Executive Mansion to open doors to public, offer children's garden tours

The 120-year-old mansion in downtown Raleigh has been home to 28 governors, including current Gov Beverly Perdue. It's open from time to time throughout the year so we all can get a closer look at the beautiful interior and extensive flower and vegetable gardens. I have toured the mansion a couple of times during the holidays and it really is gorgeous.

House tours are scheduled on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3 pm. starting this Wednesday through Oct. 27. The home will be open again in the spring on Wednesdays and Thursdays from March 7 to June 28.

Trained volunteers will lead small groups through the four acres of flower and vegetable gardens. These tours include a children's garden tour from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays from Sept. 28 to Oct. 26 and, again, from March 7 to June 6.

These tours are geared for elementary school age children in school; homeschool; social clubs, such as scouts; or just a group of moms, who want to bring their kids. Many kids will be in school during this time, but it could be a great trip, especially if you're tracked out during this period or you homeschool.

Adult garden tours will be offered at 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Thursdays from Sept. 29 to Oct. 27 and, again, from March 8 to June 7.

Individuals and groups can contact Capital Area Visitor Services at 919-807-7950 or 866-724-8687 to schedule a tour. It's best to call at least two weeks in advance. The mansion is at 201 N. Blount St., just a couple of blocks from the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences and N.C. Museum of History.