Tudor Place isn't one of the famous or free museums in Washington D.C., but is the perfect place to explore if you love American history or historical homes as Tudor Place offers both. Tudor Place is the historic family home and gardens of the Peter family, residents of the home for nearly 200 years and relatives of America's first first family, the Washingtons. It is worth exploring as it one of a few remaining urban historic homes that has been left in nearly original condition over the years.

Best and worst time to go to Tudor Place
Slightly off the beaten path of many of D.C.'s main tourist attractions, the several acres of gardens are a major part of the historic home. Go during the spring, when the weather is warm and the flowers are in bloom. During rainy days, opt to explore the spacious home itself.

Must see/do at Tudor Place
The gardens cost an additional fee to view, but make for a great place to explore on a sunny afternoon. Discover a quiet corner with a bench and enjoy time away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area. You can also opt to only enjoy the gardens, and skip the house tour, which many locals do when they want a quiet place to read or relax.

Admission to Tudor Place
Tudor Place can only be seen with a guided tour and there is an admission fee and a reservation is required. Discounts are offered for children, students and seniors and military personnel. The garden admission is for a self-guided tour and the fee is separate and much less than the home tour, so some people opt for one or the other. Periodic specially curated tours and events are also held and require reservations and may incur different admission fees.

Parking and public transportation to Tudor Place
The main entrance to Tudor Place is on 31st Street NW between Q and R Streets in upper Georgetown. The museum doesn't have its own parking lot but free 2-hour parking can be found curbside and pay-to-park spots can be found in the surrounding area, as well as commercial lots.

Bikeshares are also available nearby and the Metrobus and DC Circulator buses and Metro are also options, as Tudor Place is near the Dupont Circle Metro station on the red line and within walking distance to other lines.

Food at Tudor Place
Other than special tea tours for parties of 15 or more and special events, the museum doesn't offer food options. However it is in the Georgetown neighborhood, which is filled with eateries, restaurants and more places.

Insider tips for visitors to Tudor Place
The historic nature of the home and the small rooms and careful detail and priceless objects means that the staff can be a little touchy when it comes to touring the place. For this reason, be sure to check out all the rules and regulations and make a reservation ahead of time if you plan to tour the house. Also be sure to inform the staff ahead of time for any special needs.

Author's bio: Carly Zinderman is a freelance writer from Los Angeles that loves to travel. She has written for many websites on topics including travel, food and drink.