Unique things to do in Virginia

We're going to explore one of the true hidden wonders of Washington, D.C., a Civil War fort nestled deep in Rock Creek Park. In July, 1864, a Confederate Army attempted a surprise invasion of Washington, D.C., hoping to sow panic and drive Congress and President Lincoln from the Capitol. Confederate forces swept into the city, and fought a desperate battle among the northern defenses of Washington. President Lincoln rode over to the see the fighting, the only time in American history a president has been under enemy fire. Eventually Union forces repelled the attack, and Washington was saved. It’s considered one of the greatest what-ifs in American history: Had the Union lost the battle, most historians believe there would have been a negotiated settlement to the war, and a durable Confederate nation. We’re going to visit Fort DeRussy, one of the forts that drove back the Confederate attack, and learn the full story of how the Civil War came to Washington. Abandoned after the war and overgrown, Fort DeRussy was practically lost to history. Today, it’s virtually unknown: I grew up blocks away and didn't even know it was there. It's an astonishing, beautiful ruin in a peaceful forest grove. Other things to note Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Wear clothing that you don't mind getting a bit dirty and be sure to wear comfy shoes.

Experience the heart of Washington, DC with us on a guided 3-hour journey through the National Mall. This dynamic tour seamlessly blends driving and walking to ensure you "SEE IT ALL." Starting at the Washington Grand Hyatt, our adventure begins right in front of Starbucks. Meet your knowledgeable Tour Guide, board our comfortable van, and set off for the National Mall. With live commentary from your guide, immerse yourself in the stories behind the monuments, memorials, and other captivating attractions that define the National Mall's significance. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore several of DC's major attractions for 15 to 25 minutes at each location. Our drop-offs and pickups are strategically situated as close as legally feasible to each site, ensuring convenient access. As the tour concludes, we return you to the Washington Grand Hyatt. And to cater to your comfort: - Stay refreshed with complimentary water. - Keep your phone powered up with our charging equipment, simply inform your driver. - No need to worry about the weather – rain or shine, we've got you covered with umbrellas.

Discover the heart of the Nation's Capital with our expertly guided 4-hour tour of the Iconic National Mall. If you're eager to "SEE IT ALL," then this is the tour for you. Tour Highlights: Meeting Point: Your adventure begins at the Washington Grand Hyatt, where you'll meet your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide in front of Starbucks. After a warm welcome, you'll hop into our comfortable van, ready to explore the treasures of the National Mall. Driving and Walking: This comprehensive tour combines the convenience of driving with the intimacy of walking, offering you the best of both worlds. You'll cover all the major DC sites, including monuments, memorials, and other attractions. Live Commentary: Throughout the journey, your expert guide will provide live commentary, offering fascinating insights into the history, significance, and stories behind the monuments and landmarks that grace the National Mall. Exploration Time: At each major site, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore for 15 to 25 minutes. We ensure drop-off and pick-up locations are as close as legally possible to make your experience seamless. Private Experience: Want an exclusive tour for just your group? You can book our Private Experience, accommodating groups of up to 30 people. Enjoy a personalized adventure tailored to your interests.

When you book our sailing experience, your payment goes to fund our non-profit outreach programs. Join our group experience as we sail around Baltimore Harbor and the Patapsco river (can be booked as a private experience as well). Do as much, or as little as you like. Take the helm, hoist and trim the sails, tack, jibe, or just sit back and enjoy the ride. We'll leave from Tindeco Wharf and sail out into the harbor. From there, we decide to sail toward the inner harbor or out past Fort McHenry, into the Patapsco river toward the Key bridge. This is a great opportunity to get more sailing time and develop your sailing skills under the watchful eye of a US Sailing Master Instructor Trainer. Never sailed before? No problem, during our time we'll teach you as much as you want. Just get away from it all on a relaxing sail? That not a problem either. Bring snacks and beverages to enjoy and just take in the breeze and enjoy the sights and sounds of sailing. Other things to note We're sailing on the 36' sailboat so it's not likely you'll get wet (unless it is raining). We will sail in light rain, but not in thunderstorms. This experience is only offered through AirBnB Experiences. If you enjoy your experience, it is okay to tip your captain and crew as you would any other in the service industry.

