Join us for a most interesting segment of the America 250 Celebration as we depart on a journey to celebrate the nations Presidents & Patriots. At historic Highland, the home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States we take a guided tour of the historic home, learning about Monroe’s life, his contributions to the founding of the nation, and the personal stories that shaped his legacy. The estate’s beautiful gardens and grounds provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciation of early American history. We overnight in Fredericksburg, a city rich in history and colonial charm.

Today we set our sights on one of the most iconic landmarks in American history: George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Upon arriving at Mount Vernon, our tour takes us through the beautifully restored mansion, where we learn about Washington’s role as a leader, farmer, and statesman. We enjoy lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn, a charming restaurant that offers a menu inspired by 18th-century recipes. After lunch, we continue our day at the charming home of Mary Ball Washington, mother of George Washington. Tour the lovingly restored rooms filled with period furnishings and learn about Mary’s daily life, her devotion to her family, and her close relationship with her famous son. Next, step into the world of 18th-century medicine at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. Dr. Hugh Mercer, a close friend of George Washington and a Revolutionary War hero, practiced medicine here before joining the Continental Army. Interpreters bring history to life as they demonstrate colonial remedies, surgical tools, and medical practices of the era. Wrap up our day at the Rising Sun Tavern, originally built in the 1760s and later converted into a tavern, the building now operates as a living museum showcasing colonial tavern life. Enjoy stories from interpreters who reveal what taverns meant to early Americans. Just a short ride away, we visit the Mary Washington Monument, the only monument in the U.S. erected by women to honor a woman. We conclude our day in Charlottesville, where we check into our accommodations for the night. (L)

Our America 250 celebration continues as we explore Monticello, the architectural masterpiece and mountaintop retreat of Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States. See the beautifully restored mansion, lush gardens, and plantation grounds, including the gripping exhibits on the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked there. Just minutes from Monticello, we enjoy a hearty, colonial-style lunch at Michie Tavern, where servers provide a warm welcome and southern fare in an 18th-century tavern setting. We head to Richmond to visit St. John’s Church, the site of Patrick Henry’s legendary 1775 speech “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” that helped spark the American Revolution. Just a short drive away, we visit the John Marshall House, home of the longest-serving Chief Justice of the United States. We end the day with an overnight stay in Richmond. (L)

On the final day of our journey we head south through Virginia’s rolling countryside to the quiet town of Brookneal—gateway to the Patrick Henry National Memorial at Red Hill, Patrick Henry’s final home and plantation. Explore the grounds, museum, reconstructed main house, and original law office, and visit Patrick Henry’s grave. Enjoy a relaxing and scenic drive south through Virginia and into North Carolina as our celebration of America’s presidents and patriots comes to an end.