Just a quick drive north to Alexandria from Williamsburg and we encounter more US history – the George Washington kind. We spent the day at the home of the first president, Mount Vernon.
This gorgeous 1800 acre estate overlooking the Potomac River was his home before the Revolutionary War and his time as President and after. He was a farmer at heart and worked hard to maintain his property. Mount Vernon is completely open to the public to tour and we spent the majority of our day there.
The kids got into the puzzle that they were given to solve – a bit of a scavenger hunt with a treasure for a correct answer. It was really interesting and kept them engaged throughout the property. Beyond that, there was tons for Ian to do. He learned how to play a fife, made a tri-fold hat, and took an oath of office.
The mansion tour was incredible. Restored to the Washington’s time, all the colors and most of the furnishings are original – including a chest he carried papers in during the Revolutionary War and the chair he sat in as President. They move you in and out of the rooms pretty quickly and you can’t take pictures. But the interpreters are very knowledgable and will answer any questions you have.
After our time there, we explored downtown Alexandria, where we stumbled across the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. It was incredible – the kids were fascinated to hear how 18th center ailments were treated. Evened learned how dragon blood and unicorn root were used! Very Harry-Potter-ish!
We checked into our Loft at the Monoco Alexandria Kimpton and were greeted by Goldy – over very own goldfish for the stay!
Our accommodations for the next 2 days are incredible – I love this hotel chain – it’s so come-as-you-are casual yet luxurious! I’m in my cozy animal print robe as I type this. Check out a few pictures from the hotel here:
Lastly, a wrap up of our day for you. Heading into DC in the morning! Going to be a BUSY day for us!
