AuthenticAmerica™ Criteria
- Historic Sites must be built prior to 1970 and restored to Secretary of the Interior standards
- Events and festivals must showcase and/or interpret local, heritage, cultural or ethnic traditions (past to present)
- Must be open and accessible to the public
- Must share with the public how this site/event is authentic, significant
- Has a connection to place/local destination
Eligible sites and places:
- National Historic Landmarks, sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, memorials, and historic buildings recognized by other federal or state agencies
- National Scenic Byways and All American Roads (designated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration)
- National Heritage Areas designated by the U.S. Congress
- Indigenous sites, events, or programs recognized by the National Congress of American Indians
- Locally owned restaurants and diners – built and established prior to 1970 – serving local/regional/place-specific cuisine
- Other historic, cultural, or heritage sites and trails unique to the U.S. story – such as birthplaces, music trails, recording studios
- U.S.-owned and located businesses selling locally made, unique or distinctive products (food, craft, art, furniture, home decor, etc.)