First we will welcome guest into our space by sharing some history of graffiti art in Washington DC. Then we will begin the process of creating name based art work on paper, and then on our 50 foot long x 9-foot tall practice wall. Other things to note Our organization is proud to have worked with the community over the past 20 years. We are unapologetic advocates for the hip-hop arts and we welcome you to join our educational Experiences. In an abundance of caution we are requiring all experience participants to present proof of vaccination to enter our experiences.

Looking for a fun outdoor activity for the family? Need to de-stress from the craziness of life? Cuddling with animals offers the opportunity to relax your mind and let go of the stress and anxiety for brief period. Not to mention, it's just FUN! During your visit, you will have one hour to cuddle and pet the animals on our micro-farm. Being that this is an outdoor experience, we are really not set up to do cuddle sessions during inclement weather. If we are expecting bad weather for your booked hour, I'm happy to work with you on re-scheduling for a nicer day or time. We currently have lots of Nigerian Dwarf goats of varying ages, a 2.5 year-old miniature Zebu named Molly, a rescue steer named Ferdinand, and two pigs named Charlie and Ellie. We also have numerous chickens, as well as our Holland Lop bunnies Oliver and Willow. ** For the health and safety of both our animals and yours, we do not allow outside animals to visit the farm. ** **We do not have a public bathroom on-site, since this is our home. For your convenience, we do offer a Porta-John with hand sanitizer** **For those interested, we do offer our pasture raised eggs and homemade goat milk soap available for purchase from our farm store during your visit.** **If you book a private event, please be sure to state how many people are in your group.**

Enjoy the finest Wineries, Breweries and Cideries on Virginia's famous Nelson 151 Craft Beverage Trail without the worries of driving. Allow us to pick you up within 20 miles of Wintergreen, VA (or Downtown Charlottesville) and take you on a Craft Beverage Tour in a quiet and modern Tesla Model-Y. We will work with you prior to your tour date to assure an ideal itinerary. **Please note, the times are flexible. So, if you'd like to make this a Happy Hour tour instead, please inquire** Wine tour options include, but not limited to, these renowned Wineries: Septenary, King Family, Pollak, Veritas, Afton Mountain, Chiswell, Hazy Mountain, and Pippin Hill Vineyards. Brewery choices include: Devils Backbone Brewing Co., Three Notch'd, Pro Re Nata and Blue Mountain Brewery. Cidery options include: Bold Rock Hard Cider, Albemarle Ciderworks and Blue Toad Hard Cider. We can accommodate up to 4 adults. The tour includes transportation, itinerary planning, bottled water, healthy snacks and a special gift. No wine tastings are included. So go ahead, Wine a little...and let us do the driving!

Start your tour at one of the most beloved and sought-after eateries in Georgetown, skipping the line to try a top-selling bagel with a contemporary Jewish twist! Following that, you'll have the chance to dine at a restaurant situated in a delightful Federal-style townhouse dating back to the mid-1800s. Delight in a timeless dish that possesses a unique and subtle tie to the history of Washington, D.C. Next, enter the realm of film history at the legendary horror movie location, a place forever etched in the annals of the silver screen. Take in the awe-inspiring views of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and embark on a leisurely stroll down NM Avenue, an absolute must-see destination in Washington, D.C. Continuing on your gastronomic journey, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by a staple of Washington, D.C.'s food identity at an unconventional venue. Following that, immerse yourself in the enchantment of Washington Harbor, a picturesque haven that leads you to our Secret Bite! Finally, no food tour of Georgetown would be complete without indulging in a beloved cupcake that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Prepare to be immersed into "life as a bodybuilder". Prior to your arrival we will have a 30-min virtual consultation to determine your fitness level and nutritional needs. Your personal one-day "meal plan" will be created and a sample of your “prepped” meals will be ready to go upon your arrival. Then it is time to hit the gym! Before we head out we will review your fitness plan and you will be given a workout to complete. To finish out the day we will have a discussion on the importance of recovery which will include a basic demo using foam rollers. Note: You are buying a lifestyle & fitness coaching experience at my private studio! This immersive experience provides you with a glimpse of what it is like to be a bodybuilder.

