WASHINGTON — The nation honors its presidents on Monday, but because Presidents Day replaced the Washington Birthday holiday, he is the first president many Americans think of today.
If you plan to venture out in the snow, Washington’s 284th birthday is being celebrated at Mount Vernon. Other presidential places are popular places to visit on this holiday.
Admission is free Monday at Mount Vernon, Washington’s beloved estate on the banks of the Potomac. Activities include the laying of wreaths at the president’s tomb, costumed characters, music and even syrup tasting.
Because of the wintry weather, Old Town Alexandria has canceled its George Washington Parade for the second straight year.
In Georgetown, you can visit Tudor Place, built by one of Martha Washington’s granddaughters. The grand estate, usually closed on Mondays, is open Feb. 15 and it boasts one of the nation’s largest collections of George and Martha Washington objects.
For those honoring Abe Lincoln on this day, a special place to visit is President Lincoln’s cottage at the Soldier’s Home in Northeast D.C., where the Lincolns spent a great deal of time on the hilltop overlooking the city.
Tours are half price Monday at the Woodrow Wilson House on S Street Northwest, not far from Embassy Row on Massachusetts Avenue.
Other popular places to visit are the Lincoln, Jefferson and FDR memorials. For nature lovers, there is Theodore Roosevelt Island.
At the National Portrait Gallery, there are paintings of the presidents, including the Gilbert Stuart painting of George Washington, which will be removed at the end of the month for restoration.
