Overview
- 6.5-hour Mount Vernon tour from Washington, DC
- Learn about the Potomac River and its notable landmarks during a leisurely river cruise
- Explore President George Washington's former home and gardens
- Enjoy three hours of free time to tour the 45-acre estate
Why Travelers Choose This Tour
From $54.14 USD
Lowest Price GuaranteeUpon arrival at Mount Vernon, explore the grounds and Washington’s 21-room mansion. Learn about the 18th-century, English-style garden, where Washington the landscaper reshaped walks, roads and lawns, cut vistas through the forest and planted hundreds of native trees and shrubs. Visit the 4-acre Pioneer Farm on the banks of the Potomac near the wharf. This is where Washington tested and implemented his progressive farming practices. Also, learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put his ideas into practice here.
Visit the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center for a self-guided tour. This building features 23 galleries and theaters where visitors learn about Washington through interactive displays, an action adventure movie, short films produced by the History Channel and more.
Food is available on site (own expense). Enjoy classic American favorites in a Colonial-inspired setting at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant or grab a quick meal or snack at the Mount Vernon Food Court.
The tour ends with a return cruise to Washington, DC.
Reviews
Viator Traveler's Reviews
This was a really great tour, there was plenty of space on the ship and we were informed about the sights of interest along the way over the speakers. The weather was warm and sunny so we stayed on the open air top deck but there was also plenty of space in the downstairs lounge if the weather had been bad. Mount Vernon was well worth the visit, there were complimentary guided tours and the staff were all friendly and knowledgeable. There is a lot to see apart from the house, all very interesting, a lovely garden (you can buy Mount Vernon seeds from the shop too!) The museum is also a must-see, especially the film which has the rumbling seats and real snow falling! and there is also a nice cafe and shop. Unfortunately, you don't get enough time, which is why I only gave it 4 stars, we needed at least another hour, but had to leave to catch the boat.
In my humble opinion, this is a must see/do while visiting Washington D.C. Not only was it a fantastic get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but it was educational and informational. The trip to and from D.C. was chill, with its own unique perks, but the Mount Vernon grounds is the true gem. It is utterly GORGEOUS. Coming from the West coast, we don't ever get to see green like Virginia green. And the history of the very first President is definitely interesting in it's own.
We loved everything about the trip. It was a beautiful day so the cruise was very enjoyable. The only problem was that we were very rushed and had to pick and choose what to see at Mt. Vernon. Would love to have had a least two more hours so that we could have seen more in the museum and educational center. Would also loved to have had time to participate in a few ranger tours going on throughout the property. If you desire more time for seeing as much as you can, I advise you to just drive there and plan on spending the whole day.
It had been years since we last visited Mount Vernon. It seemed more over-run with tourists. Taking the boat was a nice way to get there we were visiting DC without a car, and enough time was allowed to see what was available. I was disappointed with the highly structured Mount Vernon buildings, crowds, and mediocre food/dining options. It seemed oriented to allow huge crowds, and to sell stuff. Now, you can walk through the buildings pretty quickly as the lines behind you are long, but not get as much a feel for what it was like as I got from my visit there 30 years ago. Mount Vernon seems like it is being loved to death.