Description: Spirit Cruises offers a fun and different way to get to Mount Vernon - President Washington's Estate - that in my opinion beats driving or taking a cab from Washington D.C.
The Spirit of Mount Vernon departs at Pier 4 on 6th & Waster Streets in Washington D.C. at 8:30am. That's the only option, which is a bit of a bummer. Its early, but I think its worth it. It then begins an hour and a half cruise up the Potomac to Mount Vernon. Along the way, you get a narrated tour, pointing out all of the various sights you see along the way.
The boat has two levels - an upper, outdoor deck, which is great for sight seeing, and a lower, enclosed, air-conditioned area, great for those hot or rainy days. The enclosed area also has a bar and snacks for sale, which are incredibly overpriced, but what do you expect for a boat tour? If you're hungry, buy before hand.
After an hour and a half, you arrive at Mount Vernon's river dock, where your admission to Mount Vernon (which is NOT free) is already covered. You have about three hours to explore Mount Vernon - which, while definitely interesting, is more than enough. At around 1:30 the boat returns for its trip back to DC, and it gets there around 3pm.
The tour costs $39 for adults, $32 for children, with those under 6 free. These prices include the price of admission.
Pros:
- The tour on the way there is pretty interesting. They point out a lot of stuff.
- Since most people go visit Mt. Vernon anyway when they visit DC for the tourist experience, this makes for a fun trip up there.
- Doesn't involve walking (at least until you get to Mount Vernon).
- Price isn't bad.
Cons:
- Early departure time.
- Missing the return boat is not a fun idea.
- There really is no effort put into the return boat trip - no narration or anything. That's probably acceptable given that most people are exhausted - especially during the hot summer months - after a few hours walking around Mt. Vernon.
Anyway, a fun way of getting to Mt. Vernon. I highly recommend!
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