Virginia will put more than 400 years of historic architecture and blooms on display April 16-23, 2011, during the state’s 78th annual Historic Garden Week.

The touring event is the oldest and largest statewide event of its kind and is dubbed “America’s Largest Open House”. It’s the only time of the year that nearly 250 of Virginia’s grand southern homes open their doors to visitors.

Historic Garden Week is sponsored by members of The Garden Club of Virginia to benefit the restoration of historic gardens and grounds across the Commonwealth. Tickets for each tour, ranging from $10 to $40, may be purchased day of or in advance online. Statewide passes are available for $175 per person or $300 per couple.

For more information on traveling in the state, go online.

(Photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation)