This morning we begin a delightful tour exploring gardens filled with vibrant blooms, wandering through grand mansions, and enjoying some theatre. We arrive in Virginia this afternoon and make our first stop Agecroft Hall. This stunning Tudor mansion was transported from England to Richmond, Virginia, where beautifully preserved architecture and gardens offer a glimpse into 16th-century life. Our overnight accommodations are in Maryland.

We start our day at Hagley Museum. The DuPont Company black powder yards are rich with history, and exploring the family home will provide a personal glimpse into their lives. The combination of industrial heritage and the beauty of the gardens sounds like a perfect blend. Learning about their daily life and the evolution of their work and play will really bring the history to life. After lunch we visit Nemours Mansion & Gardens. This is the 300-acre country estate of the late industrialist and philanthropist, Alfred I. Du Pont. The 47,000 square foot mansion looms over the surrounding formal gardens and is furnished with fine antiques, famous artwork and other treasures. Dinner is included at one of the area’s well know restaurants. We check into our area hotel for two nights. (D)

This morning we take a walk through one of the world’s largest indoor conservatories at the beautiful Longwood Gardens! Longwood Gardens, sometimes referred to as the DuPont Gardens, was created by Peirre S du Pont. The entire estate offers 1,050 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows; 20 outdoor gardens, 20 indoor gardens within 4 acres of heated greenhouses; 11,000 different types of plants, and spectacular fountains. Discover the natural beauty of Mt. Cuba Center, a breathtaking botanical garden dedicated to native plants of the Mid-Atlantic region. Stroll through vibrant meadows, woodlands, and formal gardens. We enjoy dinner together this evening. (D)

Nestled in the heart of the Brandywine Valley is Winterthur, the premier museum of American decorative arts, with an unparalleled collection of nearly 90,000 objects made or used in America since 1640. We see the collection displayed in this magnificent 175-room house, much as it was when the family of founder Henry Francis du Pont called it home. We arrive in Baltimore for a delightful cruise of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Relax and enjoy the narration of Baltimore’s history. See sights such as the USS Constitution, Fells Point, the National Aquarium and more. After our cruise we enjoy an Italian dinner in Baltimore’s Little Italy. (D)

As the tour comes to a close, you’ll return home with cherished memories of exploring grand estates, beautiful gardens, and charming villages. This five-day journey will leave you with a deeper appreciation for history, artistry, and scenic beauty.