Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Enjoy the Homes of Presidents from a Virginia Bed and Breakfast

By Jane Leisteiner

With a new president about to the take the nation's reins, there's no better time than the present to enjoy a little presidential history. With a trip to Virginia, travelers can visit the homes of four of America's founding fathers, as well as spending some time at a relaxing, romantic bed and breakfast.

A trip to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, is a must-see experience for anyone who loves American history. The home was designed by Jefferson himself and among the interesting tours are guided visits through the home itself, as well as the gardens and plantation. Just three miles down the road, you'll find Ash Lawn-Highland, home of James Monroe. Tours of this gracious home are available, as well.

James Madison's home is also close by, and no presidential trip would be complete without a trek to Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. All four of these founding fathers' homes are within two hours of each other. Woodrow Wilson's home also is nearby, as well as historic plantations and charming towns filled with historic architecture.

Travelers can enjoy many of the presidential homes by staying at the historic Holladay House in Orange, Virginia. This Virginia inn is just minutes from James Madison's home. The homes of Presidents Jefferson and Monroe are within 30 minutes of the inn. Another close presidential home is that of Woodrow Wilson. Even George Washington's gracious manor, Mount Vernon, is only two hours away. In addition to the presidential venues, there are dozens of popular wineries nearby. Fine restaurants and shops are within walking distance of the inn.

Holladay House rests on Orange's charming main street in the midst of its historic commercial district. The common rooms and guest rooms of this Virginia bed and breakfast maintain the town's period charm and are decorated with elegant antiques. Some guest rooms offer a fireplace and whirlpool tub. All rooms include luxurious linens and hypoallergenic bath products. In addition to serving a full, homemade breakfast, the innkeepers serve freshly baked cookies and treats during the day.

To celebrate the changing of the guard, the innkeepers at Holladay House are offering a special inauguration discount. Book a three-night stay during the inauguration (January 20) and guests receive the third night at half price. So enjoy all the fun of presidents, both old and new, as well as all the charm of a historic bed and breakfast.

You also can opt for one of the innkeepers' presidential packages. The "Bill of Rights" package includes a two-night stay in one of the Holladay House's elegant guest rooms, a full, gourmet breakfast each morning, tickets to Montpelier, Monticello, Ash Lawn-Highland and the historic Michie Tavern, and a picnic basket to take along on your presidential day trip. When you return from your day enjoying the historic sites, enjoy beverages and homemade cookies at the inn. For an even more opulent vacation, consider the "Constitution Package," which includes the aforementioned amenities and upgrades your room choice to a two-night stay in one of the inn's suites, which include a whirlpool tub, king-sized bed, fireplace and private porch. - 16492

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