Monticello Tours and Activities

Monticello featuring heritage architecture and a memorial
Monticello
Monticello
Monticello which includes interior views
Monticello which includes fashion, farmland and interior views


You may recognise this elegant plantation estate, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, from its depiction on the back of some U.S. nickels.

Monticello was the home of the third U.S. President and Founding Father Thomas Jefferson. Admire the architecture of this UNESCO-listed residence and enjoy an intimate perspective on Jefferson’s personal life.

Monticello, which means “little mountain,” was constructed between 1769 and 1809. It is set atop a hill on Jefferson’s 5,000-acre (2,000-hectare) plantation. Start your tour at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center, where you’ll find exhibits explaining how Jefferson built and renovated his estate over its 40-year construction. Take the kids to the Griffin Discovery Room where they can dress in 18th-century style clothes and learn to weave.

Step inside the home’s domed entrance hall, which is decorated with native handicrafts, fossilized bones, animal hides and antlers. The estate has been restored to its appearance during Jefferson’s retirement years, mainly using furniture owned by his family.

Look for a two-pen device that enabled Jefferson to make copies of his correspondences. Notice how the layout of his private chambers connects his dressing room to his study. It’s said that this design allowed Jefferson to get up on the right side of the bed if he wanted to make notes at night and on the left to get dressed in the morning.

Stroll around the property’s 1,000-foot-long (300-meter) vegetable gardens, as well as the remains of the estate’s slave quarters, Mulberry Row. At the south end of Mulberry Row lies a grove of ancient hardwood trees surrounding a stone obelisk marking Jefferson’s gravesite.

Monticello is located 3 miles (5 kilometers) southeast of Charlottesville. The estate is open every day of the year, except Christmas. To avoid crowds, try to visit early on a weekday. It’s possible to tour the grounds on your own, but the house can only be explored on guided tours.

Tours & day trips

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Adventure & outdoor

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Popular places to visit


Top Monticello Hotel & Accommodation Deals

English Inn of Charlottesville

English Inn of Charlottesville

3 out of 5
2000 Morton Drive, Charlottesville, VA
English Inn of Charlottesville
Omni Charlottesville Hotel

Omni Charlottesville Hotel

4 out of 5
212 Ridge McIntire Rd, Charlottesville, VA
Omni Charlottesville Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlottesville by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlottesville by IHG

2.5 out of 5
870 PANTOPS CORNER WAY, Charlottesville, VA
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlottesville by IHG
The Doyle Hotel

The Doyle Hotel

3.5 out of 5
499 W Main Street, Charlottesville, VA
The Doyle Hotel
Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown

Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown

3 out of 5
315 West Main St, Charlottesville, VA
Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown
Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Charlottesville

Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Charlottesville

2.5 out of 5
3400 Berkmar Drive, Charlottesville, VA
Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Charlottesville
Holiday Inn Charlottesville-Univ Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Charlottesville-Univ Area by IHG

3 out of 5
1901 Emmet St N, Charlottesville, VA
Holiday Inn Charlottesville-Univ Area by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Monticello

When visiting Monticello, be sure to enjoy the vibrant local scene, including live music, theatre, and shopping. You can also explore various tours and experiences in Charlottesville, and if you're keen on winter sports, the nearby holiday mountain ski resort offers thrilling options. Don't miss out on the unique charm of this historic area!

Shopping

In Monticello, the Downtown Mall, only 3.2km away, offers a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. C'Ville Arts, also 3.2km away, is perfect for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, The Shoppes at Spring Creek, located 20.9km away, has a family-friendly atmosphere with various shops.

Recreation

Ting Pavilion offers an entertaining atmosphere with live music just 3.2km from Monticello, perfect for unwinding. Charlottesville Ice Park provides a thrilling ice-skating experience, also 3.2km away, while the Sheridan Snyder Tennis Center, located 6.4km from Monticello, promotes wellness and relaxation through tennis.

Adventure

Experience the scenic Rivanna Trails, a hiking trail located 1.6km from Monticello, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For family fun, visit Massanutten Water Park, 48.3km away, where adventure meets entertainment. Don't miss Caromont Farm, 32.2km from Monticello, offering unique farm activities and experiences.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Monticello with a visit to the Paramount Theater, Play On! Theater, or New Lyric Theater, all just 3.2km away. Each venue offers a delightful mix of entertainment, culture, and romance, perfect for a memorable evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Monticello

Monticello, Charlottesville, offers a charming blend of attractions, from historic sites and universities to picturesque farms. Ideal for those seeking culture, family-friendly activities, and outdoor experiences, you can explore top attractions such as the iconic Monticello estate. Don't miss out on the local entertainment facilities that enrich your visit, making it a memorable getaway in the heart of Virginia.

  • University of Virginia: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic university boasts stunning architecture and rich cultural vibes. Stroll through its beautiful grounds, visit the Rotunda, and soak in the academic atmosphere that has inspired countless scholars.
  • Carter Mountain Orchard: Experience the warmth of friendly locals at this charming farm. Enjoy picking fresh fruits, take in the stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and relish homemade treats at the orchard's market.
  • John Paul Jones Arena: This state-of-the-art venue offers an array of entertainment options, from concerts to sporting events. It's a family-friendly spot where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and create lasting memories.

Best time to go to Monticello

The best time to visit Monticello can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Monticello falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Monticello falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January34.0°F (1.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August75.0°F (23.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Monticello

To save money during your visit to Monticello, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are generally the cheapest days to book, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-friendly hotels and arrange your preferences to get the best deals. Look for package options that combine flights, activities, and hotel stays for additional savings. Don’t forget to explore free activities around Monticello for a budget-friendly experience!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Monticello are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Monticello is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Monticello is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: By booking an Expedia package, you can potentially save some dollars by combining your Monticello hotel stay with your flights and activities.