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In northern Virginia nestled just south of Washington D.C. sits Mount Vernon, the majestic home of George and Martha Washington. The Mount Vernon Ladies Association purchased the property in 1858 and they restored the home to the way it existed in 1799. The Association has done an incredible job with restoration, and progress is ongoing. In October 2006 the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center and the Ford Orientation Center was completed, further enhancing the historical value and experience of visiting this amazing place.

The grounds are open 365 days a year. Parking is ample, but can be difficult on busy days, so if you can, get there in the earlier part of the day, this also is beneficial as ticket lines can get lengthy in the latter part of the day. Once you've purchased your tickets, I also recommend touring the mansion immediately as there may be a long wait later there too. Although, whether the line is short or long - the wait to get inside is well worth it. The inside of the house is a must see!

The mansion is built on a hill with a grand view overlooking the Potomac River. The landscape is absolutely breathtaking as you stand on the porch in back of the house. The mansion itself has been restored beautifully to the way it was when George and Martha Washington lived there. The Mount Vernon Ladies Association has meticulously restored it, even having obtained many original pieces of furniture and pieces, which is pretty amazing. Careful attention is paid to detail, so even where some pieces may not be original, they are definitely of era. The architecture and design of this great house is simply magnificent.

After touring the mansion, there is still much to see. There are several buildings on the grounds, with original and period era artifacts. The grounds are gorgeous and there is a lot to see and do. The gardens are lovely, and along the Potomac at the bottom of the hill lay the Pioneer Farm and Treading Barn. This is great fun for the kids! For an additional fee, you can also opt to take a cruise on the Potomac, which takes just under an hour. Boarding takes place down near the Pioneer Farm, but you must purchase your tickets up in the welcome area where you pay admission to the grounds.

President and Martha Washington are buried in a special area of the grounds designated by President Washington and twice a day from April to October, there is a wreath laying ceremony and commemoration that the public is invited to join.

The annual craft fair

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