Mount Vernon - Mount Vernon, VA
Mount Vernon is the name of George Washington’s estate. George Washington was the first President of the United States and a founding father. Mount Vernon is open to visitors for tours. You can also roam the grounds and visit a very nice museum about Washington’s life. I recommend visiting to anyone interested in American History.
Museum Features
There are a wide variety of features for visitors at Mount Vernon: house tour, grounds, museum, and cruise.
House Tour
The standard entrance ticket includes a basic tour of George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon. It is a timed entry, but they were not very strict about entry. I would not fret about running a little late. The tour takes you through the ballroom and by the dining room and bedrooms. You also get to see the detached kitchen and massive back porch. It is a very brief general tour but informative. If you want a longer, more specified tour there are additional tour options that you can pay extra for.
The Grounds
Entry allows you free roam of the grounds at Mount Vernon. This includes the out buildings, slave quarters, graveyard, gardens, and wharf. It is a large property with hills, so it could be a bit challenging for some. There is a shuttle available for those in need. I enjoyed hiking around the grounds, but it was really hot in the summer. The gardens were particularly impressive. I also enjoyed chatting with the staff reenactors. They are incredibly knowledgeable and fun to talk to. Additionally, the panoramic view of the Potomac River from George Washington’s back porch is really incredible.
Museum
Entrance to the museum is included in general entry at Mount Vernon. There is a very nice, clean, modern museum on the grounds near the visitor center. It includes some likenesses of Washington and a detailed description of his family history and life. Also, the museum includes many original artifacts and artworks from George Washington’s estate, including his fake teeth!
Films and Interactive Elements
The museum includes several films. One short film is about Martha and George Washington’s relationship. A detailed 4D film experience is available about George Washington’s involvement in the Revolutionary War. There is an interactive experience where you can watch videos about a challenge/dilemma Washington faced and see what decision you would have made if you were in his shoes. I thought these film elements were very helpful in understanding the history and life of George Washington and his family. They were nicely put together.
River Cruise
Down at the wharf at mount Vernon they offer a sight seeing cruise down the Potomac River. It costs $11 to go on the 45 minute round trip. You do not need to buy tickets in advance. There are light refreshments available, as well as a bar on the ship. There is seating available inside and on the open-air top deck. I decided to sail on the top deck to see the view better. Also, they have a photographer available for commemorative photos. I thought this brief cruise was a nice way to take a break from walking the grounds and cool off while still getting another view of Mount Vernon. You get to see Mount Vernon and Fort Washington from the water.
Who Goes Here?
Mount Vernon would be a great place to visit for anyone interested in US history. There were a wide variety of families, friends, and tourists.
Venue
Mount Vernon is a very well-maintained historical site. They are still restoring some parts of the property, but the majority is in great shape with a new clean museum. It is a family friendly, organized museum and site. They have a full food court and a nicer restaurant in the visitor center, as well as a smaller refreshment tent out near the home. I would recommend bringing a sealable water bottle with you if you plan on walking around the grounds to stay hydrated.
Location
Mount Vernon is just south of Washington DC, near Alexandria, VA. It has plenty of free parking available for visitors. It is mostly surrounded by neighborhoods, so there are not many neighboring restaurants or shops.
Interested in other things near Washington, DC?
Summary
Overall, Mount Vernon is a very nicely run historic site. It has a wide variety of things to see and learn about during your visit including, the home, grounds, and museum. If you plan to see everything in a single visit it will take an entire day. Otherwise, if you live nearby, you could break it up over several visits. I would recommend visiting to anyone with any interest in US History. The historic information available is very thorough and I thought it was quite interesting.
