1492–1607
Age of Exploration
European expeditions began mapping North America and establishing sustained contact with Indigenous peoples.
Defining Moments
Key Historical Events
Historic Places
Explore Destinations From This Era
Cape Henry Memorial
Virginia Beach, VA
A National Park Service memorial in Virginia Beach marking the English colonists' 1607 first landing and interpreting the 1781 Battle of the Capes.
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National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios
St. Augustine, FL
A historic Catholic mission and pilgrimage site commemorating St. Augustine's 1565 founding and one of the nation's earliest Marian devotions.
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Parkin Archeological State Park
Parkin, AR
A preserved Mississippian village on the St. Francis River where archaeology reveals Indigenous life, possible contact with Hernando de Soto's expedition, and later Delta history.
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Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
St. Augustine, FL
A waterfront archaeological park interpreting the Timucua community of Seloy, St. Augustine's first Spanish settlement, and the enduring Fountain of Youth legend.
View DetailsAbout This Era
European expeditions began mapping North America and establishing sustained contact with Indigenous peoples.
Last updated August 2, 2026
Road Trips in this Era
No road trips have been added to this era yet.