In the Footsteps of George Washington: Day Cruise to Mount Vernon

Board your Mount Vernon cruise at Pier 4 in Washington, DC, and head to the outdoor decks to enjoy the fresh air and views of famous landmarks along the Potomac River. While you cruise, listen to historical facts from the onboard narrator.

Disembark the boat at Mount Vernon, George Washington's 45-acre (18-hectare) 18th-century Palladian-style estate. You have about three hours to spend here retracing Washington’s footsteps, wandering through the property’s intriguing nooks and crannies. See the intimate study room, the grand dining room, the former slave quarters and the kitchen.

A visit to Mount Vernon is not complete without a stroll around the estate’s four gardens, where it’s easy to see why the beloved home of George and Martha Washington has been declared a National Historic Landmark. Check out the Colonial Revival garden, which once grew vegetables that supplied the president’s meals, or find George and Martha resting peacefully near the river and fruit garden.

If you get hungry, the estate hosts a range of restaurants (own expense). Then enjoy the leisurely boat ride back to DC.