Washington DC: Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria Day Trip

Explore the rich history and scenic beauty of the nation’s capital with a captivating day trip from Washington DC to Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria. For just $99 per person, this half-day tour offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of George Washington, discover his iconic estate, and learn about the charming streets of a historic town. With round-trip transportation and an expert guide, this experience promises an engaging exploration of the region’s remarkable past. What secrets will you uncover along the way?

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Key Points

This half-day tour from Washington DC takes visitors to Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria, providing a comprehensive exploration of historic landmarks.
The tour includes round-trip transport, a licensed guide, and admission to Mount Vernon’s mansion, museum, and grounds for a cost of $99 per person.
Itinerary highlights include a scenic drive, a guided tour of Mount Vernon, free time to explore the estate, and a visit to Old Town Alexandria.
The tour includes round-trip transport from a central meeting point in downtown DC, but does not offer hotel pick-up or drop-off services.
Customer reviews are mixed, with some disappointment over ongoing construction, but praise for the guide’s historical insights and the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This half-day trip from Washington DC to Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria costs from $99.00 per person and lasts for 5 hours.

The tour includes round-trip transport, a licensed guide, and admission to Mount Vernon’s mansion and estate. Visitors can explore George Washington’s historic home, watch an introductory video, and enjoy free time to discover the grounds.

The tour also visits Old Town Alexandria, highlighting landmarks like Robert E. Lee’s home.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a pay later option is available.

Reviews are mixed, with some disappointment over construction but praise for the guide’s historical insights.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour offers a scenic drive through historic landmarks, narrated by a knowledgeable guide.

A scenic drive through historic landmarks, narrated by a knowledgeable guide.

The highlights include:

Visit Mount Vernon, George Washington’s homestead, including a mansion tour and museum. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy an introductory video.
Free time to explore the estate, gardens, and historic sites at your own pace. Guests can also visit the food court for lunch (at their own expense).
Explore Old Town Alexandria, highlighting key landmarks such as Robert E. Lee’s home.

Included Features

The tour includes round-trip transport from downtown DC, with a licensed tour guide who provides narration in English.

Entry fees to the Mount Vernon estate and reserved mansion time are covered. Gratuities, however, aren’t included. Hotel pick-up and drop-off aren’t provided.

Visitors will have free time to explore the estate, gardens, and historic sites at their own pace. A lunch break is available at the Mount Vernon food court, though meals are at the traveler’s own expense.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Travelers will meet their tour guide at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, located at 400 New Jersey Ave. NW, Washington DC 20001.

Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time. The meeting point provides a convenient central location in downtown DC for the day trip.

Key meeting details:

Address: Hyatt Regency Hotel, 400 New Jersey Ave. NW, Washington DC 20001
Arrive: At least 10 minutes before tour start time
Logistics: Round-trip transport from the meeting point to Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria is included.

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Customer Feedback

Traveler reviews of the day trip to Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria paint a mixed picture.

With an overall rating of 3.5/5 based on 4 reviews, the experience seems to have its pros and cons. Some visitors were disappointed by ongoing construction at the mansion, while others praised the guide’s historical insights.

The tour offers scenic drives, a mansion tour, museum visit, and time to explore at your own pace. However, lunch and gratuities aren’t included, and hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t provided.

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Exploring Mount Vernon: George Washington’s Homestead

Visitors begin their exploration of George Washington’s historic estate at Mount Vernon, the beloved home and final resting place of the nation’s first president.

The tour includes:

A tour of the iconic 18th-century mansion, offering a glimpse into Washington’s daily life and the grandeur of his time.
A visit to the museum, showcasing artifacts and interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.
Strolling through the lush gardens and scenic landscape, providing a serene backdrop to reflect on Washington’s legacy.

The immersive experience at Mount Vernon paints a vivid picture of the founding father’s remarkable life and achievements.

Discovering Old Town Alexandria: Historic Landmarks

The journey continues as the tour group explores the historic Old Town Alexandria, a charming riverside community steeped in American heritage. The guide leads them through the cobblestone streets, highlighting key landmarks such as the home of Confederate general Robert E. Lee. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the city’s rich history and charming ambiance.

| Top Attractions in Old Town Alexandria |

| — | — | — |

| Robert E. Lee’s Boyhood Home | Torpedo Factory Art Center | George Washington Masonic National Memorial |

| Housed in an 18th-century structure, this historic site offers a glimpse into the early life of the Confederate general. | A former munitions factory converted into a vibrant arts hub, showcasing the works of local artists. | An impressive Masonic temple honoring America’s first president, boasting panoramic views of the city. |

Navigating Transportation and Arrival

Although the meeting point is conveniently located at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Washington, D.C., participants should arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled tour start time.

Participants should arrive 10 minutes early at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Washington, D.C. to meet the guide for the scheduled tour.

The tour includes round-trip transport from the city center, so no need to worry about driving or parking. However, the tour doesn’t provide hotel pick-up or drop-off services. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting location.

Key logistics to keep in mind:

Arrive 10 minutes early to meet the guide
Parking isn’t provided, plan accordingly
No hotel pick-up or drop-off services available

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified in the provided information. The tour details cover the itinerary, pricing, and logistics, but don’t mention the group size capacity.

Are Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, travelers should check with the tour provider to see if any promotional offers or reduced-price tickets are available at the time of booking.

Is Photography Allowed Inside Mount Vernon Mansion?

Photography is allowed throughout the Mount Vernon estate, including the interior of the mansion. However, visitors are asked to refrain from using flash or tripods inside the historic home to preserve the artifacts and enhance the experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow bringing your own food and drinks. However, there’s a lunch break available at the Mount Vernon food court, which you can purchase at your own expense during the free time to explore the estate.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair and disability accessible. Guests can explore Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria without any significant barriers. Visitors with mobility concerns are advised to check with the tour provider for specific accommodations.

The Sum Up

This Washington DC day trip offers an enriching journey through the region’s past. Visitors can enjoy the legacy of George Washington at Mount Vernon, then explore the charming streets of Old Town Alexandria. With round-trip transportation and free time to discover the area, this $99 experience provides an engaging way to connect with American history just outside the nation’s capital.