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.
There are several different excursions to enjoy. The Heart of Montpelier is ideal for those who wish to spend a long weekend soaking up some history. This three-day, two-night package includes a comprehensive tour of the mansion, as well as a visit to an archaeological dig in an area known as the “North Kitchen.” The second day includes a tour of the extensive grounds and Landmark Forest of Montpelier. Each night includes a gourmet dinner at a local restaurant as well as lodging at a nearby country 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.
There are several excellent local inns participating in the Montpelier Excursions program. The Holladay House, however, is an ideal lodging choice for those who wish to soak up even more history. Dating back to Madison’s time, this historic inn shares some similar architectural features as Montpelier, including its front doors. It is located just five minutes from Montpelier right in the center of Orange’s historic commercial district.
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.
