Your Guide to Visiting Mount Vernon

Your Guide to Visiting Mount Vernon
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Mount Vernon, the historic estate of George Washington, sits on the Potomac River just south of Washington, DC. It offers visitors an amazing opportunity to step back in time and experience the life of one of America’s most influential founding fathers. 

 

Here, our team at DCTrails covers the estate’s history, visit information, and key attractions, to help you gain a better understanding of what visiting Mount Vernon looks like.

 

Mount Vernon’s History

 

Mount Vernon’s story began in 1674 when John Washington acquired the land. George Washington took ownership in 1752 and expanded the manor house to 21 rooms. After his death, the estate fell into disrepair until the Mount Vernon Ladies Association purchased it in 1858. It opened to the public in 1860 and became a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Today, Mount Vernon receives over 85 million visitors annually.

 

Key Information for Planning Your Visit

 

Hours and Admission

 

Mount Vernon is open daily and year-round. From April to October, hours are 9 am to 5 pm and from November to March, it’s open from 9 am to 4 pm. Adult admission costs $26 for ground access. You have the option to take a tour of the mansion for an additional $2 fee.

 

How to Get There

 

Mount Vernon is accessible from Washington, DC, by several means, including taking a charter bus tour. These tours are often available through various tour companies and include round-trip transportation along with guided insights during the ride. Booking a charter bus tour is a great choice for those who prefer a structured itinerary and don’t want to worry about traffic or parking.

 

Main Attractions at Mount Vernon

 

The Mansion

 

Take a tour of Washington’s restored home. Guides provide information about 18th-century life and the Washington family. Look for the Bastille key, a gift from Lafayette.

 

Grounds and Gardens

 

Explore the landscaped gardens, including the Upper and Lower Gardens. Many plants date back to Washington’s time.

 

Slave Quarters and Memorial

 

Learn about slavery at Mount Vernon through exhibits in the slave quarters and visit the Slave Memorial and Cemetery.

 

Museums and Education Center

 

Two main exhibits cover Washington’s life and the experiences of Mount Vernon’s enslaved population.

 

Pioneer Farm and Distillery

 

See 18th-century farming methods at the Pioneer Farm. The distillery operates on weekends from April to October.

 

Additional Experiences

 

  1. Themed Tours: Options include a Hamilton-inspired tour and a National Treasure tour.
  2. Potomac River Cruise: Take a 45-minute boat tour for a different view of the estate.

 

Food and Shopping

 

Eat at the food court for quick meals or try colonial-inspired dishes at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. The gift shop offers various souvenirs.

 

Book Your Mount Vernon Bus Tour with DCTrails Today!

 

For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a Mount Vernon bus tour with DCTrails. Our expert guides will ensure you don’t miss any of the estate’s highlights while providing insightful commentary on the life and times of George Washington. With comfortable transportation from Washington, DC, a DCTrails tour is the perfect way to make the most of your visit. 

Book your tour with us today!



DCTrails

Ready To Book Your Private Group Or A Charter Bus? Contact DCTrails!

Looking for a reliable and simple way to book a charter bus service? You have come to the right place. Reach out to us with your requirements or queries and we will walk you through the step-by-step process to help you plan the perfect trip to Washington DC.