Mount Vernon-George Washington's Estate & Gardens

Even for those who have seen Mount Vernon, the new visitor's center and museum (which opened 10/27/06) make a return visit mandatory. Of course, the mansion and grounds are amazing, and the tour guides knowledgeable, but with the additions, one can spend a whole day there. The musuem has a lot of artifacts (including Washington's dentures) and interesting information about George Washington's life. There are also several films to watch. There is also a learning center where forensic scientists were able to recreate what Washington looked like in his earlier years (previously undocumented). A great place for kids and adults alike. more

This site of George Washington's homestead has been kept up immaculately. It is not too long of a drive from DC< but you feel like you are out in the middle of nowhere once you arrive. THere is a shirt tour which is fairly interesting, but it is fun just to walk around the grounds by yourself, exploring all the nooks and crannies. It's amazing to stand in the expansive backyard and look out over the Potomac. It almost feels like you've stepped back in time! If you have kids, a picnic and then letting them run around in this scenic area is great fun! more

We've been to Mount Vernon twice. Once, as a family, and the second time to show our relatives that were visiting from out of town. I think this is a historical site that you can keep going back to see and still learn something new. The grounds are absolutely beautiful, and the house is spectacular with it's appearance still as it was in the 1700's. As you tour the home you will have guides that will tell you different stories as you enter each room. These tales are very educational, as well as interesting. After the home tour, you can freely roam the grounds and visit the outside facilities and gardens. I think you can pay extra to get a personal tour of the grounds, but we chose to do it on our own. It is truly amazing to see how people lived in colonial times. Make sure you go on a relatively cool day, for Washington weather is brutal in the summer time. There are some steep hills to climb, so be prepared for a struggle with baby strollers. Strollers are also not allowed into the home. more