monalua

My husband and I are interested in visiting Mt. Vernon when we are in D.C. in March. We're trying to decide if we should take the Grayline Tour out there, or if we should take the Metro/bus and visit it on our own. Any thoughts? Can we use the public transportation to visit Old Town Alexandria too? Thank you!

tovarich

When we were visiting MT.Vernon last Sept. we encountered some tourists who were very enthusiastic about their boat ride from Wash. t Mt Vernon.on the Potomac.Perhaps an idea.Paul

Ann41

I would take the metro to King Street, and walk down to the river through Old Town (just stay on King Street). At the river, you can take a boat to Mount Vernon.

Alternatively, you can catch the boat the harborfront in Georgetown.

I'm not 100% sure that the boats run in March.

Anonymous

Many Grayline tours just don't give you enough time at the destination in question. Time provided vs needed is thus a major decision factor, as is your budget and stamina: The tour costs more but demands less energy (physical and mental) in getting there.

As far as the boat, remember that taking it TO Mt. Vernon will cut into your time there. Can you take the Metro and bus to Mt. V., then just take the boat one way, downstream on the away home?

I loved the Potomac boat ride myself, but since I took it 25 years ago I'm probably not qualified to comment on the current services.

MichelleY

Dear monalua:

We took the Grayline trip to MV 2 years ago in March. It was good, but didn't give us enough time at the site. We went on a Sunday. The "tour" of Alexandria is just a drive thru, pointing out various buildings. We got to MV about 9:30 and had about 2 hours. There was a line, but not bad. When we left about 11:30, the place was deserted. All the bus groups had left. We didn't have much time to check out the museum and gift shops. If I go again, I will do it on my own and spend more time on the grounds & out buildings.

I don't think the boats run in March.

Good luck,

MY

sprin2

Depends on what type of tourist you are. As others have pointed out, the Tours do not provide enough time to see all of Mount Vernon especially with their new education center and museum. I would go on my own and enjoy it at my pace. Mount Vernon's website www.mountvernon.org has all the details on arriving by Tour, metro / bus, and boat. Click on Visit.

It's easy to visit Old Town from the King St. Metro station and there is a bus that will take you to the waterfront if you prefer not to walk -- it is an nice, fun walk though. Alexandria's www.funside.com provides info about visiting the city.

maryanntex

www.cruisetomountvernon.com
Website says this season's cruises begin on March 16. If that works with your schedule, I highly recommend taking the boat.