Historic Area Homes in Washington, D.C.

3051 M Street, NW

Built in 1795 this ordinary 18th-century home is the oldest in Washington. The house's interior is furnished with authentic 18th-century and 19th-century pieces reflecting the design standards of the common people.

http://www.nps.gov/olst

Wisconsin Avenue and M Street, West of Rock Creek Park

1057 Thomas Jefferson Street, NW (Visitor Center)

During the colonial period, Georgetown was a commercial center, and it has remained a hub of activity with its many nightclubs, restaurants, specialty stores, boutiques, and restored homes. Located here are the Old Stone House, the C&O Canal, historic St. John’s Church, Georgetown University, and Dumbarton Oaks.  A stroll down the streets of Georgetown offers a lively mix of sightseeing, dining, and shopping.

http://www.georgetowndc.com/

1799 New York Avenue, NW

The Octagon Museum is the oldest building in the United States devoted to architecture and design. Built between 1799 and 1801 by Dr. William Thornton, who also designed the Capitol Building. The Octagon House once served as a temporary residence for President James Madison.

Appointments only groups- no less than 10 (groups only). Admission is charged.

http://www.archfoundation.org/octagon

3200 Mount Vernon Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121

The colonial plantation home of George Mason, the father of the Bill of Rights, is famous for both architectural beauty and historical associations. At this house Mason met with his friends Washington, Jefferson, and Madison. It is located near Mount Vernon and overlooks the Potomac River. The plantation is surrounded by 550 of the original 5,000 acres and was complete with outbuildings, formal gardens, and a deer park. Stroll along scenic nature trails or watch the 17-minute film at the visitor’s center.  

Admission is charged.  

http://www.gunstonhall.org

1610 H Street, NW

The home of Commodore Stephen Decatur, a naval hero of the War of 1812, is one of the oldest surviving homes in Washington, DC and an excellent example of the Federalist style architecture typical of Henry Latrobe, the "Father of American Architecture."

Admission is charged, no tours on Mondays.

http://www.decaturhouse.org

2340 S Street, NW

The life and legacy of President Woodrow Wilson are captured in this historic landmark. The red brick Georgian Revival town house is rich with mementos of Wilson’s historic career.

Admission is charged.

http://www.woodrowwilsonhouse.org

3200 Mount Vernon Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121

George Washington’s estate, overlooking the Potomac River, has been restored to its 18th-century colonial grandeur. The mansion, slave quarters, stables, and the tomb of George and Martha Washington are among the points of special interest. Mount Vernon is surrounded by formal gardens designed by George Washington himself.

Located on the banks of the Potomac River, Mt. Vernon offers a spectacular view from its veranda.  

Admission is charged.

http://www.mountvernon.org

221 King Street Alexandria, Virginia (Visitor Center)

Old Town is known as the hometown of George Washington and Robert E. Lee. Alexandria was founded as a seaport by Scottish merchants in 1749. Today, Old Town is a thriving national landmark with shops and restaurants located in restored 18th and 19th-century buildings and colonial homes that line the cobblestone streets. Points of interest include the Old Presbyterian Church Meeting House, Christ Church, Gadsby’s Tavern, the Carlyle House, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

http://ci.alexandria.va.us