Berkeley Plantation, Charles City

Constructed in 1726, the Georgian mansion at Berkeley Plantation is the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison V—a signer of the Declaration of Independence and Virginia's fifth governor—and his son, President William Henry Harrison. Still featuring 18th-century details and additions––including arches later installed by Benjamin Harrison VI, a descendant of original owner Benjamin Harrison IV, under the direction of Thomas Jefferson––the house is populated today by guides dressed in period garb. These experts point out significant artifacts in the main building and give visitors a chance to explore its artfully designed and manicured grounds on their own.