Washington DC offers plenty to see and do, yet it doesn’t take long to venture off into other nearby states. The best part is, Gray Line DC makes it easy to visit some of these areas and attractions, thanks to our range of full day and half day tours which leave directly from Union Station. Here are our recommended attractions to look forward to, just outside of DC:
Monticello
Our Monticello Tour takes you off into the Virginia countryside, in the Charlottesville area. Tucked away in the mountains is Monticello, the famous home of former President, musician, artist and surveyor Thomas Jefferson. In addition to the opportunity to explore the home of one of the most historical ever Americans, you will also get to tour the famous Michie Tavern, with the chance to stop for lunch. Another integral part of this tour is the Thomas Jefferson Visitor Center and Smith Education Center. Here you can discover more about the life and times of Thomas Jefferson, through film, exhibitions and hands-on discovery.
Gettysburg
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is another historic town located within a short drive of the DC metro area. The Gray Line DC Gettysburg tour begins with a historical re-enactment at the Shriver House Museum. This Civil War era home was abandoned for thirty years, and then restored to its original 19th century appearance and converted into a museum. Here you will learn about the Shriver family who lived to experience the famous Battle of Gettysburg. The next part of the tour includes an introduction to the battlefield at the Gettysburg Visitor Center which then proceeds to a complex tour of the battle grounds, led by top notch historical guides.
Arlington National Cemetery
Another national treasure, Arlington National Cemetery is also located just outside of DC in Virginia. Just a hop across the Potomac River, it won’t take you long to reach and explore this historic site. The Gray Line Mount Vernon and Arlington National Cemetery tour will start off visiting the former home of George Washington before taking you through the heart of the city, across the river to the cemetery site which houses the grave of President John F Kennedy. This full day tour begins at 9am, and is divided into two sections, with a lunch break at Mount Vernon before commencing to Arlington. There’s a dedicated Arlington National Cemetery tram which has 6-9 stops including the welcome centre, President John F Kennedy gravesite, General Pershing gravesite, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, US Coast Guard Memorial and more.
These are the three main highlights within easy reach of DC, holding the same appeal and heritage as many of the sites located within the country’s capital. So if you feel like expanding your horizons and making the most of your stay in the area, book one of these tours to enhance your travel experience!