Pine Street Church

Cage momentarily shakes Paul, only to be cornered inside the churchyard at Old Pine Street Church. After busting up some gravestones that are hundreds of years old, the henchmen chase Cage throughout the brick-lined streets of Society Hill.

City Hall Philadelphia

Kruger/Bartha escape Reading Terminal Market unscathed and hopefully well-fed only to find themselves on North Broad Street. With the Masonic Temple visible, the duo head toward City Hall. They rush through the courtyard and eventually make their way to Market East, where a crush of people causes Kruger to spill the Declaration of Independence onto the street. Bean, who is chillin' on Market East, grabs the map like a boss.

Stamper Blackwell Way

Cage briefly runs past a little sign for Stamper Blackwell Walk, an alley near Headhouse Square. It used to be a house, built by former Mayor Stamper. Later, Rev. Robert Blackwell lived in the house. It was demolished and turned into the walk in the 1930s.

Headhouse Square

Bad news from under The Shambles: the Kruger/Bartha combo lost the map to Sean Bean. Cage takes the news rather well and heads towards the car, which is parked in front of Cafe NOLA. Coincidentally, that's the spot with the Feds are hanging out just waiting for Cage, who left Paul in the dust but just can't shake Harvey Keitel. (Image: Michael Klein)

J. Edgar Hoover Building

Benjamin and Riley tip the FBI that the Declaration of Independence is in danger, but are turned away. Undeterred and only on step short of crazy (i.e., passionate), the two continue to the National Archives to see the Declaration of Independence for themselves before making the decision to steal it.

The National Archives

After 180 years of searching and a meeting with Dr. Chase, Benjamin and Riley stand only three feet away from the Declaration of Independence. Benjamin then realizes that the only way to save the document is to steal it.

National Mall

On the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, Benjamin admits the likelihood of going to jail for their plan to steal the Declaration of Independence as well as the likelihood that Ian will steal the document if they don't.

Library of Congress

Determined to prove to Benjamin that it is impossible to steal the Declaration of Independence, Riley details the security for the document, which includes heat monitors, sensors, video monitors, and little families from Iowa.

Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Metro Station

Finally convinced that it's time to take matters into their own hands, Riley makes his way down the Archives Metro Station into a control room and starts doing his techie thing. Now able to access the security cameras in the National Archives, it's time for Benjamin to do his thing.

USS Intrepid

After Cage is taken in by the police, Bean's character forces him to come to New York City to search for more clues. The drop point? On the deck of the USS Intrepid. The badass Cage eventually dives into the Hudson and escapes to hunt another day.

Trinity Church

Boom! We've finally reached the climax of the movie. Cage figures out that New York's Trinity Church (actually LA's First Congregational Church) is the major clue on the back of the Declaration of Independence. After nearly falling down a centuries old, wooden shaft well beneath the church, Cage thinks he's done it. However, there is nothing but an empty room. Voigt tells Sean Bean to head to Boston for the next clue and the crew ultimately finds the treasure thanks to that badass pipe that Cage found on the Charlotte. "The Secret Lies With Charlotte," ya'll and no, Benjamin Franklin Gates, your Masonic ancestors were not crazy for believing in the Treasure of the Knight's Templar.

Greystone Mansion

Treasure-hunting's a sweet enough game to set Cage up at Beverly Hills's Greystone Mansion, which was built by an oil baron and is now a public park.

While the powers of Nic Cage (and Disney) are limitless, we highly doubt there was money, time or even a want to go up to the Arctic and film the Charlotte mission scenes. Cage and crew actually went to Utah. They find the old shipwreck, the all-important (and cool) pipe and then decide that the Declaration of Independence must be stolen, albeit for two very different reason. Oh yeah, Sean Bean leaves Cage and Bartha here for dead -- cool guy!

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National Treasure Tour

August 15, 2016 - august 21, 2016.

From Mount Vernon, to Independence Hall, and Trinity Church, we will explore all the sights in Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City that Nicolas Cage visited on his way to discovering the National Treasures.

Tour Prices

Double Occupancy:   $1,775.00    Total amount for this tour per person (includes deposit) Single Occupancy:   $2,475.00    Total amount for this tour per person (includes deposit)

All tours depart from and return to Eastern Hills Church, 8445 Greiner Road, Williamsville, NY 14221. Free parking is provided.

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716-235-7165 [email protected] P.O. Box 956 Buffalo, New York 14231

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A 3-Day Itinerary of Iconic Movie Locations in the Capital

Check out our itinerary of famous locations in the district, all of which have been filmed or recreated to memorable effect., the nation’s capital is rich in history – so much so that major hollywood productions have used it as a backdrop for some of the most iconic moments in the film., morning - forrest gump locations.

Begin your adventure at the Lincoln Memorial , where Forrest Gump delivered a (mostly silent but memorable) speech at an anti-war protest before sprinting to meet his friend, Jenny, in the Reflecting Pool.   

