George Washington Birthplace National Monument is located on the Northern Neck of Virginia. My trip was spontaneous, stopping when I saw a roadside sign. It’s not far from I-95, but feels very remote as you drive down the country road that approaches the park.
If you are looking for access to all aspects of the park, make a plan and check the website. I went on a Monday and the Visitor Center was closed. I’m not sure if that’s normal, or because of the budget cuts taking place in the National Parks right now (Spring 2025). The grounds of the home were open, but the roads to the hiking trails were also closed.
As you walk from the Visitor Center to the grounds of the home, you are transported through time as you walk past the pasture, stables, and approach the original footprint of the home. They have enough signage that you get the gist of the story, even without Rangers or demonstrations.
I recommend taking a few minutes to walk through the garden. A slow stroll on the path and you can smell so many of the flowers.
Continue strolling around the grounds and you’ll see the house and its amazing overlook. The grounds are reminiscent to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home in Northern Virginia.
My experience:
I wish I could have participated in a Ranger tour or had access to more of the stories. From what I read, the main home was reconstructed based on research. I’d love to hear more about his life growing up. He definitely had a privileged youth. I had just come from Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace and it was a small one-room cabin. We miss out on a quite a bit without our fully staffing the park.
Thankfully I arrived on a cool day and could leave Tootsie in the car. It would be great if she could have enjoyed the grounds with me. Especially since we were the only people there. But I understand that it could be challenging when the park is busy.
Basics
Location: Colonial Beach, Virginia
Parking: A large parking lot is available at the Visitor Center. From here you can walk to the historic house. Parking is also available throughout the park at trails and picnic areas.
Bathrooms: Bathrooms are available at the Visitor Center. Look at the website for additional bathroom information.
What to wear: You will be doing some walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. As far as clothing, check the forecast. You are along the river and may experience a different breeze or weather pattern then inland.
What to pack: You are close to the car when visiting the house and grounds. You may want to carry some water, but you can also easily get back to the car if you need.
Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the grounds of the home. This is probably a park where it’s best to leave your pup at home.