Summary
Monticello is the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, one of the most influential figures in American history. Among his numerous achievements, Thomas Jefferson was the third president of the United States, the author of the Declaration of Independence, and the founder of the University of Virginia.
Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, Monticello is a National Historic Landmark and, together with the University of Virginia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is unique as the only house in the United States to receive this prestigious designation.
History
Thomas Jefferson was a self-taught architect with a deep appreciation for classical design, drawing much inspiration for Monticello from the architecture and writings of Andrea Palladio. This estate is a remarkable fusion of ancient architectural principles with innovative features, embodying Roman neoclassicism. Over a period of four decades, from 1769 to 1809, Monticello evolved as Jefferson continually designed, expanded, and remodeled various parts of the estate. He cherished Monticello as his home for 56 years until his passing on July 4, 1826.
Visiting Monticello
Today, Monticello is managed by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc., a private nonprofit organization established in 1923. It welcomes visitors year-round, only closing on Christmas.
To visit Monticello, guests can acquire tickets through two primary options:
- Reserved Tickets: These may be purchased online until midnight the day before for most dates. Timed-entry ticketing is in place for house tours, making advance ordering advisable to minimize wait times.
- Same-Day Tickets: Available daily at the Monticello Ticket Office. While some same-day tickets for special tours may be offered, it’s recommended to reserve in advance to secure your spot.
Daily Tours and Special Events: Throughout the year, Monticello offers various tours and seasonal events, such as:
- House and Grounds Tours
- Plantation Community Tours and Garden Tours (available seasonally in spring, summer, and fall)
- Evening Signature Tours (held seasonally during spring and summer)
- Family Friendly Tours (available regularly from early June to early September)
- Seasonal Special Events (including Evenings in the Courtyard, Monticello After Hours, and Jefferson and Wine Tours)
Monticello is conveniently situated in Charlottesville, Virginia, along Route 53 (Thomas Jefferson Parkway), accessible from Interstate 64 (Exit 121 or 121A) and Route 20.
Tips for Your Visit
To enhance your experience at Monticello, consider the following tips:
- Visitor Center: The Thomas Jefferson Visitor Center and Smith Education Center, opened on April 15, 2009, spans 42,000 square feet, providing educational exhibits, a café with indoor and outdoor seating, a gift shop, and a ticket and information counter.
- Allow Ample Time: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your house tour to ensure enough time for the shuttle bus ride to the house. In addition to the house tour, there are various areas of the estate worth exploring, so plan to spend a few hours at Monticello.
- Dress Comfortably: Wearing comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather is advisable for enjoying the outdoor areas of the estate.
- Best Time to Visit: The months from June to September are ideal for visiting, as the gardens are in full bloom and additional guided tours are included with admission.
- Pronunciation of Monticello: Monticello is pronounced “mon-ti-chel-oh.” In Italian, the “ce” is pronounced with a “ch” sound, not an “s” sound.
Where to Stay
In the Charlottesville, Virginia area, there are many excellent accommodation options, suitable for various budgets:
- Boar’s Head Resort: A delightful AAA Four-Diamond rated country resort featuring a fine dining restaurant, a nationally acclaimed golf course, a luxurious spa, and a well-equipped sports club, all located just five minutes from downtown Charlottesville.
- Keswick Hall: Nestled on a 600-acre country estate about 15 minutes from Charlottesville, this venue boasts an 18-hole Pete Dye-designed golf course, extensive spa amenities, and indoor/outdoor swimming pools.
- Omni Charlottesville Hotel: Conveniently located close to the historic Downtown Pedestrian Mall, it features a seven-story glass atrium and a lush garden atmosphere.
- The Inn at Monticello: This comfortable and elegant bed-and-breakfast is located within 2 miles of Monticello and is a short drive from downtown Charlottesville.