Afternoon - Captain America: The Winter Soldier locations

@snapsbyeduardo

After lunch, make your way toward the marvelous Tidal Basin , where Captain America meets Falcon for the first time in Captain America: The Winter Soldier . Take a moment to admire its beauty and to enjoy a peaceful walk around the reservoir. Then, head to Theodore Roosevelt Bridge , where Marvel positioned Captain America as he battled a gunship above.

Evening - State of Play locations

To close out your first day, see a performance at the magnificent Kennedy Center , where Cal and Senator Fergus have one of their confrontations in the State of Play . Dress up, sit back and enjoy the show!

Morning - Wonder Woman: 1984 locations

@michellefortephotography

Start your second day at the National Museum of Natural History , which serves as Diana’s office in Wonder Woman: 1984 . While working as a cultural anthropologist and archaeologist, Diana secretly uses her superpowers to activate the Dreamstone that makes wishes come true. While the museum does not currently have wish-granting crystals on display, it does have a large collection of gemstones that date as far back as the 1500s.

Afternoon - All The President’s Men, No Way Out & True Lies locations

After the museum, head over to the place Diana calls home: the Watergate Hotel . Of course, the hotel also happened to be at the center of the greatest political scandal in U.S. history, which is magnificently covered in the legendary film All The President’s Men (the movie features additional DC locations throughout; see if you can spot them). Dig into the hotel’s fascinating and scandalous history, admire its beautiful architecture and check out its lively rooftop bar.

Once you’re ready to continue, walk over to the Shops at Georgetown Park , also known as the Georgetown metro station in No Way Out . Don’t be fooled by the movie -- there is no metro in Georgetown , but the shopping center where the scene was filmed is certainly there, right at the heart of one of DC’s trendiest neighborhoods. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1995 smash hit, True Lies , also used Georgetown as a location. Take a peaceful stroll along the waterfront and enjoy an afternoon snack at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Evening - The Exorcist locations

Running up the Exorcist Stairs in Georgetown - Fitness-related breaks for meetings and conventions in Washington, DC

As the sun goes down, prepare for a dark and spooky evening visiting sites from the ultimate horror flick, The Exorcist . Marvel at the intricate architecture on the Georgetown University campus and spot some of the most iconic buildings, such as the Dahlgren Chapel and Healy Hall . Then, head to the infamous stairs on Prospect Street over which Father Miller tumbles and falls to his death. From the top of the staircase, be sure to spot the original MacNeil house from which he jumps!

Morning - Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian locations

National Air and Space Museum

Begin your last day with a visit to the National Air and Space Museum , where some scenes from Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian were filmed. Follow Larry’s footsteps through his historical journey encountering the Wright Brothers, a group of Tuskegee airmen and Able the space monkey.

Afternoon - Hannibal locations

@scor3p.o

After learning about the history of flight, make your way to Union Station , DC’s central transportation hub and a shooting location for the hit 2001 film, Hannibal (the sequel of The Silence of the Lambs ). In the movie, the Beaux-Arts architecture of the Station makes it look more like a shopping mall than a train station. Don’t be disappointed that there is not a carousel there; although it was central to the scene where Hannibal stalks Clarice Starling, it was likely added in post-production.   

Evening - National Treasure locations

Spend your evening discovering National Treasure … shooting locations. First, stop by the Edgar Hoover Building , where Benjamin and Riley determine that the Declaration of Independence is in danger. Then, explore the National Archives Museum . Browse through some of their exciting historical exhibits and visit the Rotunda Room where our nation’s most important documents live … but definitely do not try to steal the Declaration of Independence. Finally, finish your National Treasure tour at the Library of Congress , where Riley tries to prove that the Declaration can’t be stolen. Be sure to check out the spectacular Main Reading Room and enjoy some quiet time to end your DC adventure.

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Vote for your favorite adventure tour operator!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour operators will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour,...   Read More

Best Adventure Tour Operator Nominees

Photo courtesy of Todd Mintz

Adventure Canada

Equipped with a fleet of small-scale cruise liners, Adventure Canada has mastered the art of both Arctic and Antarctic excursions. Across Canada, the Northwest Passage voyage highlights the idyllic beauty of Nunavut, while those hoping to spot polar bears in the wild should spring for a Heart of the Arctic expedition, with both featuring highly educated naturalists and archaeologists aboard the ship.

Photo courtesy of Tyson Mayr

Aurora Expeditions

A pioneer of Antarctic travel in the 20th century, Aurora Expeditions has evolved into a force within the industry that offers trips all across the globe. Polar voyages are particularly popular, with options ranging from the shores of Antarctica to the High Arctic, while other cruise routes include Costa Rica, Scotland, and Iceland.

Photo courtesy of Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest, Alaska, and western Canada. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free Wi-Fi at most campsites, and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Kirstie Mullikin

Explorer Chick Adventure Co.

