Tour Stop: George Washington’s Mount Vernon

New exhibits, reimagined tours, and hands-on history inspire groups in 2026

Located just outside of Washington, D.C., George Washington’s Mount Vernon brings to life the legacy of America’s first president, offering a dynamic look at the ideals, struggles, and triumphs that shaped the nation. 

“Mount Vernon is more than just the home of George Washington,” says Sherri Naumann, call center and reservations manager at the historic estate. “It’s a living piece of American history, and as we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, it becomes even more vital for groups to engage with the places that shaped our story. From Washington’s role as a leader to the stories of the enslaved individuals who lived and labored here, Mount Vernon doesn’t just tell his story—it tells America’s.”

For students, heritage travelers, and history enthusiasts alike, Mount Vernon is a centerpiece of civics education. “Much of our work connects directly to civics,” adds Carolyn Nevins, associate director of guest services. “Visiting Mount Vernon helps groups understand the roots of democracy, the responsibilities of citizenship, and the ideals our country was built on.”

Explore the deep connections between the Washingtons and the enslaved people who lived at Mount Vernon through the new interactive exhibit “Lives Bound Together: Slavery at Mount Vernon.”

Explore the deep connections between the Washingtons and the enslaved people who lived at Mount Vernon through the new interactive exhibit “Lives Bound Together: Slavery at Mount Vernon.”

The grounds and Mansion at Mount Vernon present a layered story of family, farming, politics, and the fight for freedom.

The most dramatic transformation of the restoration of the Mansion’s Blue Room is the period-appropriate wallpaper and paint, which is based on extensive research and documentation.

At Patriots Path: A Revolutionary War Encampment experience, costumed interpreters demonstrate what life was like for soldiers and patriots during the Revolutionary War.

At Patriots Path: A Revolutionary War Encampment experience, costumed interpreters demonstrate what life was like for soldiers and patriots during the Revolutionary War.

Learn about the farming techniques Washington practiced and hear from an enslaved worker on a tour of Washington’s Farm.

Artifacts found during the Mount Vernon revitalization project include jars of 18th-century preserved cherries. One of the jars is displayed in the Education Center.

Exploring the Estate

Mount Vernon is an expansive estate overlooking Northern Virginia’s Potomac River. Visitors can stroll through lush gardens, view historic outbuildings and reconstructed slave quarters, pay their respects at Washington’s Tomb, and see costumed interpreters demonstrate innovative farming and trade practices. The Mansion itself, carefully restored by a dedicated team of experts to reflect the property’s 1799 appearance, offers a glimpse into Washington’s personal life and the heart of his world. 

For groups visiting Mount Vernon, the experience is seamless from the moment their motorcoach arrives at the main entrance traffic circle. Friendly greeters welcome visitors, assist with check-in, and provide helpful materials—such as chaperone stickers for student groups—to keep everything organized.

“Whether it’s timed Mansion entry, guided tours, dining packages, or special group-only experiences such as raising the flag at the main gate or laying a wreath at Washington’s Tomb, we want every group to feel like they’re part of something meaningful,” says Naumann.

From mid-March through mid-June, Mount Vernon opens an hour early for groups. “In the spring, during our busiest 100 days, we welcome groups starting at 8 a.m.,” says Nevins. “This gives them a chance to see the highlights before the crowds arrive and really maximize their visit.”

Mount Vernon Insider

KEEP ’EM MOVING
The Food Court and Pavilion is being completely renovated and will reopen in the spring, with more seating, faster checkout, and expanded dining options—perfect for groups.

EXTRAORDINARY DISCOVERIES
During the Mansion revitalization, the Preservation team uncovered remarkable artifacts: a fork used in the 18th century that provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Washingtons, chalk writing on a post with a mysterious inscription, a tobacco pipe fragment, and 19th-century wallpaper fragments. Most dramatic of all, sealed glass jars that contain 250-year-old preserved cherries and berries were found in the Mansion’s cellar. 

SPECIAL EVENTS
Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling fireworks display on July 4, right over the Potomac River.

ADD-ON TOURS
Guided tours are a good way to get more out of your visit. Group favorites include the Enslaved People of Mount Vernon Tour, the Hamilton the Musical Tour, and the Gardens and Landscapes Tour.

Preservation for the Future

To prepare for America250, Mount Vernon has undergone a three-year Mansion Revitalization Project (2023–2026). Much of the work has focused on structural stability, HVAC systems, and ensuring the building can endure another 250 years.

In December 2025, the Mansion reopened, showcasing fresh discoveries and restoration details. One of the most anticipated highlights is the Washington Bedchamber, refreshed with newly uncovered paint colors and wallpaper based on years of research. Even the building’s exterior has been restored to its former glory, re-establishing the iconic view of Washington’s home.

Make your reservations in advance for the wreath-laying ceremony at George Washington’s Tomb—an exclusive, free option for groups.

What’s New

A suite of new experiences in time for America250 make Mount Vernon a must-visit destination for groups.

Lives Bound Together: Slavery at Mount Vernon

Opened on Juneteenth 2025, this moving exhibit is located in a former bunkhouse for enslaved people. Recently discovered artifacts, a new mural, an interactive map, and oral histories share the lives of the more than 300 enslaved people who lived and worked on Washington’s farms. Videos featuring descendants add powerful personal connections. “It’s incredibly moving,” says Nevins. “After years of research, to finally have this story told in the historic area itself is profoundly important.”

George Washington: A Revolutionary Life

Launching for groups in March and opening fully in June 2026, the new education center explores Washington’s life in new ways. From a recreation of the President’s House in Philadelphia to an enslaved family’s cabin, the exhibit blends interactive elements with recently discovered artifacts like preserved fruit bottles from Washington’s cellar. Group favorites return, too, including the Revolutionary War 4D Theater with snow, fog, and the rumble of cannon fire.

Patriots Path

Debuting in 2025 and continuing through 2029, Patriots Path is a living Revolutionary War encampment on the estate. Groups can step into soldiers’ tents, try on uniforms, and even wash laundry or cook meals with interpreters. “Because the encampment isn’t original to Mount Vernon, everything is hands-on,” explains Nevins. “Guests can fully immerse themselves in the daily life of soldiers.”

Updated Mansion Tour

Visitors will walk the halls Washington once did, exploring how the estate shaped his journey from farmer to general to president. Highlights include Washington’s secretary bookcase, his original bed, and the Bastille key gifted by his friend and a leader of the French Revolution, the Marquis de Lafayette.

Why 2026 Matters

America’s Semiquincentennial represents more than a milestone—it’s a moment for reflection and renewal. “We want groups to walk away inspired,” Naumann says. “At Mount Vernon, visitors will walk in the footsteps of Washington, explore the complexities of early America, and gain a better understanding of the founding ideals that continue to shape our country today.”

Start planning your group tour by contacting the Mount Vernon reservations team at [email protected] or calling (703) 799-8688. 

Pamela Brossman is senior editor of Destinations magazine.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon | mountvernon.org | (703) 799-8688

Photo credit: Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association.