Happy Birthday to the U.S. Army!
For 250 years, the Army has stood as a symbol of courage, resilience, and honor. From the first musket fire at Lexington to the fierce campaigns of World War II and beyond, Army history echoes through the ages—marked by sacrifice and triumph. As today's soldiers continue that legacy, it is more important than ever to reflect on where that journey began.
One of the most meaningful ways to connect with Army history is by experiencing it in person. IHG® Army Hotels, located on over 40 military installations across the United States, offers convenient, comfortable, and military-friendly accommodations—making them the perfect basecamp for travelers exploring the Army’s historic landmarks.
Whether on official travel or enjoying a well-earned vacation, these destinations offer rich insights into the Army’s roots—and its future.
Army Heritage Tour: Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
IHG Army Hotels on Fort Leavenworth
Perched along the Missouri River, Fort Leavenworth is the Army’s oldest active post west of the Mississippi and is steeped in military tradition. Established in 1827, the installation played a vital role in westward expansion, serving as a staging ground for expeditions, including those of Lewis and Clark.
Fort Leavenworth is home to the US Army Command and General Staff College, Buffalo Soldier Monument, and the Frontier Army Museum—all within walking distance of the on-post IHG Army Hotels. Guests can stroll through tree-lined streets adorned with Victorian-era architecture and visit the Fort Leavenworth Military Prison Cemetery, where history takes on a solemn, reflective tone.
Travel Tip: Less than 30 minutes from the fort lies Weston, Missouri—home to O’Malley’s 1842 Pub, a charming underground tavern with Civil War-era roots and live music. It's a unique local stop that complements the area's rich military history.
Western Legacy: Fort Carson, Colorado
Candlewood Suites on Fort Carson
Located just outside Colorado Springs, Fort Carson is surrounded by natural beauty and steeped in frontier-era military heritage. The Candlewood Suites on Fort Carson offers family-friendly lodging close to major attractions like Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and Pikes Peak.
For those seeking a deeper connection to the Army’s 19th-century role in the expansion westward, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is a must-visit. Situated about two hours southeast of Fort Carson near La Junta, Colorado, this reconstructed 1840s adobe fort served as a critical trading post and military outpost along the Santa Fe Trail. Visitors can step into the boots of Army scouts, Cavalry soldiers, and traders who once traversed the rugged terrain during America’s push westward.
Local Highlight: En route, stop by Rocky Ford, Colorado, to sample some of the country’s best cantaloupes and experience the charm of Colorado’s agricultural heartland.
More Historic Sites with IHG Army Hotels
While Fort Leavenworth and Fort Carson are standout destinations, many other installations with IHG Army Hotels provide direct access to Army history, including:
- Fort Sam Houston, Texas – Home to the Army Medical Department Museum and historic Quadrangle.
- Fort Belvoir, Virginia – Near Mount Vernon and Washington, DC, with easy access to national monuments and museums.
- Fort Benning, Georgia – Gateway to the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center.
- Fort Jackson, South Carolina – Basic training hub with nearby Civil War history.
- Joint Base Myer–Henderson Hall, Virginia – Adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery and the Army’s oldest ceremonial units.
Plan Your Historical Getaway
The Army’s 250th anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s an invitation to connect with a proud past and a promising future. With IHG Army Hotels offering lodging across dozens of installations, planning a history-rich journey has never been easier.
Whether for duty or leisure, take this opportunity to explore, reflect, and honor the legacy of those who’ve served across the centuries.
Happy birthday, Army! Here’s to the past, the present, and the road ahead.
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