Come along on a Shenandoah Valley tradition and take in the sunrise from 3000 feet. We'll meet at the Humpback Rocks trail parking lot to embark on one of two hikes, short and steep or a 1.5-mile stroll, to a vista unlike any other in the Blue Ridge. Along the way, you'll shake off the early-morning sleepies and learn about the history and geology of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley, all in a safe, fun environment supportive of all levels of hikers or hikers-to-be. After watching the sunrise crest over the scenic vineyards and fields of Afton valley, we'll head back to the cars, a total of 2.5-3 hours. **Note: Starting spring 2023, I'm donating 10% of my revenue and ALL cash tips to nature preservation and sponsoring at-risk youth on a hiking trip. Please consider cash tips toward these causes!**

Guests will enjoy an elegant tea party under a brand new rustic pavilion with a panoramic forest view on our serene and scenic property in Central Virginia. Guests will enjoy tea, cookies, scones, or muffins, and a charcuterie board. .There will be a Bluetooth speaker available so that guests can play music if they desire. If you desire some exercise, take a walk around the property or a short but rigorous hike to overlook the James River for beautiful pictures. If you are looking for a unique experience with the special people in your life, schedule your private tea party under our spacious covered pavilion with a gas fire pit in the cooler weather, cozy seating, large table, and gorgeous handmade swinging daybed on our property which make for great photo ops. Makes a great gift for loved ones, too!

In this tour you will learn about the farm, visit an old spring house, play with mini donkeys, feed rare Kerry Hill sheep and pet and brush Mini Highland cows. Note: You will not go into the pasture with the cows, but you will get to pet and feed them through the fence. You will have an opportunity to go in the pastures with the Mini donkeys and Kerry Hill sheep. Cows, donkeys and sheep are very friendly and will enjoy giving you licks and snuggles. Some guests like to set chairs up and just be in the pasture with the donkeys and sheep (while we are present guiding the experience). We will provide the treats and brushes to interact with and chairs for observation -along with full time instruction. Need a place to stay? Want to have 24 hours a day of animal viewing? We have got you covered. Just reach out and we can set you up in one of our onsite AirB&B's.

From spies to secret passageways put your super sleuth skills to the test as you search for over 80 secret doors and explore our themed rooms. We would never give you a map - this would ruin the surprise of finding a secret door but you will have a Q & A with one of our docents before you start your journey. It’s not in the finding, it’s in the seeking that is important. Experience the magic! Your self-guided experience will begin with an in-depth video introduction to our history and our secret doors, as well as what to look for as you go. Then, we will send you off on your own to search for the secrets and treasures that are everywhere to be found. As you explore the mansion, which is steeped in history and intrigue, you'll be walking in the footsteps of presidents, freedom fighters, G-Men, historians, famous musicians, and fiction writers. Built 125 years ago, nearly every President since Teddy Roosevelt has visited. Things to note We guarantee you can see at least 60 of our legendary rooms — but be warned secret doors are tricky to find —if you find 2 or 3 you are an above average sleuth All ages can attend. If you have a short attention span, this is the place for you because there is so much to see and do. If you are a minimalist, you will be overwhelmed. Museum closes: Sunday - Tuesday at 6pm and Wednesday - Saturday at 9pm.

We're going to explore one of the true hidden wonders of Washington, D.C., a Civil War fort nestled deep in Rock Creek Park. In July, 1864, a Confederate Army attempted a surprise invasion of Washington, D.C., hoping to sow panic and drive Congress and President Lincoln from the Capitol. Confederate forces swept into the city, and fought a desperate battle among the northern defenses of Washington. President Lincoln rode over to the see the fighting, the only time in American history a president has been under enemy fire. Eventually Union forces repelled the attack, and Washington was saved. It’s considered one of the greatest what-ifs in American history: Had the Union lost the battle, most historians believe there would have been a negotiated settlement to the war, and a durable Confederate nation. We’re going to visit Fort DeRussy, one of the forts that drove back the Confederate attack, and learn the full story of how the Civil War came to Washington. Abandoned after the war and overgrown, Fort DeRussy was practically lost to history. Today, it’s virtually unknown: I grew up blocks away and didn't even know it was there. It's an astonishing, beautiful ruin in a peaceful forest grove. Other things to note Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Wear clothing that you don't mind getting a bit dirty and be sure to wear comfy shoes.

