Is this tour suitable for children?

The tour is educational and includes sensitive topics; it is recommended for older children and adults.

How many people are allowed per private tour?

Private tours can accommodate small groups, typically up to 10 participants.

Are the tour grounds wheelchair accessible?

Some areas have uneven paths that may be challenging for wheelchairs; please contact Woodlawn for specific accessibility requests.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, photography is allowed outdoors, but please be respectful when capturing artifacts and during discussions.

Is parking available on-site?

There is limited parking near Woodlawn; early arrival or carpooling is recommended.

Are restrooms available during the tour?

Restroom facilities are available on site for visitor use.

Explore Slavery and Freedom at Woodlawn in Alexandria

Experience an enlightening journey with the Special Tour: Slavery and Freedom at Woodlawn, located in historic Alexandria, Virginia. This private outdoor adventure offers an intimate look into Woodlawn’s unique past as a plantation tied to George Washington and its transformation into a community committed to antislavery ideals. Visitors engage directly with original artifacts and hear stories that highlight the experiences of the enslaved people and the broader struggle for freedom in early America. This tour goes beyond the typical historic site visit by fostering meaningful conversations about the complex history of slavery and emancipation. The grounds themselves provide a calm, reflective atmosphere amid beautiful gardens and historic architecture, making the visit both educational and emotionally impactful. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or looking for a thoughtful cultural experience, this special tour offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on America’s past and its ongoing conversations about freedom and justice.

About Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House

Woodlawn and Pope‑Leighey House, located in Alexandria, Virginia, preserves and interprets two distinct American landmarks. Woodlawn reflects a narrative that moves from plantation origins connected to George Washington to an antislavery farming community and active working farm. Pope‑Leighey House is a Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian design preserved for its architectural significance and natural setting. Together the sites offer a range of guided tours and specialty experiences that deepen understanding of architecture, regional history, and landscape.

Public offerings include house tours of Woodlawn and of Pope‑Leighey House, combined visits, and thematic tours such as “Slavery and Freedom,” “Architecture of Woodlawn & Pope‑Leighey House,” and a Lafayette specialty tour that explores Marquis de Lafayette’s 1824 connections to the Custis and Lewis families. Seasonal and limited-capacity events include “Wright at Twilight,” Yoga Nidra led by instructor Emily Hampton, Forest Bathing with guided mindfulness, and community programs like a pizza-and-history evening. Tours and experiences are led by named guides and instructors, offering documented perspectives on design, preservation, and community legacy.

The site supports ongoing preservation with visitor programs, and the grounds include a working farm and a gift shop that highlights local crafts. Small-group experiences and limited tickets for specialized sessions provide intimate access to sites and stories. Woodlawn and Pope‑Leighey House combines architectural significance, historical interpretation, and active stewardship to provide informative visits and meaningful public programming. Visitor support through admissions and events helps fund preservation, interpretation, educational programming, and ongoing stewardship of these significant historic properties for present and future generations alike.