National Museum of American Illustration

A tour of the National Museum of American Illustration gives you two for the price of one: a museum and a mansion! The three-acre grounds were inspired by King Henry VIII's gardens, and the museum venue is located in Vernon Court, an interpretation of an 18th century French chateau. Originally, the museum was established to showcase art from the Golden Age of American Illustration, but today art from many different time periods is on display. Guided tours lead visitors through each of the rooms while also granting time to explore on their own. During peak season, the museum is open on weekends (and with an advance reservation on select days), and during the off-season Friday is the only day that tours are offered. Children under five are not permitted.