From snorkeling around the Galapagos to gorilla trekking in Uganda, Explorer Chick’s curated tours span five separate continents — and each one is crafted specifically by women, for women. Founded in 2014 by Nicki Bruckmann, this adventure company provides ample opportunity to explore gorgeous landscapes and forge new friendships all across the globe.

Photo courtesy of GomezDavid / E+ Getty Images

Frontiers North Adventures

While northern Canada may not be the most easily accessed region, Frontiers North Adventures is perfectly equipped for making your dream excursion come true. In addition to polar bear safaris and beluga whale watching, the company's Northern Lights and Winter Nights excursion offers an opportunity to catch one of the planet's most stunning natural phenomena in real life.

Photo courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

G Adventures

Launched in 1990, G Adventures has earned acclaim for their wide array of high-end tours and strong commitment to positive social impact. Whether it's hiking in Iceland or biking in Vietnam, each trip is designed to reflect the company's G for Good philosophy, a concept that seeks to benefit all people and communities visited during a trip.

Photo courtesy of HX & Espen Mills

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has earned widespread acclaim for their lavish cruises, with destinations ranging from the frigid depths of Antarctica to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. For wildlife lovers in particular, the company's Galapagos expeditions shine a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of the archipelago, while a Svalbard voyage is perfect for spotting polar bears in their natural habitat.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Toronto-based Intrepid is a treasure trove for small-scale sustainable tours, with more than 100 countries available to visit. With itineraries like lemur-spotting in the rural depths of Madagascar and cultural immersions across the Middle East, this storied adventure company is perfect for accessing some of the most remote corners of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Journeys International

Journeys International

Journeys International builds private and group trips to a variety of worldwide destinations, centering each adventure around the individual's or groups' travel goals. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique trip of a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Hopkins, Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Greenland are just a few of the dazzling destinations frequented by Lindblad Expeditions, a storied tour operator that's been working in tandem with National Geographic since 2004. While warm weather destinations span from Baja California to the Amazon, the company has earned abundant acclaim for their immersive Antarctic expeditions focusing on native wildlife amidst stunning scenery.

Photo courtesy of KenCanning / E+ Getty Images

Maple Leaf Adventures

The spectacular beauty of Canada is on full display with Maple Leaf Adventures, a small-ship cruise operator that's been in the business since 1986. While the bulk of their itineraries focus on showcasing locations across western Canada, gastronomes can also join in on the fun with a curated Craft Beer Cruise or Wines And Islands excursion across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Karin Watkins MT Sobek Photo File

MT Sobek has been a leader in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys around the world. Each one is designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like multi-adventure, family adventure, wildlife and safari, adventure cruising, hiking and trekking, cultural discovery, and rafting and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Beginning as a small-scale rafting tour company back in 1972, Nantahala Outdoor Center has expanded far beyond just the rivers of North Carolina, operating tours from southern Iceland to the Zambezi River. Though their scope has expanded on an international scale, the company still excels at domestic adventure, showcasing the incredible rafting opportunities across the Southern United States.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

Adventure travelers have long turned to REI to outfit their travels; with REI Adventures, they’ll also find more than 100 fully curated experiences across the United States. These active travel itineraries might involve cycling near Zion National Park, hiking through Yellowstone and Grand Teton, kayaking at Point Reyes, or enjoying a weekend of backpacking close to home.

Photo courtesy of Stubborn Mule Travel

Stubborn Mule Travel

A perfect fit for all ages, Stubborn Mule Travel has curated a wide variety of itineraries designed specifically for traveling families. Destinations span across five continents, and as an added bonus, the company also offers unique itinerary stops based off of the interests of each individual guest.

Photo courtesy of 104kelly // Getty Images

Thomson Safaris

Best known as the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has earned worldwide acclaim for its abundant natural beauty — a quality that Thomson Safaris has been highlighting for more than 40 years. While there’s no going wrong with a classic safari, the company also offers food-focused tours and even plane excursions, each one led by a team of expert local guides.

Photo courtesy of Urban Events Global Team

Urban Events Global

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Ghana, Dubai, Greece, and Jamaica. They can also plan a custom trip itinerary for you.

Photo courtesy of Ren Fuller // Women High On Adventure

WHOA Travel

WHOA Travel works with women guides and business owners to build unique travel experiences. WHOA group adventures are scheduled all over the world, from Kilimanjaro and Peru to Iceland and Bavaria. 

Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Photo courtesy of Beth Peluse / Zephyr Adventures

Zephyr Adventures

Equipped with a roster of trips that span from strenuous mountain hikes to e-biking excursions, Zephyr Adventures offers a diverse range of options for your next getaway. For a glimpse into the beauty of coastal New England, the Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure is a top choice, while those who prefer a more laid-back itinerary can spring for the Czech Republic Breweries and Walking Adventure.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jacky Runice

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Jamie Davis Smith

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Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

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Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

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Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.