Learn about the Bees With our knowledge and experience, we will provide you with initial Do's and Don'ts when working with the bees and their family. Suit up! We will provide the necessary Bee Suit's and gloves, please wear appropriate clothing it can get warm in these suits, also no open-toed shoes! Just getting comfortable Some of our guests are a little apprehensive, so we take the time to just let you get comfortable being around the Bees. Light the smoker and jump on in! This is where we get to see all of the workings of the Colony. We will explain all that is going on and if we are lucky we will spot the queen! Pictures with your new friends! We will provide plenty of opportunities for you to get up close and personal with your new family, and selfies are always required! Revel in the surrealism Take a moment and be proud of what you have learned, and just how close you have become to one of nature's true miracles. This unique hands-on experience is the best way to learn about the importance of honeybees! We will suit up and open up the hive to see how bees live, work, and produce honey. You will definitely leave with greater knowledge and understanding of our pollinator friends and the inner workings of a honeybee colony. ATTN: If you have a known allergy to bee, wasp, or yellow jacket venom, sadly you are prohibited from participating in this experience.

Chicks hatched June 2024. Baby bunny arrived March 2024! Welcome to our farm! To begin our adventure, we will introduce you to our animal family. Meet the chickens, dogs, goslings, bunny and goats! When you are ready, we will begin our walk through beautiful woodland trails and pastures with the goats happily following you. Experience the world in a new way as you observe the goats delighting in the delicious world around them. Learn about caring for the animals on the farm: their care, diet and personalities. Depending on the day and your preference, the trail may take us over bubbling creeks, through fields filled with butterflies, to an enchanting wetland, or down through the pines to the river. You will have a chance to see rare plants and animals including bald eagles, wild orchids and beaver activity. The trails are easy to moderate. Don't forget good walking shoes. We will finish our adventure back at the barn, where you can spend a moment resting your feet and taking in the fresh air. If you have a date or time that you would like to visit but don't see it on the calendar, please send me a message and we can accommodate! We love dogs, but we ask you kindly to leave yours at home.

Welcome to my unique and exclusive Airbnb experience at the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC! Join me for a one-of-a-kind photo session that will take you on a journey through the stunning galleries and open areas of this iconic museum. As we explore the museum, I will capture stunning images of you and your group among the masterpieces, creating a lasting memory of your visit to the National Gallery of Art. Whether you're an art enthusiast or not, this experience is perfect for anyone simply looking to capture some beautiful memories. I'm a professional photographer and not an art historian. So I cannot offer much regarding the history behind the artifacts in the gallery. The experience will be focused more on using the masterpieces and architecture of the museum as a backdrop for photos. So come and join me for a truly unique and unforgettable experience at one of the most iconic museums in the world!

Experience the heart of Washington, DC with us on a guided 3-hour journey through the National Mall. This dynamic tour seamlessly blends driving and walking to ensure you "SEE IT ALL." Starting at the Washington Grand Hyatt, our adventure begins right in front of Starbucks. Meet your knowledgeable Tour Guide, board our comfortable van, and set off for the National Mall. With live commentary from your guide, immerse yourself in the stories behind the monuments, memorials, and other captivating attractions that define the National Mall's significance. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore several of DC's major attractions for 15 to 25 minutes at each location. Our drop-offs and pickups are strategically situated as close as legally feasible to each site, ensuring convenient access. As the tour concludes, we return you to the Washington Grand Hyatt. And to cater to your comfort: - Stay refreshed with complimentary water. - Keep your phone powered up with our charging equipment, simply inform your driver. - No need to worry about the weather – rain or shine, we've got you covered with umbrellas.

Treat yourself to great pictures as a souvenir while experiencing DC landmarks. The photo session starts at the Lincoln Memorial which has great views of the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. Then we have the option of taking a 10 minute walk to take more photos at either a beautiful park or at another Memorial on the National Mall. This photo session can be adapted for engagements, elopements, families, graduating seniors, maternity, surprise proposals and business headshots. In a non-private session, another person may book and join you. We will walk together as a group and rotate between who is taking pictures. Select the private option if you do not wish to share your session with another person. Photos are typically delivered in 1 to 3 days. 10 edited high-res photo downloads are included. Additional photo downloads can be purchased for an additional cost. After signing up, check your Airbnb messages to answer a short questionnaire and to receive the prep guide. Message me if you wish to have a session for a time not listed or if you have any questions.

You’ll hop on the trolley and tour award-winning vineyards and breweries, sampling their offerings and taking in their gorgeous views. Along the way you’ll learn about the history of the area and how it’s becoming a world class destination for wine and craft beer. Other things to note Please arrive 10 minutes prior to start of tour. Tastings not included in price.