While tourists flock to both Monticello and Mount Vernon, the homes of Presidents Jefferson and Washington, they would do well to include a visit to Montpelier, the stunning home of President James Madison.
Set in the Virginia countryside, a few minutes from the historic town of Orange, Montpelier is the perfect spot to brush up on your American history. The staff at this living museum offers a full slate of unique activities throughout the year. Recently, they have teamed with several local inns and restaurants to create Montpelier Excursions. These all-inclusive packages combine gourmet dining, the romance of a country inn and the excitement of exploring the home of one of the nation’s founding fathers.
The Heart of Montpelier excursion is a three-day, two-night adventure that includes an in-depth tour of Montpelier and a tour of the archaeological dig at the estate’s old North Kitchen. A tour of the Landmark Forest and amazing gardens is also included in the package. Each night, you enjoy dinner at a local restaurant as well as the romantic ambiance of a Virginia inn.
Other three-day, two-night excursions include the Montpelier Wine Weekend and the History Weekday or History Weekend adventures. Each of these packages includes lodging at a local inn and dining. The History Weekday and History Weekend packages also include a two-day admission pass to Montpelier, a gift bag and museum shop discount. The Montpelier Wine Weekend is a showcase of Virginia wine country and offers tastings at a half-dozen local wineries, as well as a tour of Montpelier.
For those with a bit more time, the unique Dig in Style package might be just the ticket. This six-day, five-night package includes lodging and meals, as well as a special dinner with Montpelier’s Director of Archaeology. During the day, guests actually get to participate in archaeological digs currently in action at Montpelier. There is no end to the treasures you might uncover.
After you pick your package, you can choose from several local inns or bed and breakfasts. The Holladay House, a historic restored gem straight out of Madison’s era, is a favorite. Beautifully restored, this historic Virginia inn shares some similar architectural features as Montpelier, such as its front doors. It is just five minutes from Montpelier in the historic commercial district of downtown Orange.
The innkeepers have decorated their inn with both history and romance in mind. Luxurious linens and fluffy robes are among the amenities, and several rooms boast a fireplace or whirlpool tub. One special room recently has been refurbished and named in honor of James Madison’s great-nephew, John Madison Chapman, owner of the house and himself a prominent citizen. The room includes a fireplace with a beautiful mantel original to the home, as well as a luxurious cherry, four-poster bed. During his time as owner of the house, he also planted the rare English Oak tree that is still in the backyard. It came from a seedling from the Montpelier plantation.